UMass Lowell’s online programs have once again earned national recognition in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings, with multiple programs placing among the top in the nation and New England.
The annual rankings evaluate online bachelor’s and graduate programs based on academic quality, faculty credentials, student engagement, services and technology. UMass Lowell’s continued presence near the top of these rankings highlights the university’s strength in delivering high-quality, flexible online education through its Division of Graduate, Online & Professional Studies (GPS).
Nationally Ranked Online Graduate Programs
Online Master’s in Criminal Justice
UMass Lowell’s online Master of Arts in Criminal Justice and Security Studies programs rank:
- #1 in Massachusetts
- #2 for Best Online Programs for Veterans in the Nation
- #3 Nationally
The online Criminal Justice and Security Studies degrees are consistently recognized as one of the nation’s strongest options for professionals seeking advancement in law enforcement, homeland defense, cybersecurity, international security, infrastructure protection, industrial and economic security and more.
Online MBA Program
The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program continues its upward momentum, rising to:
- Recognized as the top-ranked online MBA in Greater Boston
- #26 nationally
- #22 for veterans
UMass Lowell’s MBA is designed for working professionals seeking leadership roles across industries.
Online Graduate Business Programs (Non-MBA)
UMass Lowell’s broader portfolio of online graduate business programs earned:
- #23 nationally
- #12 for veterans
These online programs include the Master’s in Accounting, Business Analytics and Finance.
Online Master’s in Education
UMass Lowell’s online master’s in education programs ranked:
- #1 in New England
- #8 for veterans
- #18 nationally
These programs serve educators and administrators seeking leadership development and specialized expertise with licensure and non-licensure degrees available in Language Arts & Literacy, Education Administration and Curriculum & Instruction.
Online Bachelor’s Programs
UMass Lowell’s online bachelor’s degree programs ranked:
These programs provide flexible pathways for adult learners and transfer students to complete undergraduate degrees while balancing work and personal commitments.
The online Master of Science in Information Technology earned:
- #30 nationally
- #16 for veterans
The program supports IT professionals building advanced skills in cybersecurity, systems management and enterprise technology.
Online Master’s in Engineering (Engineering Management)
- Highest Ranked Online Engineering Master’s in Greater Boston
- #38 Nationally
- #22 for Veterans
UMass Lowell’s highly praised online Master’s in Engineering Management reflects the program’s strong curriculum, real-world leadership focus and the respected reputation of UMass Lowell’s engineering and business faculty.
Continued Excellence in Online Education
With more than 85 online and hybrid programs designed for working professionals, career changers, military-affiliated students and busy adults, UMass Lowell Online delivers the same high-quality, nationally recognized education as our on-campus programs, in a flexible, fully online format built for busy schedules.
Students benefit from industry-aligned programs in high-demand fields, all taught by expert faculty who bring real-world experience into the virtual classroom. With multiple start dates, dedicated student success support and a strong return on investment, UMass Lowell Online makes it possible to balance work, family and education while earning a respected degree from a top-tier public research university.
To explore all nationally ranked online programs, visit UMass Lowell Online.