For the sixth straight year, Texas Wesleyan University has been ranked in the No. 1 tier of universities in the West by U.S. News and World Report.

"Once again, this recognition validates the great work being done on campus by our faculty and staff, and it indicates the caliber of students we have," said President Frederick G. Slabach. "In our 125th year, Texas Wesleyan continues to thrive because we put our students first and we are committed to excellence."

Other universities in the 2016 West rankings included Trinity University (San Antonio), Loyola Marymount (California), Gonzaga (Washington State) and St. Edward’s (Austin).

"Smaller" stands out

The University’s commitment to the "Smaller. Smarter." philosophy and to achieving the goals outlined in the 2020 Vision strategic plan played a critical role in the rankings, which were based on factors such as peer assessment and class size.

Texas Wesleyan was one of only three universities in the West that reported at least 75 percent of classes being fewer than 20 students and 100 percent of classes being fewer than 50 students. It also boasted a 15:1 student to faculty ratio.

"Our intentionally small class sizes and engaging faculty allow us to offer students an education and experience focused on critical thinking, analytical reasoning and creative problem solving," said Slabach. "It prepares them to succeed in their collegiate careers and beyond."

For more information on the rankings, visit the U.S. News "Best Colleges" website.