AF Academy ranks high in Best Colleges Ranking report Published Sept. 10, 2014 U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Air Force Academy ranks high among the nation's top universities in engineering and liberal arts courses, according to the 2015 Best Colleges Ranking report released Sept. 9, by U.S. News & World Report. Specifically, the Academy has the nation's fifth-best undergraduate engineering program, and its second-best aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical program, a position it maintains for the 14th consecutive year. The Academy has the nation's second-best computer engineering program, its third-best electrical engineering program and its sixth-best in mechanical engineering program. "The acknowledgment by US News that the Air Force's Academy remains among the best colleges in the Nation is an outstanding honor," said Lt. Gen. Michelle D. Johnson, the Academy Superintendent. "We provide a top-notch education for our cadets as they also prepare to graduate as leaders of character for our Air Force and our Nation. We clearly would love to be rated higher, but I welcome this affirmation of our great work. Our top-notch education, coupled with our military, athletic and character programs ensure graduates are immersed in the traditions and professional values of the Air Force and are prepared to lead and mentor Airmen in the future." The Academy is the nation's 27th-best liberal arts college in the nation, tying with Colorado College and Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. According to the list, the Academy also has one of the best undergraduate business programs. The Academy is third on the reports list of the top public schools, national liberal arts colleges and high school counselor rankings, for the second straight year. The U.S. News & World Report staff conducted a nationwide sampling of public high schools and large private independent schools, asking counselors their thoughts on the institutions offering the best undergraduate education. "We are thrilled at the continued, national recognition of our academic program," said Academy Dean of the Faculty Brig. Gen. Andrew Armacost. "To receive recognition not only as a national liberal arts college but in our engineering and management programs shows our commitment to a breadth of learning opportunities supported by a world-class faculty. "To be alongside the other military service academies in this list of incredible colleges, highlights our commitment to a strong academic program woven tightly into our broad program of leadership and character development," Armacost continued. "Our local partners, Colorado College and University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, also received outstanding recognition in these rankings. It's great to see the city of Colorado Springs well-represented on the national stage." Forbes business magazine recently ranked the Academy as fourth-best college in the West and the 34th-best college in the nation. The Academy's student-faculty ratio is 8:1, its average class size is 20 and all faculty members are employed fulltime. (Story courtesy of the U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs Office)