he University of Georgia’s online degree programs once again ranked highly, with several of its programs placing in the top 10 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Online Programs rankings released Jan. 27. Overall, UGA ranked No. 18, maintaining its position in the top 20 nationally.

The annual survey that determines these rankings evaluates online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and selected specialties based on student engagement, services and technology, faculty credentials and peer assessment.

“UGA focuses on developing engaging, high-quality online programs that support student progress and success,” said Stephen Balfour, director of UGA’s Office of Online Learning. “Student engagement is a key indicator of quality, so we were pleased to see UGA jump 16 spots this year, from No. 24 to No. 8.”

UGA also saw notable gains in student outcomes. The university’s online retention ranking improved from No. 6 to No. 4, while its online program graduation ranking climbed 13 spots, from No. 20 to No. 7.

The Mary Frances Early College of Education continues to expand online opportunities for educators across Georgia, allowing teachers to enhance their credentials while remaining in the classroom, and meeting the critical teaching workforce shortages in Georgia.  

UGA’s online education program rankings include:

• No. 3 (up from No. 11) in Best Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction

• No. 3 in Best Online Master’s in Educational/Instructional Media Design

• No. 4 in Best Online Master’s in Special Education

• No. 6 in Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration and Policy

• No. 29 (up from No. 39) in Best Online Bachelor of Science in Special Education

The Best Online Education Master’s for Veterans category, UGA was ranked No. 11. Although this is based on the same factors as the Best Online Programs rankings, this selection also considers an institution’s ability to make college more affordable and accessible through the GI Bill, scholarships and financial aid programs designed for military students.

UGA’s Terry College of Business also earned national recognition, with its online master’s of business and technology program ranking No. 23 in the country among the best Online Master’s in Business Programs.

The university has continued to increase its online portfolio, adding 30 new online program offerings over the past two years. New programs include the Franklin College of Arts and Science’s master’s in applied data science and master’s in environmental geology, and the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources’ master’s in natural resources, which launches in fall 2026. The Mary Frances Early College of Education now offers UGA’s first online doctoral program, a doctorate in learning, design and technology.

“These rankings reflect our commitment to quality and student success across all modalities,” said Andy Borst, UGA’s vice provost for academic enrollment. “UGA’s online programs expand opportunities for Georgia residents at every stage of life while maintaining the academic rigor expected at UGA.”