Best Colleges in Ohio
Writer
Editor
Writer
Editor
Did you know that over 380,000 students attend college in Ohio? That's because the Buckeye State is a great place to earn a degree.
Whether you're looking for a liberal arts college in a small town or a major research university in a city, you can find your dream college experience in Ohio.
Check out our list of the top colleges in Ohio to learn more. Then, explore dozens of colleges in Ohio and learn about tuition costs so you can choose the right school for you.
Featured Online Programs
Top 10 Colleges in Ohio
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our ranking considers factors such as academic quality, cost, and program options. We also evaluated the student experience, including school type and setting. You can use our list to find the college that best fits your needs.
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio's best college is also one of its most affordable. Ohio State University is a public, land-grant institution. The state's flagship campus offers multiple merit scholarships to lower the cost of college.
Customize your education with over 200 majors and 500 specializations. Participate in the First Year Experience program to connect with campus life. Or visit nearby downtown Columbus and the many greenway trails that connect the area.
Interested in sports? Ohio State has varsity programs in 36 sports, and it's claimed more than one Big Ten championship.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Oberlin College
Oberlin, OH - 4 years
- Campus
A liberal arts college and conservatory, Oberlin College dates back to 1833. It was the first co-ed and interracial college in the country. Today, Oberlin welcomes 3,000 students and promises to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need.
The 440-acre campus, located in the small town of Oberlin, hosts a world-class art museum and a campus of innovative students. With more than 40 majors and over 175 student organizations, you'll find ways to connect in and out of the classroom.
And there's always something happening on Oberlin's residential campus, which has themed residence halls and dining co-ops.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private research institution that values hands-on learning, 99% of undergrads at Case Western Reserve University participate in experiential learning. That includes research projects, co-ops, and internships that prepare graduates for diverse careers.
Participate in over 500 student organizations or visit one of the many arts and cultural institutions within walking distance of campus. CWRU calls Cleveland's University Circle home, one of the country's top arts districts.
You'll join 6,000 undergrads who represent over 100 countries around the world. And you'll have more than 100 majors to structure your studies.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Kenyon College
Gambier, OH - 4 years
- Campus
Walk down Middle Path to understand Ohio's top-ranked liberal arts college. Serving as the village green at Kenyon College, the path runs through the 1,200-acre rural campus. And Kenyon also boasts scenic Gothic architecture.
Founded in 1824, Kenyon is Ohio's oldest private college. And Gambier, home to the liberal arts college, offers a small-town feel with zero stop lights.
Choose from 50 programs for your degree, and gain experience through 190 study-abroad and off-campus programs. You can also join over 120 clubs that keep campus active throughout the year.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Miami University
Oxford, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1809, Miami University is one of the best public colleges in Ohio. It also ranks high on the number of students who study abroad and the four-year graduation rate.
If you're looking for a legendary college town, Oxford is a great choice. Tree-lined streets and restaurants welcome college students. And MU has "the most beautiful campus that ever there was," according to poet Robert Frost.
As a new student, you'll participate in orientation sessions to connect with fellow students. After choosing a major and participating in experiential learning opportunities, you'll complete a senior capstone to graduate. Students design capstones that take them from the laboratory to art studios.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Denison University
Granville, OH - 4 years
- Campus
Most students at this liberal arts college come from out of state. Denison College receives over 12,000 applications and reports the most selective admission rate among the top colleges in Ohio.
It's easy to see what attracts so many students to Denison. The 931-acre campus, which includes a biological reserve, offers a charming setting for college. Located in a village of 3,500 people, the campus is just 30 minutes outside of Columbus.
The college's 2,300 undergrads choose from 65 programs. Plus, Denison moved to test-optional admissions in 2008, prioritizing a holistic review of applicants.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want to study where a U.S. president and astronaut earned their degrees? William Howard Taft and Neil Armstrong are both alumni of the University of Cincinnati.
The public university enrolls nearly 48,000 students. UC's campus in the heart of Cincinnati features historic buildings, cutting-edge laboratories, and green spaces. And you'll have access to the career and creative opportunities available in Cincinnati.
UC prioritizes experience-based learning. You'll gain valuable experience in the classroom and through co-ops and internships. Or participate in study abroad programs that send students to 50 countries around the world.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
The College of Wooster
Wooster, OH - 4 years
- Campus
Want a small liberal arts college with a residential feel? The College of Wooster welcomes 2,000 students, nearly all of whom live on the 240-acre campus.
Choose from over 100 areas of study to earn your degree. You'll study in Wooster, a city of 27,000 conveniently located between Cleveland and Columbus.
The private college incorporates individualized senior projects where students partner with faculty mentors. You'll strengthen creative problem-solving and communication skills as you develop your project. And over 85% of Wooster students receive financial aid, with an average award of $50,000.
ROI Value Score: Low
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Ohio Northern University
Ada, OH - 4 years
- Campus
It's a private Methodist college with an impressive 96% job placement rate. Ohio Northern University offers more than 60 programs to its 3,000 students. With a small average class size, you'll benefit from personalized attention.
You'll attend classes in the small, rural village of Ada. ONU incorporates hands-on learning in every major, with career advising support to prepare for the job market. And the college guarantees that most of its programs can be completed in four years. If it takes longer, you'll finish your graduation requirements with no additional tuition charges.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Ohio University
Athens, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
It's the oldest public university in the state — and it's also one of the most affordable. Ohio University promises the same tuition rate for four years, with no increases.
Plus, you'll join 24,000 students on a picturesque campus in the rolling hills of Southeast Ohio. The campus in Athens boasts 21 miles of bike paths along with a golf course, aquatic center, and recreation center. Or explore the shops of Athens, ranked among the best college towns in the country.
You can also choose from over 60 programs offered through OHIO Online.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
List of All Colleges in Ohio
We've created a complete list of all four-year nonprofit universities in Ohio. You can use the table below to compare data on student population, average net cost, acceptance rate, and number of applicants.
The following school data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) from the 2022-23 academic year. Note that schools with fewer than 500 undergraduates were not included in this list.
School | Total Student Enrollment | Avg. Annual Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ashland University | 4,174 | $20,342 | 72% | 4,565 |
Baldwin Wallace University | 3,220 | $28,705 | 77% | 4,229 |
Bluffton University | 745 | $21,247 | 96% | 1,105 |
Bowling Green State University | 16,920 | $20,485 | 79% | 17,447 |
Capital University | 2,617 | $24,439 | 72% | 4,370 |
Case Western Reserve University | 12,201 | $38,279 | 27% | 38,701 |
Cedarville University | 4,960 | $25,462 | 65% | 5,435 |
Central State University | 5,434 | $10,194 | 89% | 3,814 |
Cleveland Institute of Art | 584 | $33,395 | 70% | 693 |
Cleveland State University | 14,385 | $15,719 | 85% | 11,570 |
Columbus College of Art and Design | 972 | $29,238 | 91% | 776 |
Denison University | 2,416 | $38,267 | 22% | 12,220 |
Franciscan University of Steubenville | 3,656 | $25,310 | 67% | 2,456 |
Franklin University | 8,044 | $18,989 | 100% | N/A |
Heidelberg University | 1,086 | $20,053 | 71% | 1,801 |
Hiram College | 1,018 | $19,384 | 93% | 1,896 |
John Carroll University | 2,922 | $30,496 | 82% | 4,310 |
Kent State University | 25,854 | $19,046 | 88% | 20,369 |
Kenyon College | 1,885 | $43,044 | 34% | 8,116 |
Kettering College | 832 | $16,398 | 34% | 587 |
Lake Erie College | 906 | $22,678 | 54% | 1,085 |
Lourdes University | 1,136 | $22,634 | 60% | 1,082 |
Malone University | 1,199 | $21,571 | 78% | 1,395 |
Marietta College | 1,198 | $22,895 | 83% | 2,467 |
Miami University | 19,107 | $23,031 | 88% | 30,367 |
Miami University Hamilton | 2,268 | $10,580 | 100% | N/A |
Miami University Middletown | 1,269 | $13,405 | 100% | N/A |
Mount Carmel College of Nursing | 766 | $15,006 | 63% | 82 |
Mount St. Joseph University | 2,027 | $17,506 | 54% | 2,127 |
Mount Vernon Nazarene University | 1,941 | $23,391 | 85% | 1,070 |
Muskingum University | 2,117 | $19,682 | 86% | 2,690 |
Notre Dame College | 1,444 | $20,151 | 79% | 3,116 |
Oberlin College | 2,992 | $46,462 | 35% | 11,066 |
Ohio Christian University | 1,600 | $20,490 | 100% | N/A |
Ohio Dominican University | 1,276 | $21,881 | 52% | 2,186 |
Ohio Northern University | 3,015 | $27,398 | 54% | 6,625 |
Ohio State University | 60,540 | $19,582 | 53% | 65,189 |
Ohio State University at Lima | 818 | $13,086 | 100% | N/A |
Ohio State University at Marion | 900 | $13,377 | 100% | N/A |
Ohio University | 24,145 | $20,207 | 87% | 24,978 |
Ohio Wesleyan University | 1,410 | $27,311 | 52% | 5,324 |
Otterbein University | 2,458 | $22,661 | 84% | 3,762 |
Shawnee State University | 3,297 | $13,313 | 100% | N/A |
The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences | 866 | $18,370 | 71% | 380 |
The College of Wooster | 1,967 | $28,976 | 56% | 7,251 |
Tiffin University | 3,044 | $25,636 | 83% | 4,195 |
University of Akron | 13,465 | $14,667 | 83% | 12,282 |
University of Cincinnati | 41,155 | $20,149 | 86% | 29,025 |
University of Dayton | 11,674 | $30,590 | 74% | 18,864 |
University of Findlay | 4,869 | $24,069 | 86% | 3,609 |
University of Mount Union | 2,130 | $23,259 | 76% | 3,521 |
University of Toledo | 15,545 | $17,654 | 92% | 12,575 |
Ursuline College | 950 | $14,502 | 85% | 610 |
Walsh University | 2,309 | $20,032 | 73% | 2,659 |
Wilberforce University | 656 | $14,070 | 45% | 4,100 |
Wilmington College | 1,046 | $24,528 | 88% | 1,963 |
Wittenberg University | 1,299 | $22,912 | 94% | 2,998 |
Wright State University | 9,678 | $15,650 | 95% | 7,162 |
Wright State University Lake Campus | 1,294 | $11,585 | 100% | 660 |
Xavier University | 6,114 | $31,619 | 85% | 14,836 |
Youngstown State University | 11,071 | $11,900 | 81% | 7,481 |
What Is the Cost of College in Ohio?
Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
---|---|
Public 4-Year (In-State) | $10,049 |
Public 4-Year (Out-of-State) | $26,213 |
Private 4-Year | $35,352 |
Public 2-Year (In-State) | $4,416 |
Public 2-Year (Out-of-State) | $7,888 |
Cost of Living in Ohio
Ohio has a lower cost of living than the national average. According to data from 2023, the cost of living in Ohio is 94% of the national cost of living. And housing costs are just 80% of the national average.
The state's affordable cost of living benefits college students. Lower housing costs, for example, can mean borrowing fewer loans to cover living expenses.
College students also benefit from Ohio's economy, which is the seventh largest among U.S. states. A strong economy can help graduates transition into the job market and put their degrees to work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colleges in Ohio
How many colleges are in Ohio?
Ohio has over 60 four-year nonprofit colleges and universities. These schools enroll more than 380,000 students. Ohio's largest college is Ohio State University, which enrolls over 60,000 students on its main campus.
What is the No. 1 ranked college in Ohio?
Ohio State University is often considered a top college in Ohio. The state's flagship public institution charges a net price of just under $20,000 per year. Ohio State reports that it receives over 65,000 applications every year, admitting around half of applicants.
Other top-ranked colleges in Ohio include liberal arts colleges like Oberlin and Denison and private institutions like Case Western Reserve University.
What is the hardest college to get into in Ohio?
Ohio's most selective college is Denison University, a liberal arts college with around 2,400 students. In fall 2022, Denison received over 12,000 applications and admitted just 22% of applicants. Case Western Reserve also reports selective admissions, with a 27% acceptance rate in fall 2022, according to NCES.