Best Colleges in Ohio

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.