Best Colleges in Ohio 2024

Badge for BEST IN OHIO COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in Ohio. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

10 Best Colleges in Ohio

Sort by:
  1. Ohio State University
  2. Case Western Reserve University
  3. University of Cincinnati
  4. Oberlin College
  5. Miami University
  6. Ohio University
  7. Kent State University
  8. Bowling Green State University
  9. University of Akron
  10. Cleveland State University
  1. Ohio State University
  2. Case Western Reserve University
  3. Oberlin College
  4. University of Cincinnati
  5. Miami University
  6. Ohio University
  7. Kenyon College
  8. Kent State University
  9. Bowling Green State University
  10. University of Akron
  1. Wright State University 95%
  2. Wittenberg University 94%
  3. University of Toledo 92%
  4. Central State University 89%
  5. Miami University 88%
  6. Kent State University 88%
  7. Ohio University 87%
  8. University of Cincinnati 86%
  9. Xavier University 85%
  10. Cleveland State University 85%
  1. Central State University 21 to 1
  2. Kent State University 19 to 1
  3. University of Cincinnati 18 to 1
  4. Youngstown State University 18 to 1
  5. Ohio University 18 to 1
  6. Tiffin University 17 to 1
  7. Ohio State University 17 to 1
  8. Bowling Green State University 17 to 1
  9. University of Toledo 17 to 1
  10. University of Akron 16 to 1
  1. Kenyon College $66,490
  2. Oberlin College $62,024
  3. Case Western Reserve University $61,584
  4. Denison University $60,000
  5. College of Wooster $57,500
  6. Ohio Wesleyan University $49,822
  7. John Carroll University $47,290
  8. University of Dayton $46,170
  9. Xavier University $45,000
  10. Wittenberg University $43,106
  1. Case Western Reserve University $50,838
  2. University of Mount Union $39,000
  3. Ohio Northern University $31,900
  4. Oberlin College $29,692
  5. University of Dayton $18,540
  6. Marietta College $15,663
  7. University of Toledo $15,053
  8. John Carroll University $14,699
  9. Wright State University $14,298
  10. Tiffin University $14,000
  1. Capital University
  2. Central State University
  3. Tiffin University
  4. Marietta College
  5. Cedarville University
  6. University of Mount Union
  7. Franciscan University of Steubenville
  8. Ohio Northern University
  9. College of Wooster
  10. Wittenberg University
  1. Tiffin University
  2. Capital University
  3. Cedarville University
  4. University of Mount Union
  5. Franciscan University of Steubenville
  6. Ohio Northern University
  7. Central State University
  8. Marietta College
  9. Youngstown State University
  10. John Carroll University
  1. Denison University 22%
  2. Case Western Reserve University 27%
  3. Kenyon College 34%
  4. Oberlin College 35%
  5. Ohio Wesleyan University 52%
  6. Ohio State University 53%
  7. Ohio Northern University 54%
  8. College of Wooster 56%
  9. Cedarville University 65%
  10. Franciscan University of Steubenville 67%
  1. Marietta College 9 to 1
  2. Case Western Reserve University 9 to 1
  3. Denison University 9 to 1
  4. Kenyon College 9 to 1
  5. Capital University 9 to 1
  6. Oberlin College 9 to 1
  7. Wittenberg University 10 to 1
  8. Ohio Wesleyan University 11 to 1
  9. Xavier University 11 to 1
  10. Ashland University 11 to 1
  1. Central State University $5,176
  2. University of Toledo $9,391
  3. Youngstown State University $9,426
  4. University of Akron $10,097
  5. Wright State University $10,174
  6. University of Cincinnati $10,656
  7. Kent State University $11,218
  8. Bowling Green State University $11,272
  9. Ohio State University $11,525
  10. Cleveland State University $12,144
  1. Youngstown State University $6,494
  2. Ashland University $7,656
  3. University of Akron $7,958
  4. Wittenberg University $8,027
  5. Central State University $8,100
  6. Bowling Green State University $8,418
  7. Ohio University $9,444
  8. Cedarville University $10,260
  9. Cleveland State University $10,627
  10. Xavier University $12,060

Colleges and Universities in Ohio

Ohio offers over 120 colleges and universities for students to earn their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. The largest school in the state, Ohio State University, a public institution, serves almost 55,000 students. This university has five regional campuses, which have graduated alumni like writer Harlan Ellison and Wikipedia cofounder Larry Sanger. The majority of Ohio’s schools, however, are private.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Tuition at these schools varies greatly, with costs as low as $7,000 at God’s Bible School and College, and as high as $56,000 at Kenyon University. The state is also home to nearly 40 higher education institutes with religious affiliations, offering plenty of options for students aiming to blend their faith with higher education. Although tuition costs in Ohio are higher than the national average, Ohio provides several loan forgiveness programs to those pursuing careers as public defenders and prosecutors, dentists, nurses, primary care physicians, and mental health providers. Many of these programs require individuals to work in shortage areas around the state for a certain time period in order to qualify.

If you’re someone with a wide variety of interests, Ohio might just be the place for you. In The Buckeye State, individuals can visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, take a trip through Amish Country, attend a professional sporting event, and hike waterfalls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It seems this state has something for everyone, including those pursuing a higher education degree.

Learn more about the numerous excellent degree paths and career prospects available in Ohio.


What are Ohio’s Colleges & Universities?

Ohio’s Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

Ohio's Best Colleges and Universities Badge
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We’ve identified 66 colleges and universities in Ohio that meet our criteria. This list of the top 30 colleges in Ohio below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Ohio.

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Best Colleges in Ohio 2023

  1. #1

    Ohio State University

    Columbus , OH
    #10 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #14 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #15 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    67K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,859
    Expenses: $18,372
    Starting Salary: $53,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio State University known for?

    Ohio State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Case Western Reserve University

    Cleveland , OH
    #1 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    27%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1475/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Case Western Reserve University

    Cost of Degree: $64,678
    Expenses: $21,402
    Starting Salary: $89,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Case Western Reserve University known for?

    Case Western Reserve University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Cincinnati

    Cincinnati , OH
    #10 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    48K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1260/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Cincinnati

    Cost of Degree: $12,906
    Expenses: $19,772
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Cincinnati known for?

    University of Cincinnati’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Cincinnati’s Online Degrees

    BBS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Respiratory Therapy
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • RN-BSN
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Radiation Science Technology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Technical and Applied Studies (BTAS)
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Management
    • Required Credits: 52
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Law & Paralegal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Pre-Occupational Therapy
    • Required Credits: 52
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 57
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Science & Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Substance Abuse Counseling
    • Required Credits: 60-120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Networking and Systems
    • Software Application Development
    • Cybersecurity
    • Game Development and Simulation
    • Data Technologies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 59
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Oberlin College

    Oberlin , OH
    #7 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1445/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Oberlin College

    Cost of Degree: $64,646
    Expenses: $22,758
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Oberlin College known for?

    Oberlin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  5. #5

    Miami University

    Oxford , OH
    #5 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1295/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Miami University

    Cost of Degree: $17,060
    Expenses: $20,948
    Starting Salary: $55,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Miami University known for?

    Miami University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Ohio University

    Athens , OH
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    28K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio University

    Cost of Degree: $13,746
    Expenses: $17,350
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio University known for?

    Ohio University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Kent State University

    Kent , OH
    #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    31K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Kent State University

    Cost of Degree: $11,767
    Expenses: $18,972
    Starting Salary: $42,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kent State University known for?

    Kent State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Bowling Green State University

    Bowling Green , OH
    #8 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Bowling Green State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,390
    Expenses: $17,618
    Starting Salary: $45,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bowling Green State University known for?

    Bowling Green State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of Akron

    Akron , OH
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025 #8 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/21

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Akron

    Cost of Degree: $12,799
    Expenses: $15,866
    Starting Salary: $41,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Akron known for?

    University of Akron’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Akron’s Online Degrees

    BS in Organizational Supervision
    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology And Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Management And Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #10

    Cleveland State University

    Cleveland , OH
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #8 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1005/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Cleveland State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,613
    Expenses: $19,430
    Starting Salary: $46,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cleveland State University known for?

    Cleveland State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    Denison University

    Granville , OH
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    22%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1365/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Denison University

    Cost of Degree: $64,000
    Expenses: $17,900
    Starting Salary: $57,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Denison University known for?

    Denison University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  14. #12

    Kenyon College

    Gambier , OH
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    34%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1432/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Kenyon College

    Cost of Degree: $69,330
    Expenses: $18,260
    Starting Salary: $54,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kenyon College known for?

    Kenyon College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  15. #13

    University of Dayton

    Dayton , OH
    #25 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $46K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1260/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Dayton

    Cost of Degree: $47,600
    Expenses: $19,665
    Starting Salary: $61,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Dayton known for?

    University of Dayton’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    University of Toledo

    Toledo , OH
    #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #20 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024 #11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Toledo

    Cost of Degree: $11,742
    Expenses: $19,932
    Starting Salary: $52,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Toledo known for?

    University of Toledo’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  17. #15

    Ashland University

    Ashland , OH
    #2 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time 2025 #13 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1161/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Ashland University

    Cost of Degree: $26,390
    Expenses: $15,468
    Starting Salary: $42,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ashland University known for?

    Ashland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Wright State University

    Dayton , OH
    #10 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #14 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Wright State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,614
    Expenses: $15,670
    Starting Salary: $46,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wright State University known for?

    Wright State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    John Carroll University

    University Heights , OH
    #23 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $47K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/27

    Career Outlook for degree at John Carroll University

    Cost of Degree: $49,100
    Expenses: $18,610
    Starting Salary: $61,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is John Carroll University known for?

    John Carroll University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  21. #18

    Ohio Wesleyan University

    Delaware , OH
    #11 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $52,296
    Expenses: $17,026
    Starting Salary: $51,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio Wesleyan University known for?

    Ohio Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    Xavier University

    Cincinnati , OH
    #2 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #16 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1215/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Xavier University

    Cost of Degree: $48,126
    Expenses: $18,320
    Starting Salary: $58,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Xavier University known for?

    Xavier University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Xavier University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Organizational Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business
    • Communication
    • Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 105-11
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  23. #20

    Youngstown State University

    Youngstown , OH
    #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    995/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Youngstown State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,757
    Expenses: $15,608
    Starting Salary: $40,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Youngstown State University known for?

    Youngstown State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Youngstown State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Generalist Track
    • Required Credits: 57
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 28
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSAS in Applied Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Allied Health
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  25. #21

    Wittenberg University

    Springfield , OH
    #24 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #7 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #7 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Wittenberg University

    Cost of Degree: $44,602
    Expenses: $14,762
    Starting Salary: $49,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wittenberg University known for?

    Wittenberg University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  26. #22

    College of Wooster

    Wooster , OH
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1350/29

    Career Outlook for degree at College of Wooster

    Cost of Degree: $59,550
    Expenses: $16,250
    Starting Salary: $53,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is College of Wooster known for?

    College of Wooster’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Ohio Northern University

    Ada , OH
    #9 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1250/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio Northern University

    Cost of Degree: $37,600
    Expenses: $16,686
    Starting Salary: $72,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio Northern University known for?

    Ohio Northern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  28. #24

    Franciscan University of Steubenville

    Steubenville , OH
    #10 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #10 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #3 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Franciscan University of Steubenville

    Cost of Degree: $32,630
    Expenses: $12,610
    Starting Salary: $42,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Franciscan University of Steubenville known for?

    Franciscan University of Steubenville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  29. #25

    University of Mount Union

    Alliance , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Mount Union

    Cost of Degree: $35,400
    Expenses: $14,576
    Starting Salary: $48,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Mount Union known for?

    University of Mount Union’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Cedarville University

    Cedarville , OH
    #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Cybersecurity 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Cedarville University

    Cost of Degree: $36,078
    Expenses: $13,526
    Starting Salary: $46,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cedarville University known for?

    Cedarville University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Marietta College

    Marietta , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Marietta College

    Cost of Degree: $38,874
    Expenses: $15,874
    Starting Salary: $57,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Marietta College known for?

    Marietta College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  33. #28

    Tiffin University

    Tiffin , OH
    #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Tiffin University

    Cost of Degree: $32,400
    Expenses: $16,150
    Starting Salary: $47,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Tiffin University known for?

    Tiffin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  34. #29

    Central State University

    Wilberforce , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Central State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,824
    Expenses: $14,190
    Starting Salary: $28,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central State University known for?

    Central State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  35. #30

    Capital University

    Columbus , OH
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1073/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Capital University

    Cost of Degree: $41,788
    Expenses: $18,388
    Starting Salary: $48,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Capital University known for?

    Capital University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
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Ohio’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Oberlin College
  2. Case Western Reserve University
  3. Kenyon College
  4. Denison University
  5. College of Wooster
  6. Ohio Wesleyan University
  7. John Carroll University
  8. University of Cincinnati
  9. Ohio State University
  10. Xavier University
  11. Hiram College
  12. Wittenberg University
  13. Malone University
  14. Ohio University
  15. Bowling Green State University
  16. Miami University
  17. University of Dayton
  18. University of Mount Union
  19. Marietta College
  20. Kent State University
  21. Otterbein University
  22. Ohio Northern University
  23. Franciscan University of Steubenville
  24. Ursuline College
  25. Ashland University
  26. Capital University
  27. Muskingum University
  28. Baldwin Wallace University
  29. Cedarville University
  30. University of Findlay
  31. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
  32. Walsh University
  33. Mount St. Joseph University
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