Jan. 27, 2026
Contact: Sara Diedrich, diedrichs@missouri.edu
Photo by Abbie Lankitus
Newly released national rankings highlight the growing strength and reputation of the University of Missouri’s online degree programs, recognized for their innovation, accessibility and strong track record of student success.
Mizzou earned a No. 29 spot nationwide for Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Online Programs rankings — up from 159th place just a decade ago. The university also ranked No. 17 for Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees for Veterans, underscoring a continued commitment to supporting those who have served.
Mizzou’s strength in online graduate education was exemplified by high rankings for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, across the lifespan (No. 5); the online master’s in nurse practitioner-family (No. 8); special education (No. 12); education programs for veterans (No. 15); and educational administration and supervision (No. 16).
This isn’t the only indicator of Mizzou’s success in the online educational environment. Last year, Niche — a leading college search platform — ranked Mizzou as the No. 1 online college in the nation based on reviews and data from the U.S. Department of Education.
Mizzou Online offers more than 185 degrees and certificates at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Online students have access to Mizzou libraries, tutors, academic coaching and other resources.
“These strong rankings reflect our commitment to delivering an exceptional online education that transforms lives," University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “We are proud to invest in innovative programs that bring the best of Mizzou to students in Missouri and beyond.”
The 2026 rankings tell a larger story about Mizzou Online’s trajectory, one defined by intention, investment and bold commitment to educating future leaders and delivering a world-class education wherever students are.
That momentum began in 2016, when the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives convened the University of Missouri System Review Commission. Chaired by Jeanne Cairns Sinquefield and joined by Michael Williams — both now members of the University of Missouri Board of Curators — the commission made a clear recommendation: Distance learning must be a strategic priority.
Mizzou responded. Beginning in 2018, the UM System Strategic Plan committed $20 million to digital learning initiatives, accelerating the growth of online and distance programs and expanding access to high-quality, affordable education. The result is not just a rise in rankings, but a reimagined approach to how and where Mizzou educates the next generation.
“Mizzou is committed to providing an outstanding education for all Tigers near and far,” Matthew Martens, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, said. “These prominent rankings solidify the standard of academic excellence found at our distinguished institution.”
The new rankings are included in the 2026 edition of Best Online Programs released by U.S. News & World Report and are based on data from 2025. Universities with online programs are ranked in four categories: engagement, services and technologies, faculty credentials and training, and peer assessment. A program’s score for each factor is calculated using data that online programs report to U.S. News in an annual survey. The ranking methodologies for online programs are separate from those for U.S. News’ Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools rankings. Ranking methodologies are typically updated on an annual basis.
About Mizzou Online
The University of Missouri has invested heavily in online education since launching its online learning platform in 2012. Mizzou Online has become a leader in online education, delivering the same world-class Mizzou education to each of Mizzou's online students. Students have access to an ever-growing catalog of degree and certificate programs. Each of these programs allows students to become Mizzoumade® from wherever they are, opening doors to opportunities and experiences that elevate their careers.
