Berkeley College receives accolades from U.S. News & World Report

As we begin the celebration of our 95th year, Berkeley College is proud to announce our continued recognition for excellence. For the 13th consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report has ranked Berkeley College among the Best Colleges in the nation in several categories, including:

• Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs
• Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs for Veterans
• Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs - Business

The Berkeley College MBA in Management program is included on the list of Best Online MBA Programs and Berkeley College is also ranked among the Best Regional Colleges/Universities in the North in the 2026 edition of the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges survey.

Focused on the success of our students

"At Berkeley College, the student always comes first, and we are proud to uphold this tradition to support our students' success," said Diane Recinos, EdD, President of Berkeley College. "Recognition by U.S. News & World Report for the 13th consecutive year is a testament to the integral work and dedication of our faculty and staff and their commitment to our students."

"The most important recognition of our mission, however, comes in the success and accomplishments of our students," Recinos continued. "The countless lives that we've helped change, the graduates who have gone on to become highly respected business and community leaders, and the many graduates who have stayed connected with the College and shared their stories-that's our real gratification."

Evaluated on important factors

U.S. News & World Report evaluated schools based on a variety of factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies. Seven post-secondary institutions in New Jersey and 22 colleges and universities from New York were included in the U.S. News & World Report list for Best Online Bachelor's Degree Programs.

"What sets the top-ranked online programs apart is their commitment to delivering flexible coursework for professionals, parents, and servicemembers seeking to advance their careers and broaden their knowledge," said LaMont Jones, EdD, Managing Editor for Education, U.S. News & World Report. "Our rigorous evaluation focuses on student engagement and support to highlight programs truly built for the modern learner."

Why are flexibility and student support so important?

Flexibility is key at Berkeley College, making it possible to balance an excellent education with personal and professional responsibilities. Students can study in person at our New York and New Jersey campuses, online, or through a blend of both. Students pursuing a degree online have access to the same support services as students who attend in person, including Academic Advisement, the Library, the Center for Academic Success, Career Services, Personal Counseling, and the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs. Online campus life experiences include online clubs, virtual volunteerism, wellness and personal development programs, and workshops focused on student success. More than 82 percent of Berkeley College students are enrolled in at least one online course.

Adapting to a constantly changing world

"Consistent excellence does not come without continuous evaluation, adaptation, and innovation. From our founding in 1931 as a secretarial school, there has obviously been enormous change in terms of program focus, technology, and so much more," noted Annetta Ramtahal, Campus Operating Officer, Berkeley College Online^®. "Yet Berkeley College has remained at the forefront of career-focused education. Our curricula are developed and regularly updated with input from advisory boards of industry experts to ensure that our students have the skill employers seek."

"This commitment to evolution is reflected in Berkeley College's longstanding emphasis on openness to change, technology integration, and continuous improvement in online pedagogy," Ramtahal continued. "Through ongoing faculty training and strategic transitions to new learning platforms, the College has built a culture of adaptability, one that has enabled it to respond effectively during times of disruption while continuing to meet the needs of today's learners."

What is "experiential learning" and why does it matter?

"Our commitment to experiential learning means that through internships, guest speakers, field trips, and other industry-related events, students learn firsthand from leading professionals and engage in hands-on activities that provide important insights into current trends in the workplace" added Patricia Greer, JD, Provost, Berkeley College. "These experiences also provide valuable opportunities to build their resumes and cultivate meaningful connections that support their professional growth. The focus on experiential learning aligns with the Berkeley mission of empowering each student to achieve lifelong success by equipping them with practical skills, networking opportunities, and real-world, hands-on experiences."

Berkeley College Online^® helps meet unique needs

Nilsa Sanchez's husband had been medically retired from military service. She was now caregiver to him as well as her two young children. With money tight and little prospect of obtaining employment that could realistically support her family, Nilsa knew she needed an education that would prepare her for a career.

"People don't realize how difficult it is for military families," Nilsa pointed out. "When your spouse is an infantry soldier who's deployed for long periods of time, you're the full-time parent and you're responsible for paying the bills-on a very limited budget. Attending classes isn't practical and military bases are not usually convenient to college campuses."

While in New York City, Nilsa saw a sign for Berkeley College. She went in and explained her situation to an Admissions representative. "I knew I needed to get an education," said Nilsa. "But it had to be both convenient and affordable. Fortunately, Berkeley listened to my concerns," she explained. "They heard my voice and said, 'We're here for you.' They made me think this was actually possible."

Finding solutions that work

"I am homeschooling my two children, studying online at Berkeley College worked for me because I could find time in between my other responsibilities," Nilsa said. "The support was excellent. Everything was easy to follow and when I had questions, I reached out to my professors, advisor, and the help desk, who were always there to help. They help you turn your weaknesses into strengths."

"If it wasn't for the strong, intelligent, innovative people at Berkeley College, I wouldn't be able to tell you that I graduated with my Associate's degree in Legal Studies. I wouldn't be working toward my Bachelor's degree, and I wouldn't be able to tell you that I made the President's List last semester!"

Students benefit from the flexibility

Ashley Martinez is another example of a student benefiting from Berkeley College. She wanted to study criminal justice and forensic science but was working full-time. She saw that online study would give her the flexibility she needed.

"Firstly, I would recommend Berkeley College Online because it offers flexibility," said Martinez. "I can log in at any time and from anywhere. It does not clash with my personal, busy lifestyle. Secondly, it offers accessibility. Berkeley College has programs for everyone. Professors make the classes interactive even though we're behind a screen. Berkeley College also provides laptops to students who struggle to obtain one. This school cares about our success as students and makes sure we receive the best. Thirdly, the on-campus events. Berkeley College understands that students cannot be in-person, so they ensure we have a Zoom link to view every event possible. The learning is endless here."

The ability to balance and education with a busy life

Martinez went on, "The biggest advantage is being able to do schoolwork on your own time. You're able to work full-time, take care of your family, and have a full life while also getting a degree. As an adult student, taking time off can be a challenge, so online classes do not take away from our tasks. I try my best to attend events, and I made the effort last semester to attend classes in-person. I connect with peers and professors through LinkedIn."

Excelling academically while building confidence

"I am currently a 4.0 GPA student!" Martinez proudly stated. "I always struggled with school as a child/teen. I proved to myself I am capable of much more. I was also the student speaker for the 2025 10th Annual Women's Entrepreneurship Week. I have been able to connect with faculty, professors, and students on a genuine level."

Your potential is our promise^®

Nationally recognized career-focused programs. Exceptional professors. Experiential learning opportunities. Comprehensive support services and resources. At Berkeley College, it all adds up to a real-world education to help each and every student reach their full potential.

The views and/or opinions in this article are those of the individuals interviewed. The academic achievements and/or employment outcomes described in this article are specific to each individual and are not a guarantee of similar results for past or current students. For up-to-date and detailed information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu and view our catalogs at BerkeleyCollege.edu/publications.