The University of Southern California (USC) has been recognized in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, with its Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy's program tied for the top spot in the nation. In total, nine USC graduate programs ranked in the top 20, including the physical therapy program (tied for No. 4) and the public affairs program from the USC Price School of Public Policy (tied for No. 5). USC's occupational therapy program has held the top position since 1998, reflecting its long-standing reputation in the field. USC Provost Andrew T. Guzman expressed pride in the university's academic excellence, while Andrew McConnell Stott, dean of the USC Graduate School, highlighted the university's global appeal as a destination for graduate students. The recognition allows USC to display U.S. News Best Graduate Schools awards badges to promote its programs, which are seen as symbols of academic excellence. Rankings for additional disciplines will be released later this year.