UMA just received the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, and the news is worth celebrating: In our 60th year, UMA has achieved its strongest national showing to date!
While rankings are often just numbers on a page, these specific milestones tell a story about who we are and the community we’ve built together.
Where We Stand
This year, we didn’t just climb the ladder; we leaped. UMA earned three top-100 national placements, showing significant growth in the areas that matter most to our students:
- Best Online Bachelor’s Programs: We jumped to No. 77 (up from No. 107!).
- Best for Veterans: Our commitment to those who served moved us up to No. 55 (from No. 60).
- Business Excellence: Our Online Bachelor’s in Business landed at No. 88 (a huge rise from No. 118 last year).
More Than Just a Number
What makes these rankings special isn’t the prestige—it’s the “why” behind them. Over 70% of our online students are balancing their studies with jobs, families, and military service.
As President Jenifer Cushman puts it, for many of our neighbors in Maine, a degree only happens if it fits around “real life.” These rankings are a nod to the fact that UMA is meeting people exactly where they are. Whether it’s an alum finishing a degree while working full-time or a veteran transitioning to a new career, these numbers reflect your hard work.
Beyond the Screen
This recognition belongs to our faculty and staff, too. U.S. News looks closely at how we engage with students, our faculty credentials, and the support services we provide. Our climb in the rankings is a direct result of our recent investments in:
- Enhanced Tutoring & Advising: Making sure no student feels like just a number in a digital portal.
- Cutting-Edge Tech: Ensuring our virtual classrooms are as dynamic as our physical ones.
- Tailored Veteran Support: Strengthening the pathways for our military-connected learners.
Looking Ahead
As Maine’s workforce evolves, our mission remains the same: making sure no one has to put their life on hold to move their career forward. We are so proud to be part of a university that doesn’t just teach, but transforms.
Thank you for being part of this record-breaking year!