College of Nursing No. 1 Among Public Institutions for Online Master’s Programs

The University of South Carolina ranks No. 1 in the nation among public universities (No. 2 overall) for its online graduate nursing program, according to U.S. News and World Report’s annual online rankings.  The increased ranking demonstrates the university’s momentum and leadership in the fields of nursing and health science, as well as its commitment to offering flexible paths to degree completion. 

The rankings, released Tuesday (Jan. 14), also place the College of Nursing No. 1 among public institutions for its online graduate program for veterans. The program is part of the university’s longstanding and broad-based commitment to veterans. In addition, the same U.S. News report saw rising rankings for the College of Education.

“At the University of South Carolina, it is our priority to provide quality programs for our students that address their needs, no matter their current stage of life or career," says university President Bob Caslen. "Our top-tier faculty and staff create a culture of excellence for our students, and we are proud of these outstanding recognitions."

The latest rankings continue a five-year trend of the College of Nursing’s online program being ranked in the top five among public universities. Dean Jeannette Andrews credits this to the program’s quality, flexibility and focus on career preparation.

“Our program is highly sought out because we work very hard to meet students where they are and help shape and mold them over time for a successful and satisfying career in nursing,” Andrews says.

“Most nurses who are seeking graduate education work 12-hour shifts and varying days during the week,” she adds. “They are looking for quality programs, experienced faculty, program delivery flexibility, as well as highly engaged faculty who care about student success.”

The ranking is based on student-faculty engagement, faculty credentials and training, student services and technologies, student excellence and opinion of high-ranking nursing academic officials. 

In addition, U.S. News added specialty area rankings. Among those, the College of Nursing ranked No. 4 among public institutions for its online graduate “nurse practitioner-family nursing” program. Read more here.