The University of Illinois Springfield’s public affairs graduate degrees have been ranked among the top 25 percent of best programs in the country in 2023-2024 U.S. News Best Graduate Programs rankings released today.

UIS’ public affairs graduate programs ranked 67 out of 269 programs that were reviewed nationwide.

“These rankings speak to the quality of teaching and research provided by our outstanding faculty,” said Robert Smith, dean of the UIS College of Public Affairs and Education. “Our continued rise in rankings will help showcase our contribution to public service not only in Springfield and Illinois but nationwide.”

The U.S. News rankings of public affairs programs were based on peer assessments of the UIS master's degrees in public administration and public policy. In fall 2022 and early 2023, U.S. News surveyed deans, directors and department chairs representing 269 master's programs in public affairs and administration.

UIS also offers graduate public affairs degrees in human services, legal studies, political science, public administration, public affairs reporting and public policy.

Part-time MBA Program Ranked

UIS was also ranked in the best part-time MBA category, coming in at 184 out of 299 programs nationwide.

“Our part-time MBA programs are designed with the working adult in mind,” said Somnath Bhattacharya, dean of the UIS College of Business and Management. “An effective combination of eight-week sessions; built-in certificates in over 10 subject areas; and a dedicated cadre of faculty and staff ensure that our students receive the best value for the investment they make in time and effort towards earning our degree.”

UIS was eligible to be ranked as an Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International accredited institution, considered the gold standard for business programs.

U.S. News surveyed business schools between fall 2022 and early 2023 to collect
part-time program data for the six ranking factors, including peer assessment score, part-time student ratio, part-time student total, GMAT/GRE scores, undergraduate grade point average and work experience.

Designed for prospective students looking to further their education beyond college, the Best Graduate Schools rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines. The full rankings and additional information can be found on the U.S. News website.