Skip to main content

Boise State’s online bachelor’s degree programs ranked among top in the nation

The new 2021 U.S. News and World Report rankings placed Boise State Online’s bachelor degree programs in the near top 10% of online bachelor’s degree programs in the country — #39 out of 337 higher education institutions. Boise State also ranked at #26 for best online bachelor’s programs for veterans.

High marks for student support and engagement

US News surveyed 1,200 regionally-accredited, mostly or fully online programs to determine this year’s rankings. 2021 marks the publication’s tenth year of evaluating online programs.

According to US News, Boise State received high marks in the “Services and Technologies” category for the high quality “financial, technical and vocational support available to distance learners.” Student engagement and satisfaction was also measured, with Boise State landing among the best in that category.

Niki Callison, Executive Director of Enrollment and Student Success in Extended Studies, commented on the work of Boise State Online to support all online learners. “The Boise State Online student success team is passionate about serving students, whether they are exploring online options, planning their degree path or balancing life with school,” she said. “Our goal is to make sure students have the support they need to succeed.”

Student holds a sign reading "We Bring The Blue To You."
Dave LaGuardia celebrates graduation from Boise State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Imaging Sciences program. Photo by Arlie Sommer, Boise State Extended Studies.

Recognized for best online bachelor’s programs for veterans

Boise State’s top ranking for best online bachelor’s programs for veterans helps highlight the work of Boise State Flex and Military Programs and Veterans Services.

“This exciting ranking news clearly demonstrates Boise State’s commitment to making online education for military and veteran students a university-wide priority. Consider Boise State’s partnerships with Idaho organizations like Mission 43,” said Sean Hunter, director of Community-Based Educational Outreach Programs at Boise State. “Through this partnership, we are able to better assist currently serving Idaho military members, veterans and military spouses with educational opportunities on their path to a degree.”

ROTC group poses in front of the "B" statue.
Boise State strives to support and encourage the success of veteran and active military students. Photo by Arlie Sommer, Boise State Extended Studies.

Supporting military students on their journey to a bachelor’s degree starts from the moment a prospective military student shows interest in Boise State. Take it from Leonard Rogers, a Military Bronco and recent graduate of the Bachelor of Business Administration in Management program: “When I spoke with Scott [my student success coach], I explained my situation with being enlisted in the Navy and being gone for weeks out to sea. He assured me that Boise State and its professors were understanding of military personnel.” Rogers said. “He was right about it all.”

Celebrating Boise State’s commitment to online students

This news calls attention to the phenomenal work being done across our campus to support distance learners. From the eCampus Center’s efforts to create high-quality learning environments, to enrollment and advising staff’s dedication to student support and success, to the Office of Information Technology’s endeavor to provide technology support and solutions — our collective commitment to online education and distance learners shines.

Mark Wheeler, Dean of Boise State Extended Studies commented on the ranking news. “These online degrees allow people from all across Idaho and beyond the opportunity to pursue a Boise State degree without having to uproot from their jobs and their communities,” he said.

Boise State Online offers 62 online programs. The flexibility of online learning and strong student support allows people access higher education no matter their location or circumstances. Hear from nine of our most recent Boise State Online graduates.

Graduate poses with family at commencement.
Patrice Elmore, Master of Social Work online program graduate, poses with her mother on graduation day in 2018. Photo by Kelci Lucier, Boise State Extended Studies.

Learn more about Boise State Online

Boise State Online allows students from all over the world and from all backgrounds to earn a college degree. Balancing jobs, families or military service, Boise State Online can make your educational dreams a reality. Explore our online degrees, certificates and courses today!

 

Story by Pamela Craig and Alexis Ross, Boise State Extended Studies