Ashland University

Nestled in Ohio, Ashland University stands as a testament to community vision and enduring academic commitment. Founded in 1878 through a unique partnership between the German Baptist Brethren Church and local citizens, the university has always held an "Accent on the Individual" — a motto that continues to shape its student-centric approach. What began with a modest 60 students has flourished into a vibrant institution serving 6,200 students today, reflecting over a century of purposeful growth and adaptation.

Ashland's journey is one of remarkable resilience and innovation. After opening its doors in 1879, it steadily expanded, even welcoming its first international student by 1905. Despite facing a financial crisis in the early 1970s, the university strategically diversified its offerings, introducing impactful graduate programs like the Master of Education and Master of Business Administration. This forward-thinking expansion, coupled with the development of off-campus centers, underscored its evolution beyond a traditional college.

This growth culminated in 1989 when Ashland College officially became Ashland University, a name change that accurately captured its comprehensive range of graduate and undergraduate programs. Modern progress continues with significant investments in campus facilities, including a new Recreation Center and Student Center. Most notably, the university established the state-of-the-art Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences in 2014, further cementing its commitment to professional excellence and student success.