Bluffton University logo

Bluffton University

Bluffton, OH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

The Truth Makes Free

1899
Founded
Private university
Type
234 acres
Campus
595
Total Students
$36K
Tuition (In-State)
$36K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
61%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
6-year
67%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Alex Sider

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Bluffton University

Bluffton University: A private institution dedicated to academic growth and community since 1899.

Bluffton University, founded in 1899 with the motto "The Truth Makes Free," is a private institution rooted in a rich history of adaptation and growth. Beginning as Central Mennonite College, it evolved into Bluffton College and later achieved university status in 2004, overcoming significant challenges like the Great Depression and World War II. Its journey reflects a steadfast commitment to education, community, and resilient development.

Known for its continuous expansion and academic diversification, Bluffton offers a nurturing environment where students can thrive. The university developed its first master's program in education in 1995, marking a pivotal step in expanding its graduate offerings. Today, state-of-the-art facilities like the Austin E. Knowlton Science Center and the Sauder Visual Arts Center provide modern learning spaces for a variety of disciplines, from biology and pre-medicine to visual arts and performance.

Beyond academics, Bluffton fosters a vibrant student experience for its 745 students. The Marbeck Center serves as a bustling hub for student life, while the Sommer Center for Health and Wellness and the Emery Sears Athletic Complex cater to health, fitness, and competitive sports. With a history of overcoming adversity and continually investing in its campus and programs, Bluffton University prepares students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and engagement.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1899 as Central Mennonite College.
  • Became Bluffton University in 2004, expanding its graduate programs.
  • Accredited by the North Central Association in 1953.
  • Current student body of 745.
  • Features modern academic facilities including the Austin E. Knowlton Science Center (2023) and Sauder Visual Arts Center (1991).
  • Launched its first master's program in education in 1995.
  • Operates under the inspiring motto: "The Truth Makes Free."

Timeline

1899
Founded as Central Mennonite College.
1913
Reorganized as Bluffton College with support from five Mennonite groups.
1915
First baccalaureate degrees confirmed.
1931
Witmarsum Theological Seminary, formerly affiliated, closed its doors.
1953
Received accreditation from the North Central Association.
1995
Enrollment surpassed 1,000 for the first time; began its first master's program in education.
2004
Bluffton College became Bluffton University.
2023
Austin E. Knowlton Science Center completed.
2024
Announced a merger with the University of Findlay.
2025
Merger with the University of Findlay announced to be canceled.
🏛️
127 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Bluffton University

🏫

Witmarsum Theological Seminary

Formerly affiliated with Bluffton College, it closed its doors in 1931.

Leadership

Alex Sider
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Bluffton University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search