Times Staff Report

VALPARAISO | Valparaiso University is one of about 600 private colleges and universities profiled in a new online college comparison service launched Wednesday.

The University and College Accountability Network, or U-CAN, allows prospective students and families to look up admission rates, costs, programs and other information.

Uniform profiles at one source make it easier to compare higher education institutions, said Reggie Syrcle, VU executive director of university relations. The service also allows comparisons based on objective data rather than on subjective evaluations, Syrcle said

"Hopefully, that will help students better match themselves to the institution for them," Syrcle said.

Institution profiles include a mix of graphs and charts outlining key information and links to the institution's Web sites for more detail.

The initiative was coordinated by the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.

Syrcle said there are hopes that public institutions could be included in the database at some time.

To learn more, visit www.ucan-network.org.