Rutgers School of Public Health Among the Nation’s Top Programs in U.S. News Rankings

The Rutgers School of Public Health has once again been recognized among the top public health schools in the nation in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Public Health Schools rankings. The recognition reflects the school’s continued growth and its commitment to advancing public health through education, research, and community engagement.

Ranked 18th in the 2026 rankings, the school continues to strengthen its position among the top 20 public health schools and programs in the United States.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are designed to guide prospective graduate students and are based on peer assessment, research activity, and academic reputation.

“This recognition reflects the strength of our community and the work we do together every day,” said Dean Perry N. Halkitis. “At Rutgers School of Public Health, we are focused on humanizing public health. That means centering people, listening to communities, and ensuring that our work leads to meaningful change in the real world.”

The school's top 20 standing is reinforced by strong performance across key areas, including #15 in Social and Behavioral Sciences, #20 in Epidemiology, and #22 in both Biostatistics and Health Policy.

Over the past year, the school has continued to grow in ways that reflect both innovation and purpose. Academic programs have expanded to address emerging and ongoing public health challenges, including LGBTQ+ Health, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice, Sustainability and Health, and more. These programs are designed to prepare students to respond to complex health needs across diverse populations.

Research efforts have also continued to gain momentum. Faculty are leading work in areas such as infectious disease, environmental health, and health equity, supported by significant external funding. Much of this work is grounded in partnership, with faculty and students collaborating with organizations across New Jersey and beyond to ensure that research is informed by the communities it is meant to serve.

The school’s visibility continues to grow as faculty contribute to national conversations on pressing public health issues. Their expertise is regularly featured in media and policy discussions, helping to bring evidence-based perspectives into public dialogue.

At the same time, there has been a strong and ongoing focus on student success. Students have access to hands-on learning experiences, workforce development opportunities, and career pathways that prepare them to enter and lead in the public health field.

These efforts reflect the school’s commitment to “Keeping the Public in Public Health” and to improving health outcomes through work that is grounded in equity and community.

As public health continues to evolve, the Rutgers School of Public Health remains focused on preparing future leaders and strengthening the connection between research, practice, and the communities it serves.