For students who are looking for a nonprofit university or college with a strong online curriculum based out of Ohio, we have compiled a list of some of our top picks from the state. This list was compiled by assessing tuition cost, as well as amount and type of programs available.
Ranking the Best Online Colleges in Ohio
#1. Ohio University
Located in Athens, Ohio, Ohio University is one of the largest universities in the state of Ohio. Established officially in 1804, Ohio University was first chartered by the First Continental Congress in the year 1787. The first university to ever be chartered through an act of Congress, plans for Ohio University were now underway. Headed up by Manasseh Cutler, Ohio University was originally named American University. In 1804, American University was officially recognized by the state of Ohio and construction was underway. By 1809, American University was ready to enroll its first class of students. Throughout the course of the 20th Century, American University grew and grew. Eventually renamed to Ohio University, the institution became a shining example of the heights that academia can reach within the state as well as the entire country. Today, Ohio University is recognized for having “high research activity” per the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Located in Athens, Ohio University is home to a student body of 37,000 students.
Featured Programs
Students at Ohio University are given the option to enroll in a wide variety of academic programs offered at the university. Currently, Ohio University is offering over 250 different areas of study for undergraduate students. Ohio University also has a large array of doctorate and Master’s level programs from which to choose. Many of these programs are also offered to students online helping Ohio University to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Ohio University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $243/credit
Click here for a list of Ohio University’s online programs.
#2. University of Northwestern Ohio
Founded in 1920, the University of Northwestern Ohio is one of Ohio’s top institutions. Founded to help students flourish in the business world as entrepreneurs, the University of Northwestern Ohio has worked to create academic programs that help to prepare students to work in business and professional environments. Over the past century, the University of Northwestern Ohio has grown to encompass much of the city of Lima, Ohio. Growing in tandem with the city, the University of Northwestern Ohio has helped to influence the culture and feel of the city of Lima. Currently, the University of Northwestern Ohio occupies a 200-acre campus within the city of Lima. While the University of Northwestern Ohio has gained a reputation for the quality of its Automotive, Diesel, and High-Performance industries related courses, the University of Northwestern Ohio offers many other high-quality, traditional college experiences. Home of the Racers, the University of Northwestern Ohio is home to a student body of just over 4,500 students.
The University of Northwestern Ohio offers its students many different academic programs from which to enroll in. Currently, students are able to choose from over sixty different degree programs across topics such as Marketing, Business, Health, Information Technology, and much more. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. Because of this dedication to online learning, the University of Northwestern Ohio has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio.
Accreditation: University of Northwestern Ohio is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $275/credit
Click here for a list of University of Northwestern Ohio’s online programs.
#3. Miami University
Established in 1809, Miami University was founded with the motto “To accomplish without being conspicuous.” Following an Act of Congress signed by President George Washington, plans were set into motion for the establishment and construction of a new university in the Miami Valley in Ohio. After selecting a plot of land, the Legislature passed “An Act to Establish the Miami University” and construction began on what would become Miami University. The land around the university was designated as the College Township but was soon renamed in 1810 to Oxford, Ohio. Having delayed construction due to the War of 1812, construction on Miami University soon resumed. However, it wasn’t until twelve more years had passed that the first class of students were able to attend Miami University. Growing slowly in the beginning, Miami University steadily grew to prominence. Today, Miami University is now the second-oldest university in the state and the tenth-oldest in all of the United States. Currently, Miami University is home to a student body of just over 24,000 students.
Part of the University System of Ohio, Miami University offers its students a wide variety of different academic programs from which to enroll in. Currently, students enrolled at Miami University can enroll in over 120 different undergraduate programs as well as over sixty different graduate degree programs. Miami University offers many of these programs online helping Miami University to earn a spot among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Miami University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Miami University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $350/credit
Click here for a list of Miami University’s online programs.
#4. University of Toledo
Originally known as the Toledo University of Arts and Trades, the University of Toledo was first established in 1872. Originally operating as an architectural and painting school, the Toledo University of Arts and Trades had a short-lived history. Only open for six years the Toledo University of Arts and Trades was closed in 1878. However, this was just the beginning of the University of Toledo. Shortly after the closing of the Toledo University of Arts and Trades the Toledo Manual Training School opened in its place. Over the course of the next few decades, the Toledo Manual Training School continued to grow and add more and more classes. This period of growth was a bit chaotic but eventually stabilized. In 1914, the Toledo Manual Training School was renamed to Toledo University as the institution’s focus had also changed. Now offering more traditional educational opportunities, Toledo University began to expand quickly. The school was eventually renamed to its current name, the University of Toledo, in 1967. Located in Toledo, Ohio, the University of Toledo is home to a student body of 23,000 students.
Home of the Rockets, the University of Toledo has amassed a large collection of academic programs from which students can choose to enroll in. Students at the University of Toledo are able to choose from over 250 different academic programs offered at the school. Among the largest amount of programs available at any college or university in the United States, the University of Toledo offers many of these programs to students entirely online. By committing to online education, the University of Toledo has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio.
Accreditation: University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $360/credit
Click here for a list of University of Toledo’s online programs.
#5. Bowling Green State University
Currently located in Bowling Green, Ohio, Bowling Green State University was first established as a public university in 1910. Established as part of the Lowry Normal School Bill, Bowling Green State University first opened its doors at Bowling Green State Normal School in September of 1914. Over the next fifteen years, Bowling Green State Normal School grew its student population alongside the amount programs offered by the institution. By 1929, it was decided that the school would be renamed to Bowling Green State College. Following this transition, Bowling Green State College saw an influx of enrollments. Just six years later, Bowling Green State College changed its name once more to Bowling Green State University. Now offering a full array of university courses, Bowling Green State University was poised to grow even larger. Today, Bowling Green State University is one of the premier universities in the state of Ohio. Currently, Bowling Green State University enrolls almost 20,000 students across its Bowling Green campus as well as online.
Home of the Falcons, Bowling Green State University offers its students many different academic programs from which to choose from. As of today, Bowling Green State University offers students over 200 different undergraduate programs. Bowling Green State University also has a larger roster of Masters and doctoral programs from which to enroll. Many of these programs are also offered to students online helping earn Bowling Green State University a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Bowling Green State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Bowling Green State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $397/credit
Click here for a list of Bowling Green State University’s online programs.
#6. Ohio Christian University
Established in 1947, Ohio Christian University was created in affiliation with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. Originally named the Mount of Praise Bible College, Ohio Christian University initially operated as a bible college. Working to prepare students to work as ministers for the Churches of Christ in Christian Union, the scope of educational opportunities at Mount of Praise Bible College slowly began to expand. Eventually renamed to Circleville Bible College, the school continued to add more and more traditional liberal arts programs to its curriculum. By 2006, the school more closely resembled a traditional university. This prompted the school to be renamed to Ohio Christian University. Still associated with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union, Ohio Christian University is located in Circleville, Ohio. Home of the Trailblazers, Ohio Christian University enrolls a student body that just tops out at over 3,300 students.
Ohio Christian University offers its students a wide array of different academic programs from which to choose from. Students at Ohio Christian University can choose from over thirty different majors offered by the institution. Students can also choose to enroll in many of these programs online. By offering these programs online, Ohio Christian University has demonstrated a commitment to online education that has earned it a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Ohio Christian University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Ohio Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $416/credit
Click here for a list of Ohio Christian University’s online programs.
#7. Hiram College
Located in Hiram, Ohio, Hiram College was founded as the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute. Established in 1850, Hiram College was first founded by the Disciples of Christ. Operating as the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute for seven years, it was decided that the school would change its name to Hiram College in 1867 after incorporating itself. After switching names, Hiram College began to really prosper in Ohio. Students from across the state began to travel to the rural college town of Hiram, Ohio in order to gain a college education from a Christian perspective. To this day, Hiram College still honors its original heritage as the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute. Hiram College tries to imbue the university with that same eclectic spirit that first started the college. Now part of a beautiful campus in Hiram, Hiram College is home to a student body of approximately 1,000 students. With the motto “Let There Be Light”, Hiram College’s student body is nicknamed the Terriers.
Hiram College currently offers students a wide selection of academic programs from which students can choose to enroll in. Currently, Hiram College allows students to enroll in twenty-nine different academic majors as well as thirty-nine minors. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. Hiram College has invested much of its time and resources into its online programs helping it to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Hiram College is a private institution.
Accreditation: Hiram College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $494/credit
Click here for a list of Hiram College’s online programs.
#8. Malone University
Originally named Cleveland Bible College, Malone University was first established in 1892. Known as Cleveland Bible College, Malone University was first led by a group of Quakers. Founded by J. Walter and Emma Malone, the Cleveland Bible College worked to educate people within the city of Cleveland the Quaker traditions. Soon, the Cleveland Bible College became very tightknit with the local community. The Cleveland Bible College continued to grow over the coming five decades but was faced with a crisis in the 1950s. After the land that the Cleveland Bible College was on was seized by the state, the school needed to decide where to relocate. It was decided that the Cleveland Bible College would move from Cleveland to Canton, Ohio. Upon moving to Canton, Ohio, the school was renamed to Malone College in honor of J. Walter and Emma Malone, the founders of the college. By moving to Canton, Ohio, Malone College was able to grow its curriculum. By 2008, Malone College had grown its academic offerings so much that it was decided that the school would be renamed to Malone University. Today, Malone University is home to a student body of approximately 1,600 students.
Students at Malone University are able to choose from a large catalog of programs offered to students. Currently, Malone University is offering its students over eighty different undergraduate majors from which to choose from as well as forty different minors to enroll in. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. By offering these programs online, Malone University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Malone University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Malone University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $500/credit
Click here for a list of Malone University’s online programs.
#9. Walsh University
A relatively newer school, Walsh University was first founded in 1960. Named after Bishop Emmette Michael Walsh of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, Walsh University was originally named the LeMennais College and was located in Maine. Run by the Brothers of Christian Instruction, the school continued to operate out of Alfred, Maine until 1959. It was at this point that it was decided that the school was to be relocated to Youngstown, Ohio. Upon moving to Youngstown, Ohio, Walsh University was able to really flourish. Founded in association with the Roman Catholic Church, the school was eventually renamed to Walsh College to honor Bishop Emmette Michael Walsh. Over the course of the 20th century, Walsh College continued to grow and become more highly-regarded among the academic offerings in the state of Ohio. In 1993, the breadth of curriculum options at Walsh College had grown so much that it was decided that the institution was to be renamed to Walsh University. Currently located in North Canton, Ohio, Walsh University is home to a student body of just over 3,000 students.
Home of the Cavaliers, Walsh University has grown its academic offerings to a sizable selection of quality educational programs. Today, students at Walsh University are able to select from a catalog of over seventy different undergraduate programs as well as seven graduate degrees. Many of these programs are also offered to students online. Through these online offerings, Walsh University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Walsh University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Walsh Univerity is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $500/credit
Click here for a list of Walsh University’s online programs.
#10. Franklin University
Founded in 1902, Franklin University grew out of very humble beginnings. Originally known as the YMCA School of Commerce, Franklin University started out as an academic program offered at the Columbus YMCA. Started in order to help working adults gain an education in commerce and other business-related skills, the YMCA School of Commerce began teaching adults and other students with nontraditional schedules at night. This model of education proved to be quite popular and the YMCA School of Commerce was soon much too large for its home within the Columbus YMCA. Moving out of the Columbus YMCA, the institution was renamed to Franklin University. Franklin University maintained ties to the YMCA until 1964 at which point its affiliation was ended on good terms. In the early 90s, Franklin University began to offer its first graduate-level programs, leading the way for the school’s current roster of educational options. Located in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University also operates over twenty-five different satellite campuses.
With the motto “Finish. Advance. Succeed.”, Franklin University has grown its catalog of academic programs to an impressive size. Currently, Franklin University offers students sixty different academic programs across its undergraduate and graduate programs. Dating back to its inception as an adult learning program, Franklin University offers a large selection of its degree programs online. By continuing to honor its history as a leader in nontraditional education, Franklin University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Franklin University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $526/credit
Click here for a list of Franklin University’s online programs.
#11. Ohio State University
Founded in 1870, Ohio State University was originally known as the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. Commonly referred to as Mech, Ohio State University was built in response to a call for a university that focused more closely on manufacturing and agricultural education. Led by Governor Rutherford B. Hayes, groups of Ohioans called for the establishment of the new school and Ohio State University was finally established in 1870. Known as the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College, Ohio State University quickly began to help bolster the nearby agricultural community. Over the coming decades, the scope of the programs available at the university began to expand. This led to the school being renamed to Ohio State University in 1878. Now known as Ohio State University, the school continued to grow and attract students from across the country. The ninth university to be founded in Ohio, Ohio State University has become critical to the education system of the state. Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University is currently home to nearly 60,000 students.
Students at Ohio State University are able to enroll in a wide variety of academic programs made available at the institution. As of today, Ohio State University offers its students over 200 different undergraduate programs. Ohio State University also offers a similarly robust selection of graduate-level programs. Many of these programs are also made available to students entirely online helping Ohio State University to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Ohio State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $531/credit
Click here for a list of Ohio State University’s online programs.
#12. Kettering College
Eugene W. Kettering founded Kettering College in 1967. Wanting to create a school that would help to educate students to work in medical facilities such as the Kettering Medical Center, Eugene W. Kettering and his wife Virginia W. Kettering worked to establish Kettering College to help train students for this task. Son of inventor Charles F. Kettering, Eugene W. Kettering partnered with the Seventh-day Adventist Church in order to gain the financial backing needed to start the college. Using this partnership and land donated from his father’s estate, Kettering College first opened its doors to students in 1967. Since the beginning of Kettering College’s history, Kettering College has focused on providing higher educations in fields related to medicine. Over the course of almost a half-century, Kettering College has managed to produce some of the best and brightest medical students. Located next to Charles F. Kettering Memorial Hospital, Kettering College is located in the Ohio town of Kettering. Currently, Kettering College is home to a student body of just over 1,000 students.
Kettering College offers students a focused selection of academic programs related to medicine. Students enrolled at Kettering College are able to enroll in a variety of medicine-related programs. Currently, Kettering College offers students about a dozen programs from which to enroll in. Some of these programs are offered to students online. By offering these courses online, Kettering College has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio.
Accreditation: Kettering College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $540/credit
Click here for a list of Kettering College’s online programs.
#13. Mount Saint Joseph University
Located in Delhi Township, Ohio, Mount St. Joseph University was officially established in 1920. Established in close connection to the Roman Catholic Church, Mount Saint Joseph University was established by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. A group of religious people with roots tracing back to the first North American saint, Elizabeth Ann Seton, the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati came from Maryland to open up what was then known as St. Mary’s Academy. Opened in 1829, the school underwent a series of name changes including St. Peter’s Academy, and St. Vincent Academy. By 1906, the school had moved to Mount St. Joseph in Delhi Township and was renamed to Mount St. Joseph Academy. It was at this point in the school’s history that it began to offer college courses which prompted the Ohio Department of Education to grant it accreditation. Renamed to The College of Mount St. Joseph, the school was renamed to Mount St. Joseph University in 2014. Home of the Lions, Mount St. Joseph University is now home to a student body of just over 2,000 students.
Mount St. Joseph University now offers students a large collection of academic programs from which to choose from. Currently, Mount St. Joseph University offers nearly forty different undergraduate programs as well as nine associate degree programs. Alongside these offerings are a selection of graduate programs. Many of these programs are also offered online which has helped Mount St. Joseph University to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Mount St. Joseph University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Mount St. Joseph University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $540/credit
Click here for a list of Mount St. Joseph University’s online programs.
#14. Union Institute & University
In 1965, a group of nine different presidents from liberal arts colleges from across the United States met to discuss the future of education. Headed up by the president of Goddard College, this group called for a greater deal of cooperation and experimentation in the field of education. Wanting to work together to leverage the combined might and resources of these disparate universities, the plans for what would become the Union Institute & University were born. Originally resulting in the creation of the Union for Research and Experimentation in Higher Education, Union Institute and Univerity were created out of a partnership between these nine institutions. Renamed in 1969 to The Union for Experimenting Colleges and Universities, the Union Institute & University focused on working with nontraditional students. This led to the creation of the University Without Walls, an initiative that combined the best programs and methods from a network of schools from across the world. In 1982, the Union of Experimenting Colleges and Universities disbanded but the groundwork for the Union Institute & University were set. Today, Union Institute & University is located in Cincinnati, Ohio and is home to a large student body of students from across the state.
Students at Union Institute & University are able to enroll in a wide selection of academic programs offered by the institution. Union Institute & University offers a very focused selection of undergraduate programs and graduate programs to its students. While a limited selection, Union Institute & University offers almost all of its programs online helping it to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Union Institute & University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Union Institute & University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $545/credit
Click here for a list of Union Institute & University’s online programs.
#15. Cleveland State University
Part of the University System of Ohio, Cleveland State University is a public research university founded in 1923. Originally known as Fenn College, Cleveland State University was created out of a program offered at the Cleveland YMCA. Offering courses to students in 1870, the Cleveland YMCA hoped to provide educations to students in order to enrich their lives. As the years went on this program became very popular and was eventually formalized into the Cleveland YMCA School of Technology in 1921. Serving even more students than before, the Cleveland YMCA School of Technology began moving towards offering college educations. By 1929, the Cleveland YMCA School of Technology was offering students Bachelor’s degrees and was renamed to Fenn College in honor of Sereno Peck Fenn. Nearly forty years later, Fenn College came under control by the state of Ohio and was renamed to The Cleveland State University. Since then, Cleveland State University has grown to even be even more relevant in the educational landscape of Ohio. Today, Cleveland State University enrolls a student body of over 17,000 students at its Cleveland campus.
Home of the Vikings, Cleveland State University offers its students a wide variety of academic programs from which to enroll in. Today, Cleveland State University’s academic offerings consist of over 1,000 different courses across 200 different fields of study including undergraduate and graduate programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. By offering these programs online, Cleveland State University has been ranked among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Cleveland State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Cleveland State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $615/credit
Click here for a list of Cleveland State University’s online programs.
#16. Tiffin University
Established in 1888, Tiffin University was created in association with Heidelberg College. Founded in Tiffin, Ohio, Tiffin University was established to be a different type of university in the United Staes. Following a more European style of education, Tiffin University modeled many of its programs and academic stylings after Heidelberg College. Building a strong foundation from which to grow off of, Tiffin University continued to grow and prosper in its first thirty years. At the end of this time period, Tiffin University chose to dissolve its relationship with Heidelberg College. Now a fully independent institution, Tiffin University was poised to grow even more in the coming years. Focusing closely on business education, Tiffin University worked to provide its students with the education needed to enter out into the world of business and finance. Over the years, Tiffin University continued to add more and more academic offerings to its roster. With the motto “Without risk, there is no gain”, Tiffin University is currently home to a student body of approximately 4,300 students.
Students at Tiffin University can enroll in a variety of different academic programs offered at the university. Currently, Tiffing Univerity is offering its students over thirty different undergraduate programs as well as nearly thirty different undergraduate programs from which to enroll. Tiffin University offers many of these programs to students entirely online. By focusing on online education, Tiffin University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio.
Accreditation: Tiffin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $670/credit
Click here for a list of Tiffin University’s online programs.
#17. University of Dayton
The Society of Mary founded the Univerity of Dayton in 1850. Having entered the Cincinnati area to help fight a cholera outbreak, the Society of Mary decided to stay in the area following a series of unfortunate events. In choosing to stay in the area, the Society of Mary began work on establishing a new school for the region. Known as the St. Mary’s School for Boys, the Society of Mary had established what would eventually grow to become the University of Dayton. Over the course of the University of Dayton’s history, the school had undergone many different identity changes. At times the school was known as St. Mary’s School, St. Mary’s Institute, and St. Mary’s College. It wasn’t until 1920 that the school was officially named the University of Dayton. With the motto “For God and Country”, the University of Dayton still remains to be in close association with the Roman Catholic Church. Located in Dayton, Ohio, the University of Dayton enrolls a student body of just over 8,500 students.
Home of the Flyers, the University of Dayton offers its students a robust catalog of college programs from which to enroll in. Currently, the University of Dayton is offering its student body over eighty different undergraduates as well as fifty different doctoral programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. By offering these programs online, the University of Dayton has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. University of Dayton is a private institution.
Accreditation: University of Dayton is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $732/credit
Click here for a list of University of Dayton’s online programs.
#18. University of Findlay
Established in 1882, the University of Findlay is known for its motto “Knowledge, Liberty, and Religion”. Founded in January of 1882, the University of Findlay was originally named Findlay College. Created by the Churches of God General Conference, the University of Findlay was created in order to educate the members of their congregation. Very quickly the University of Findlay managed to raise a very sizable endowment that helped the institution to quickly grow in size. Through this period of growth, Findlay College was able to attract students from across Ohio as well as add a variety of different academic options to their curriculum. In 1989, Findlay College was renamed to the University of Findlay. Located in the city of Findlay, Ohio, the University of Findlay is home to the Oilers. Today, the University of Findlay has grown its student body to include almost 4,200 students. Many of the students at the University of Findlay attend class on campus but a sizable portion of the student population is enrolled online.
Today, students at the University of Findlay are afforded a large selection of academic programs from which to enroll in. The current count of academic programs offered at the University of Findlay includes almost sixty different Bachelor’s programs, ten Master’s degrees, and four doctorate programs. The University of Findlay offers many of these programs to students online. This dedication to online academics has earned the University of Findlay a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. The University of Findlay is a private institution.
Accreditation: University of Findlay is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $735/credit
Click here for a list of University of Findlay’s online programs.
#19. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Chartered by the Church of the Nazarene in 1965, Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a prominent Christian liberal arts university in Ohio. The General Assembly of the Church of the Nazarene called for the creation of the Zone A College of the Church of Nazarene. This institution would grow to become Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Locating a site in the town of Mount Vernon, the Church of the Nazarene began construction on Mount Vernon Nazarene University, then named Mount Vernon Nazarene College. The college opened in 1968 at Lakeholm Farm, a parcel of land once owned by Ohio State University. While Mount Vernon ultimately became the location of the school, the Church of Nazarene was courted by many different sites. However, it was the finding of Lakeholm Farm that allowed the Church of Nazarene to move forward with plans for the university. In the 1970s, Mount Vernon Nazarene College began to offer more Bachelor’s programs. Over the course of the coming decades, more academic programs were offered at the school. Now known as Mount Vernon Nazarene University, the school now enrolls a student body of just over 2,200 students.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University has amassed a large selection of academic programs from which students can choose to enroll in. Students at Mount Nazarene University can enroll from a list of dozens of undergraduate and graduate programs. Mount Nazarene University also offers many of these programs to students entirely online. By offering these programs online, Mount Nazarene University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Mount Nazarene University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $803/credit
Click here for a list of Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s online programs.
#20. Kent State University
Established in 1910, Kent State University is located in Kent, Ohio. Originally known as the Kent State Normal College, Kent State University was created to act as an institute to train public school teachers that would go on to work within the Ohio education system. Established as part of the Lowry Bill, Kent State University was established alongside what is now Bowling Green State University. The school was named in honor of William S. Kent for whom the town of Kent is also named after. Named after him due to a sizable donation of land given to help make the school possible, Kent State University is the only public university named after an individual. By 1915, the school was renamed to Kent State Normal College. Adding four-year degrees to its curriculum, Kent State Normal College experienced a surge in enrollment. In 1929, Kent State Normal Colleg was renamed to Kent State College. Finally, the school was renamed to Kent State University. Today, Kent State University is still located in the city of Kent, Ohio and enrolls a student body of almost 30,000 students across all of its campuses.
Home of the Golden Flashes, Kent State University offers an enormous selection of academic programs from which students can enroll in. Currently, students at Kent State University are able to enroll in over 250 different Bachelor’s programs. Students can also choose forty Associate’s degrees, fifty Master’s, and 23 doctorate programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online which has helped Kent State University to earn a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Kent State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $825/credit
Click here for a list of Kent State University’s online programs.
#21. Wright State University
A public research university, Wright State University was first established in 1967. Originally a branch of Miami University and Ohio State University, Wright State University’s earliest roots can be dated back to 1964. Operating as a satellite campus, Wright State University soon became very popular. As more and more students began to enroll in the facility, it was determined that the school should be made into its own entity. Following a rapid buildout of the facilities on campus, Wright State University had earned its accreditation from the state of Ohio in 1967. Named after the Wright Brothers, the school was named to honor the two brother’s Dayton Heritage. At the center of the newly prosperous city of Dayton, Wright State University became a critical part of the culture of the city. As time went on, Wright State University grew along in step with the city. Attracting students from across the state and the nation, Wright State University began to offer students even more academic opportunities. Today, Wright State University is home to a student body of nearly 18,000 students.
Home of the Raiders, Wright State University offers students a variety of different academic programs from which to choose from. Wright State University’s current offering of academic programs includes nearly one hundred different undergraduate programs as well as a large number of graduate programs to choose from. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online earning Wright State University a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Wright State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Wright State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $838/credit
Click here for a list of Wright State University’s online programs.
#22. Youngstown State University
A research university, Youngstown State University was founded in 1908. Located in Youngstown, Ohio, Youngstown State University was established originally as the Youngstown Association School. Operated out of the local YMCA, the program worked to teach local students law. From the very beginning, Youngstown State University was committed to the accessibility of education. In 1921, the curriculum of the Youngstown Association School expanded and the school was renamed to the Youngstown Institute of Technology. Offering courses at night, the Youngstown Institute of Technology was a leader in nontraditional education. Youngstown Institute of Technology was renamed to Youngstown College in 1928 after adding a College of Arts and Sciences. Finally, the school was renamed to Youngstown State University in 1955. Now offering a much wider array of college programs, Youngstown State University was ready to rise to prominence in the landscape of education in Ohio. Today, Youngstown State University is home to a student body of approximately 12,000 students.
Students at Youngstown State University are offered a range of different academic programs when enrolled in classes at the institution. Currently, Youngstown State University offers students over 100 different academic programs. This includes Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students online making Youngstown State University among the top online universities or colleges in Ohio. Youngstown State University is a public institution.
Accreditation: Youngstown State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $849/credit
Click here for a list of Youngstown State University’s online programs.
#23. Ashland University
With the motto “Accent on the Individual”, Ashland University was originally established in 1878. Located in Ashland, Ohio, Ashland University was formed out of a meeting of the German Baptist Brethren Church. Wanting to establish a college or university that served their community, the German Baptist Brethren Church discussed the potential of opening their own educational institute. After working with their local community to raise money, the German Baptist Brethren Church set out to find the perfect site for their new school. In April of 1878, a site was selected and construction was underway for the new school. A year later, Ashland College was now ready to accept its first class of incoming students. Growing slowly at first, Ashland College experienced a surge of growth around the 1950s. Attracting students from across the state and nation, Ashland College was beginning to grow rapidly. By 1989, Ashland College had expanded its academic offerings so much that it was decided that the school would be renamed to Ashland University. Today, Ashland University is home to a student body of approximately 5,700 students.
Ashland University currently offers students a wide variety of academic programs from which to enroll in. As of today, Ashland University has over seventy different undergraduate programs to enroll in as well as a large roster of graduate programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students online. Through offering these programs online, Ashland University has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. Ashland University is a private institution.
Accreditation: Ashland University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $886/credit
Click here for a list of Ashland University’s online programs.
#24. University of Akron
Named after Akron, Ohio, the University of Akron is a member of the University System of Ohio. Established in 1870, the University of Akron has the motto of “Let There Be Light”. At its founding, the University of Akron was originally known as Buchtel College. At an annual meeting of the Universalist Church of Ohio, a discussion came up about the creation of a new college that would teach in the tradition of the Universalist Church. John R. Buchtel stepped forward in this meeting and offered to donate $60,000 towards the establishment of such an institution. With the funding needed for its establishment secured, work began on the new school. In 1872, Buchtel College officially opened its doors. Operating under the Buchtel College name until 1913, the school also dropped its connection to the Universalist Church in 1907. By becoming non-denominational, the school was able to receive funding from the Carnegie Foundation which helped fuel the next phase of growth for the school. Now known as the University of Akron, the school is now home to a student body of just under 19,000 students.
Today, the University of Akron offers its students a big selection of academic programs from which to choose from. At this current moment, the University of Akron offers over 200 different undergraduate degree programs from which to enroll as well as over 100 graduate degree programs. Many of these programs are also offered to students entirely online. With this wide selection of online programs, the University of Akron has earned a place among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. University of Akron is a public institution.
Accreditation: University of Akron is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $968/credit
Click here for a list of University of Akron’s online programs.
#25. University of Cincinnati
Originally named Cincinnati College, the University of Cincinnati is a public university in the state of Ohio. A member of the University System of Ohio, the University of Cincinnati was first established in 1819. The earliest history of Cincinnati College was a bit rough. In its first six years of operation, the school was forced to close due to funding issues. However, the school was reestablished shortly thereafter. Partnering with the nearby Cincinnati Law School, Cincinnati College was able to be revived and was eventually chartered by the Ohio Legislature in 1870. It was at this point in the school’s history that it was decided that it should be renamed to the University of Cincinnati. Originally located on Clifton Avenue in downtown Cincinnati, the school was relocated in 1893 to its current location in the Heights neighborhood. With ample room to grow, the University of Cincinnati continued to rise to prominence within the state of Ohio. Now, the University of Cincinnati has grown to become the second largest university in Ohio as well as one of the top fifty largest universities in the United States. The University of Cincinnati is home to a student body of over 44,000 students.
With the motto “Seek the Highest”, the University of Cincinnati currently offers its students a wide variety of academic programs from which to choose from. In total, the University of Cincinnati now offers over 350 different programs across its undergraduate and graduate offerings. Offering over 100 different Bachelor’s and Master’s programs as well as over 65 different doctoral programs, the University of Cincinnati has a lot to offer its students. Many of these programs are also offered entirely online which has placed the University of Cincinnati among our top online universities and colleges in Ohio. University of Cincinnati is a public institution.
Accreditation: University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition: $1,098/credit
Click here for a list of University of Cincinnati’s online programs.
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