OSU earns global recognition in 2026 QS subject rankings

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Media Contact: Hailey Rose Viars | Communications Specialist | 405-744-5496 | hviars@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University continues to build its global academic reputation, earning recognition among the world’s top universities in four disciplines in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.

Released today by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds), the rankings evaluate more than 18,000 academic programs across 1,700 institutions in 100 countries, offering one of the most comprehensive comparisons of university performance worldwide.

OSU is ranked in four subject areas. The rankings reflect a competitive global landscape where universities are increasingly defined by subject-level excellence and research impact.

Among OSU’s ranked programs, petroleum engineering remained stable in the 101-150 range globally, and ranked No. 13 in the U.S., reinforcing the university’s longstanding strength in energy-related disciplines.

Mechanical and aeronautical engineering improved to No. 64 nationally, signaling growth in engineering research and academic performance.

Agriculture and forestry ranked 201-250 this year globally and 39th in the country, while economics and econometrics maintained its previous ranking of No. 90 in the U.S.

“This recognition reflects the strength of OSU’s academic programs and the growing impact of our research and global engagement,” said Dr. Randy Kluver, associate provost and dean of OSU Global. “OSU’s performance across multiple disciplines demonstrates both our established strengths and our continued growth in areas critical to addressing global challenges, while equipping our students with the knowledge and perspective needed to succeed in a global workforce.”

Across all ranked subjects, OSU maintained a presence on the global stage while navigating increased competition from institutions around the world.

Behind the rankings, OSU continues to demonstrate strong performance in research-focused metrics. Indicators such as H-index and international research network scores improved across most subject areas, reflecting increased collaboration and scholarly productivity.

Citation performance also strengthened in key disciplines, including arts and humanities, life sciences and medicine, signaling growing influence in published research.

These gains align with OSU’s broader recognition as a high-impact research institution and reinforce its role in addressing complex challenges across disciplines.

The subject rankings build on OSU’s broader momentum in international evaluations, including its 2024 5-Star QS Stars rating recognizing excellence in teaching, research, employability, facilities, and global engagement.

Together, these distinctions reinforce OSU’s commitment to its land-grant mission while expanding its global impact.