UF Online, the University of Florida’s online bachelor’s degree program, is No. 1 in the nation, according to the latest rankings released by U.S. News & World Report, recognizing UF’s excellence in delivering world-class educational opportunities across platforms.
The announcement, which comes at the heels of UF being named the No. 5 public university in the country, marks the first time UF has earned the top spot for online bachelor’s degree programs. Several of UF’s online master’s programs also ranked among the top in the country, including Education (No. 2), Master of Business Administration (No. 5), Engineering (No. 12) and UF’s non-MBA Business programs (No. 21). Additionally, U.S. News recognized UF’s online programs as among the top in the country for veterans, with the MBA program earning the No. 1 spot nationally. UF also ranked No. 2 in the list of best online bachelor’s degree programs for veterans.
Across categories, the rankings symbolize UF’s upward trajectory as well as year-over-year gains in metrics such as student-teacher ratio, graduation and retention rates and the value of each student’s degree after graduation. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, in Daytona Beach, tied with UF for the top spot, acknowledging Florida’s leadership in the area of online education.
“Due to a sustained state investment as well as institutional focus, UF provides a high level of excellence in online education for students that is recognized by our comprehensive national rankings,” said Joe Glover, UF’s provost and senior vice president of academic affairs. “Online education is not simply a matter of transferring in-person classes to an online format. Rather, our nationally recognized faculty and staff have established an impactful, fulfilling and supportive online educational environment that results in exceptional student outcomes.”
The No. 1 ranking for online bachelor’s degrees is largely a testament to the success of UF Online. Offering 25 degree options from 10 colleges with several academic specializations, the program provides pathways for traditional and non-traditional students, including veterans, mid-career professionals, and people with a variety of life circumstances who benefit from the flexibility and access available online. Nearly 4,300 students are enrolled in UF Online and more than 3,900 have graduated since the program was founded in 2013. In terms of total students enrolled fully online, the computer science degree program is the second-largest degree option among UF Online’s programs.
“Online education is an incredible opportunity for individuals like myself in the military spouse community. Our lives are constantly on the cusp of change — whether it’s a move, a deployment, a child, a family emergency or any other life-altering moment,” said Tori French, a public relations major. “One of the most important things we need is flexibility without the sacrifice of quality. In UF Online, I found my flexibility, quality and opportunity.”
View the full story on the UF News site.
UF News