Kansas State University

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is reaching new heights with distance education, according to U.S. News & World Report's latest rankings of the best online degree programs.

The university ranks No. 20 for the best online graduate engineering programs and No. 86 for the best online graduate education programs.

Kansas State University offers online engineering master's degrees in software engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, nuclear engineering, engineering management and operations research.

"To have our online graduate program ranked in the Top 20 by U.S. News & World Report is a proud accomplishment for both the college and university," said Darren Dawson, dean of the College of Engineering. "It is a strong indicator of the high quality of our students and faculty, as well as the research they are pursuing."

Online education master's degrees include academic advising, adult and continuing education, and curriculum and instruction.

"It is an honor to be recognized among the best programs in the country," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. "It is affirming that the quality of our program, which is built upon relevant and challenging content, is receiving attention."

The university's online programs are administered through K-State's Global Campus.

"Kansas State University's online graduate programs continue to meet industry needs for an increasingly educated and skilled U.S. workforce," said Sue Maes, dean of Global Campus. "We are pleased to help extend these programs to adult learners on a national and global scale."

More than 1,200 online programs were surveyed by U.S. News & World Report. The rankings were evaluated in five categories: student engagement, faculty credentials and training, student services and technology, peer reputation and admissions selectivity.