Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has made a significant leap in the 2023 QS World University Rankings, earning a top 10 spot for its agricultural and forestry programs. The college is now ranked eighth globally and fourth in North America, up from last year’s rankings of 14th worldwide and seventh nationally. This marks the first time in eight years that Iowa State has made it to the top 10 worldwide.
The rankings take into account an institution’s academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations per paper, H-index, and international research network when generating their annual rankings. With 26 undergraduate majors and 35 graduate programs, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences offers students hands-on opportunities to develop skills in science, technology, leadership, and communications across disciplines.
In addition to academic excellence, the college's research and extension enterprises are national and international leaders. Over the past five years, CALS researchers have brought in more than $300 million in external funding to address critical needs and expand scientific frontiers. The college ranks in the top five nationally for the number of faculty with federal research grants and in the top six for the total number of federal grants.
Daniel J. Robison, holder of the endowed dean’s chair in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, praised the innovative work of the college’s faculty, staff, and students that led to these high rankings. He emphasized that the college aims to provide students with ample opportunities to develop the skills and mindsets necessary to become the next generation of thinkers, doers, and leaders. The college’s commitment to innovation and excellence in education and research will undoubtedly continue to attract top-notch faculty and students.
Photo Credit: Iowa State University
Categories: Iowa, Sustainable Agriculture