By Keith Pierce

Old Dominion University is once again among the nation's best for distance-learning education, according to U.S. News & World Report's 2020 Best Online Programs rankings released this week.

Online education master's programs rose 27 spots to No. 78 out of 303, while online engineering master's programs rose 11 spots to No. 51 out of 99. The University was also recognized for Best Online Bachelor's and Best Online MBA programs.

The online rankings include public and private colleges and universities with degree-granting programs. Categories include bachelor's programs and graduate programs in business, information technology, criminal justice, education, engineering and nursing.

Old Dominion's rankings are:

  • No. 78 (tie), Best Online Master's Education Programs (out of 303).
  • No. 51 (tie), Best Online Master's Engineering Programs (out of 99).
  • No. 31, Best Online Information Technology Programs, information systems, computer science, computer engineering and software engineering (out of 67).
  • No. 61 (tie), Best Online Nursing Programs (out of 178).
  • No. 47 (tie), Best Online MBA Programs (out of 326).
  • No. 73 (tie), Best Online Bachelor's Programs (out of 350).

"We are proud to be recognized again by U.S. News & World Report for the breadth and quality of ODU's online degree programs," said Andy Casiello, associate vice president for distance learning. "Our faculty and staff work hard every day to deliver high-quality education and outstanding student support online. These rankings reflect our ongoing commitment to make diverse, academically rigorous programs available to students right where they are."

Also recognized for outstanding online education for military, the University earned Best Online Bachelor's Program, Best Online MBA Programs and Best Online Master's Education Program for Veterans.

"The 2020 Best Online Program Rankings underscore the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies high-quality, on-campus and distance program offerings taught by dedicated professors and active scholars," Dean Jane S. Bray said. "Additionally, as a military-friendly institution, we are extremely proud to be ranked No. 24 for Best Online Master's Education Programs for Veterans. We continue to be committed to distance education for active duty and veterans seeking to achieve their academic and professional goals."

U.S. News & World Report assessed schools based on criteria such as student engagement, student services and technology, admissions selectivity, faculty credentials and training, and peer reputation.

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