The University of Florida and the University of Central Florida have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as leading institutions for online bachelor’s programs, with UF ranking second, while UCF ranked seventh in the publication’s annual ranking.

The University of Florida (UF) and the University of Central Florida (UCF) have been ranked among the top institutions for online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report for 2024.

UF’s online degree program achieved a second-place ranking, largely attributed to its high marks in the Services and Technologies and Engagement categories, as evaluated by the publication. The university garnered further praise as the nation’s number-one university for veterans and active-duty service members to earn an online bachelor’s degree.

The top veterans ranking, according to the university, recognizes student retention and graduation rates, faculty credentials, and UF’s certification for participation in the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, which provide tuition and other benefits for veterans.

“We are deeply grateful for our veterans and active-duty service members, and UF recognizes and honors their unique experiences, contributions, and sacrifices,” said Scott Angle, UF’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “At the heart of the university’s commitment to excellence is a profound belief in the transformative power of education, and we are proud to offer customized opportunities for our veterans and many other students who benefit from the flexibility and access available online.”

UCF, meanwhile, ranked seventh overall, due largely to six of the institution’s programs being ranked within the top 10 of their respective department nationally, two in the top 15, and three in the top 50, including fourth for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Psychology and fifth for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans.

With the 2024 release, UCF has now ranked in the top 20 overall Best Online Programs for the past seven years.

“UCF’s commitment to developing the talent for Florida’s workforce includes broadening access to the high-quality online education that enables us to meet students’ needs for flexibility and supports their success,” says UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright. “We are grateful for the faculty-led innovation that allows us to deliver accessible, top notch online education that prepares the talent for the industries of today and of the future.”

In addition to UF and UCF, Florida International University (FIU) has also garnered attention for its achievements in online education, with its online business master’s program ranked ninth nationally, making it the top program in Florida.

“FIU Business was a pioneer in online business education, having launched online programs more than 20 years ago,” said William Hardin, dean of FIU Business. “Our reputation for offering first rate online programs at an affordable cost has grown significantly since then, resulting in top national rankings as we see with this latest report.”