The latest U.S. News & World Report rankings list the University of Virginia’s School of Education and Human Development as one of the nation’s top five online graduate education programs.
In the 2026 Best Online Programs rankings, the school tied for fifth place, rising four spots from its position last year. UVA is tied at No. 5 nationally with Montclair State University and San Diego State University. U.S. News assessed more than 300 institutions.
Three of the Education School’s online graduate programs also earned top-10 rankings in their respective categories:
- Special Education: No. 4 (tie)
- Administration and Supervision: No. 6 (tie)
- Curriculum and Instruction: No. 9
In addition, the school was ranked No. 2 nationally for best online master’s in education programs for veterans, a distinction based on overall program quality and the financial benefits available to veterans and active-duty service members. The school’s online master’s degree in education program remains top-ranked in Virginia.
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Best Online Master’s in Education Program for Veterans
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Best Online Graduate Education Program
The U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate programs in five key measures: student engagement, peer assessment, faculty credentials and training, services and technologies, and student excellence.
“Earning a top-five national ranking underscores our mission to expand access to quality degree programs with the academic rigor UVA is known for,” Catherine Brighton, the Education School’s senior associate dean for academic programs and student affairs, said. “It’s a testament to the care and expertise our faculty and staff bring to online learning and student support.”