Dive Brief:
- Northeastern University has changed its fortunes, making a dramatic turnaround from its condition in the mid-1990s, by focusing on improving its ranking on the U.S. News & World Report list, according to Boston Magazine.
- Starting in 1996, Northeastern’s then-president, Richard Freeland, focused on moving up in the highly regarded rankings, which he calculated would lead to better visibility, prestige, applicants, alumni giving, and potential for revenue.
- Freeland tells the magazine: “There’s no question that the system invites gaming,” and he had researchers at the university figure out the U.S. News list’s algorithm.
Dive Insight:
The Boston Magazine article is a great read and lays out the story that has undoubtedly played out at many other colleges and universities, but under administrators who would be loathe to admit it. Freeland’s goal was breaking into the top 100 — it was part of Northeastern’s strategic plan — and the school started from 143. Once the list’s formula had been reverse-engineered, he focused on improving Northeastern’s standing on every relevant data point. He retired in 2006, the year Northeastern broke the top 100, ranked No. 98 on the list. For 2013, the school was ranked No. 49.