UTM ranks first in the state among public universities for student satisfaction for the second consecutive cycle in the recently released 2011-12 Tennessee Higher Education Fact Book, published by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

The results are based on spring 2009 and 2011 surveys in which students responded to the question, “How would you evaluate your entire educational experience at this college?” UT Martin received 91.9 and 91.2 percent ratings respectively, which indicate “good” or “excellent” responses. The student survey is required by THEC for all Tennessee public universities.

Two additional indicators of high academic quality include student pass rates on licensure examinations and the six-year graduation rate. UT Martin ranks first in Tennessee on licensure exam pass rates for public university first-time test takers reported in 2011 for engineering (89.2 percent) and nursing (100 percent). The school also ranks second in the state for six-year graduation rate in total graduates with a 57.3 percent rate for students who enrolled in fall 2005. This ranks behind only UT Knoxville at 68.8 percent for the same group.

Dr. Jerald Ogg, university provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said these indicators “are representative of the overall program strength and student engagement at the university.” He noted that the university has served the region for more than 100 years, including more than two decades with a physical presence in Jackson.

“UT Martin continues to demonstrate the university’s ability to offer high-quality, affordable educational experiences,” said Dr. Tom Rakes, UT Martin chancellor. “The latest THEC data reflects our commitment to the educational and economic development needs of Tennesseans.”