LEBANON, ILLINOIS (January 29, 2026) — US News and World Report has recognized six McKendree University online degree programs, ranking them among the nation's finest in their annual list of "Best Online Programs" for 2026.
McKendree ranked among the top 33 percent of private institutions for its online Bachelor's programs. According to US News and World Report, these institutions offer the best online baccalaureate-level programs, most of which are designed for degree completion. Highly-ranked programs feature strong academic foundations rooted in student-instructor access, graduation rates, and instructor credentials. They also excel at educating distance learners while providing robust career and financial support.
McKendree's popular Master's in nursing programs were also ranked eighth out of 42 private, fully-online programs in the nation. In addition, McKendree earned national recognition for its Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans.
The university also received rankings for its online Bachelor's in Business Programs, online MBA programs, and online Master's in Education Programs.
"With over twenty years of experience in online instruction, we are proud to be recognized for our quality online programs, which provide an instructional format that meets the needs of today's learners," said Dr Melissa Meeker, dean of Worldwide Programs at McKendree University.
For more information about McKendree's online programs, please contact the Office of Admission at 1-800-BEARCAT or e-mail online@mckendree.edu.
About McKendree University
Founded in 1828 as the first institution of higher education in Illinois, McKendree University is a nationally-ranked, private university in Lebanon, Illinois. McKendree offers undergraduate, graduate, and online programs that provide a personalized, high-quality educational experience grounded in academic excellence, leadership development, and lifelong learning. McKendree is consistently recognized by US News and World Report as one of the Midwest's Best Regional Universities, Best Value Schools, and Best Colleges for Veterans.
