With the release of the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools Rankings, Marymount University continues to earn national recognition that highlights the strength of its graduate programs in health and education.
In this year’s rankings, Marymount’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program is ranked No. 180 nationally and remains among the top programs in the region, placing No. 2 in the greater Washington, D.C., area.
Additionally, Marymount’s School of Education has earned national recognition for the first time, with its graduate programs ranked in the No. 238–263 range among Best Education Schools. This marks a significant milestone for the University, reflecting its continued growth in preparing educators and leaders for today’s evolving learning environments.
“These rankings demonstrate the dedication of our faculty and the meaningful, student-centered experiences we provide across our programs,” said Dr. Skye Donovan, Dean of Marymount’s College of Health and Education. “Whether in the clinic or the classroom, our students are gaining the knowledge, skills and real-world experience needed to make a lasting impact in their professions and communities.”
The U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools Rankings are designed to help prospective students make informed decisions about their education by evaluating programs across disciplines such as business, education, engineering, law, medicine and health. By collecting data on enrollment, faculty credentials, student outcomes and other key indicators, the rankings provide a comprehensive assessment of graduate education programs nationwide.
Marymount’s graduate offerings in Physical Therapy and Education are defined by a commitment to personalized learning, hands-on experiences and strong career outcomes:
- The Doctor of Physical Therapy program prepares highly skilled practitioners through a modified problem-based curriculum that emphasizes clinical reasoning, ethical practice and collaboration. With small class and lab sizes, students benefit from close mentorship by experienced faculty and gain extensive experience in a variety of settings in the national capital area, positioning them for success in a rapidly growing field.
- Marymount’s School of Education equips future educators and leaders with the tools to make a meaningful difference in diverse learning communities. With a focus on innovation, inclusivity and real-world application, students engage in transformative learning experiences guided by dedicated faculty. The School offers a range of graduate programs, including master’s degrees with licensure in Elementary, Secondary and Special Education, as well as Administration and Supervision or Curriculum and Instruction, along with certificate programs and an online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation. Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, the School emphasizes small class sizes, personalized support and a mission-driven approach to prepare educators who lead with purpose.
