30 BEST VALUE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN OHIO

Unlike many of the smaller, liberal arts colleges on this list, the University of Cincinnati offers an urban alternative on an expansive city campus. More than 40,000 students attend UC, drawn by its status as a robust research university and one of the great cheap colleges in Ohio. Although a larger campus typically means a more anonymous experience as a student, it also means practically endless opportunities for involvement - including more than 370 degree options. And students don't have to worry about completely losing themselves in the crowd; a student-to-faculty ratio of just 16:1 ensures that UC learners will connect with at least a few of their professors. Plus, a UC education is bound to pay off for years to come - its average 20-year ROI is nearly $450,000!

The hallmark of this top Ohio college is what they call the "Denison Difference." Denison combines a rigorous curriculum with integrative learning opportunities to forge a collegiate experience that makes student success the number one priority. Coursework engages students by pushing them to craft meaningful dialogue, hone their communication skills, and become leaders in their respective fields. This is all part of what Denison describes as educating the "whole person," and students report that this model supports critical, creative, and analytical thinking. As a result, the university boasts an 82% graduation rate and a strong network of happy alumni.

Wittenberg University is another college with a four-year guarantee, framed within the larger promise of the "Wittenberg Commitment." The university plans out a road map for each student, guiding them through first-year seminars, personalized advising, active learning opportunities, and even a "Wittfolio" that summarizes students' progress and helps them build a résumé. Although Wittenberg admits that it pushes its students to their limits, it also acknowledges that this approach is what helps its graduates be successful. To that point, nearly 70% of WU students graduate on time, and the average 20-year return on investment is north of $200,000. Ironically, the school that has earned a Princeton Review commendation as one of the "best classroom experiences" encourages students to get out of the classroom by volunteering in the community and looking for leadership positions.

Students who are ready for "meaningful work" and "responsible citizenship" will fit right in at the University of Mount Union, a liberal arts institution with a religious heritage tied to the Methodist Church. The university attracts ambitious, focused students who often opt for the school's most challenging initiatives, such as the Honors Program. This program gives highly accomplished students access to autonomous learning opportunities, special co-curricular classes, and exclusive benefits - including trips to museums and reserved seating at lectures. But all students have access to Mount Union's innovative core curriculum, which includes "theme clusters." These engaging courses encourage students to keep expanding their knowledge all four years, with special topics available in art, health, technology, ethics, culture, the environment, philosophy, and more.

Mercy College is a technical, career-based school and one of the most affordable colleges in Ohio. Bachelor's degrees are available in Biology, Nursing, Medical Imaging, and Healthcare Administration, and students can also earn a certificate in Polysomnographic Technology, Opthalmic Technology, Medical Coding, Phlebotomy, and other health tech areas. Mercy College may not be the most traditional university, but its 20-year net ROI outranks many of its elite, more expensive neighbors. The important, real-world skills that students can acquire at Mercy lead them to an eventual return on investment of nearly $150,000.

At Ohio Wesleyan University, learning is about connecting classroom theory to the real world - where it really matters. Students combine their traditional majors with internships, study abroad trips, and leadership experiences as a way to round out their collegiate journey. OWU invites its students to "never have another ordinary day," and follows up on this call-to-action with unique first-year seminar courses; enticing research projects, and learning-based study abroad trips to places like Japan, Egypt, Sweden, Argentina, and the Dominican Republic. With so much to offers its students, its no wonder this top university in Ohio has been named one of the select few "colleges that change lives."

Wilberforce University's six core principles perfectly encapsulate the school's comprehensive approach to nurturing the whole learner. These six tenants include Religion and Christian Principles, History and Tradition, Social and Community Responsibility, Quality Education, and of course the Students themselves. Undergraduate coursework covers a few main areas of study - the humanities and social sciences, business, the natural sciences, and engineering - and includes degrees in Marketing, Electrical Engineering, and Health Services. Wilberforce also supports unique "Cooperative Education" opportunities, which take students out into the workforce to gain class credit for real-world, on-the-job learning.

One of the best Ohio colleges for religious students, Cedarville University is known for its Baptist foundations and its serious faith-based approach to learning. In fact, all students are required to earn a minor in Bible Studies along with their main degree, and Discipleship groups make up an important part of the campus social scene. Cedarville is also known for its incredibly rigorous academic programs, and the challenging coursework pays off - literally. The 20-year net ROI for the university is over $310,000 - a high figure, particularly for small liberal arts colleges.

The Cleveland Institute of Music may be even more specialized than the Art Academy of Cincinnati. Technically, the only degree available at the institute is a Bachelor of Music in Performance, although concentrations cover just about every instrument imaginable, including the bassoon, harpsichord, organ, percussion, and of course voice. Students also have the option to get a double major in Music Theory or to tackle specialized studies in Music Literature, Audio Recording, or Eurhythmics. Life outside of the classroom revolves around music, too; students live together on campus and bond over their love of instruments, and they even get to perform together throughout the Cleveland metro area.

As the top Catholic university of Central Ohio, ODU attracts students who seek a sound, faith-based education. The school's "in-demand" majors include everything from Biopsychology and Entrepreneurship to Peace and Justice and Software Engineering, as well as some more unique options. Students can apply for the Honors Program or a "4+1" track, which combines bachelor's degrees in business and athletics with accelerated graduate-level courses. What's more, the Dominican Scholars Program brings business and education students into an environment where they can benefit from enhanced service learning and leadership training.

What makes John Carroll University one of the best universities in Ohio? It's been one of the top 10 schools in the Midwest for nearly three decades, all thanks to its Jesuit Catholic roots and the strong dedication to education that drives all its programs. Students can choose from programs in the arts and sciences as well as business, with plenty of opportunities to forge their own path. As a "place of honestly, pluralism, and mutual respect," JCU pushes its learners to pursue mastery in a given subject while still seeking a balanced education with an appreciation of world history and culture.

This "best in the Midwest" university has gained a national reputation for the rich academic environment it offers students. Findlay recently welcomed the largest freshman class in its history, and for good reason. Enrollment continues to increase because of the exciting opportunities at the university, including research trips to learn about whales! UF students also enjoy the Mazza Museum, the world's largest collection of original illustrations by children's book authors. Beyond that, students spend their time exploring an impressive selection of majors, including Animal Science, Graphic Design, Nuclear Medicine Technology, and yes - Children's Book Illustration.

The Art Academy of Cincinnati is not your typical college - it focuses exclusively on undergraduate programs in art and design. Students schools the Art Academy for its superior degree training in Illustration, Photography, Print Media, Sculpture, and other select visual media. But students don't just choose this top Ohio college for its high caliber degree options; its opportunities like the NYSRP that make AAC really stand out. The New York Studio Residency Program selects two accomplished students each year and sends them to the big city, where they'll have the opportunity to absorb one of the world's best art scenes while getting plenty of studio time - and class credit!

Professionally focused students who want a practical, real world education can look to Tiffin University as the antidote to their academic needs. The university sports a comprehensive mix of undergraduate, graduate, and degree completion programs to fit every need, from Criminalistics to Professional Music. Tiffin is also home to the "China Program," which includes numerous partnerships with Chinese educational institutions. Students travel from China (and other countries as well) to take advantage of Tiffin's rich campus life. Students can participate in activities as unique as the Dragon Writers' Guild, which publishes an online journal and sponsors poetry readings, and performing arts clubs - including the dance team!

On a spacious campus just east of Cleveland lies Ursuline College, a top religious school for women. Ursuline combines the principles of faith and spirituality with a strong appreciation for self-growth. Young women have the freedom to explore all their areas of interest, from Art History to Biotechnology to Religious Studies. Ursuline also houses a School of Nursing and a School of Professional Studies (which offers programs in Education, Fashion, Sports Management, and other similar career prep options) in order to appeal to a wide range of learners. On the social side, on-campus programs - particularly in ministry and multicultural affairs - bring women together to form a close-knit group of motivated and principled students.

Baldwin Wallace University has made confident claims about both its affordability and student success. 98% of students receive financial aid - including merit scholarships - making BWU one of the most affordable Ohio colleges. Baldwin Wallace also offers the "4-year Graduation Guarantee" and agrees to pay students' tuition if they don't finish in four years. And in fact, nearly 70% of students are out the door and into their desired careers right on schedule. One of BW's biggest draws is its emphasis on entrepreneurship. The Center for Innovation and Growth offers consulting to students with innovative ideas and big plans, while the Business Clinic puts top BW learners in touch with local small businesses.

A small community of about 1,300 men and women form the student body at Hiram College, a historic locale with a distinguished reputation for liberal arts education. Hiram is truly dedicated to the principles of higher education, and in fact more than half of its students make plans to attend graduate school or obtain some additional level of professional training. But what most distinguishes Hiram College is its one-of-a-kind "12-1-3" academic plan. In this system, students attend regular courses for 12 weeks, take a one-week break, and then spend the next three weeks immersing themselves in an intensive course or field experience. Some students also use these three weeks to travel abroad or focus on an independent research project. Faculty and students alike agree that this is the best possible structure to foster one-on-one relationships and student-centered learning.

Students looking for a strong public school at an affordable rate will see plenty to like in Bowling Green State University. It's one of the best colleges in Ohio - and one of the top public schools in the country - thanks to unique initiatives such as the First Year Program. Undergraduate students receive special assistance and advising to help them make the transition to college living and continue to benefit from student-centered opportunities for their duration at BGSU. The "Learning Commons" - which provides help in the form of subject tutoring, writing workshops, academic coaching, and study skills development - keeps students on track, while "Learning/Theme Communities" let students live together and bond over mutual interest in art, language, travel, music, or even similar career goals.

Otterbein University is a uniquely inclusive college that goes above and beyond in its attempt to celebrate diversity. Progressive even for liberal arts colleges, Otterbein stresses the worth of each individual and the importance of giving back to the community. These values make it a top college in Ohio for international students, who Otterbein welcomes with open arms. Between the popular Host Family Program and special ESL courses, international students find a comfortable home at this school. OU also demonstrates an impressive commitment to affordability; the university hasn't increased tuition rates for years, and average student debt rates are significantly lower than other Ohio colleges.

Marietta College is a "contemporary liberal arts college" that rewards students who display unique talents and creativity. Rather than focusing on specific career preparation skills, Marietta looks to foster students' critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills so that they will thrive in any number of potential occupations. The college places a particular emphasis on investigative learning through research projects and other independent study options. Marietta even supports an annual "All Scholars Day" to celebrate the achievements of the school's many undergraduate researchers, artists, and performers. And the small town offers plenty of charm for students who need a break from the classroom; quaint red brick streets, sparkling rivers, and one-of-a-kind shops characterize this "Pioneer City."