Walton College builds its business credentials

The Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas was ranked among the top 30 public undergraduate business schools in the most recent edition of U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges 2013."

The Walton College, named after legendary Walmart founder Sam Walton, was among seven public undergraduate business colleges tied for 26th in the annual assessment, up from a tie for 27th the previous year. Others ranked at 26th were Auburn University, University of Connecticut, University of Missouri, University of Oregon, University of Pittsburgh and the University of Tennessee.

When private undergraduate business schools were including in the ranking the Walton College fell to a tie for 47th.

Dean Eli Jones said the high ranking for the Walton College among the best business schools in the country reflects its continued commitment to top-level research, teaching, service and outreach.

"The Walton faculty, staff and students deserve this honor," Jones said. "We have a team that is resolute on being the very best we can be. That is what draws people here."

Every year since the 2004 report, the Walton College has ranked in the top 30 among public undergraduate business schools and in the top 50 business schools overall.

In the spring of 2012, U.S. News surveyed deans and senior faculty at all undergraduate business programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Participants were asked to rate the quality of programs with which they were familiar on a scale of 1 (marginal) to 5 (distinguished); 40 percent of those surveyed responded. The undergraduate business rankings are based solely on this peer survey.