In April 2025, Albion College was designated as an “Opportunity College and University – Higher Access, Higher Earnings” (OCU) in the newly introduced Student Access and Earnings Classification by Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This classification recognizes institutions that provide broad access to students—particularly those from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds—and whose graduates achieve higher-than-average earnings. Specifically, OCU institutions have an average of 47% Pell Grant recipients and 56% underrepresented minority students, with graduates earning a median of $52,903 eight years after enrollment.

Albion College stands out as the only liberal arts and sciences college in Michigan to receive this distinction and is among only 10 such colleges nationwide. Other notable institutions sharing this designation include Agnes Scott College, Morehouse College, Spelman College, Oglethorpe University, and more. A total of 479 schools received the designation.

“At Albion College, our mission has always been to open doors of opportunity and equip our students to not only navigate the world but to shape it. Being recognized as both an Opportunity College and a Higher Earnings institution affirms the value of an Albion education and the life-changing impact of our commitment to experiential learning and personalized student mentorship and support,” said Albion College President Wayne Webster. “We’re proud to provide every Briton—regardless of background—with the tools to excel academically, graduate with confidence, and embark on meaningful, purpose-driven careers.”

The Student Access and Earnings Classification was developed to assess the extent to which institutions offer broad access to learners, particularly those who have been underserved, and evaluate the earnings outcomes of past students. It considers the context and location an institution is operating in by examining whether an institution is providing access to a student population that reflects the locations they serve, and after students leave, how much they are making compared to peers in their job market.

Albion College’s OCU designation underscores its mission to provide accessible and transformative education that leads to career success and social mobility.

In September, The Wall Street Journal and College Pulse “2025 Best Colleges in the U.S.” ranked Albion College first among all liberal arts colleges in Michigan, second in the Midwest, and 15th nationally for enhancing students’ social mobility upon graduation.