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University of Delaware boasts six of the nation's best online graduate degree programs in latest U.S. News & World Report rankings

UD’s online master’s in nursing program jumped 99 spots

Jan 28, 2026

3 min

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Six University of Delaware online graduate degree programs are ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026 U.S. News Best Online Programs, released Jan. 27, 2026.


Both UD’s online master’s in education and online MBA ranked among the top 10% of their respective programs, at No. 25 and 26, respectively. Announced on Jan. 6, the online MBA program recently rose nine spots to No. 32 in the Poets&Quants 2026 Online MBA rankings.


UD’s online master’s in nursing program ranked No. 35 out of 209 programs, rising 99 places over the past year.


New for UD, the online master’s in educational/instructional media design program was recognized by peers at No. 11 in this education specialty ranking.


UD’s online master’s in computer information technology program and online master’s in engineering ranked No. 64 in their respective areas.


“These latest rankings recognize the expertise and dedication of our faculty and staff in delivering UD’s outstanding online graduate programs,” Interim Provost Bill Farquhar said. “We are committed to continually enhancing these programs and all the transformative opportunities that enable our students to meet their educational and career goals throughout their lives.”


U.S. News selects several factors, known as ranking indicators, to assess each program in the categories outlined above. A program's score for each ranking indicator is calculated using data that the program reported to U.S. News in a statistical survey and from data collected in a separate peer assessment survey.


This year’s edition evaluates more than 1,850 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings include only degree-granting programs offered primarily online by institutions with accreditation from recognized commissions.


While the overall rankings methodology remains largely unchanged, U.S. News reported increased participation in this year’s data collection cycle, with more programs submitting statistical data and completing peer assessment surveys. According to U.S. News, this broader participation may reflect continued growth in online education nationwide.


The University of Delaware offers over 35 online credit and non-degree professional programs. An online program from UD offers the same quality and rigor as an on-campus program and provides the flexibility to accommodate your busy schedule. UD is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and its online and on-campus degree programs have rigorous curricula delivered by experts, offer affordable program options, and provide students access to student support services, career fairs, recruiting opportunities and graduation ceremonies to celebrate student success.


“UD's high-level rankings are in large part due to the positive outcomes that our students experience as a result of taking one of our online degrees or programs,” said Associate Provost for Online Learning and Innovation George Irvine. “Students tell us how much they enjoy learning from our accessible faculty and doing so in engaging and interactive online courses.”


For more information about UD’s online degree programs, visit online.udel.edu.


A complete listing of UD’s high-profile rankings is available on UD’s Institutional Research and Effectiveness Rankings webpage. Please note that the programs and specialties used in rankings may differ slightly from the names of UD’s degree programs.

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