Capital University logo

Capital University

Columbus, OH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1830
Founded
Private
Type
53 acres
Campus
1,709
Total Students
2,718
Undergrad
649
Graduate
$141M
Endowment
(2024)
$42K
Tuition (In-State)
$42K
Tuition (Out-State)
$24K
Avg Net Price
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
6-year
74%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Jared R. Tice

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

About Capital University

Central Ohio's oldest university fostering inquiry, critical thinking, and leadership since 1830.

Capital University stands as a beacon of education in Central Ohio, proudly holding the title of the region's oldest university, founded in 1830. Located in Bexley, an upscale suburb of Columbus, Capital offers a dynamic learning environment rooted in Lutheran values. Its mission, encapsulated by the motto "Ask. Think. Lead," emphasizes free inquiry, critical thinking, and the development of strong leadership skills, preparing students to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields and communities.

Historically significant, Capital University was chartered in 1850 and has evolved significantly since its inception as a theological seminary. The campus itself boasts a rich heritage, with a portion recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring beautiful Italianate and Gothic Revival architecture. This blend of historic charm and modern amenities, including a pedestrian mall that unified the campus, creates an inviting and cohesive atmosphere for student life.

Students at Capital benefit from a tight-knit community feel within a vibrant suburban setting. The university's commitment to a holistic educational experience is evident in its continuous development and its recent reunion with Trinity Lutheran Seminary, strengthening its academic breadth and theological roots. This unique integration enriches the educational journey, offering diverse perspectives and expanded opportunities.

As a private institution with a strong sense of purpose, Capital University is dedicated to nurturing individual growth and intellectual curiosity. It's a place where students are encouraged to ask profound questions, think critically about the world around them, and develop the leadership qualities necessary to shape a brighter future.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1830, making it the oldest university in Central Ohio.
  • Private university serving 3,367 students.
  • Educational mission based on Lutheran values of free inquiry, critical thinking, and leadership, with the motto "Ask. Think. Lead."
  • Campus includes the Capital University Historic District, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982.
  • Unified campus experience enhanced by a $2.5 million pedestrian mall constructed in 2006.
  • Reunited with Trinity Lutheran Seminary in 2018, strengthening its theological and academic offerings.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.1 billion and adopted "Capital Comets" as its mascot in 2021.

Timeline

1830
Founded as the German Theological Seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Ohio.
1832
Moved to downtown Columbus, Ohio.
1850
Capital University was chartered.
1959
The Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary became independent of the university.
1982
Capital University Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
2006
Constructed a $2.5 million pedestrian mall, unifying the campus.
2018
Reunited with Trinity Lutheran Seminary after 58 years of operating separately.
2021
Formally adopted "Capital Comets" as the new mascot name.
🏛️
196 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Capital University

🏫

Trinity Lutheran Seminary

A theological seminary of the ELCA, which reunited with Capital University in 2018 after operating independently since 1959.

Leadership

Jared R. Tice
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Capital University

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

Start Your Free Search