The University of Tennessee, Knoxville has earned “Best” status in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Online Education Programs rankings, with strong performances across undergraduate, business, and engineering categories. The results highlight the university’s continued investment in scalable, high-quality digital education.
UT recorded its largest gain in online bachelor’s education, with programs rising to No. 10 nationally, a 29-spot jump from the previous year. Through its Vols Online platform, the university currently offers 14 fully online bachelor’s degrees, spanning fields such as applied artificial intelligence, data science, nursing (RN to BSN), management, and social work. UT plans to launch seven additional undergraduate online programs in fall 2026.
“I’m absolutely thrilled by this recognition — it’s a testament to UT’s commitment to excellence and continual innovation in online education,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor John Zomchick, noting the role of faculty, staff, and student-centered design in driving results.
UT’s Haslam College of Business also posted gains. Its Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration debuted at No. 10, while the college’s non-MBA online master’s programs rose to No. 11 among public universities and No. 15 overall. The college additionally ranked in the top 10 nationally for veterans in graduate business programs.
Online graduate programs in UT’s Tickle College of Engineering ranked No. 33 nationwide, reflecting expanded offerings in engineering management, cybersecurity, computer science, and a Doctor of Engineering degree.
U.S. News evaluated approximately 1,850 online degree programs, using measures that include student engagement, faculty credentials, services, and peer assessments.
