The Buckeye State offers ample educational opportunities for students. The options for higher education in this state range from cozy community colleges to Ohio State University, a huge public university that welcomes over 60,000 students annually. There's also Ohio University, which was established in 1804 and is the state's oldest university. Ohio University is also home to 45 Pulitzer Prize winners.
There are many terrific private universities in Ohio as well, and you may gain access to unique research opportunities at these smaller, privately funded colleges. For example, Case Western Reserve University notes that about 86% of its students engage in research projects during their freshman year. When they graduate, the job outlook is promising, with the average graduate earning a starting salary of between $65,000 to $70,000 per year.
Overall, the Buckeye State has something for everyone when it comes to higher education — including plenty of options for affordable online colleges. For those looking to continue their education online, learning more about the best online colleges in Ohio may be a good place to start.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
The 10 Best Value Online Colleges in Ohio for 2021
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Your educational costs will vary significantly based on the college and program you enroll in and whether you live on campus, among other factors. That said, if you are a resident of Ohio, the average cost to attend a four-year public university in Ohio is about $10,370 per year, which is just slightly higher than the national average of $9,488.
Meanwhile, students attending a private university will, on average, spend a total of about $53,949 per academic year on school costs, with about $37,200 of it going to tuition and fees.
Out-of-State Tuition Cost in Ohio
You'll have to be a resident of Ohio for 12 consecutive months to get in-state tuition in this state.
If you do not have 12 months of residency in Ohio but want to attend a school in the Buckeye State, you will have to pay out-of-state tuition, which comes with a much heftier price tag. The average costs for out-of-state tuition in Ohio are about $25,188 annually.
Average Cost of Room and Board in Ohio
Some universities require students to live in the dorms on campus during the first year of college. If you are an out-of-state student, dorm life is a wise way to acclimate to your new surroundings and others attending the school. That said, dorm living isn't cheap. The average cost of room and board in Ohio is about $12,448 per year on average.
Professional Organizations for Students in Ohio
Professional organizations provide access to networking and mentoring, which can help students build a successful career. In fields like business and IT, professional organizations also provide access to field-specific certifications. Online college graduates in Ohio can explore some of the professional organizations below.
The Ohio Society of CPAs
This group supports its 85,000 members through advocacy, professional guidance, and relevant programming. Aimed at graduates in accounting and business, the organization provides access to networking opportunities, career counseling, and continuing education. Other benefits include access to field-specific content and credentialing.
Ohio Information Technology Association
This nonprofit advocates for Ohio's IT industry and provides IT professionals and graduates with opportunities to grow their careers. Members gain access to a robust community of professionals, opportunities for continuing education, and resume and portfolio reviews. The organization also hosts annual conferences and networking events.
Ohio Education Association
Representing more than 120,000 education professionals across Ohio, OEA advances the profession through advocacy and support. Members benefit from the organization's extensive professional network, access to leadership training, and other professional development programs. OEA also provides members with discounts on everything from further education to vacations and movie tickets.
Ohio Nurses Association
This organization empowers its 170,000 members through leadership and career assistance. Member benefits include free access to continuing education for licensure, scholarship opportunities for professional development, and mentoring activities. ONA hosts an annual convention and schedules events throughout the year that facilitate community collaboration among members.
Scholarships for Students in Ohio
Students enrolled in online colleges in Ohio may qualify for several scholarships. These opportunities are available through individual colleges and universities, professional associations, service organizations, and state and local government agencies. Degree-seekers at online colleges in Ohio can also apply for federal financial aid.
Choose Ohio First Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Current Ohio residents or residents from Ohio returning to the state to attend graduate school may qualify. The scholarship caters to both full-time and part-time students. Applicants must major in a STEM field at one of the qualifying institutions.Amount: VariesDeadline: Varies
Ohio Safety Officers College Memorial Fund Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Ohio residents who are the children or spouses of police officers, firefighters, and other safety officers may apply. Applicants may enroll either full time or part time at any participating institution. Applicants must provide documents that verify their relationship to a qualifying officer.Amount: Full tuition remission for public universities; up to $8,451 per year for private colleges.Deadline: Varies
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
Who Can Apply: Administered by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, this scholarship helps Ohio residents who demonstrate the highest levels of financial need. To qualify, applicants must file the FAFSA.Amount: Up to $3,500 Deadline: October 1
Department President's Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The American Legion Auxiliary of Ohio annually awards two scholarships to Ohio residents who are veterans or direct descendants of honorably discharged veterans. Applicants must submit a copy of a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Service to qualify. Applications need three recommendation letters, an essay, and a copy of the applicant's high school transcript.Amount: Up to $1,500 Deadline: March 15
Community Foundation of Shelby County Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The Community Foundation of Shelby County awards nearly $300,000 worth of scholarships each year to residents of Shelby County. To apply for one of the 170 general scholarships, applicants must submit their high school transcripts, recommendation letters, a list of school and community service activities, and information from their FAFSA.Amount: Varies Deadline: March 11 for high school seniors; June 3 for adults, current college students, and qualified high school seniors
