University leaders across New Jersey are reacting to their institutions’ placements on the U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Online Programs. See how Garden State universities scored here.
Berkeley College
In a Jan. 27 announcement, Berkeley College noted this marks the 13th consecutive year it has ranked among the best colleges in the nation for online bachelor’s degree programs. 2026 marks the 14th iteration of the U.S. News list.
“At Berkeley College the student always comes first, and we are proud to uphold this tradition to support our students’ success,” said Diane Recinos, president of Berkeley College. “Recognition by U.S. News & World Report for the 13th consecutive year is a testament to the integral work and dedication of our faculty and staff and their commitment to our students.”
Kean University
Kean University President Lamont Repollet said the recognition “speaks to Kean’s mission of expanding access to high-quality education.
“Our growing online programs empower students to pursue and complete their degrees on their own schedule, from wherever they are,” Repollet added. “It’s about removing barriers and supporting success, whether students are balancing work, family or other commitments.”
Montclair University
Montclair State University highlighted its No. 5 placement for its online Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. The school also noted this marks the first year the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs category included MSU.
“Montclair Online makes everything around learning as simple as possible, from applying, to navigating coursework, to getting student support when questions come up,” said Marc Austin, vice provost and managing director, Montclair Unbound.
“These U.S. News rankings reflect the work behind the scenes to deliver a high-quality online experience that’s engaging, well-supported and designed for student success. Students should be able to focus on the hard work of study; we streamline the rest.”
New Jersey Institute of Technology
New Jersey Institute of Technology touted its high marks across degree-granting programs in business, engineering and information technology.
“NJIT has spent more than a decade designing online learning that reflects the rigor, relevance and engagement we expect across the university,” said Daniel White, associate provost for online programs.
“Our colleges continually enhance their curricula, integrate emerging technologies – including AI – and provide meaningful support to students balancing work, family and academic commitments. These rankings reinforce the quality and consistency of that university-wide effort.”
Rowan University
Rowan University had nine programs named to the rankings. It said the recognition “reflect the University’s commitment to innovation, student support and academic excellence, showcasing a Rowan education across multiple disciplines – from engineering and business to nursing and criminal justice.”
Seton Hall University
Seton Hall University noted its programs improved in the rankings this year. SHU moved up 13 spots to No. 64 nationally. Additionally, it ranks among the Top 10 private universities in the country for online graduate education programs.
“These results speak volumes about the strength of our academic community and our commitment to preparing leaders who make a real difference in primary, secondary and postsecondary school environments,” Bryan Crable, founding dean, College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, said in a statement. “Our faculty are deeply invested in their students’ success, and this recognition affirms the meaningful, applied work happening across our programs every day.”
William Paterson University
William Paterson University described itself as “a leader in online education in New Jersey” in its announcement. Its WP Online platform offers 56 fully online degree programs as well as 20 certificate programs in a wide range of fields.
“We are proud to be recognized by U.S. News for our success in providing life-changing degrees to a wide variety of students across New Jersey and beyond through our thriving WP Online platform,” said President Richard Helldobler. “WP Online has dramatically expanded access to an excellent William Paterson education and leverages our long record of excellence as a leading public university.”
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