According to Richard Corcoran, U.S. News & World Report's rankings have become a safe haven for mediocrity masquerading as prestige.
Their rankings have become a safe haven for mediocrity masquerading as prestige.
Corcoran argues that the rankings measure excellence, but in reality, they reward universities that protect the status quo and punish those that try to change. He claims that 20% of every college's score comes from "peer assessment", where other college administrators decide who succeeds.
Author's summary: U.S. News & World Report rankings prioritize status quo over academic performance.