U.S. News and World Report ranks MSU in top 6% of universities  

U.S. News & World Report has released its 2026–27 Best Global Universities ranking, which places MSU in the top 6% of institutions worldwide.

The rank — 127 out of 2,250 institutions spanning 105 countries — is a jump of six from last year’s ranking. Among the 289 colleges and universities ranked in the United States, MSU is No. 46. MSU has consistently ranked in the top 50 among U.S. institutions throughout this ranking’s 12-year existence.

“Being recognized among the world’s leading universities is a testament to the extraordinary work of our faculty, researchers and academic community,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “These rankings reflect our commitment to generating knowledge that addresses global challenges, fostering innovation through research, and providing students with an exceptional educational experience. We are proud to see Michigan State’s impact and reputation recognized on an international stage.”

MSU’s Education and Educational Research subject ranking continues to excel, earning a No. 11 ranking globally and No. 1 in the U.S.

“Our work in education and educational research continues to set a standard for excellence,” said Jerlando F.L. Jackson, College of Education dean and MSU Research Foundation Distinguished Professor of Education. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our Spartan community, whose commitment to innovation and transformative impact drives our momentum forward. We are honored by the recognition. We will continue to build on this strong foundation to advance meaningful progress in education, health and well-being around the globe.”

MSU also ranks No.16 in Plant and Animal Science globally and No. 5 in the U.S.

Three other academic disciplines continue to maintain their top 50 ranking globally and top 20 ranking in the U.S., including:

• Agricultural Science (No. 39, No. 9 in U.S.)
• Arts and Humanities (No. 36, No.17 in U.S.)
• Environment/Ecology (No. 35, No.16 in U.S.)

U.S. News & World Report is one of four major global rankings.

Other recent notable MSU rankings include:

• Service-learning at MSU maintains No. 1 rank among public universities
• 3 graduate programs are No. 1, 10 in top 10 by US News & World Report
• Time ranks MSU among world’s top 100 institutions