For the third consecutive year, Bemidji State University has earned a place in the top tier of the U.S. News and World Report rankings of America`s colleges and universities in the Midwest region.

The University ranked 35th among public universities in the region.

`Once again, Bemidji State University is ranked among the top tier of regional institutions in the Midwest, and we`re very proud of that,` Bemidji State University President Dr. Richard Hanson said. `The rankings reflect the University`s continued commitment to excellence through its stellar academic programs and educational experiences.`

Among other rankings released for universities in the Midwest region, Bemidji State tied for 26th in rankings of a school`s population of international students.

U.S. News & World Report classifies Bemidji State University as a regional university in its Midwest region. The publication defines regional universities as those offering a full range of undergraduate programs with some master`s, but few doctoral, programs. America`s Best Colleges 2011 ranks 572 universities classified as regional institutions across four regions: North, South, Midwest and West. The publication`s Midwest region includes North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.