Indiana State University climbed in several rankings this year among the 2026 Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report. U.S. News evaluated online bachelor’s and master’s programs based on a variety of factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies.
Indiana State University’s online Scott College of Business MBA program has been recognized for the third consecutive year as one of the nation’s best online MBA programs. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings released January 27, the online MBA is ranked No. 93 overall, an increase of 21 points from 2025. The program also earned a ranking of No. 61 in Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans, a newly introduced category recognizing institutions that provide strong academic and support services for military-affiliated students.
In addition to the MBA recognition, several of Indiana State’s online undergraduate programs earned strong national placements:
- Tied for No. 47 in Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs
- Tied for No. 150 in Best Online Bachelor’s Programs Overall (up 34 spots from last year)
- Tied for No. 30 in Best Online Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs (up 8 spots from last year)
Indiana State University President Mike Godard said the recognitions align with the University’s broader focus on student success and degree completion.
“National recognition for both our graduate and undergraduate online programs underscores Indiana State’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality education,” Godard said. “Guided by our Strategic Plan, we are strengthening academic excellence, investing in innovative delivery models, and creating pathways that help students complete their degrees and achieve their professional goals.”
In its 14th year, the U.S. News Best Online Programs is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year's edition evaluates more than 1,800 online bachelor's and master's degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings include only degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.
"What sets the top-ranked online programs apart is their commitment to delivering flexible coursework for professionals, parents, and service members seeking to advance their careers and broaden their knowledge,” says LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “Our rigorous evaluation focuses on student engagement and support to highlight programs truly built for the modern learner." Prospective students can see how Indiana State University and the Scott College of Business compare to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on USNews.com.
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