By Nicole Lyons,
November 6, 2024
Military Times has named the University of Central Missouri (UCM) as one of the top
15 institutions in the nation for veterans on its 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges list.
provides the largest comprehensive annual ranking of higher education institutions
for military service members and veterans. This year, 304 schools made the list.
Looking at categories such as success metrics, admissions, resources, human resources,
financials and recordkeeping, Military Times surveys colleges and universities nationwide
to evaluate their veteran-focused programs. The survey responses, along with public
data sourced from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs,
are analyzed by the Military Times data team to produce the rankings.
The #15 spot is a significant jump from UCM’s ranking on the 2023 list. UCM was also ranked first in Missouri, second in the Central region and 12th among
public institutions.
“It's exciting to see UCM gain recognition for its veteran services,” said Courtney
Swoboda, director of Military and Veteran Services at UCM. “We've put in a great deal
of work to get here, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved.”
The annual rankings are a valuable tool for veterans seeking guidance on maximizing
their educational benefits.
“Our comprehensive survey and thoughtful methodology ensure that our rankings remain
a trusted resource,” said Jon Simkins, Executive Editor at Sightline Media Group,
the parent company of Military Times.
The full rankings can be found on the .
UCM is committed to helping veterans, active-duty military and their families access
higher education opportunities. The university offers tuition benefits for veterans
and military members plus in-state tuition for their dependents. Other benefits include free entry to athletic events and access to the Military and Veterans Success
Center, a one-stop resource for active duty military, veterans and military dependents
enrolled at UCM.
For more information about UCM’s Military and Veterans Services, visit ucmo.edu/military, call 660-543-8776 or email vets@ucmo.edu.