The College of Education at MSU also now ranks No. 15 overall — up from No. 16, according to the latest graduate school rankings compiled by U.S. News & World Report. Looking across all the program rankings, the college has a total of five programs ranked 1st or 2nd. That’s more top-2 programs than any other education school in the country.

The overall college rankings reflect the quality of the curriculum, faculty, students and research within the college, as well as data from surveys of education deans and school superintendents nationwide. The individual program rankings are based on the survey of deans.

“We continue to be a leader among education schools across the country,” said Donald E. Heller, dean of the College of Education. “And the number one reason for this is our people — the faculty, students and staff who contribute to our excellence. While many people know of our long-standing, No. 1 ranking in elementary and secondary education, I am particularly pleased that my fellow deans across the country have recognized the high quality of a number of our academic programs.”

“None of this could have been accomplished with the support we have enjoyed from the university, our research sponsors and our generous donors,” he said.

Along with elementary and secondary education holding steady at No. 1 for so long, MSU has also held the No. 2 spot in curriculum and instruction for 12 consecutive years. Together, those rankings reflect the College of Education’s commitment to improving the practice of teaching and learning in K-12 schools, through research, graduate study and programs that prepare new teachers for careers in elementary and secondary classrooms.

The 2014 edition of America’s Best Graduate Schools hits newsstands April 9.

Here is the list of College of Education programs ranked:

Elementary education - #1

Secondary education – #1

Rehabilitation counseling – #2 (Ranked in 2011)

Curriculum and instruction – #2

Higher education administration - #2

Educational psychology – #7

Administration/supervision – #9

Education policy – #11

Visit http://www.usnews.com/grad for more information.

Check MSU News for information about graduate programs across campus.

In addition, the doctoral program in kinesiology at MSU, also offered within the College of Education, ranks #6 in the nation, according to a report from the National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK). Learn more.

Bondurant received a bachelor’s degree in biology and an honorary doctorate degree in science education from Park University, which is located in Parkville, Mo.

Bondurant is well known for his past contributions at NASA as the Educational Programs Officer in the External Programs Directorate, where he received the Exceptional Service and Leadership Medal.