Old Dominion University's Online Programs Ranked Among the Nation's and State's Best

U.S. News & World Report recognizes ODUGlobal's online bachelor's and master's degree programs

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Old Dominion University's online programs have been ranked among the best in the nation and state by U.S. News & World Report in their 2026 Best Online Programs rankings. The university's online bachelor's in business, master's in nursing for veterans, and other programs were recognized as top-ranked in Virginia, while several ODUGlobal programs also improved in national standing from the previous year.

Why it matters

This recognition highlights Old Dominion University's long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality distance learning courses, particularly for military-affiliated and adult learners. As more students seek flexible, online education options, ODUGlobal's rankings demonstrate the university's ability to meet the evolving needs of modern learners.

The details

Old Dominion University's online bachelor's in business program was ranked number one in Virginia, while the master's in nursing program for veterans, bachelor's program, and bachelor's program for veterans were ranked number two in the state. The university's online master's in computer information technology program for veterans and master's in nursing program were ranked number three in Virginia. Several ODUGlobal programs also improved in national standing, including the online bachelor's in business program, which climbed nine spots to rank in the top 15% of online bachelor's in business programs in the country.

  • Old Dominion University has long been a leader in distance learning.
  • The 2026 Best Online Programs list was released on March 2, 2026.

The players

Old Dominion University

A public research university located in Norfolk, Virginia, known for its leadership in distance learning and online programs.

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.

The president of Old Dominion University, who praised the university's robust academic online programs that meet students' needs.

Brian Payne, Ph.D.

The provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs at Old Dominion University, who highlighted the expertise and dedication of the university's faculty in delivering high-quality online education.

Nina Rodriguez Gonser

The vice president for Digital Transformation and Technology at Old Dominion University, who noted the university's long-standing commitment to supporting military-affiliated and diverse student populations through its online programs.

U.S. News & World Report

A media company that publishes news, consumer advice, rankings, and analysis, including an annual report on the best online degree programs in the United States.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“ODUGlobal provides access to high-quality online programs with the flexibility needed to earn a degree, while managing everyday life responsibilities.”

— Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., President (Old Dominion University)

“These rankings are a true testament to the expertise and dedication of our world-class faculty at Old Dominion University.”

— Brian Payne, Ph.D., Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs (Old Dominion University)

“ODUGlobal's legacy of delivering high-quality distance learning courses began with the military more than 50 years ago.”

— Nina Rodriguez Gonser, Vice President for Digital Transformation and Technology (Old Dominion University)

What’s next

Old Dominion University is reimagining course design and delivery to reflect the evolving expectations of modern learners, with plans to implement accelerated, asynchronous online formats in fall 2026 to increase access, improve completion, and better serve its diverse student population.

The takeaway

Old Dominion University's strong performance in the U.S. News & World Report rankings for its online programs, particularly in business, nursing, and technology, demonstrates the university's long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality distance education that meets the needs of today's students, including working adults, veterans, and military-affiliated individuals.