USF online graduate programs continue to rank among the nation’s best

By Althea Johnson, University Communications and Marketing

Several of the University of South Florida's online graduate programs remain among the top in the country, according to the 2025 Best Online Graduate Programs rankings released today by U.S. News & World Report. USF's highest-ranked program is inside the Top 20 among all public and private universities and another program improved by 24 places to break into the Top 50.

"At the University of South Florida, we are deeply committed to academic excellence across all our programs. Whether our students are on campus or engaging in our online graduate programs, we are dedicated to their academic success and helping them achieve their goals," said Prasant Mohapatra, USF provost and executive vice president. "Our online graduate programs are designed to provide the same high-quality education and support that our students expect from USF, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities they need to excel in their chosen fields."

USF's online MBA program in the Muma College of Business comes in at No. 16 nationwide and is ranked second within the state of Florida. U.S. News also ranks the same online MBA program No. 28 in best for veterans. The university's online graduate business program (non-MBA) ranks No. 27 for veterans and No. 56 overall.

The programs attract a wide range of students from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds and are designed to help develop analytical skills and creative abilities.

"USF's online MBA program provides a rich educational experience that allows students to customize their coursework, study abroad, and grow their network while balancing the other professional and personal responsibilities of life," said Dave Blackwell, Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business. "We are thrilled that our MBA and other online programs are being recognized nationally for preparing our students to advance in their careers."

The online graduate education program in USF's College of Education jumped into the top 50 at No. 46, rising 24 spots compared to last year and 44 places from only four years ago. The program offers unique online opportunities, including virtual and in-person study abroad experiences and explorations with cutting-edge technology.

"The USF College of Education is proud to be recognized for our innovative approach to online learning, which combines flexibility with personal connections," said Interim Dean Jenifer Jasinski Schneider. "Students benefit from direct access to expert faculty who mentor and inspire, while engaging with AI and digital tools that equip them with essential skills for today's dynamic educational landscape."

USF's online graduate engineering program is ranked No. 53.

The U.S. News methodology for graduate online programs considers factors such as graduation and retention rates, admission requirements, peer reputation, faculty credentials, technology infrastructure and student support services. The weight of each category varies from program to program.

In September, USF placed among the top 50 public universities for the sixth consecutive year in U.S. News' annual ranking of the best colleges in America, and as the "best value" among all public and private universities in Florida for the second consecutive year.