UNC School of Nursing ties for 3rd among online master’s programs in nursing administration
January 26, 2026
U.S. News & World Report has released its 2026 Best Online Program rankings, and the UNC School of Nursing is tied for third in the nation for Best Online Master’s Programs in Nursing Administration and Leadership. Carolina Nursing is the highest-ranked public school of nursing in this category, reflecting its commitment to excellence in distance-based graduate education.
By blending business principles with person-centered care, Carolina Nursing’s online Health Care Leadership and Administration (HCLA) program prepares nurses for advanced leadership and administrative roles across health care settings. Offered at the MSN and DNP degree levels, with full- and part-time options, the program provides flexible online learning that blends asynchronous and synchronous coursework, supported by tailored clinical placements and on-campus immersion experiences.
“This recognition reflects the strength of our HCLA program and the people who make it exceptional,” said Valerie Howard, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN, dean of the UNC School of Nursing. “Our faculty, staff and students share a deep commitment to developing nurse leaders who improve care delivery, support the workforce and lead meaningful change in health systems.”
Designed for working professionals, the online HCLA program allows students to advance their education from anywhere while continuing their careers. Supported by world-class faculty, graduates are prepared to lead with purpose, collaborate across disciplines and improve health outcomes in today’s complex health care environment.
“Effective leadership is essential to the future of nursing,” Howard said. “By preparing nurses to step into leadership and management roles, we are helping strengthen the health care workforce and address the challenges facing our communities.”
Currently ranked 12th overall among master’s nursing programs and tied for 4th among undergraduate programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, Carolina Nursing offers top-ranked degree options for nursing students at all levels. See additional Carolina Nursing rankings here.
Carolina Nursing’s Distance-Based Graduate Programs
Carolina Nursing offers a range of distance-based graduate programs, including all Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, including its top-ranked nurse practitioner tracks and post-graduate certificate programs.
This transition will broaden access to Carolina Nursing’s nationally recognized programs, enabling students across North Carolina to pursue advanced nursing education with greater flexibility. By providing these distance-based options, the school aims to meet the increasing demand for highly skilled nursing professionals, empowering students to advance their careers while balancing personal and professional commitments.
Applications for all MSN, DNP and post-graduate certificate programs are open until February 10, 2026. Learn more or start your application at the links below.
Distance-Based Graduate Programs
About the UNC Chapel Hill School of Nursing
Established in 1950, the UNC School of Nursing is part of a cutting-edge, research-intensive university with top-ranked schools of medicine, public health, pharmacy, dentistry and social work located just steps away and adjacent to the renowned UNC Hospitals.
A globally top-ranked public school of nursing, Carolina Nursing provides a diverse, energetic and collegial environment for participating in world-class interprofessional education, scientific inquiry and practice opportunities. The school offers BSN, MSN, DNP and PhD degree programs, as well as post-graduate certificate programs.
As a leading provider of bedside nurses and nurse practitioners, educators, researchers and leaders devoted to public health and access, the UNC School of Nursing is uniquely positioned to serve the front lines of the most pressing health care challenges we face today.
For more information, visit nursing.unc.edu.
About U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.