Towson University has again been recognized among the nation’s top institutions for online graduate education in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, reflecting the university’s commitment to high-quality, accessible programs designed for today’s working professionals. 

TU was ranked No. 1 in Maryland for Best Online Master’s in Education, tying for 59 nationally, and No. 4 in Maryland for Best Online Master’s in Information Technology, tying for 53 nationally. 

To be eligible, programs must offer predominantly online classes for the duration of the degree. Rankings are based on multiple factors, including academic quality and student success, engagement with faculty, faculty credentials and training, peer assessment and the services and technologies that support online learners. 

TU's online master's programs emphasize small class sizes, interactive online engagement with faculty and access to campus-based resources. Degrees are designed to be completed within a two-year time frame, supporting students who are balancing graduate studies with full-time work and other professional responsibilities. 

Best Online Master’s in Education 

TU’s College of Education was recognized for 11 of its fully online master programs, which provide students with a wide range of options to meet their career goals and professional interests. Offerings include nationally accredited programs for currently licensed educators seeking to add credentials in school leadership, reading, school library media, and gifted and creative education. For educators who want to enhance their professional knowledge and skills, there are graduate programs in elementary education, special education, early childhood education and secondary education.

TU also offers programs in instructional technology that serve educators as well as learning designers in various settings and industries including health, business, non-profit, government, higher education, and more.

“Towson University plays a vital role in preparing the educators and other professionals for our schools, industry, and communities,” says Dean Laurie Mullen, College of Education. “Our accessible, high-quality online programs are designed for working professionals and reflect our commitment to strengthening Maryland's education workforce as well as the industries we serve.”

Learn more about TU’s master’s in education programs. 

Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 

TU's Master of Science in Applied Information Technology (AIT) also earned national recognition for its flexibility and alignment with workforce needs.  

The AIT program follows a modular structure, allowing students to earn one or more graduate certificates while working toward their master’s degree. These certificates focus on timely, relevant areas within the field, enabling students to tailor their education to specific career interests and industry needs. 

Graduate certificates focus on a wide range of topics, including computer forensics, database management systems, health information technology, information security and assurance, information systems management, internet application development, networking technologies and software engineering. 

Learn more about TU’s AIT program.