Rankings highlight the difference a commitment to quality makes
(PRUnderground) February 19th, 2020
In today’s competitive online learning environment, a commitment to quality is a differentiator — helping institutions stand out in the crowd. This is evidenced by U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best Online Programs Rankings, which, once again, feature QM member institutions at the top — and throughout — the list. Nine of the top 10 undergraduate programs are Quality Matters members and 67 of the top 100 are as well.
U.S. News & World Report began ranking online programs in 2012 and takes many factors into consideration including student engagement, student services, technology, faculty training, and peer reputation. For this year’s rankings, more than 1,600 distance education bachelor’s and master’s degree programs were evaluated.
Number one on this year’s list of online undergraduate programs is The Ohio State University, a QM member since 2009. Other members in the top 10 include:
2 – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
4 – University of Florida
5 – Oregon State University Ecampus
6 – Arizona State University
7 – University of Oklahoma
8 – Penn State University
8 – Loyola University of Chicago
8 – University of North Carolina Wilmington
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) attributes its ranking to a variety of factors, including its work with Quality Matters. “Using QM allows us to remain true to our commitment to put students at the center of all that we do and excel in providing an optimum learning experience with a focus on quality and distinction,” explained Ginu Easow, UNCW’s QM Coordinator.
Online undergraduate programs weren’t the only ones ranked by U.S. News & World Report. Graduate programs were featured as well, and, once again, QM member institutions dominated the list, including Indiana University who received the number one ranking for its MBA program.
“Congratulations to all of the QM members featured in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best Online Programs Rankings,” said QM’s Executive Director Dr. Deb Adair. “The rankings reflect the outstanding work that our members are doing to implement the research-supported best practices that serve as the foundation for the entire QM quality assurance process.”
About Quality Matters
Grounded in research. Driven by best practices. A community that puts learners first. Quality Matters (QM) is the global organization leading quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. It provides a scalable quality assurance system for online and blended learning used within and across organizations. When you see QM Certification Marks on courses or programs, it means they have met QM Course Design Standards or QM Program Review Criteria in a rigorous review process.
Original Press Release.
