Private Four-Year Universities in Ohio
Case Western Reserve University
Overview
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), located in Cleveland, Ohio, is a private research university known for its strong emphasis on innovation, research, and academic excellence. Established in 1826, CWRU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History
CWRU was formed in 1967 through the federation of two longstanding institutions: Case Institute of Technology (founded in 1880) and Western Reserve University (founded in 1826). The university has a rich history of research and development, particularly in engineering, medicine, and law.
Academic Offerings
CWRU offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Case School of Engineering, Weatherhead School of Management, and School of Medicine. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in engineering, law, business, and medicine.
Student Life
CWRU provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus is located in the cultural hub of University Circle, offering students access to museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions. CWRU also emphasizes research opportunities and community engagement.
Unique Features
CWRU is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The university’s Think[box] innovation center is one of the largest university-based makerspaces in the world. CWRU also has strong partnerships with neighboring institutions, including the Cleveland Clinic.
Admissions
CWRU’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 30%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
CWRU’s alumni network includes notable figures such as Nobel laureates, CEOs, and leaders in various fields. Prominent alumni include Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist; Paul Buchheit, creator of Gmail; and Peter Tippett, a pioneer in cybersecurity.
Oberlin College
Overview
Oberlin College, located in Oberlin, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic rigor, social justice, and the arts. Established in 1833, Oberlin offers a range of undergraduate programs and a renowned conservatory of music.
History
Oberlin College was founded by Presbyterian ministers and was the first college in the United States to regularly admit African American students and women. The college has a long history of progressive activism and commitment to social justice.
Academic Offerings
Oberlin offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its College of Arts and Sciences and the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in music, liberal arts, and sciences.
Student Life
Oberlin provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Oberlin also emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and social activism.
Unique Features
Oberlin is known for its strong emphasis on the arts and social justice. The Oberlin Conservatory of Music is one of the oldest and most prestigious conservatories in the United States. Oberlin also has a strong commitment to sustainability and was one of the first colleges to create a comprehensive environmental policy.
Admissions
Oberlin’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 36%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Oberlin’s alumni network includes notable figures such as Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and leaders in various fields. Prominent alumni include playwright Thornton Wilder, civil rights activist John Mercer Langston, and jazz musician Karen Walwyn.
Kenyon College
Overview
Kenyon College, located in Gambier, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on writing, academic excellence, and close-knit community. Established in 1824, Kenyon offers a range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences.
History
Kenyon College was founded by Philander Chase, the first Episcopal bishop of Ohio. The college has a rich history of academic excellence and has long been known for its strong writing programs and beautiful campus.
Academic Offerings
Kenyon offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in English, creative writing, and the sciences.
Student Life
Kenyon provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic Gothic architecture and extensive green spaces. Kenyon also emphasizes community engagement and intellectual exploration.
Unique Features
Kenyon is known for its strong emphasis on writing and the liberal arts. The college’s Kenyon Review is one of the most respected literary magazines in the United States. Kenyon also has a strong tradition of student-faculty collaboration and mentorship.
Admissions
Kenyon’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 34%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Kenyon’s alumni network includes notable figures such as novelist E.L. Doctorow, actor Paul Newman, and poet Robert Lowell. Kenyon graduates are known for their contributions to literature, the arts, and academia.
Denison University
Overview
Denison University, located in Granville, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic rigor, community engagement, and leadership development. Established in 1831, Denison offers a range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences.
History
Denison University was founded by the Ohio Baptist Education Society and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to the liberal arts. The college has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Denison offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in economics, biology, and political science.
Student Life
Denison provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Denison also emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
Denison is known for its strong emphasis on leadership and community engagement. The college’s Lugar Program in Politics and Public Service provides students with opportunities to engage in public service and political internships. Denison also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
Denison’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 29%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Denison’s alumni network includes notable figures such as actor Steve Carell, journalist Michael Eisner, and historian James H. Billington. Denison graduates are known for their contributions to the arts, politics, and academia.
Ohio Wesleyan University
Overview
Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU), located in Delaware, Ohio, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, global engagement, and community service. Established in 1842, OWU offers a range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences.
History
OWU was founded by Methodist leaders and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to social justice. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
OWU offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in international studies, biology, and business administration.
Student Life
OWU provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. OWU also emphasizes community engagement and global citizenship.
Unique Features
OWU is known for its strong emphasis on global engagement and community service. The university’s OWU Connection program supports students in pursuing internships, research projects, and study abroad opportunities. OWU also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
OWU’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 69%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
OWU’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Vice President Charles W. Fairbanks, Nobel laureate Frank Sherwood Rowland, and author Wendell Berry. OWU graduates are known for their contributions to public service, science, and literature.
Xavier University
Overview
Xavier University, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a private Jesuit university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, service, and leadership. Established in 1831, Xavier offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History
Xavier University was founded by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to Jesuit education principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Xavier offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Williams College of Business, and College of Nursing. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, nursing, and psychology.
Student Life
Xavier provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Xavier also emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
Xavier is known for its strong emphasis on service and leadership. The university’s Brueggeman Center for Dialogue engages students in interfaith and intercultural dialogue. Xavier also has a strong commitment to social justice and community service.
Admissions
Xavier’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 76%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Xavier’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. House Speaker John Boehner, astronaut Charles D. Gemar, and actor John Posey. Xavier graduates are known for their contributions to politics, space exploration, and the arts.
University of Dayton
Overview
The University of Dayton (UD), located in Dayton, Ohio, is a private Catholic research university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Established in 1850, UD offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History
UD was founded by the Society of Mary (Marianists) and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to Marianist education principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
UD offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Engineering, and School of Law. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in engineering, business, and law.
Student Life
UD provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. UD also emphasizes community engagement and social justice.
Unique Features
UD is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement. The university’s Fitz Center for Leadership in Community engages students in community service and leadership development. UD also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
UD’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 72%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
UD’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, inventor John H. Patterson, and basketball coach Don Donoher. UD graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and sports.
John Carroll University
Overview
John Carroll University (JCU), located in University Heights, Ohio, is a private Jesuit university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, service, and leadership. Established in 1886, JCU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History
JCU was founded by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to Jesuit education principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
JCU offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Boler College of Business. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in business, psychology, and education.
Student Life
JCU provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. JCU also emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
JCU is known for its strong emphasis on service and leadership. The university’s Center for Service and Social Action engages students in community service and social justice initiatives. JCU also has a strong commitment to interfaith dialogue and multiculturalism.
Admissions
JCU’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 86%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
JCU’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Representative Anthony Gonzalez, business leader Richard F. Celeste, and journalist Tim Russert. JCU graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and media.
Hiram College
Overview
Hiram College, located in Hiram, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, experiential learning, and community engagement. Established in 1850, Hiram offers a range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences.
History
Hiram College was founded by the Disciples of Christ and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to the liberal arts. The college has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Hiram offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in biology, education, and environmental studies.
Student Life
Hiram provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Hiram also emphasizes community engagement and experiential learning.
Unique Features
Hiram is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. The college’s Weekend College program offers flexible learning options for adult students. Hiram also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
Hiram’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 60%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Hiram’s alumni network includes notable figures such as U.S. President James A. Garfield, Nobel laureate Paul L. Modrich, and author Vachel Lindsay. Hiram graduates are known for their contributions to politics, science, and literature.
The College of Wooster
Overview
The College of Wooster, located in Wooster, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on independent study, academic excellence, and global engagement. Established in 1866, Wooster offers a range of undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences.
History
The College of Wooster was founded by the Presbyterian Church and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to the liberal arts. The college has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Wooster offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in history, psychology, and biology.
Student Life
Wooster provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Wooster also emphasizes global engagement and independent study.
Unique Features
Wooster is known for its strong emphasis on independent study and research. The college’s Independent Study (I.S.) program requires all seniors to complete a significant research project, thesis, or creative work. Wooster also has a strong commitment to global engagement and study abroad opportunities.
Admissions
Wooster’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 56%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Wooster’s alumni network includes notable figures such as Nobel laureate Arthur Compton, astronaut Jack Schmitt, and author James S. Huggins. Wooster graduates are known for their contributions to science, space exploration, and literature.
Marietta College
Overview
Marietta College, located in Marietta, Ohio, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement. Established in 1835, Marietta offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Marietta College was founded by leaders of the Northwest Territory and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to the liberal arts. The college has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Marietta offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various departments, including the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. The college is particularly renowned for its programs in petroleum engineering, education, and international business.
Student Life
Marietta provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The college’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Marietta also emphasizes leadership development and community engagement.
Unique Features
Marietta is known for its strong emphasis on leadership development and community engagement. The college’s McDonough Leadership Program offers students opportunities for leadership training and experiential learning. Marietta also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
Marietta’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 73%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The college considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Marietta’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former U.S. Representative William Rufus Shafter, business leader John G. McCoy, and historian Charles W. Calhoun. Marietta graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and academia.
Capital University
Overview
Capital University, located in Columbus, Ohio, is a private liberal arts and research university known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, service, and leadership. Established in 1830, Capital offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
History
Capital University was founded by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and has a long history of academic excellence and commitment to Lutheran education principles. The university has grown significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in the region.
Academic Offerings
Capital offers a comprehensive array of academic programs through its various schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Management and Leadership, and the Conservatory of Music. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in music, law, and nursing.
Student Life
Capital provides a vibrant student life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities. The university’s campus features historic buildings and extensive green spaces. Capital also emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
Capital is known for its strong emphasis on service and leadership. The university’s Law School is renowned for its strong emphasis on practical training and community service. Capital also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Admissions
Capital’s admissions process is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate typically around 72%. Admissions criteria include academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. The university considers standardized test scores but also values holistic review.
Alumni
Capital’s alumni network includes notable figures such as former Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, business leader John C. Maxwell, and musician Michael Feinstein. Capital graduates are known for their contributions to politics, business, and the arts.