UMSL ranked 29th nationally on U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 list of “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” released Tuesday. (File photo by August Jennewein)

The University of Missouri–St. Louis continues to offer the best online bachelor’s program in Missouri, according to a U.S News & World Report ranking released Tuesday.

Of the 13 other state institutions on the 2019 “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs” list, UMSL leads with a No. 29 national ranking.

“Maintaining our top placement in Missouri reinforces that UMSL is a national player in education,” said Kristin Sobolik, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs. “We recognize the needs of our diverse student body and are committed to designing and offering courses that fit their schedules. Our online courses deliver the rigorous education students have come to expect at UMSL with the added benefit of customization. We are proud that U.S. News recognizes these efforts.”

U.S. News weighed its annual ranking based on delivery of programs and a university’s “effectiveness at awarding affordable degrees in a reasonable amount of time.” The four assessment categories are engagement, services and technologies, faculty credentials and training, and expert opinion.

“For working adults with some college credit, completing a four-year degree online may be the most practical way to obtain the knowledge and credentials needed to boost their careers,” U.S. News staff members wrote in a statement. “The 2019 edition of the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs can help prospective students select schools that are right for them.”

UMSL’s new strategic plan emphasizes creating flexible pathways to degree completion. Actions geared toward achieving this goal include expanding the UMSL NOW (Nights, Online, Weekends) program and increasing personalized advising and coaching support to keep pace with this expansion.