Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025

Badge for BEST IN OHIO LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Ohio’s top liberal arts colleges encourage students to develop critical thinking skills across a range of disciplines and prepare for diverse career paths.
  • With smaller class sizes and a student-centered approach, students at one of the best liberal arts colleges in Ohio benefit from close mentorship with faculty.
  • The best liberal arts colleges in Ohio promote community involvement and service-learning opportunities, helping students apply their education in meaningful ways.

10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio in 2025

  1. Oberlin College
  2. Kenyon College
    +1
  3. Denison University
    –1
  4. Ohio Wesleyan University
    +2
  5. Xavier University
    +2
  6. Wilberforce University
    +13
  7. Ashland University
    –3
  8. John Carroll University
    –3
  9. College of Wooster
    +1
  10. Youngstown State University
    –2

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Oberlin College remains in the top spot in our 2025 ranking of the best liberal arts colleges in Ohio.Several other schools gained 1 to positions, but Wilberforce University was the largest mover, jumping 13 spots to move into the 6th position.

Kenyon College, our number 2 school, has expanded its interdisciplinary programs, including the Center for the Study of American Democracy, which fosters nonpartisan and civil discourse on contemporary issues. Additionally, Kenyon offers special academic initiatives like Science and Nature Writing, empowering students to communicate complex scientific topics effectively.

Wilberforce University has launched new majors in Business Management and Technology, Digital Humanities, Mathematical Sciences, and Kinesiology, integrating STEM and modern technology into its liberal arts curriculum. Additionally, Wilberforce has expanded its athletics program by adding women’s volleyball and soccer teams, enriching campus life and providing more opportunities for student engagement.

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified 52 liberal arts colleges in Ohio. To be ranked among the 30 best liberal arts colleges in Ohio, schools must fully accredited institutions.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2025

  1. #1

    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 #2 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    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
  2. #2

    Kenyon College

    Gambier , OH
    #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 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
    Other Rankings

    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
  3. #3

    Denison University

    Granville , OH
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024 #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
  4. #4

    Ohio Wesleyan University

    Delaware , OH
    #11 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    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
  6. #5

    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 #9 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    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
  7. #6

    Wilberforce University

    Wilberforce , OH
    #16 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2025 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    890/16

    Career Outlook for degree at Wilberforce University

    Cost of Degree: $14,776
    Expenses: $10,900
    Starting Salary: $38,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wilberforce University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  9. #8

    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
    Other Rankings

    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
  10. #9

    College of Wooster

    Wooster , OH
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024

    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
  12. #10

    Youngstown State University

    Youngstown , OH
    #6 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024 #9 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
    Other Rankings

    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
  13. #11

    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
  14. #12

    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
  15. #13

    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
  16. #14

    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
  18. #15

    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
  19. #16

    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
  20. #17

    Hiram College

    Hiram , OH
    #4 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs 2025 #5 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hiram College

    Cost of Degree: $26,265
    Expenses: $14,932
    Starting Salary: $46,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hiram College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Hiram College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting And Financial Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    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
  22. #19

    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
  24. #20

    Muskingum University

    New Concord , OH
    #7 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Muskingum University

    Cost of Degree: $31,440
    Expenses: $15,190
    Starting Salary: $43,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Muskingum University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Muskingum University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    Degree Concentrations
    • Public
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Occupational Science
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Intervention Specialist
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accelerated
    • Required Credits: 71
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Community Health And Wellness
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Science
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Medical Laboratory Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sport And Fitness Science
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  25. #21

    Otterbein University

    Westerville , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1147/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Otterbein University

    Cost of Degree: $34,899
    Expenses: $17,640
    Starting Salary: $46,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Otterbein University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  26. #22

    Miami University Middletown

    Middletown , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Miami University Middletown

    Cost of Degree: $6,848
    Starting Salary: $55,400
    What is Miami University Middletown known for?

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

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Miami University Hamilton

    Hamilton , OH
    #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    19%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Miami University Hamilton

    Cost of Degree: $6,848
    Starting Salary: $55,400
    What is Miami University Hamilton known for?

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

    Miami University Hamilton’s Online Degrees

    BS in Commerce
    Degree Concentrations
    • Small Business Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Health Communication
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Technology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    Lake Erie College

    Painesville , OH
    #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #10 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2025 #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024 #24 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Lake Erie College

    Cost of Degree: $36,032
    Expenses: $16,282
    Starting Salary: $40,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lake Erie College known for?

    Lake Erie College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  30. #25

    Walsh University

    North Canton , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Walsh University

    Cost of Degree: $32,753
    Expenses: $15,327
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Walsh University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Shawnee State University

    Portsmouth , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Shawnee State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,622
    Expenses: $16,750
    Starting Salary: $37,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Shawnee State University known for?

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

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Baldwin Wallace University

    Berea , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Baldwin Wallace University

    Cost of Degree: $38,086
    Expenses: $21,020
    Starting Salary: $49,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Baldwin Wallace University known for?

    Baldwin Wallace University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  33. #28

    University of Cincinnati Clermont College

    Batavia , OH
    #5 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2025 #10 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    12K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Cincinnati Clermont College

    Cost of Degree: $6,448
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    What is University of Cincinnati Clermont College known for?

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

    University of Cincinnati Clermont College’s Online Degrees

    BTAS in Technical And Applied Students
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  34. #29

    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
  36. #30

    Malone University

    Canton , OH
    #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #16 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1066/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Malone University

    Cost of Degree: $36,120
    Expenses: $15,590
    Starting Salary: $48,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Malone University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  37. #31

    Bluffton University

    Bluffton , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bluffton University

    Cost of Degree: $36,298
    Expenses: $16,216
    Starting Salary: $41,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bluffton University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  38. #32

    Notre Dame College

    Cleveland , OH
    #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Ohio #8 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Notre Dame College

    Cost of Degree: $32,596
    Expenses: $15,998
    Starting Salary: $43,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Notre Dame College known for?

    Notre Dame College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Notre Dame College’s Online Degrees

    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 82
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 103-107
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Mild/Moderate Intervention Specialist
    • Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 119
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  39. #33

    Ursuline College

    Pepper Pike , OH
    #9 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024 #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #24 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1087/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Ursuline College

    Cost of Degree: $37,860
    Starting Salary: $50,400
    What is Ursuline College known for?

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

    Ursuline College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Social Work
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  40. #34

    Ohio State University at Newark

    Newark , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University at Newark

    Cost of Degree: $9,212
    Expenses: $16,066
    Starting Salary: $53,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio State University at Newark known for?

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

    Compare school
  42. #35

    Antioch University Midwest

    Yellow Springs , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Antioch University Midwest

    Cost of Degree: $16,264
    Starting Salary: $41,800
    What is Antioch University Midwest known for?

    Antioch University Midwest’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  43. #36

    Ohio State University at Mansfield

    Mansfield , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    16%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University at Mansfield

    Cost of Degree: $9,212
    Expenses: $16,066
    Starting Salary: $53,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio State University at Mansfield known for?

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

    Compare school
  44. #37

    Heidelberg University

    Tiffin , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Heidelberg University

    Cost of Degree: $33,600
    Expenses: $14,700
    Starting Salary: $45,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Heidelberg University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  45. #38

    Kent State University at Stark

    North Canton , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    12%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Kent State University at Stark

    Cost of Degree: $7,428
    Starting Salary: $42,400
    What is Kent State University at Stark known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  46. #39

    Ohio Dominican University

    Columbus , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio Dominican University

    Cost of Degree: $34,370
    Expenses: $15,660
    Starting Salary: $47,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio Dominican University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  48. #40

    Kent State University at Ashtabula

    Ashtabula , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    11%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Kent State University at Ashtabula

    Cost of Degree: $7,428
    Starting Salary: $42,400
    What is Kent State University at Ashtabula known for?

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

    Compare school
  49. #41

    Kent State University at Salem

    Salem , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    12%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Kent State University at Salem

    Cost of Degree: $7,428
    Starting Salary: $42,400
    What is Kent State University at Salem known for?

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

    Compare school
  50. #42

    Lourdes University

    Sylvania , OH
    #15 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lourdes University

    Cost of Degree: $27,540
    Expenses: $20,509
    Starting Salary: $41,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lourdes University known for?

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

    Compare school
  51. #43

    Mount St. Joseph University

    Cincinnati , OH
    #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    54%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount St. Joseph University

    Cost of Degree: $36,650
    Expenses: $13,400
    Starting Salary: $44,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Mount St. Joseph University known for?

    Mount St. Joseph University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  52. #44

    Ohio University Southern Campus

    Ironton , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    21%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio University Southern Campus

    Cost of Degree: $6,178
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    What is Ohio University Southern Campus known for?

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

    Compare school
  54. #45

    Ohio State University at Marion

    Marion , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    17%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio State University at Marion

    Cost of Degree: $9,212
    Starting Salary: $53,600
    What is Ohio State University at Marion known for?

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

    Compare school
  55. #46

    Defiance College

    Defiance , OH
    #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Defiance College

    Cost of Degree: $38,778
    Expenses: $16,614
    Starting Salary: $46,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Defiance College known for?

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

    Defiance College’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
  56. #47

    Ohio University – Chillicothe

    Chillicothe , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    18%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio University – Chillicothe

    Cost of Degree: $6,178
    Starting Salary: $45,800
    What is Ohio University – Chillicothe known for?

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

    Compare school
  57. #48

    Mount Vernon Nazarene University

    Mount Vernon , OH
    #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2025 #12 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Vernon Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $25,559
    Expenses: $15,896
    Starting Salary: $50,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Mount Vernon Nazarene University known for?

    Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Emergency Management And Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Elementary Education P-5
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Ministry Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  58. #49

    Ohio Christian University

    Circleville , OH
    #10 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2025 #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #11 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Graduation

    32%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ohio Christian University

    Cost of Degree: $17,990
    Expenses: $13,162
    Starting Salary: $33,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio Christian University known for?

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

    Ohio Christian University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Digital Multi-Media Production
    • Emergency Management
    • Health Information Technology
    • Healthcare Management
    • Human Resources
    • Logistics Management
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Data Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Marketing And Consumer Behavior
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Emergency And Disaster Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Biblical Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Leadership And Ministry
    Degree Concentrations
    • Biblical Studies
    • Church Planting
    • Intercultural Ministries
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Pastoral Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  60. #50

    University of Northwestern Ohio

    Lima , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Northwestern Ohio

    Cost of Degree: $12,641
    Expenses: $14,127
    Starting Salary: $42,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Northwestern Ohio known for?

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

    Compare school
Back to Top

Ohio’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology

Frequently Asked Questions About Research Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Online Colleges

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you will need to choose between three kinds of schools: research universities, liberal arts colleges, and online colleges.

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students.

Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines.

Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel.

  • Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well.
  • Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.
Back to Top

Learn more about research universities by reading about the best research universities in the US.

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree.

  • Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students.

    • Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom).

  • Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers.

    • Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Back to Top

Learn more about liberal arts colleges by reading about the best liberal arts colleges in the US.

If you think a liberal arts college may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges for a bachelor’s in mathematics.

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available.

Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online.

Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college.

  • Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands.

    • Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain.

  • Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving.

    • If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc.

  • The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors.

    • Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions.

If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

Back to Top

Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here