Raymond A. Mason School of Business rises to #1 for Military-Friendly Graduate Education

The Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William & Mary has been named the #1 graduate school in the Nation in the 2026–2027 Military Friendly® Schools survey, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing work to support military and veteran students.

This top ranking reflects the Mason School’s commitment to creating meaningful educational pathways for military-affiliated students and helping them successfully transition from service to careers in business and leadership.

The Military Friendly® Schools survey is one of the most comprehensive evaluations of programs designed for military and veteran students. More than 1,800 institutions participated this year, with only a small number earning top honors. The Mason School’s #1 ranking highlights its strength in recruiting, supporting, and preparing military students for what comes next.

The school also earned additional high marks in this year’s survey, which will be released at a later date, emphasizing its broad commitment to the military community.

A commitment that shows up every day

For Jonathan “JD” Due, executive director of the Center for Military Transition, the recognition reflects the work happening across the school every day.

“Being named number one speaks to the intention behind everything we do,” Due said. “Our programs are built with military students in mind, but just as important is the environment we create. There is a strong sense of community here, and our students know they have people in their corner.”

Due noted that the Mason School focuses on helping students build on their military experience rather than starting over.

“Our goal is to take the leadership, discipline, and perspective our students already bring and connect that to a business education that opens doors,” he said. “We are helping them translate what they have done into what they want to do next, in a way that feels authentic and forward-looking.”

He added that relationships across the Mason community play a key role in that process.

“Students here are supported from all sides, whether it is faculty, staff, or alumni who have walked a similar path,” Due said. “That network makes a real difference, not just while they are in the program, but long after they leave.”