Consider the U. S. News college and university rankings. Ninety-five percent of each school's score is based on measures of wealth, fame, and admissions selectivity. 

Looking for a more meaningful way to compare colleges? Or at least a different metric?

Colleges producing the most Fulbright scholars

Colleges producing the most Peace Corps volunteers

Public universities -- best value for the dollar

Best colleges for producing science and engineering PhDs

Greenest colleges in the US

Best colleges for merit awards

Colleges that are diverse, promote social service, AND produce scholars.

Top 10 diverse student bodies

Harvard Schmarvard colleges (Jay Mathews' list of 100 colleges off the beaten track)

Forty Colleges That Change Lives

Top 20 Universities in the World (Yay, UW!)

Colleges whose grads have the lowest debt