Educational program No. 1 in annual U.S. News rankings
April 7, 2026

The USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy is ranked the nation’s No. 1 occupational therapy educational program, according to 2026 Best Graduate Schools compiled by U.S. News & World Report. The recognition affirms the division’s innovation and excellence across its educational, research and clinical practice mission areas.

“Across the landscape of occupational therapy higher education, no other place has the scope and scale we have here at USC Chan,” said Associate Dean and Chair Grace Baranek. “It’s gratifying to have the incredible talent and steadfast dedication of our faculty, staff and students recognized by U.S. News.”

U.S. News ranks accredited occupational therapy programs using peer assessments solicited from academic leaders across the country, a reflection of the high regard in which USC Chan is held among the occupational therapy community. Since U.S. News began ranking OT programs in 1998, USC Chan has held the top spot for 19 years, longer than any other program in the country. Also atop this year’s rankings are Boston University, Colorado State University and the University of Pittsburgh.

USC Chan faculty currently hold more than $37 million of federal research grants. More than four dozen clinical faculty members treat patients at 10 sites of service across the Greater Los Angeles area, including the Keck Medicine of USC hospitals and clinics, at the USC Occupational Therapy Faculty Practice locations, at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles-affiliated sites and out in the community.

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