Colleges and Universities in Ohio

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Living in Ohio

When we talk about America’s Heartland, we’re talking about the Buckeye State. For a long time, Ohio was pretty close to the literal center of the US, a crossroads for North and South, East and West, with a little of all of them in its cultural DNA, and that healthy mix made Ohio one of the most important states, politically, in the nation. As a key swing state, where Ohio goes, so goes the Presidency (usually). Over the years, Ohio developed a strong reputation for openness and common-sense progressivism, making an impact on the nation by welcoming immigrants and providing a haven for freed slaves. Ohio also made a reputation for industry and manufacturing, as well as entrepreneurship. From rural agriculture to urban professions, Ohio is dynamic and changing, and its people change with it.

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Ohio: Diversity and Responsibility in Higher Education

Ohio’s geographic location plays a huge role in defining the state and it is a major asset when it comes to economic growth and expansion in the state. Lake Erie, to the north of Ohio, gives the state over 300 miles of coastline that allows for numerous cargo ports. Additionally, the state is located within a one-day’s drive distance from 50% of North America. That paired with having the nation’s 10th largest highway network makes Ohio a throughway and major hub for cargo and business traffic.

The colleges and universities in Ohio historically cater to the business and economic needs of the state, as well as focusing on global issues such as the environment and sustainability. For example, Bowling Green State University, a nationally ranked research university, is prominently known for its programs in energy and sustainability. Cleveland State University notable Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs has been recognized worldwide for its Management and Urban Policy program.

Public Colleges in Ohio 

Ohio has been serving the public through institutions of higher education since the founding of the Ohio University in 1804, which is recognized as the state’s first university. The National Center for Education Statistics shows 330 accredited, degree-granting schools, colleges, and universities in Ohio. These range from graduate schools to 4-year public universities and liberal arts colleges. Top-notch institutions like Kent State University, known for its Business programs, and the University of Cincinnati where students come from across the nation to get the best when it comes to the health sciences, are just two examples.

The University System of Ohio alone compromises more than 50 colleges and universities. Additionally, the University System of Ohio offers two unique programs that tailor learning to adults. Adult Workforce Education (AWE) and Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) programs offer a flexible system of higher education in order to reach underserved working populations of adult learners. These unique programs are in place to serve the work-class adults that primarily makeup Ohio’s adult and college-aged populations.

All the sides of Ohio are on display in its colleges and universities, and Ohio is a reliable presence on best value rankings. The Ohio State University, in particular, has been recognized as one of the most accessible and affordable institutions in America – the third-largest university in the nation by the student body, and a trusted research institution that has been named a Public Ivy. Or take Ohio University, the first public university in the Midwest and a top-tier institution located in one of the most loved college towns in America.

Private Colleges in Ohio

Fitting Ohio’s can-do spirit, the state also has a number of private universities and colleges founded for business, careers, and the needs of working adults, like the University of Toledo and Franklin University. Whether it’s small liberal arts colleges or massive public research universities, Ohio knows value.

Ohio Online College Degree Offerings

Ohio State University may be the third-largest school in the United States, one of the most prolific research universities in the midwest, but did you know that this institution is known nationwide for offering one of the best quality online educational experiences available?

Best Online Colleges in Ohio

Union Institute & University, another solid Ohio institution, has undercut all of its competitors by structuring all programs to focus on online education, and by offering the most variety when it comes to degree choices in Ohio. The university is a cost-effective alternative when it comes to career-focused higher education in the state.  Other well-known universities also offer fully and partially online degree programs including Kent State, Cleveland State, and the University of Toledo.

Community Colleges in Ohio

Ohio Community Colleges are some of the best in the nation with 23 school options across the state. According to the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC), over 160,000 students attend one of the various Community Colleges in Ohio. With cost being the main factor it’s not hard to see why 45% of students start their undergraduate careers at these lower cost colleges.

Paying for College in Ohio

Students who wish to attend college or university in Ohio State my apply for the standard federal aid as well as scholarships and grants privately or through their schools. There are over 20 regionally accredited community and technical colleges, most of which offer general studies for students who wish to save costs by attending a 2-year institution before continuing on with their 4-year degree. Additionally, the state offers resources and assistance through OASFAA (Ohio Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting higher education in the state of Ohio by increasing awareness of financial aid opportunities to residents.

The state also offers unique scholarship programs for residents such as the Choose Ohio First scholarship. The award provides scholarship funding to Ohio’s colleges and universities to support students enrolled in innovative STEMM programs. The program integrates regional economics with statewide educational needs and purposefully recruits underserved STEMM populations including students of color and women.

Ohio for Opportunity

Though a small Midwestern state known primarily as the home of the first professional baseball team in America, the Cincinnati Reds, and the birthplace to seven United States presidents, Ohio has historically been a leader in paving the way for minorities and working-class Americans. In 1852 Ohio was the first state to enact laws that protected working women and in 1833 Oberlin College was founded, America’s first interracial and coeducational college. Today Ohio state’s public system of colleges and universities, along with its private institutions, together offer a plethora of opportunity for career minded learners and scholars alike through research institutions, liberal arts colleges, and technical institutes.


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Aya Andrews

Editor-in-Chief

Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.

Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.

In addition to her work as an educator, Aya is a devoted mother who is passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive home environment for her children. She is an active member of her community, volunteering her time and resources to support local schools and organizations. Aya is also an avid traveler, and loves to explore new cultures and cuisines with her family.

With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.

Find your perfect value college

ValueColleges.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.

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