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UNO’s College of Public Affairs Excels in U.S. News & World Report’s Latest Graduate Program Rankings

Front of CPACS building with caption stating the program is nationally ranked.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS) has once again demonstrated its excellence in graduate program rankings, according to the latest release from U.S. News & World Report. This reaffirms UNO's position as a premier institution for public affairs education. Notably, two of UNO’s programs have secured top ten placements nationally for the second consecutive year: Public Finance & Budgeting ranked fifth, while Local Government Management claimed the seventh spot. These achievements underscore UNO's commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping future leaders in the field.

Within the School of Public Administration, which has risen two spots to 26th in the nation, UNO’s graduate programs in public affairs continue to maintain a strong standing. The College of Public Affairs and Community Service holds the highest-ranking position among peer institutions, securing the 26th spot nationally and placing among the top 10% of programs nationwide for the seventh consecutive year.

Dr. John Bartle, Dean of CPACS, expressed satisfaction with UNO's consistent recognition, stating, "UNO's School of Public Administration consistently upholds its esteemed position, ranking above renowned institutions such as the University of Virginia, Cornell University, University of Illinois, Chicago, and University of Pittsburgh. Our faculty's profound expertise and our captivating learning atmosphere draw students worldwide, reaffirming our leadership in the domain and bolstering our esteemed reputation."

Our programs offer unparalleled quality and support, equipping students with the skills needed to tackle today’s challenges effectively,”

 Dr. Craig Maher, Director of the School of Public Administration

Dr. Craig Maher, Director of the School of Public Administration, attributes these accolades to the dedication of faculty, staff, and students, as well as the university's support. “Our programs offer unparalleled quality and support, equipping students with the skills needed to tackle today’s challenges effectively,” Maher remarked.

UNO provides exceptional opportunities for students interested in public affairs, offering a robust educational experience that prepares graduates for impactful careers. Maher emphasized, “Completing a degree from the School of Public Administration opens doors to valuable professional opportunities and empowers graduates to make significant contributions to their communities.”

In another success, UNO's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice has secured a top-ten ranking in U.S. News & World Report's Graduate Program update. Notably, the online Master of Science in Criminology has achieved a position as a top-ranked Criminal Justice program, ranking #7 nationally.

“This ranking reaffirms what we at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice already understand,” stated Dr. Gaylene Armstrong, Director of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice. “We are fully devoted to inclusive access and meeting our students wherever they may be. Our passionate staff and esteemed faculty deliver cutting-edge education in collaboration with industry stakeholders, both local and distant, fostering personal and communal prosperity."

Beyond rankings, UNO's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice distinguishes itself by providing a comprehensive online curriculum, offering degrees from bachelor's to doctoral levels with a focus on accommodating professionals already active in their respective fields. Dean of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, Dr. John Bartle, underscores the institution's reputation as a national leader in criminal justice education. “We prioritize accessibility for professionals already working in their field, boasting a world-class faculty and an innovative curriculum designed to meet the evolving needs of the criminal justice landscape.”

For more information about UNO’s graduate programs, visit the UNO Office of Graduate Studies website.