Michigan State University has once again been recognized for excellence in its graduate-level programs in education, according to U.S. News & World Report, acknowledging a long-standing commitment to preparing educators and educational leaders who shape classrooms, communities and school systems nationwide.
In the 2026 Best Education Schools rankings, MSU ranked #1 in Elementary and Secondary Teacher Education for an unparalleled 32nd straight year.
In addition, the college ranks #19 (tied) overall, its highest placement since 2016. MSU is tied for #10 among public universities and ranks #4 among Big Ten universities.
Several College of Education graduate program areas are listed among the best in the nation in the latest rankings:
- #1 – Elementary Teacher Education
- #1 – Secondary Teacher Education
- #1 – Curriculum & Instruction
- #2 – Educational Administration & Supervision
- #2 – Higher Education Administration
- #2 – Rehabilitation Counseling*
- #4 – Educational Psychology
- #8 – Special Education
- #9 – Education Policy
- #13 – Student Counseling
"The annual Best Education Schools rankings recognize, once again, the vast array of expertise and excellence in the MSU College of Education,” said Jerlando F. L. Jackson, dean and MSU Research Foundation Distinguished Professor of Education. “Our program areas are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, underscoring the quality of our faculty, the dedication of our students and alums, and the commitment of our staff. I am proud that Michigan State University is recognized externally for its significant, continued impacts across education."
MSU has been #1 in elementary and secondary teacher education since the rankings were established, and many of its program areas routinely appear in the top-15 nationally. The consistency of more than 30 years of rankings reflects college-wide commitments to collaboration, research-informed practice and a belief that education can — and must — do more to serve all learners.
The rankings are calculated using a combination of statistical and reputational data, including information on research expenditures, doctoral degrees granted, student-to-faculty ratio, faculty awards and more. The specialty or program area rankings are calculated based on nominations by deans of colleges/schools of education and graduate studies.
More rankings
U.S. News is not the only organization that recognizes MSU’s sustained impact on education nationally and globally.
Additional rankings list us among the world’s leaders:
- #6 – Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025 (Education)
- #13 - Quacquarelli Symonds, World University Rankings by Subject 2026 (Education & Training)
- #15 – Times Higher Education, World University Rankings by Subject 2026 (Education Studies)
Our programs in Kinesiology are equally well-regarded. Our doctoral program in Kinesiology is #11 in the nation in the latest rankings (2023). Quacquarelli Symonds places MSU’s programs in “Sport-related subjects” as #7 nationally, and in the top-50 globally, in their World University Rankings by Subject.
At MSU, national recognition follows impact — built over time through collaboration, commitment and the belief that education can transform lives. *Rehabilitation Counseling programs are ranked in the Best Health Schools rankings, also by U.S. News & World Report.
*Rehabilitation Counseling programs are ranked in the Best Health Schools rankings, also by U.S. News & World Report.