Since 1999, Miami University has prided itself on its expertise in the online education space. Miami Online announces that U.S. News & World Report recognizes Miami Online bachelor’s programs in the following rankings for 2025:
- No. 4 for the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Ohio
- No. 123 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs Overall
- No. 87 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Business
- No. 95 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans
Do college rankings matter?
These rankings may sound fine and dandy, but what do they mean for you and prospective students? U.S. News & World Report (USNWR) has released its annual college rankings for decades, starting in 1983. Students have referred to the rankings to look for quality programs since their inception — in fact — some studies have found that 1 in 4 students utilize rankings like this to help them choose where to go to college. As colleges have shifted and changed, so have the rankings. Different rankings categories, such as Best Regional Schools, Best Online Programs, and even degree-specific rankings like Best MBA, are all created by companies like USNWR and others.

Evaluating online programs
In 2012, U.S. News & World Report, perhaps the biggest player in the college rankings game, created a new category to provide rankings specifically for online undergraduate degree programs. Since 2022, Miami University has applied for recognition in this category and has consistently appeared in rankings. This year’s edition evaluates more than 1,600 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally-accredited institutions.
U.S. News evaluated schools based on factors such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies.
What factors boosted Miami Online’s 2025 rankings?
- Affordable tuition and fees and a lower-than-average student loan debt
- Small class sizes, averaging less than 21 students per course
- Access to all student resources as an online student — from financial aid to career services to tech support
- Highly qualified faculty with experience and training in best online practices
- Data-informed practices and policies that put students first.
The advantages of Miami Online help set it apart from other online programs.
Interim Director Erica Noll Crawford had this to say about the online rankings:
At Miami Online, we prioritize doing the right thing for our students and always strive to give them a high-quality education. We are grateful for this recognition from USNWR and look forward to continuing to build on our great work thus far!
Why choose Miami Online?
Miami Online offers dozens of short-term programs – Microcredentials, certificates, and professional education — as well as full undergraduate and graduate degrees. Miami Online serves students at all stages of education and life, including working adults who need new skills for career advancement, those who want to pursue or complete their first college degree, college graduates whose lives are too demanding for on-campus graduate school, or lifelong learners. Miami Online offers a world-renowned education on your terms. Whether you are working, raising a family, or just prefer the online format, our programs allow you to pursue higher education and career advancement without giving up your way of life.
If you’re a current Miami Online student, thank you for choosing us to partner with you in your education.
If you or a loved one are considering pursuing a certificate, degree, or a Microcredential with Miami Online, visit our website to learn more.
Email your questions to MiamiOnline@MiamiOH.edu.
Content written by Miami Online staff. Miami Online thanks Work+ students who shared their experiences.