Online Graduate Education Program Earns High Marks from U.S. News & World Report

In newly released rankings by U.S. News & World Report, online programs in The School of Education at St. John’s University were recognized among the Best 100 Online Programs (2021 edition). The online graduate education program was ranked #27 (up from #31 in 2020). 

“At St. John’s University, our committed faculty strive to meet students wherever they are found,” remarked Simon G. Møller, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Recognition from U.S. News of our online programs affirms our continued efforts to ensure student success by pivoting to digital platforms which enable a far greater range of students the chance to complete their degrees at whatever stage of life they find themselves.”

St. John’s University’s online degree programs are among more than 1,200 such programs surveyed. Only regionally accredited institutions whose programs are offered mostly or entirely online were evaluated. Graduate programs in professional areas with the largest enrollments are evaluated annually by U.S. News, based on criteria such as employment outcomes of graduates. For the 2021 edition, the publication assessed more than 1,600 online degree programs—an all-time high. The rankings measure overall academic quality and are across varying disciplines. 

David L. Bell, Ed.D., Dean of The School of Education, stated, “With talented faculty scholars and researchers committed to providing students with an engaging, convenient, and supportive learning experience, the reach of online programs is limitless.”

Three Master of Science in Education programs are available online through distance learning. The Department of Education Specialties offers a 33-credit degree program in Teaching Children with Disabilities in Childhood Education (Special Education) and a 33-credit degree program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages PK–12 (TESOL).

The Department of Administrative and Instructional Leadership offers a 34-credit program in School Building Leadership. Each program can lead to New York State certification, and most states offer some form of reciprocity with New York through the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. 

Dean Bell noted, “We have a new generation of students who seek innovation. They look for effective use of technology. That is the future of teaching.”