Nursing major rated among the top 9% in the U.S.
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For the 10th consecutive year, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth earned national recognition in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, placing among the nation's best in eight different categories, with its three largest undergraduate majors — Nursing, Psychology, and Computer Science — all ranking in the top quartile of their respective categories.
Overall and regional recognition
Overall, the university ranked #242 for Best National Universities and #136 for public universities, maintaining its position as the highest-ranked public university in New England with a total enrollment of fewer than 10,000 students.
The university was also named a top performer on social mobility, an important metric that measures how well schools graduate economically disadvantaged students. UMassD ranked 110 out of all U.S. institutions and second-highest among public universities in New England.
"These rankings reflect the extraordinary value of a UMass Dartmouth education and the dedication of our community," said UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Mark A. Fuller. "Our students, faculty, and staff work tirelessly to ensure academic excellence, expand opportunity, and prepare graduates who will lead in their fields."
Nursing among the nation's best
UMass Dartmouth's largest academic program, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, ranked 59th out of 686 qualifying programs, cementing a 15-spot rise since last year's rankings and entering the top 9% of U.S. programs. Rated the fourth highest among public universities in New England, this distinction underscores both the program's growing reputation and its critical role in preparing highly skilled healthcare professionals at a time of great demand.
"The progress we've seen in these critical areas is the result of strategic focus, dedicated faculty, and talented students who strive for excellence," said Provost Ramprasad Balasubramanian. "As demand grows in healthcare, behavioral sciences, business, engineering, and technology, UMass Dartmouth prepares graduates who will make a lasting impact in the future of work and our communities.
Psychology climbs the ranks
The College of Arts & Sciences' undergraduate psychology programs also advanced in this year's rankings, rated #152, marking an 82-spot improvement in two years to rank among the top 22% of U.S. programs. Offering both BA and BS degrees, the psychology program provides students with a rigorous academic foundation, hands-on research opportunities, and strong preparation for graduate study or careers in counseling, human services, and related fields.
Computer Science meets growing industry demand
The College of Engineering's undergraduate computer science major ranked #136 in the nation, and the fourth-highest ranked program among public universities in New England. Building on a 74-spot improvement over the last two years, computer science has become one of UMass Dartmouth's fastest-rising and most in-demand majors. Graduates are well-prepared for a rapidly growing field, with members of the Class of 2024 earning a mean starting salary of $104,150 per year.
Business and engineering college rankings
The Charlton College of Business continued its momentum, placing among the nation's top 200 undergraduate business programs (#194). That position places Charlton in the top 37% of U.S. programs and the 125th among public universities nationwide. The College of Engineering earned a ranking of #150 in the nation, making it the third-highest ranked undergraduate engineering program among public universities in Massachusetts.