Higher education research platform recognizes MC among top master’s programs

OnlineMasters.com, an independent higher education research platform specializing in online graduate education, has recognized multiple programs at Mississippi College in its 2026 rankings.

The University earned top distinctions across five online master’s disciplines, reinforcing its leadership in academic quality, affordability and career-focused education.

MC ranked No. 1 in OnlineMasters.com’s Best Online Master’s in Health Services Degree Programs, No. 2 in Best Online Master's in Educational Leadership Programs, No. 4 in Best Online Master's in Computer Forensics Degree Programs, No. 6 in Best Online Master's in Internet Security Degree Programs, and No. 18 in Best Online Master's in Communications Degree Programs.

“This many recognitions in one cycle is not common,” said Rebecca Johnson, OnlineMasters.com communications manager.

OnlineMasters.com evaluated more than 2,000 accredited institutions in the U.S. to develop its lists of best online graduate programs in America.

Kelly Harden, dean of the MC School of Nursing, said taking the top spot in Master’s in Health Services Degree Programs reflects the University’s commitment to leading with integrity in today’s healthcare environment.

“We are honored by this recognition of our dedication to equip the next generation of healthcare leaders to serve with excellence and compassion,” Harden said. “The flexibility of online learning does not come at the cost of rigor. Our students are completing their studies while still serving in their communities.

“This honor affirms that we are on the right track with our accessible, innovative program. Our graduates are leading with excellence and purpose in complex health systems.”

Rachel Peeples, interim chair of the Department of Teacher Education and Leadership and Institutional Effectiveness at MC, said the University’s No. 2 educational leadership program ranking highlights the program’s strong academic quality and effectiveness in preparing students for careers in educational leadership.

“It also enhances the program’s appeal to prospective students, helping attract highly qualified applicants seeking a respected and competitive degree,” Peeples said. “It elevates the reputation of the Teacher Education and Leadership Department, positioning it as a leader in the field, which can help attract high-quality faculty and further demonstrate the program’s impact and success.”

Huy Nguyen, chief education and career development advisor for OnlineMasters.com, said MC’s recognitions underscore the University’s commitment to delivering high-quality online graduate education designed to meet the demands of modern industries and support long-term student success.

“Being recognized by OnlineMasters.com affirms our commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes,” Nguyen said. “We are proud that our online master’s programs continue to provide students with the knowledge, flexibility and career preparation needed to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing workforce.”

OnlineMasters.com used a rigorous, data-driven methodology to evaluate accredited online master’s programs nationwide. Each program was assessed using a proprietary scoring model that measured performance across four core factors: academic quality, graduation outcomes, cost and return on investment, and student support resources.

The evaluation process incorporated trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, publicly available institutional disclosures, and aggregated performance indicators from recognized ranking organizations such as U.S. News & World Report.