The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has once again earned national recognition for its outstanding online graduate programs.
In its 2025 rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked UA Little Rock 41st in “Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs” and 55th in “Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs.” These rankings highlight the university’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible education to students worldwide.
The first ranking assesses online master’s degree programs in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, information systems, and information technology. For UA Little Rock, this ranking includes the online Master of Science in information quality and Master of Science in information science programs. UA Little Rock has also earned a spot in this list for the past four years in a row.
The online master’s degree in information quality is a 33-hour program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The program is designed to prepare students for industry and government careers as well as advanced doctoral studies. Developed with support from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Information Quality Program, the curriculum balances information quality theory with industry best practices using state-of-the-art technology.
The online master’s degree in information science is a 33-hour program designed to familiarize individuals with the advanced knowledge, skills, and technologies for working with large amounts of complex data. Students learn how to compete in an industry with an ever-present demand for new innovations in data science and analytics, advanced information systems design and development, and emerging information technologies. Both degrees serve as a stepping stone for other advanced graduate degrees, such as UA Little Rock’s Ph.D. in computer and information science.
“Interest in the Master of Science in Information Science program has grown significantly in recent years,” said Dr. Daniel Berleant, professor of information science and program coordinator. “By offering courses in both in-person and online formats, we’re able to meet the needs of students here in Little Rock as well as working professionals and learners across the country. As higher education increasingly embraces online delivery, our program remains at the forefront of providing high-quality, affordable online education.”
The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology (SCJC) offers an online Master of Science in Criminal Justice that equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to excel as practitioners and supervisors in the criminal justice system.
“The SCJC faculty and staff have worked hard to earn this ranking, which reflects a significant improvement from the 2024 rankings,” said Dr. Michael Cavanaugh, SCJC director. “We are committed to continuing to enhance the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice program to provide the best opportunities for students in our region.”
SCJC has also been ranked 89th out of 683 colleges in the U.S. for criminal justice programs by Niche, placing it in the top 13% nationwide.
“Being ranked among the top programs in the country is an incredible accomplishment,” Cavanaugh said. “We are honored by this recognition and will work hard to meet the high expectations that come with it.”
Cavanaugh credited much of the program’s teaching success to a mentoring initiative led by professors Molly Smith and Kilby Raptopoulos, which supports new faculty through peer mentorship, tutorials, and technical assistance.
“Molly and Kilby have done a phenomenal job with this mentoring project,” Cavanaugh said. “Their dedication to fostering great teaching practices has made a significant impact on the quality of education we provide.”
U.S. News & World Report evaluates programs based on data from institutional surveys and peer assessments. Rankings are determined by performance across five categories: student engagement, services and technologies, student excellence, faculty credentials and training, and expert opinions.
You can find out more about UA Little Rock’s diverse online education opportunities at https://ualr.edu/online/.