University of Miami Ranked 38th Best University in Nation by US News

​The University of Miami has risen nine spots in the latest edition of US News & World Report's annual college rankings. The school is now ranked the 38th best in the nation, up from the 47th position last year. For the second year in a row, the school is the only Florida institution in the top 50.

While US News' ranking criteria has garnered criticism over the years, it continues to be the most highly cited college ranking system. Unsurprisingly, UM President Donna Shalala, who was in desperate need of some good news after the school's ongoing athletics scandal, is quite pleased.

"We are absolutely delighted that US News & World Report has moved the University of Miami from 47 to 38. We were a top 50 school last year, and we're a top 40 this year," Shalala said in a statement. "All the credit goes to our incredible faculty, student body, staff, trustees, alumni, parents, and all our supporters over the years. This has truly been a climb to excellence."

The school has moved up 29 places in the past ten years under Shalala's leadership.

Meanwhile, the University of Florida fell to 58th this year. It has now been out of the top 50 for two years.

Florida State University is knocking at the top 100 now, and was ranked 101st. University of Central Florida was 177th, while the University of South Florida was 181st.

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