MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — OnlineMasters.com, an independent higher education research platform specializing in online graduate education, has recognized multiple programs at Middle Tennessee State University in its 2026 rankings. 

The university earned top distinctions across two online master’s disciplines, reinforcing its leadership in academic quality, affordability, and career-focused education. MTSU ranked No. 6 in Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs offered through its College of Education and No. 9 in Best Online Master’s in Training and Development Programs offered through University College.

OnlineMasters.com says it uses a rigorous, data-driven methodology to evaluate accredited online master’s programs nationwide. Each program is assessed using a proprietary scoring model that measures performance across four core factors: academic quality, graduation outcomes, cost and return on investment, and student support resources. Programs receive an Online Master’s Score ranging from 0 to 100 based on their overall performance.

The evaluation process incorporates trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard, NCES College Navigator, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, College Board, publicly available institutional disclosures, and aggregated performance indicators from recognized ranking organizations such as U.S. News & World Report. All data undergo multiple rounds of internal review to ensure accuracy, consistency, and objectivity, according to an OnlineMaster.com news release.

“These honors reflect MTSU’s continued commitment to academic excellence, student success, and innovative online learning opportunities that serve students across Tennessee and beyond,” said Trey Martindale, professor and associate vice provost for online learning at MTSU. “These recognitions affirm the outstanding work taking place across our online programs. We are grateful for the faculty and staff who continually invest their expertise, creativity, and care into supporting our students.”

In today’s rapidly evolving workforce shaped by artificial intelligence and technological innovation, graduate education has become an increasingly important differentiator. Online master’s programs that demonstrate strong academic rigor, competitive tuition structures, measurable career pathways, and robust support for online learners stand out in the rankings.

“Being recognized by OnlineMasters.com affirms our commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes,” said Huy Nguyen, chief education and career development advisor for OnlineMasters.com, in the release. “We are proud that our online master’s programs continue to provide students with the knowledge, flexibility, and career preparation needed to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing workforce.”

Added Martindale: “MTSU is especially proud of the academic departments, instructional designers, student support professionals, and staff whose dedication and collaborative efforts make these achievements possible. Their work ensures that MTSU students receive the highest quality, engaging, and career-relevant educational experience.”

To learn more about the rankings, visit https://www.onlinemasters.com.

To learn more about MTSU Online’s offerings, visit https://mtsu.edu/online/.

— Jimmy Hart ([email protected])