The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has once again been nationally recognized for its outstanding online graduate program.
In its 2025 rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranked UA Little Rock 41st for “Best Online Graduate Information Technology Program” and 55th for “Best Online Master of Criminal Justice Program.” These rankings highlight the university’s commitment to providing a high-quality, accessible education to students around the world.
The first ranking evaluates 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 earned a spot on this list for the past four consecutive years.
The online master’s degree in information quality is a 33-hour program that can be completed in just 18 months. This program is designed to prepare students for advanced doctoral studies as well as careers in industry and government. The curriculum was developed with support from the Massachusetts Technology Information Quality Program, and the curriculum balances information quality theory with industry best practices using cutting-edge technology.
The online master’s degree in information science is a 33-hour program designed to familiarize individuals with advanced knowledge, skills, and technology 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 stepping stones to other advanced graduate degrees, such as UA Little Rock’s Ph.D. in computer and information science.
“Interest in the Master of Information Science program has increased significantly in recent years,” said Dr. Daniel Berler, Professor of Information Science and Program Coordinator. “Offering courses in both in-person and online formats allows us 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 programs remain 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 degree, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to excel as practitioners and supervisors in the criminal justice system.
“SCJC faculty and staff have worked hard to earn this ranking, which reflects a significant improvement from the 2024 ranking,” said SCJC Director Dr. Michael Kavanaugh. I am. “We are committed to continuing to enhance our online Master of Criminal Justice program to provide the best opportunity for students in our region.”
SCJC is ranked 89th out of 683 universities in the United States for criminal justice programs by Niche, putting it in the top 13% nationally.
“Being ranked among the top programs in the country is an incredible accomplishment,” Kavanaugh said. “We honor this recognition and will work hard to meet the high expectations that come with it.”
Cavanaugh credited much of the program’s educational success to the mentoring initiative led by Professors Molly Smith and Kilby Raptopoulos, who support new faculty through peer mentorship, tutorials, and technical assistance.
“Molly and Kilby have done a phenomenal job with this mentoring project,” Kavanaugh said. “Their dedication to promoting good educational practices has had a significant impact on the quality of education we provide.”
US News & World Report evaluates programs based on data from institutional surveys and peer evaluations. Rankings are determined by performance across five categories: student engagement and technology, student excellence, faculty qualifications and training, and expert opinion.
Learn more about UA Little Rock’s diverse online educational opportunities at https://ualr.edu/online/.
