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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: Pioneering flexible, career-focused education for a diverse, global student body.

Franklin University stands as a testament to higher education's evolving landscape, built on a century-plus legacy of empowering adult learners. Founded in 1902 as the YMCA School of Commerce, it quickly became a beacon for those seeking practical, career-oriented degrees, a tradition it proudly upholds today. The university is particularly renowned for its innovative approach to transfer credits, exemplified by its Community College Alliance (CCA) program, which streamlines the path to a bachelor's degree for community college students across the U.S.

Academic excellence at Franklin spans a broad spectrum, from robust undergraduate majors to advanced graduate programs, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and pioneering doctoral degrees such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Health Administration (DHA), and Doctor of Professional Studies in Instructional Design Leadership. The university's commitment to accessibility extends internationally, with a vibrant community of over 300 students from more than 72 countries and educational partnerships established in eight countries beyond the U.S.

Students at Franklin benefit from a supportive learning environment tailored for success, whether they are beginning their academic journey, transferring credits, or pursuing advanced degrees. With a focus on real-world application and a history of adapting to student needs, Franklin University continues to be a leading choice for those seeking a flexible, globally-minded, and impactful education.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1902, with over a century of experience serving adult students.
  • Partners with more than 135 community colleges across the U.S. to maximize transfer credits.
  • Hosts over 300 international students from more than 72 countries.
  • Offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, master's (MBA), and doctoral degrees (DBA, DHA, DPS).
  • Expanded its global reach with educational agreements in 8+ countries, including an MBA program in Poland.
  • Endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its mission and programs.
  • Accredited regionally by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1976.

Timeline

1902
Founded as the YMCA School of Commerce
1933
Name changed 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 (DBA, DHA, DPS in Instructional Design Leadership)
🏛️
124 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Franklin University

🎭

College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology

One of the three core colleges offering a diverse range of programs.

💼

The Ross College of Business

A key college offering business-focused undergraduate and graduate programs, including the MBA.

🏛️

College of Health & Public Administration

Established in 2011, providing programs focused on health and public service.

Leadership

David R. Decker{{cite web
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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