DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas achieved a major leap in U.S. News & World Report's “Top Performers on Social Mobility” ranking, rising to No. 34, up from No. 44 in 2025, reflecting the university’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives.

UNT’s rise in social mobility reflects the university’s impact on first-generation students and those facing financial or educational barriers, supporting them through graduation and opening doors to higher lifetime earnings. Nearly 44,000 students from Texas, across the nation and around the world are pursuing their educational goals at UNT, where more than 13,000 degrees were awarded last year. The university provides more than $456 million in financial aid annually — including over $70 million in scholarships — and nearly 75% of students receive some form of support. Since 2014, UNT has cut the share of graduates with student loan debt by nearly 14%, and today more than half of graduates leave campus debt-free, making higher education more accessible and affordable for all.

“These rankings reflect UNT’s holistic approach to student success, from traditional campus programs to cutting-edge online offerings,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael McPherson. “We are especially proud of the upward movement in our social mobility ranking, which underscores UNT’s role in providing transformative opportunities to students from all walks of life.”

UNT continues to gain national recognition with 20 total U.S. News & World Report rankings across online, graduate, global and Best Colleges categories. The university’s social mobility ranking places in the Top 100 of the Best Colleges list.

UNT’s current U.S. News & World Report rankings:

Best Colleges

• Top Performers on Social Mobility – 34 (up from 44 in 2025)

 Best Graduate Programs

• Homeland Security and Emergency Management – 5
• Local Government Management – 8
• Rehabilitation Counseling – 12
• Library and Information Studies – 21
• Supply Chain / Logistics – 23 (new ranking in 2025)
• Fine Arts (MFA) – 42
• Audiology – 66
• Political Science – 69
• Materials Engineering – 70
• Public Affairs – 72
• Part-time MBA – 88

 Best Online Programs

• Best Online Graduate Education Programs – 3
• Best Online Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Programs – 17
• Best Undergraduate Business – 21
• Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs – 24
• Best Online Bachelor’s Programs – 25
• Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans – 44
• Best Online MBA Programs – 75

 Best Global Universities

• Education and Educational Research – 27

UNT continues to advance its mission to provide innovative programs, expert faculty and opportunities that prepare students for success in Texas, the U.S. and the world.