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ɫ��ֱ��'s distance-based Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is now ranked #2 overall according to the U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 online nursing school rankings, rising one spot from last year.

The School's MSN specialties of Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration/Leadership, and Nursing Education have once again ranked #1. In addition, a #6 ranking in online master’s programs for veterans reflects the School's longstanding support for those who have served our country.

"As we celebrate our School’s 95^th anniversary, these recognitions are a testament to our programs’ consistency in quality, offering the very best in nursing education and preparing the next generation of nurse leaders and innovators," said Michael V. Relf, Dean of ɫ��ֱ�� and Mary T. Champagne Distinguished Professor of Nursing. "Excellence is our minimum defining standard."

In the 2026 rankings, ɫ��ֱ�� has been recognized as follows:

• #2 overall rank – Best Online Master’s Nursing Programs

• #1 – Best Online Family Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs

• #1 – Best Online Master’s in Nursing Administration/Leadership Programs

• #1 – Best Online Master’s in Nursing Education Programs

• #1 – Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health, Across the Lifespan

• #6 – Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs for Veterans

The Psychiatric Mental Health program prepares students to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced clinical skills, and a holistic approach to mental health care. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to become leaders in the field of psychiatric mental health nursing and make a significant impact on the well-being of their patients.

The Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares students to deliver exceptional primary care to individuals and families. The program emphasizes comprehensive primary care across the lifespan, with most coursework being online and a few virtual synchronous sessions and course-focused on-campus intensives

The School of Nursing's Nursing Education program continues to produce world-class nurse educators who go on to become leaders in the field of nursing education. The program emphasizes the development of advanced teaching skills, curriculum design, and educational leadership. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical components, ensuring they are well-equipped to educate the next generation of nurses.

The Nursing and Healthcare Leadership program prepares students for a wide range of positions, from traditional healthcare management to emerging roles in quality, safety, and provider practice management. The program emphasizes developing real-world skills to drive positive change, influence workplace culture, and enhance patient outcomes and staff well-being.

These specialties represent the School of Nursing’s continued educational excellence across a wide variety of nursing fields. The school's innovative offerings and cutting-edge research initiatives ensure that students receive the best possible education and are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the healthcare industry.

For more information about ɫ��ֱ�� and its programs, please visit nursing.duke.edu.

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ɫ��ֱ�� is a globally recognized leader in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. Established in 1931, the School is committed to advancing health equity and improving health outcomes through innovative education, clinical practice, and nursing science. The school offers a range of programs, including a Master of Nursing (MN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in Nursing, all designed to prepare the next generation of nursing leaders. With an inclusive community, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, the School is dedicated to shaping the future of nursing and healthcare. For more information, visit nursing.duke.edu.

Media Contact

Sarah Morrison
sarah.morrison@duke.edu
(919) 668-8870