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Franklin University

Columbus, OH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1902
Founded
Private university
Type
5,111
Total Students
$118M
Endowment
(2025)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$10K
Tuition (Out-State)
$23K
Avg Net Price
30%
Graduation Rate
6-year
47%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: David R. Decker{{cite web

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

About Franklin University

Franklin University: Over a century of empowering adult learners and fostering global education.

Franklin University stands out with over a century of dedication to empowering adult learners and facilitating accessible higher education. From its roots as the YMCA School of Commerce in 1902, Franklin has evolved into a dynamic private university known for its flexible, transfer-friendly approach, particularly for community college students seeking to complete bachelor's degrees. It's a vibrant hub for both domestic and international students, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

The university's journey began with a mission to serve older adults, a commitment it upholds today. After establishing independence from the YMCA in 1964 and achieving regional accreditation in 1976, Franklin steadily expanded its academic offerings. The introduction of its first graduate program, an MBA, in 1993, marked a significant milestone, followed by the groundbreaking Community College Alliance in 1998, which streamlined the transfer process for countless students.

Today, Franklin boasts a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs across its three colleges: Arts, Sciences, and Technology; The Ross College of Business; and the College of Health & Public Administration. Its global footprint is impressive, with MBA programs offered internationally in countries like Poland and a student body comprising over 300 international students from more than 72 countries. The institution further strengthened its academic portfolio in 2016 by introducing its first doctoral degrees, demonstrating a commitment to advanced professional education.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1902 with a history of serving older adult students for over a century.
  • A leader in transfer education, partnering with over 135 community colleges across the U.S.
  • Boasts a diverse student body, including more than 300 international students from over 72 countries.
  • Offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and three distinct doctoral degrees (DBA, DHA, DPS in Instructional Design Leadership).
  • Achieved regional accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1976.
  • Expanded its global reach through educational agreements with institutions in eight countries, in addition to its initial partnership in Poland.

Timeline

1902
Founded as the YMCA School of Commerce in Columbus Downtown YMCA.
1933
Changed its name to Franklin University.
1964
Amicably discontinued formal affiliation with the YMCA.
1969
Opened its first building, Frasch Hall.
1976
Earned regional accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
1993
Offered its first graduate program, the Master of Business Administration (MBA).
1998
Created the Community College Alliance (CCA) program.
2009
Began offering its MBA at WSB Merito Universities in Poland, expanding international reach.
2011
Announced its newest college, the College of Health and Public Administration (COHPA).
2016
Approved to offer its first three doctoral degrees.
🏛️
124 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Franklin University

💼

The Ross College of Business

One of Franklin University's three colleges, offering programs focused on business administration.

🏛️

College of Health & Public Administration (COHPA)

One of Franklin University's three colleges, providing programs in health and public administration.

🎭

College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology

One of Franklin University's three colleges, offering a range of programs blending arts, sciences, and technology.

Leadership

David R. Decker{{cite web
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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