Stetson University has been recognized for its academic excellence by being included in The Fiske Guide to Colleges 2012, which praises Stetson for its academic rigor, personal attention and campus life. The annual guide is compiled by former New York Times education editor Edward B. Fiske.

Stetson is one of nine Florida colleges and universities and 315 nationwide included in this year’s guide, which came out in late July. Publishers of the Fiske Guide say they include “the best and most interesting colleges and universities in the U.S., Canada and Great Britain.” An overview for each school is given, covering subjects including academics, campus setting, student body, financial aid, housing, food, social life and extracurricular activities, along with statistics on a variety of subjects.

“With top-notch business courses and surprising strengths in music and Russian studies, this Florida university continues to attract students who aren’t afraid to wear a variety of hats during their stay,” the 2012 edition says. “Stetson students savor the one-on-one attention freely given at this small Sunshine State university. After four years spent enjoying great weather and forming close friendships with peers and professors, they emerge with solid academic foundations for future work or study.”

Selections for the Fiske Guide are made with several broad principles in mind, starting with academic quality. Content is based on questionnaire answers provided by students and administrators, some telephone interviews, some site visits and additional research of university materials and other sources.

The guide also provides a “Sizing Yourself Up” questionnaire that helps students figure out what kind of school is best for them. The guide’s “If You Apply” feature contains information about each school’s admissions policies, including deadlines and essay topics.