Duke University School of Nursing Rises to No. 5 in the 2026 QS World University Rankings
The high ranking reflects the strength of the School’s faculty, students, and research programs and ongoing leadership in nursing education and science.
Duke University School of Nursing continues its upward trajectory in global rankings. With the release of the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject: Nursing, the Duke School of Nursing is now ranked #5 in the world. This upward movement reflects the strength of the School’s faculty, students, and research programs, and highlights our ongoing leadership in nursing education and science. Our faculty are nurse scientists and scholars whose work informs practice, shapes policy, and improves health outcomes across communities.
Each year, QS evaluates universities worldwide across 55 subject areas and more than 1,900 institutions, making it one of the most recognized measures of global academic performance. QS rankings draw on indicators such as academic reputation, employer reputation, and research impact, offering a trusted, internationally comparable measure of excellence, particularly important in fields like nursing, where global workforce mobility and research leadership are central to a school’s impact.
“This recognition affirms our position as a global leader for nursing science and scholarship,” said Dean Michael Relf. “We are energized to continue our work of preparing nurse leaders to drive innovative research, and partner with communities to support person-centered healthcare for all.”