U.S. News & World Report: Carson-Newman online programs among best in Tennessee

U.S. News & World Report cites Carson-Newman University as one of Tennessee’s best universities for online programs. The University was touted as one of the top options in multiple categories in the 2025 Best Online Program rankings.

Carson-Newman and Vanderbilt University were the state’s top private institutions in the Online Master’s in Nursing Program category, with Vanderbilt earning the top slot. Nationally, Carson-Newman was ranked No. 98 in the category among all ranked universities. (C-N’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) was also recognized by The Princeton Review in its 2025 Best Online Nursing School Master’s Programs listing.)

In the Online Master’s in Education Program category, only the University of Memphis was ranked higher than Carson-Newman in Tennessee. Carson-Newman and University of Tennessee at Martin tied for second in the state.

Carson-Newman and Lee University tied for the top slot among the state’s private institutions in the Online Master’s in MBA Programs category.

“We could not be more pleased with this news,” said Carson-Newman President Charles A. Fowler. “Carson-Newman faculty are outstanding educators. These rankings underscore that. Not only are they excellent academics, but they care deeply for our students and are committed to walking with them throughout their college journey. These accolades are a testament to the quality of Christ-centered education students are finding at Carson-Newman.”

In its 13th year, the U.S. News Best Online Programs is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year’s edition evaluates more than 1,600 online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.