Maryland Engineering Maintains Status as National Leader in Online Education

The University of Maryland’s A. James Clark School of Engineering has been ranked No. 11 in the nation for online graduate engineering programs by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026 Best Online Programs rankings. This places the school at No. 8 among public institutions.

"We believe people who want to pursue advanced studies in engineering should have that opportunity. Creating a strong workforce of engineering talent is critical for our society and our online programs play a pivotal role in developing it,” said Clark School Dean Samuel Graham. “Maryland Engineering’s online programs empower students to pursue a leading advanced degree in a way that fits into their lifestyle. Our faculty and staff are helping those students gain skills to excel in the workforce, and we are proud to see them recognized.”

Administered through Maryland Applied Graduate Engineering (MAGE), the online Master of Engineering curriculum mirrors the high standards of UMD’s on-campus offerings, ensuring that remote learners receive the same world-class education as their peers in College Park.

"For over three decades, MAGE has been committed to providing engineers with the essential tools to tackle pressing global issues—from climate change to computing," said George Syrmos, assistant dean for continuing education. "Being recognized as a top-tier program reflects our ongoing promise to empower engineers across the globe to innovate and lead."

Founded in 1994, MAGE has grown from seven to 19 program options, delivering a comprehensive portfolio of graduate engineering programs in areas that address the demands of the global marketplace. A flexible online format was introduced in 2003, eventually growing to 14 fully online degree options, allowing working engineers around the world to earn a graduate degree while balancing careers and personal commitments. The online Master of Engineering degrees offered address critical, high-demand fields:

The Clark School’s online programs have consistently ranked among the finest institutions in online engineering graduate education, including top 10 placements in 2024 and 2025, demonstrating a sustained commitment to excellence in distance learning.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on a variety of factors, including student engagement, faculty credentials, peer reputation, and the quality of student services and technology. The Clark School’s consistent high placement highlights its strength in these areas and its dedication to providing a world-class education to a diverse, global student body. To view the complete rankings, visit www.usnews.com/education/online-education/engineering/rankings.

To learn more about the University of Maryland’s Master of Engineering programs, specifically designed for early career, working engineers and technical professionals, visit mage.umd.edu.

About the A. James Clark School of Engineering

The University of Maryland’s A. James Clark School of Engineering is a premier program, ranked among the top 20 in the world. Located just a few miles from Washington, D.C., the Clark School is at the center of a constellation of high-tech companies and federal laboratories, offering students and faculty access to unique professional opportunities.

Our broad spectrum of academic programs, including the world’s only accredited undergraduate fire protection engineering program, is complemented by a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, early hands-on educational experiences, and participation in national and international competitions.

The Clark School is leading research advancements in aerospace, bioengineering, robotics, nanotechnology, disaster resilience, energy and sustainability, and cybersecurity. From the universal product code to satellite radio, SMS text messaging to the implantable insulin pump, our students, faculty, and alums are engineering life-changing innovations for millions. Learn more at www.eng.umd.edu.

Published January 27, 2026