UK’s Counselor Education Program is 6th Nationally in Latest Rankings
The Counselor Education program at the University of Kentucky College of Education is among the top in the nation, according to 2026 rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.
Housed in the Department of Early Childhood, Special Education, and Counselor Education, the program is ranked 6th among rehabilitation counseling programs.
“I remain proud of the outstanding, committed faculty and staff associated with the Counselor Education program here at the University of Kentucky. Because of this commitment, we have remained in the top 10 percent of all Rehabilitation Counseling Programs nationally for several years,” said Keith B. Wilson, Ph.D., LPCC, NCC, CRC, professor and chair of the Counselor Education program. “Additionally, the associated expertise and student-centeredness of our faculty, and the connection with the insightful team at UK Online, have made this a great time to be part of the Counselor Education program.”
U.S. News rankings are based on peer ratings, surveys of education professionals, and assessments of factors such as admissions selectivity, research activity, and program reputation.
“The latest national rankings demonstrate what we've known for many years—the UK Rehabilitation Counseling program is a national leader in teaching, research, and impact,” said College of Education Dean Nick Pace. “We are immensely proud of the legacy and reputation faculty have built and the students the program attracts. Our online format reaches across the Commonwealth and beyond at a time when mental health professionals are needed more than ever.”
The University of Kentucky College of Education continues to be a leader in graduate education across the Commonwealth. Its graduate programs are recognized for their commitment to academic excellence, research, and preparing professionals to serve communities.
The College of Education offers more than 70 graduate degree and certificate programs across a wide range of career fields. To learn more about graduate programs at the UK College of Education, visit https://education.uky.edu/academics/graduate.