Ohio Northern University logo

Ohio Northern University

Ada, OH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Ex diversitate vires (Latin)("Out of diversity strength")

1871
Founded
Private college
Type
2,386
Total Students
2,592
Undergrad
450
Graduate
$160M
Endowment
(2019)
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
73%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Melissa J. Baumann

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

About Ohio Northern University

Ohio Northern University: A historic institution fostering diverse professional excellence since 1871.

Step into the vibrant legacy of Ohio Northern University, a private institution founded in 1871 that has continuously evolved to meet the demands of a changing world. From its humble beginnings as the "Northwestern Ohio Normal School," ONU swiftly expanded its curriculum to embrace vital professional fields like pharmacy, engineering, law, and business, reflecting its enduring commitment to comprehensive education. This dedication to growth and service led to its affiliation with the United Methodist Church in 1899 and its eventual renaming to Ohio Northern University, solidifying its identity as a forward-thinking academic hub.

ONU's history is a testament to its resilience and unwavering spirit. The university navigated significant national challenges, including the low enrollment periods during the Great Depression and World War II, only to rebound stronger, particularly with the support of the G.I. Bill. Beyond academic growth, Ohio Northern played a meaningful role in the American Civil Rights Movement, notably hosting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968—an event of profound historical significance honored by a campus statue unveiled in 2018. This rich past underscores ONU's commitment to social justice and its integral place in the broader historical narrative.

Prospective students will find a dynamic academic environment centered around excellence in its professional colleges. ONU boasts modern facilities that support advanced study in engineering, law, pharmacy, and the sciences, continually enhancing the learning experience. From the expansion of the Robertson-Evans Pharmacy building to the state-of-the-art Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences and a new engineering building opened in 2019, students are equipped with the resources needed to excel. With a community of over 3,000 students and a motto of "Ex diversitate vires" (From diversity, strength), Ohio Northern University offers an engaging and supportive atmosphere for future leaders.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1871 as the "Northwestern Ohio Normal School," evolving into a comprehensive university.
  • A private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1899.
  • Showcased remarkable resilience, bouncing back from low enrollment during the Great Depression and WWII.
  • Hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968, a pivotal moment in its history, commemorated by a statue.
  • Offers robust professional programs, including Pharmacy, Engineering, Law, and Business.
  • Home to 3,042 students, fostering a close-knit and supportive academic community.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.2 billion, supporting continued growth and excellence.

Timeline

1871
Henry Solomon Lehr founded the "Northwestern Ohio Normal School".
1885
Name changed to "Ohio Normal University" as curriculum expanded.
1899
Became affiliated with the United Methodist Church to reduce debt.
1903
Name officially changed to Ohio Northern University.
1968
Hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 11.
2008
The Inn at Ohio Northern University was built and opened.
2018
A statue in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s likeness was unveiled on campus.
2019
A new engineering building was opened.
🏛️
155 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Ohio Northern University

💊

College of Pharmacy

One of the key professional programs established as the university's curriculum expanded beyond its normal school origins.

⚙️

College of Engineering

A robust professional program that became a core part of the university's curriculum, supported by significant facility expansions.

⚖️

Pettit College of Law

A prominent professional school that was integrated into the university's expanding academic offerings.

💼

Dicke College of Business Administration

An important professional program added as the university broadened its academic scope.

Leadership

Melissa J. Baumann
President
Juliet K. Hurtig
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Ohio Northern University

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

Start Your Free Search