In its 2010 rankings, U.S. News and World Report ranks Cornell second in the category for undergraduate engineering science/engineering physics programs at doctorate-granting schools and fifth in biological/agricultural engineering.

In other categories, Cornell ranks:

• Sixth in economic diversity (measured by the percentage of undergraduates receiving Pell Grants -- 14 percent at Cornell);
• Ninth for "Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs" at doctorate-granting engineering schools);
• 10th for "Best Undergraduate Business Program"; and
• 15th on the list of Best National Universities as well as among national universities in the "best value" category, "Great Schools, Great Prices."

In addition, Cornell's Writing in the Disciplines program was listed in "Programs to Look For."

"We continue to be recognized in the top tier, nationally and internationally, as a university," said Tommy Bruce, vice president for university communications. "And, of course, we are proud of the recognition given individual Cornell programs in this ranking, including our continuing high ranking in economic diversity. The university's recent commitments to increased need-based financial aid will further broaden our access and solidify our diversity."

Bruce pointed out that the 2010 U.S. News rankings are published in 2009 and, in many cases, are based on data referencing 2007‐08. He also noted that some factors that affect these rankings -- such as the rate of alumni giving -- do not directly reflect academic quality.

"Still," he said, "we are proud of our continuing high level of alumni giving -- Cornell consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally in overall giving to educational institutions -- and we are grateful to our loyal alumni."