Best Colleges in Ohio: Introduction
Are you looking for a public or private college in the Midwest with access to major metropolitan centers? If your ideal college location matches this description, then you might want to go to one of best colleges in Ohio.
In this article, we will highlight the top colleges in Ohio. We’ll break down how many colleges there are in Ohio, including the number of public universities in Ohio and private colleges in Ohio. We’ll also describe where you can find some of the best colleges in Ohio with our colleges in Ohio map. Finally, using our colleges in Ohio map, we’ll highlight the top 10 colleges in Ohio.
We’ll also examine the best colleges in Ohio based on factors like college rankings, college size, cost, college majors, and acceptance rates. Additionally, we’ll include where the Ohio universities ranking falls for the top universities in Ohio.
Finally, we’ll discuss what factors you should consider as you build your college list of the best colleges in Ohio and the worst colleges in Ohio for you. But first, let’s find out which school tops the list of best colleges in Ohio.
What is the best university in Ohio?
According to U.S. News, the best university in Ohio is Case Western Reserve University. However, there is a close competition between Case Western and Ohio State University as to which should top the list of best colleges in Ohio.
We’ve talked about how Case Western and Ohio State are two of the top universities in Ohio. So, let’s learn a bit more about these top schools.
Below is our roundup of the best colleges in Ohio:
Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University is in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 1826, Case Western Reserve has a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,792 students. In the 2022-2023 edition of U.S. News’s Best Colleges, the Case Western Reserve University ranking is #44 in National Universities.
To learn more about Case Western Reserve University, visit their website. You can also check out our Case Western essay guide for helpful tips on how to write your college essays.
Ohio State University
Located in Columbus, Ohio State University is Ohio’s flagship university. Founded in 1870, Ohio State University has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 47,000 students. The Ohio State ranking is #49 in National Universities according to U.S. News.
You can read more about Ohio State University here. You can also check out our guides on how to get into Ohio State and how to approach the Ohio State scholarship application essay.
How many universities are in Ohio?
According to the Ohio Secretary of State, there are over 100 Ohio colleges and universities.
The Ohio colleges and universities include:
- 14 four-year research universities
- 24 state university campuses
- 23 community colleges/technical colleges
- 50+ four-year private colleges and universities
Public Universities in Ohio
First, let’s look at public universities in Ohio. There are 14 universities that are a part of the public university system called The University System of Ohio. This unified system ensures that all the public Ohio colleges and universities follow the same academic calendar, which makes it easier for students to transfer between schools.
Of all the public colleges in Ohio, 13 public universities in Ohio make up the Ohio Public Universities Admissions Council, or OPUAC. Northeast Ohio Medical University is the one public university in Ohio that is not included in the OPUAC.
Before we explore the private colleges in Ohio and the list of best colleges in Ohio, let’s highlight a few of the public universities in Ohio.
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green State is located in Bowling Green, Ohio, just outside of Toledo. Founded in 1910, Bowling Green State has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 14,000 students. U.S. News ranks Bowling Green State at #263 in National Universities.
Miami University
Just north of Cincinnati, Oxford, Ohio is Miami University. Miami University was founded in 1809 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of almost 17,000 students. U.S. News lists the Miami University ranking as #105 in National Universities. Additionally, as one of the best public universities in Ohio, U.S. News puts the Miami University ranking at #48 in Top Public Schools.
Private Colleges in Ohio
There are 52 private colleges and universities in Ohio. The largest of the private colleges in Ohio is the University of Dayton, home to more than 10,000 students. Next, let’s take a look at a few of the private colleges in Ohio.
University of Dayton
The University of Dayton is a Catholic research university located in Dayton, OH. It was founded in 1850 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of roughly 8,600 students. According to U.S. News, the University of Dayton ranking is #127 in National Universities. In terms of Best Value Schools, the University of Dayton ranking is #35. The University of Dayton has an 81% acceptance rate and offers more than 80 undergraduate programs.
Hiram College
Hiram College is located in Hiram, OH. It was founded in 1850 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 1,300 students. U.S. News ranks Hiram College as #13 in Regional Colleges of the Midwest. Hiram College has a 93% acceptance rate and offers 33 majors, ranging from the sciences to humanities to business and nursing.
We’ll explore more private colleges in Ohio later in this guide, along with the overall Ohio universities ranking.
What is the most prestigious university in Ohio?
Case Western Reserve University is the highest-ranked university in Ohio.
However, a university’s ranking isn’t based on prestige alone. Other factors like famous alumni, history, reputation over time, etc., can all influence things like the Ohio universities ranking. Additionally, note that “prestige” is subjective.
Besides Case Western Reserve, the argument could be made that Ohio State University or the University of Cincinnati are the most prestigious public universities in Ohio. While Ohio has ranked higher in the past, the University of Cincinnati was recently ranked #1 for best college location in Ohio. Both of these schools are considered some of the best colleges in Ohio and attract thousands of applicants every year.
Although college rankings are important, the Ohio universities ranking should be just one factor in your college search.
Exploring the differences
There are a few key differences between Ohio colleges and universities, including programs, college location, college setting, and college size.
Most of the top colleges in Ohio offer undergraduate programs only and are often located in smaller towns or rural areas. Colleges in Ohio also have smaller undergraduate enrollments.
On the other hand, universities in Ohio offer both undergraduate and graduate programs and are located near major cities. They also have a larger student population.
The types of programs and/or majors offered at Ohio colleges and universities can also be different. You’ll want to research what each of the colleges in Ohio offer before making a final list of the best colleges in Ohio for you.
How many colleges are in Ohio?
So, just how many colleges are in Ohio? According to the Ohio Secretary of State, there are over 100 Ohio colleges and universities. Since we just covered some of the top universities in Ohio, let’s take a look at some lesser-known colleges in Ohio.
There are roughly 18 private colleges in Ohio, and even more public colleges in Ohio. We have chosen a few of the many wonderful colleges in Ohio to highlight below.
Mercy College of Ohio
Mercy College of Ohio is a private Catholic college in Toledo, OH, with a focus on healthcare programs. It has a 40% acceptance rate and a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 1,200 students.
Ursuline College
Ursuline College is a private liberal arts college. Located in Pepper Pike, OH, Ursuline has a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,000 students. It has a 64% acceptance rate, and over 90% of students at Ursuline College are women. U.S. News ranks Ursuline College as #66 in Regional Universities in the Midwest.
Now that you’re more familiar with some of the top universities in Ohio, let’s see where they land on our colleges in Ohio map.
Colleges in Ohio map
Our colleges in Ohio map shows, you guessed it, the locations of some of the top colleges in Ohio.
In the center of Ohio is Columbus, the state capital. There are six colleges in Columbus Ohio. Most notably, at the top of the list of colleges in Columbus Ohio, is Ohio State University.
Outside of the best colleges in Columbus Ohio, many of the other top colleges in Ohio are located elsewhere in the state. Southeast of Columbus is the city of Cincinnati, where you’ll find the University of Cincinnati and Xavier University. Moving northwest of Cincinnati, there’s Miami University in Oxford. Northeast from Oxford is Dayton, where the University of Dayton is located.
Moving northeast of Dayton, you’ll find Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, OH. Move further north and you’ll come across the University of Toledo, located in Toledo, OH. Traveling east to Cleveland, you’ll find Case Western Reserve University. If you travel south of Cleveland you’ll find Akron, which is where Kent State University is located. Finally, if you’re looking around Columbus but don’t want colleges in Columbus Ohio, you’ll find Ohio University in Athens just an hour away.
Columbus Area
The Columbus region has the most higher education options in the nation, but there’s also a diverse range of higher education options across the state of Ohio. Since the best colleges in Ohio are spread out across the state, you’ll want to have a good idea of what type of college setting is right for you. Then, you can choose which colleges in Ohio to apply to.
How many public colleges in Ohio?
There are 14 main public colleges in Ohio. The 14 public colleges in Ohio have more than 24 campuses across the state. We’ve included a table of the 14 public colleges in Ohio below with the name of the college, the college location, and the acceptance rate.
| Name | Location | Acceptance Rate |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green, OH | 79% |
| Central State University | Wilberforce, OH | 59% |
| Cleveland State University | Cleveland, OH | 89% |
| Kent State University | Kent, OH | 87% |
| Miami University | Oxford, OH | 89% |
| Northeast Ohio Medical University | Rootstown, OH | 42% |
| Ohio University | Athens, OH | 89% |
| Shawnee State University | Portsmouth, OH | 94% |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | 57% |
| The University of Akron | Akron, OH | 84% |
| The University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | 97% |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH | 85% |
| Wright State University | Dayton, OH | 96% |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | 78% |
How many private colleges in Ohio?
The Ohio Secretary of State says there are more than 50 four-year private colleges and universities. Many of them are among the top universities in Ohio. Aside from the private colleges in Ohio previously mentioned in this guide, here’s a few more top colleges in Ohio to add to your list.
The College of Wooster
The College of Wooster is located in Wooster, OH and has a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,900 students. Founded in 1866, the College of Wooster offers a liberal arts education with over 100+ areas of study. The College of Wooster has a 61% acceptance rate. Additionally, the College of Wooster ranking is #76 in National Liberal Arts Colleges. According to U.S. News, for Best Value Schools, the College of Wooster ranking is #71.
Franklin University
Franklin University, founded in 1902, is ranked #127 in Regional Universities of the Midwest. Unlike other private colleges in Columbus Ohio, Franklin is one of the only colleges in Ohio that offers all of their courses online, making it one of the top colleges in Ohio for adult learners.
Columbus College of Art and Design
Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) is also one of the private colleges in Columbus Ohio. CCAD was founded in 1902 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of roughly 1,000 students. Additionally, CCAD is one of the top colleges in Ohio for art and design and offers 11 undergraduate majors and 18 minors.
Ohio Wesleyan University
Ohio Wesleyan University is located in Delaware, OH. It was founded in 1842 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,300 students. U.S. News ranks Ohio Wesleyan as #111 in National Liberal Arts Colleges. Ohio Wesleyan has a 74% acceptance rate and offers more than 70 majors, including Zoology and Psychology..
Wittenberg University
Wittenberg University was founded in 1845 and is located in Springfield, OH. Wittenberg is a Lutheran-affiliated college and has a 92% acceptance rate. Approximately 1,200 undergraduate students attend Wittenberg, and it offers over 35 majors. Additionally, U.S. News ranks Wittenberg University as #147 in National Liberal Arts Colleges.
15 Best Colleges in Ohio
U.S. News has ranked the best colleges in Ohio for the 2022-2023 academic year. Out of this list of top colleges in Ohio, we’ll focus on the 15 best colleges in Ohio below.
Our list of 15 best colleges in Ohio will include information about each college’s location, acceptance rate, and academic programs.
15 Top Universities in Ohio
1. Case Western
Case Western Reserve is first on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Located in Cleveland, Case Western has an acceptance rate of 30%. There are more than 100 undergraduate programs at Case Western. The most popular majors at Case Western are Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biology, and Computer Science.
2. The Ohio State
Ohio State University is next on the list of best colleges in Ohio. As you might recall, Ohio State is one of the colleges in Columbus Ohio. It has an acceptance rate of 57%. Ohio State offers 200+ undergraduate majors. Additionally, the most popular majors at Ohio State include Finance, Biology, Psychology, Marketing, and Computer Science & Engineering.
3. Miami University
Miami University is third on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Located in Oxford, Miami University has an acceptance rate of 89%. It offers over 120 areas of study for undergraduates, and the Miami University ranking for its Engineering and Business programs are Top 20 and Top 50 for national public universities, respectively.
4. University of Dayton
The University of Dayton is next on the list of best colleges in Ohio. The University of Dayton is in Dayton, OH and has an acceptance rate of 81%. The University of Dayton offers more than 80 undergraduate programs and its Entrepreneurship program is ranked in the Top 50 for undergraduate institutions.
5. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati is located in Cincinnati, OH, and is fifth on the list of best colleges in Ohio. The University of Cincinnati has an 85% acceptance rate and has over 200 programs of study for undergraduates. The University of Cincinnati ranking is #151 in National Universities, according to U.S. News. Additionally, the University of Cincinnati ranking is #4 in the nation for co-ops and internships.
6. Xavier University
Next on the list of best colleges in Ohio is Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH. Xavier has an 84% acceptance rate and more than 90 majors and 60 minors. Additionally, the most popular majors at Xavier University include Nursing, Marketing, Finance, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Biology.
7.Ohio University
Ohio University is seventh on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Located in Athens, Ohio University has an 89% acceptance rate. Additionally, Ohio University offers over 250+ academic programs and ranks 15th in best public Business school.
8. Kent State
Next on the list of best colleges in Ohio is Kent State University. Kent State is located in Kent, OH, and has an 87% acceptance rate. Kent State has over 360+ programs of study and its School of Fashion Design and Merchandising is ranked second in the United States overall.
9. Bowling Green State University
Ninth on the list of best colleges in Ohio is Bowling Green State University. Located in Bowling Green, OH, Bowling Green State has a 79% acceptance rate. It offers more than 200 undergraduate majors and programs.The most popular majors include Education, Psychology, Biology, Criminal Justice, and Nursing.
10. University of Toledo
The University of Toledo is next on the list of best colleges in Ohio. The University of Toledo is in Toledo, OH, and has a 97% acceptance rate. It offers 250+ undergraduate programs, including 22 academic programs that are nationally ranked. The most popular majors at University of Toledo are Business, Health Professions, Engineering, Biology, and Law Enforcement.
11. University of Findlay
University of Findlay is eleventh on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Located in Findlay, OH, University of Findlay has an 83% acceptance rate. There are more than 85 bachelor’s degrees offered at University of Findlay. The five most popular majors are Animal Science/Pre-Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Business, Equestrian Studies, and Education.
12. Walsh University
Walsh University in North Canton, OH, is next on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Walsh University has an 80% acceptance rate. Additionally, the most popular majors include Business, Health Professions, Education, Biology, and Psychology.
13. Kenyon College
Number 13 on the list of best colleges in Ohio is Kenyon College. Located in Gambier, OH, Kenyon College has a 37% acceptance rate. According to U.S. News, the Kenyon College ranking is #31 in National Liberal Arts Colleges. Additionally, for Best Value Schools, the Kenyon College ranking is #53. There are over 50 majors, minors, and concentrations available at Kenyon College.
14. Denison University
Denison University is next on the list of best colleges in Ohio. Located in Granville, Denison University has a 28% acceptance rate. The Denison University ranking is #39 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, according to U.S. News. Denison offers 65+ academic programs. For Best Value Schools, the Denison University ranking is #60.
15. Oberlin College
Last but not least on the list of best colleges in Ohio is Oberlin College. Located in Oberlin, OH, Oberlin College has a 34% acceptance rate. According to U.S. News, the Oberlin College ranking is #39 in National Liberal Arts Colleges. Oberlin is a college conservatory and offers over 40 academic majors to students. Additionally, for Best Value Schools, the Oberlin College ranking is #78.
What is the #1 college in Ohio?
By college rankings alone, Case Western Reserve is the #1 college in Ohio. The Case Western Reserve University ranking is #44 in National Universities, according to U.S. News.
In past years, Ohio State University has also been the #1 college in Ohio. However, the Ohio State ranking is currently below Case Western at #49. So, the rankings of the best colleges in Ohio can vary depending on the year.
As we’ve discussed, Case Western Reserve is one of the best colleges in Ohio. Additionally, the most popular majors at Case Western Reserve include Engineering, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science, Psychology, and Business and Economics.
Case Western Reserve admissions statistics
Case Western Reserve has a total enrollment of 12,000 students, including 5,800 undergraduates. Students admitted to Case Western Reserve have an average GPA of 3.9. Additionally, admitted applicants have an average SAT score of 1410-1530 and an average ACT score of 32-35.
Although Case Western Reserve is currently the #1 college in Ohio, that could change. College rankings aren’t everything—just because a college is on the list of top colleges in Ohio, doesn’t mean it will be right for you. What matters most is that you find the right college in Ohio (or elsewhere) for you—despite where they may fall on the college rankings scale.
Is college free in Ohio?
So far, we’ve covered Ohio’s robust public university system and several top colleges in Ohio. If you’ve started thinking about the cost of college, you may be wondering what some of the best colleges in Ohio cost.
So, is it free to attend the best colleges in Ohio? In a word, no. While some public university systems offer free models, Ohio colleges and universities aren’t free.
Nevertheless, you can lower the cost of college drastically by applying or qualifying for merit scholarships. There are scores of merit scholarships out there for high-achieving applicants, like the Coca-Cola Scholarship. Some schools also have their own merit scholarship programs, like Ohio State University’s Morrill Scholarship. If you’re looking for merit scholarships, then you can start your search in our scholarships archive. You can also receive generous financial aid from some of the best colleges in Ohio.
Still, even with scholarships, paying for college is a huge factor in most college applications. Financial aid concerns can also influence your decision to apply early or regular decision—or even to apply at all. If you’re set on Ohio as a college location, you may wonder about the least expensive colleges in Ohio. Let’s take a look.
What is the cheapest college in Ohio?
Using U.S. News tuition averages, here are the five least expensive colleges in Ohio.
Top 5 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio
1. Franklin University
Franklin University ($9,577) bills itself as an extremely affordable and flexible university. Many of its 1,200 students are working adults and other non-traditional students, attending both in-person and online classes. As one of several colleges in Columbus Ohio, Franklin has one of the lowest acceptance rates at 100%. Popular majors include business and accounting.
2. Youngstown State University
Youngstown State University ($10,838), located in the city of Youngstown, has an undergraduate enrollment of almost 10,000. It offers over 100 undergraduate majors along with a variety of graduate programs. The most recent acceptance rate was 78%.
3. University of Northwestern Ohio
University of Northwestern Ohio ($11,550) is a small, private university in Lima, Ohio, with only a couple thousand students. UNHO prides itself on its automotive and mechanics programs as well as its athletics. While U.S. News doesn’t provide an acceptance rate, Niche puts it at 100%.
4. Central State University
Central State University ($12,016 out-of-state / $10, 016 in-state) is an HBCU serving about 6,000 undergraduates in rural Wilberforce. It has an acceptance rate of 58% and is known for majors like business and psychology. In addition, Greek life is very popular at CSU.
5. Wilberforce University
Wilberforce University ($13,250) is another HBCU in Wilberforce, although its enrollment is much smaller at around 400 students. It is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church and has an acceptance rate of 62%.
As you can see, it’s definitely possible to get a great education in Ohio without breaking the bank. So, if financial considerations are a key part of your college planning, take a look at the schools above.
By the numbers, Franklin University tops the list of least expensive colleges in Ohio. Remember, there are also countless scholarships you can apply to help pay for the best colleges in Ohio.
Top Colleges in Ohio – By Major
When determining the best colleges in Ohio for you, you’ll weigh factors like college location and college rankings. Another prominent factor is academic programs. What Ohio colleges and universities offer your preferred major, and what are the best colleges in Ohio for those majors? You’ll likely recognize these schools from our colleges in Ohio map.
Coming up, we’ll examine the best colleges in Ohio for pre med, business, computer science, and psychology. These are some of the most popular majors at the top universities in Ohio, and for good reason. They can set you up for a good job or graduate program—maybe at other top colleges in Ohio. Don’t forget that the best colleges in Ohio may rank differently when looking only at their graduate programs.
Still choosing a major?
Don’t worry if you haven’t chosen a major yet. You can still research the best colleges in Ohio based on your academic interests without deciding on a major. In fact, many of the best colleges in Ohio don’t require you to declare a major until your second or third year. While some of the best colleges in Ohio may require a major declaration on applications, you can still change later. At the same time, some majors, such as engineering, may have hefty coursework requirements that you must begin early.
What if, after two years at one of the best colleges in Ohio, you’re torn between several disciplines? At that point, you may discuss minors, double majors, and interdisciplinary majors with an academic advisor. Whether you’re laser-focused or have too many interests to count, the best colleges in Ohio can accommodate you. With that said, let’s examine some of the top colleges in Ohio by popular majors.
Best Colleges in Ohio for Pre Med
Before we discuss the best colleges in Ohio for pre med, remember that pre-med is actually a broad category of majors. In fact, medical schools usually accept any major as long as you’ve completed relevant coursework. Of course, many students will choose pre-med tracks to prioritize medical school prerequisites. Therefore, our list of the best colleges in Ohio for pre med will feature schools with outstanding health professions majors.
Best Colleges in Ohio for Pre-Med
1. Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University, one of the best colleges in Ohio overall, leads the top universities in Ohio for pre-med. Several hospitals are near its Cleveland campus, providing opportunities for both pre-med and medical school students. Students in majors from biochemistry to English have completed CWRU’s pre-med coursework and continued to medical school, many at CWRU. CWRU has a 30% acceptance rate and enrollment of about 12,000 students, evenly split between pre- and post-graduate.
2. Ohio State University
Ohio State University is one of many colleges in Columbus Ohio. It offers pre-med as a pre-professional track, aimed at students seeking to continue to medical programs. Specifically, OSU pre-med students are prepared for graduate work in fields like dentistry, pharmacy, and even veterinary medicine. U.S. News had the College of Medicine at Ohio State ranking #32 among national primary care programs in 2022. A 57% acceptance rate determines enrollment into its undergraduate population of over 47,000.
3. Miami University
Located in Oxford, Ohio, Miami University recommends its pre-health co-major for students hoping to apply to health professional schools. The school has nearly 17,000 undergraduate students and an 89% acceptance rate. Its ranking among undergraduate learning communities is #9, so you’re assured of a supportive learning environment. Furthermore, you’ll get a great education; the Miami University ranking for undergraduate teaching is #18 in the country.
4. University of Dayton
University of Dayton offers both pre-med and pre-dentistry programs, which are unique in being full majors. In addition to interdisciplinary coursework, clinical experience and self-designed study are required. Over 70% of graduates were accepted to medical school over the past five years—and 86% to dentistry school. The school serves about 8,600 undergraduates and is somewhat selective with an 81% acceptance rate. The University of Dayton ranking is #35 for best value school nationally, so it’s worth the cost of tuition.
5. University of Cincinnati
University of Cincinnati offers a Health Sciences major with several pre-health tracks to prepare students for different health professions. These range from medicine to pharmacy and occupational therapy. The University of Cincinnati ranking among U.S. medical schools for research is #43. An 85% acceptance rate makes it somewhat selective among the best colleges in Ohio.
As you’ll notice, pre-med and similar programs like pre-dentistry are usually tracks or recommended courses, not standalone majors. Medical schools at the top colleges in Ohio—indeed, nationwide–don’t require a particular major when you apply. Rather, they’re looking for applicants with both foundational coursework and experience in a medical setting, like internships or shadowing.
Beyond that, according to the best colleges in Ohio for pre med, you can usually pursue pretty much any major. So, don’t feel limited by pre-med requirements as you consider your future at these top Ohio schools. Despite the need to take certain classes, you have flexibility within your major at the best colleges in Ohio.
Best Colleges in Ohio for Business
Business is one of the most popular college majors. So, next, let’s learn about some of the best colleges in Ohio for business.
Whereas pre-med college rankings are usually based on science programs overall, most schools have a specific business major. Specifically, we’ll be looking at the five best colleges in Ohio for business according to Niche.
Top 5 Colleges in Ohio for Business
1. Ohio State University
Ohio State University houses the Fisher College of Business, which serves over 6,600 undergraduates. We see Ohio State ranking high in undergraduate programs. Fisher College specifically ranked #7 among public undergraduate business programs in 2021. Fisher College provides resources like mock interviews, internships, leadership development, and global opportunities and houses over 50 business-related student organizations. There’s no separate application; OSU applicants indicate “Business” or a specialization, like accounting or real estate, instead.
2. Case Western
Case Western’s Weatherhead School of Management puts the Case Western Reserve University ranking at #14 among private undergraduate business programs. They offer integrated study programs that award both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in four years. Case Western also hosts various events and networking opportunities aimed at career and graduate school preparation.
3. Franklin University
Franklin University offers online bachelor’s and master’s business degrees through its Ross School of Business. Their undergraduate courses range from 6 to 12 weeks and are very inexpensive, as they’re online. Furthermore, since Franklin aims to provide flexible higher education options, they readily accept transfer credit from other institutions.
4. Cedarville University
Cedarville University offers eight undergraduate business majors at its Robert W. Plaster School of Business from accounting to management. As a Christian university, Cedarville requires a Bible minor as part of general education coursework. The school has a 62% acceptance rate and ranks #15 among schools in the Midwest.
5. Denison University
Denison University, despite its name, is a leading liberal arts college—the Denison University ranking is #39 nationally. While it may not have a separate business school, Denison offers related majors like economics and global commerce. They prioritize experiential learning so undergraduates can make connections and get experience before graduation. In fact, the Denison University ranking for co-ops and internships is #19 within the U.S.
The five best colleges in Ohio for business offer a variety of experiences. Whether you prefer residential to online, or religious to secular, some Ohio colleges and universities probably meet your needs. Remember this is only one list of best colleges in Ohio for business. So, other lists may rank them differently.
Best Colleges in Ohio for Computer Science
Now, let’s move on to some of the best colleges in Ohio for computer science. Most of these will be familiar; Ohio universities ranking high overall will obviously have stellar individual programs. If you’re seeking a job in CS, the best colleges in Ohio for computer science can prepare you for a successful career.
Top 5 Colleges in Ohio for Computer Science
1. Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University offers several computer science programs and specializations at its Case School of Engineering. The Bachelor of Arts in computer science allows for a liberal arts education, while the Bachelor of Science requires specialization. Students can also undertake an integrated program and graduate with a bachelor’s and master’s in five years. Most students participate in experiential learning and/or research before graduation.
2. Ohio State University
Ohio State University applicants aiming for computer science don’t actually enter with a declared major but rather a pre-major. After completing pre-major coursework, students may declare a Computer Science and Engineering (B.S.) or Computer and Information Science major (B.S./B.A.). Either major provides plenty of opportunities for research, internships, and participation in student organizations.
3. University of Dayton
University of Dayton offers various computer science degrees within its College of Arts and Sciences. Computer Science majors and other students can also showcase their achievements at the annual campus-wide Stander Symposium. Dayton career services connect many students with impactful internships to prepare them for careers and graduate opportunities. If you want to continue to more general engineering, the University of Dayton ranking for graduate engineering is #48 nationwide.
4. University of Cincinnati
University of Cincinnati’s College of Engineering and Applied Science offers a B.S. in Computer Science. The University of Cincinnati ranking for internships is #4 in the nation, thanks to its robust co-op program. Co-ops provide a semester of full-time employment in your chosen field—in other words, valuable career experience. On top of various undergraduate research labs and fellowships, co-ops can prepare students for bright futures after graduation.
5. Oberlin College
Oberlin College is a very selective liberal arts college with a 36% acceptance rate. That’s reflected in the high Oberlin College ranking of #39 among national liberal arts colleges. Its computer science program encourages experiential learning, study abroad, and undergraduate research. Oberlin doubles as a music conservatory, which certainly contributes to Oberlin College ranking #16 among America’s most innovative schools. That innovation makes its way into all disciplines, including computer science.
Computer science is a rapidly expanding field, with new career paths and areas of study opening up every day. So, the best schools in Ohio for computer science can start you down the right path with research and experiential learning opportunities. After graduation, you’ll be set for a dynamic career or perhaps even a further degree.
Best Colleges in Ohio for Psychology
Finally, let’s look at the best colleges in Ohio for psychology. Psychology is a popular major at Ohio colleges and universities in part for its flexibility. Many careers beyond psychiatry are open to psychology majors. Provided you’ve completed relevant coursework, many graduate programs aren’t picky about degrees. With that said, let’s review the top five best colleges in Ohio for psychology.
Top 5 Colleges in Ohio for Psychology
1. Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University has a Department of Psychological Sciences that provides both Psychology and Communication Sciences programs. Psychology majors may follow optional pathways based on their professional goals, from research to neuroscience or clinical. As for graduate programs within clinical psychology, we see Case Western Reserve University ranking #50 nationwide.
2. Ohio State University
Ohio State University’s Department of Psychology houses several faculty research labs and groups for both undergraduate and graduate students. Psychology majors are encouraged to participate in research as well as in extracurricular groups like the psychology book club. Additionally, students can present their research at the annual psychology undergraduate research forum. Moreover, OSU’s career services office, in addition to working with students, can connect them with alumni to ask questions.
3. Kenyon College
Kenyon College is a leading institution—U.S. News has Kenyon College ranking #31 among American liberal arts colleges. Kenyon offers an honors major pathway for ambitious students who want to undertake independent in-depth scholarship. Psychology majors at Kenyon can partner with faculty for research and even co-author papers for publication. With Kenyon College ranking #19 nationwide for undergraduate teaching, research with faculty is also a great opportunity to learn outside of the classroom.
4. University of Cincinnati
University of Cincinnati has psychology degrees from the undergraduate to doctorate levels at its College of Arts and Sciences. In addition to its various research labs, UC has several programs for students of underrepresented ethnic minorities and for women. UC psychology majors may also participate in Service Learning, applying their coursework to a community-based project.
5. College of Wooster
College of Wooster is a liberal arts college that prizes mentorship and student independence. It’s a selective school with a 61% acceptance rate and the College of Wooster ranking among liberal arts colleges is #76. Moreover, the College of Wooster ranking is very high for undergraduate teaching at #13 nationwide. Psychology majors must design and conduct an independent research project, with many continuing on to law or medical graduate programs.
Psychology is a very popular major that opens a variety of doors. Internships and research at the best colleges in Ohio for psychology can prepare you for further degrees or a career. Whether your next step is toward other top universities in Ohio or something entirely new, you’ll be ready.
What is the hardest college to get into in Ohio?
We’ve looked at many of the best colleges in Ohio, from public to private, that top Ohio universities ranking lists. It’s clear from its many appearances that Ohio State is one of the best public universities in Ohio. Likewise, Case Western is undoubtedly one of the best private colleges in Ohio. But of all the private and public colleges in Ohio, which one is the hardest to get into?
From the Ohio colleges and universities we’ve discussed, Case Western Reserve University has the lowest acceptance rate: 30%. This isn’t surprising, given that Case Western tops many lists of best colleges in Ohio. But what does this acceptance rate mean for you and your college list?
Balance your college list
Ideally, your college list should include a mix of “safety,” “match,” and “reach” schools, categorized by your odds of admission. To estimate those odds, research each school’s admitted students profile and compare it to yours. Do your test scores and GPA fall above, below, or within the averages? Furthermore, research acceptance rates of the best colleges in Ohio and beyond. Schools with under 25% should automatically be considered “reach” schools.
With that being said, Case Western sees a difference between ED and RD acceptance rates. The acceptance rate for early applicants was about 36% for 2021. So, if Case Western is your top school, you may consider applying Early Decision. However, keep in mind that the ED application is binding. That means by applying early, you commit to attending if you get an acceptance letter.
How do I choose the best college in Ohio for me?
Notice this categorization process doesn’t have anything to do with college rankings. While college rankings can be useful, they are far from the only factor you should consider when determining your best colleges in Ohio. Instead, your top colleges in Ohio should be those you’re excited to attend and where you believe you can thrive. Browsing Ohio universities ranking lists is only the beginning.
Factors for evaluating Ohio colleges and universities may include:
- Major availability. Aside from the popular majors we explored above, there are endless areas of study for you to pursue. Maybe you’re interested in design, which could then put the Columbus College of Art and Design on your list. Do your research on the top universities in Ohio so you know if they meet your needs.
- College setting. Ohio colleges and universities range from urban to rural. If you’re interested in colleges in Columbus Ohio, do you mean the Columbus metro area, or just near the city? Or, what about a hugely popular college town like Cincinnati?
- College size. Do you prefer large schools like Kent State University and Bowling Green State University, or small schools like Hiram College? The opportunities of an urban college setting may support your needs, but a college size over 5,000 students may not.
- Tuition & Costs. The cost of college seems to rise every year, especially at the top colleges in Ohio and nationwide. Especially for first-generation students and those of other underrepresented groups, scholarships can be crucial to attending college. But even with scholarships, the cost may balloon beyond your expectations.
We have talked at length about the top colleges in Ohio, but have not mentioned any worst colleges in Ohio. In reality, both “best” and “worst” are entirely subjective descriptors that depend on your needs and preferences. Given how many colleges are in Ohio, though, you’re almost guaranteed to find your personal top universities in Ohio.
Best Colleges in Ohio – Final Thoughts
In this article, we reviewed the best colleges in Ohio, looking at Ohio colleges and universities across the state. Then, we looked at our colleges in Ohio map and discussed both public and private top universities in Ohio. Finally, we briefly listed some Ohio universities ranking high on popular lists of college rankings by major.
If you’re still searching for colleges, we can help. Take a look at our College Finder series for guidance in finding your ideal college. If you’re already eyeing some of the best colleges in Ohio, we have guides for you. Check out our how to get into Ohio State University guide or our Case Western Reserve University supplemental essay guide.
Still feeling a little lost? CollegeAdvisor is here to help you find and get into the school that’s best for you.
This article was written by senior advisors Claire Babbs and Gina Goosby. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
