The report evaluates more than 1,800 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. It assesses schools based on student engagement, faculty credentials, services and technologies, and expert opinion.

“We are happy to see Southeast Online continue to rank among the best,” said Dr. Chelsea McNeely, director of Southeast Online. “Our online programs focus on giving our students another outlet for college, and this recognition validates the work the University does to ensure students can receive a quality education virtually.”

Southeast’s bachelor’s degree programs ranked 150 nationally, improving on their 2022 ranking at 153.  Southeast also received the third highest ranking in the state of Missouri when it comes to online undergraduate programs.

Southeast offers fully online 16 bachelor’s degrees, 19 master’s degrees, two specialist degrees, two associate degrees, nine certificates and 13 minors.

 Affordability and flexibility are the main goals that help fit Southeast online programs into working and part-time students’ lives. There is no difference between in-state and out-of-state fees, so students pay one tuition rate. Students can also utilize prior learning credits from work or educational experiences to get them closer to earning their degree.

“We evaluate our programs every year, so we can continue improving them,” McNeely said. “It’s good to see our rankings trend upward to reflect that. Our rankings among other Missouri institutions also show that we are serving the region.” 

The Best Online Programs report also includes rankings of MBA programs and master’s programs in business (non-MBA), computer-information technology, criminal justice/criminology, education, engineering, and nursing. Master’s programs were judged on the same four criteria that the bachelor’s degrees were, with an added score based on student excellence. 

Southeast’s MBA program ranks 152 nationally and second in the state of Missouri. The master’s in business (non-MBA) ranks 136 nationally and third in the state. The master’s in education program came in at 124 and second in the state.

Southeast’s online criminal justice graduate program was slated as the 63rd best in the nation and the best in the state.  

“Our faculty have played a huge role in the consistent success our online programs have,” McNeely said. “They are committed to ensuring that the same quality education Southeast has always provided is available to student who choose that online route. We are pleased to have this option to offer to students regardless of their life situation.” 

More information on Southeast’s online programs can be found on their website or by emailing southeastonline@semo.edu or calling (573) 651-2766. 

The complete U.S. News & World Report rankings information and accompanying profile data can be found online.

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.