2024 Best Colleges for Religious Studies in Ohio

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  28 reviews

Sophomore: GBSC is a great college for people who prioritize spiritual growth. The college is centered around Christ and community. Its chapel services and religious education classes are very enriching and worthwhile. It also offers HLC-accredited general education classes, so there are many people (myself included) who come to get their general education credits and soak in the incredible atmosphere before moving on to other academic pursuits. A few of the gen ed classes have not felt worthwhile, but my experiences in classes within the Music and Ministerial divisions in particular have been terrific. GBSC's opportunities for ministry are absolutely phenomenal. GBSC focuses on spiritual development and it accomplishes this purpose. All in all, a great place.... Read 28 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $10,627

• SAT range —

• Cedarville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,233 reviews

Sophomore: Cedarville University is the real deal. If you are considering, you should absolutely, 100% go here. You would be surprised how possible that might be, definitely apply! To my experience so far (I have just finished my Freshman year), I would say it was very good overall. I am a Computer Science major, and the school is very hard at first, but you will absolutely get used to it (some majors are easy freshman year though) some not so much. The professors here are so amazing, class was literally my favorite part of the day. All were very willing to help during office hours, and all office hours fit into my schedule. People do get jobs here from what I have heard and seen and internships as well. People here all are ridiculously nice, think the nicest person you know, and that is everyone here. Cedarville is definitely conservative, but not absurdly so. The dress code is reasonable IMO. Lots of great speakers in chapel, school is very Christian, everyday chapel is a lot but good.... Read 1,233 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $25,380

• SAT range 1120-1350

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,761 reviews

Senior: Amazing, I love it! The people are ambitious and passionate. Plus, the financial aid brought most students here, so there is a healthy mixture of different economic classes too. Throughout the year, the campus vibrant and full of life. Plus, we are all academically challenged and they have begun to value both the science and arts equally. So, it’s common to meet students who may be a strong engineering student with a passion for singing. Regardless, CWRU will provide with the resources to be successful. While it is primarily white and Asian (based on demographics), there is an ever growing black and brown population. And with their new effort to support the surrounding community, the campus is becoming much safer and more enjoyable. I love this school and will miss it when I graduate, but I’m happy that things keep improving as things progress over time.... Read 1,761 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $38,166

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Steubenville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  850 reviews

Alum: Visit before you attend, and you'll know if it is the right fit for you or not! Like any place outside of Heaven, it's not perfect and everyone there isn't a saint, but that honestly shouldn't be shocking news to anyone considering nowhere it perfect and full of saintly people. In general, people there are supportive and genuine. Not a beach university or fancy city school, but easy to drive to and located near Pittsburgh with tons to do in the suburbs, too. The downtown college town is improving, too. Yes, it is very Catholic, so you don't need to be passionately or even remotely Catholic to attend and receive a quality education but if you can't stand crucifixes, friars, or saints, you probably won't like the campus. Exceptional professors. Wonderful memories. Good sports, but people attend for the academics (and Catholic community) not athletics.... Read 850 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $19,542

• SAT range 1100-1310

• Granville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  721 reviews

Sophomore: I am extremely happy with my decision to choose Denison. I have been very pleased with my classes and professors. The professors truly care about their students and want the best for us personally and academically. The campus is beautiful and there are so many resources and opportunities to get involved. Some people complain, but I love the food here! I always find something that I like and the workers are kind. I have felt supported by Denison since my application process. The network of alumni is incredible, especially because they want to support current students in their career endeavors.... Read 721 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $38,833

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Circleville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  464 reviews

Freshman: I have loved my experience with Ohio Christian University, I am an incoming freshman and the beginning college process has been easy for me due to Ohio Christian University's accessible applications and helpful staff. I have been so lucky to have such an experience while applying to college, I am also going to play sports at Ohio Christain University and the journey through that has been very easy, I am quite sure of my decision to attend Ohio Christian University and I am excited for this fall of 2023. Go, Trailblazers!... Read 464 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $22,456

• SAT range —

• Mount Vernon, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  567 reviews

Sophomore: I have loved my experience at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. This University makes you feel like family from the first moment that you step on campus. It is an amazing and supportive environment. I have made many new friends, the classes are amazing, and the professors are willing to go above and beyond to help you succeed. The only downside to the school is that it is expensive. Even with some scholarships, grants, and loans, I still struggle to afford it. MVNU is my dream school and has been my dream school for many years. Being able to attend MVNU has been the opportunity of a lifetime, I just wish that it was more affordable.... Read 567 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $23,440

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Wooster, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,364 reviews

Junior: I’m a physics major here, and I absolutely love it! The campus is BEAUTIFUL and the professors are incredibly supportive! I have had more research opportunities than I ever would have expected. I have such an amazing found family on this campus. My least favorite thing about the college is that there aren’t any big thunderstorms here :( I’m from an area that has SO many thunderstorms, and I miss that weather.... Read 1,364 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $24,934

• SAT range 1220-1430

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,462 reviews

Senior: Oh, my time at the University of Dayton was simply unforgettable! From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew I was in for an amazing college experience. Go Flyers! One of the first organizations I got involved with was Phi Chi Theta, the premier business and economics fraternity. Another significant role I held on campus was serving on the University Hearing Board. As a board member, I participated in student conduct hearings, where we strived to create a supportive and educational environment while upholding the university's code of conduct. Academically, the University of Dayton provided an excellent learning environment. The professors were approachable and genuinely invested in their students' success. Overall, my college experience at the University of Dayton was a whirlwind of growth, learning, and camaraderie. The memories I made and the skills I developed during my time there continue to shape my journey beyond graduation.... Read 1,462 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $29,933

• SAT range 1130-1330

• Canton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  486 reviews

Senior: Malone is a faithfully Christian university with huge strength in the community and faith. It offers courses that will highlight the Christian experiences in many different ways from digging deep into the theology of your faith to expanding your religious horizon. Malone also excels in other areas like its student and faculty body. Though the music department has lost a lot of its students and majors, it is one of the most inspiring and talented sections of Malone. Its choir never disappoints, the band is amazing, and the individual talented artists are mind-blowing. Malone also has an extensive wildlife biology program with its very own petting zoo and aquarium. The animals are taken care of by students and those students are hand-selected by their professors. Another area in which Malone excels - is its student/ professor relations. I have never attended a school where the professors truly loved and cared for both their students and their jobs.... Read 486 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $18,664

• SAT range 990-1200

• Ashland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  791 reviews

Sophomore: I genuinely love attending AU. Everyone, including the professors, is so welcoming and puts emphasis on you as an individual. The professors want to and try to build genuine connections with their students. This being said, each student is assigned to a faculty advisor in their program after their freshman year, which establishes more personal connections. The class sizes are not so small that you feel uncomfortable, but small enough that you don't feel like a number. I wouldn't trade attending Ashland for the world!... Read 791 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $21,190

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Oxford, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  3,383 reviews

Alum: Reflecting back on my Miami education, I can honestly say that the Miami network has proven to be more valuable than the education. I have landed offers from companies from the Bay Area to Chicago to Boston on the strength of the Miami alumni network. If you evaluating a school this factor should not be overlooked. My Miami years were among the best of my life, the education and experiences were first rate (including studying abroad), and the friendships have been lifelong. The alumni network has proven priceless as I have sought employment in the years (decades) following my time in Oxford! Love and honor to Miami!... Read 3,383 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,616

• SAT range 1160-1370

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  5,801 reviews

Senior: As a fourth-year student at The Ohio State University, my experience has been enriching. The diverse academic programs allowed me to explore various fields, and the faculty's expertise and dedication have been invaluable. I've particularly enjoyed the research opportunities, which provided practical skills and experience. Campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations and activities, including spirited football games and cultural events. The state-of-the-art facilities, like libraries and recreational centers, have enhanced my experience. One improvement I'd suggest is reducing class sizes in introductory courses for more personalized attention. Overall, my time at OSU has been fantastic, offering a blend of rigorous academics, a lively campus atmosphere, and opportunities for growth. It's been a journey filled with education, experiences, and lasting friendships. Go Buckeyes!... Read 5,801 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,474

• SAT range 1250-1440

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,079 reviews

Graduate Student: As a current graduate of the University of Cincinnati, I am ecstatic to share my overwhelmingly positive experience! The university's commitment to academic excellence and supportive faculty truly stood out during my time there. The diverse and vibrant campus community fostered a welcoming environment, encouraging collaboration and cultural enrichment. Cutting-edge research opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities further enriched my learning journey. UC's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications prepared me for a successful career ahead. I am forever grateful for the lifelong friendships and professional networks I developed. Without a doubt, the University of Cincinnati is an exceptional institution that has empowered me to achieve my dreams!... Read 4,079 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,827

• SAT range 1150-1350

• Athens, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  3,855 reviews

Alum: After graduating from Ohio University, I cannot express how influential and memorable my time as a Bobcat student truly was, each and every year. I spent all four years at OU as a full-time student. I was heavily involved in extracurriculars, from student government to intramural sports. Taking full advantage of both the friendly, family-based community and culture led to immense growth, leadership development, and life long memories. Athens, Ohio is truly one of the most magical and incredible places! The people, the community, the staff and faculty, and the students are passionate about their Bobcat family and each other. The social and party culture is awesome, but there is SO much more to OU and to Athens to love and explore. I highly recommend OU if you're looking for a hOUme away from home.... Read 3,855 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $20,496

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Toledo, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  2,120 reviews

Freshman: I have loved my time at UT thus far! I live in one of the dorms on campus and the amenities and proximity to everything is wonderful. Toledo gives the big school feel on a small campus and it's so easy to get around the campus to and from my classes. The university also offers help in every area- from success coaches to major advisors to athletic trainers for everyone, there is no possible way to not succeed here!... Read 2,120 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $17,764

• SAT range 1030-1280

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,972 reviews

Freshman: I can't speak for everyone, because this is coming from someone who is getting their Bachelor's in Music Education, but my overall experience in the music program at CSU has been good. There are some negative things, like a professor here or there that is rude/discriminating, or a negative unspoken competition that goes on with other musicians sometimes. But there are good things too! Most faculty are amazing people who push their students to succeed, and the friends you can make here are priceless and I can tell that my new friendships are going to last for a lifetime <3... Read 1,972 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,517

• SAT range 900-1170

• Youngstown, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,443 reviews

Alum: YSU was an amazing university. The availability of classes, especially in a smaller major, made completing the degree on time very easy. The campus was clean and felt safe despite being located in a city with some unfavorable statistics. The professors were top notch, intellectual, challenging and welcoming. The Maag Library is the perfect location for a long study session (loved that as a commuter). As a single mom, working a full time job, I was still able to be a full time student at YSU. Go Penguins!... Read 1,443 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $12,290

• SAT range 930-1180

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,783 reviews

Junior: Wright State University (Dayton campus) is an amazing institution. It is located in Fairborn, Ohio, and the closest big city is Dayton, although Columbus and Cincinnati are fairly close too. All of the professors I had during one semester there were amazing (majoring in psychology). The campus is beautiful, especially in the fall, and the school has underground tunnels for when it is cold or raining outside. The dorms are close to the campus, and for people with cars, there is parking available. There are a lot of international students. There are a lot of commuter students too, so the events on campus are not visited that much. However, they are awesome! There is a fitness and wellness program, with a swimming pool, group fitness classes, two gyms, and more. Wright State is one of the cheaper universities too, especially for locals. Overall, I would recommend anyone to at least take a tour.... Read 1,783 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $14,198

• SAT range 950-1250

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,183 reviews

Freshman: I love my experience at Xavier, even as a freshman everyone is so kind and welcoming. It is a tinier undergrad number but the campus is spacious. With there not being that many undergrads it is easier to know so many people on campus and makes it easy to have small class sizes. Many classes are between 20-30 students. They also put on many student activities so students have chances to get out and meet people. Every student has three different advisors to help with academic, life, and jobs. You are set up with a constant support system to make sure you have everything you need to succeed. It is such a positive environment and has been such an easy transition. It is a great school!... Read 1,183 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $32,370

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Oberlin, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  670 reviews

Alum: My experience at Oberlin College was wonderful overall. Yes there were some bumps in the road socially and academically challenges but I wouldn't choose somewhere else if I could do my undergraduate over again. Key thing was having a community that looked like me and support me socially and culturally. I also built relationships with wonderful professors and staff that truly cared about me and my success because they were able to connect to each and every student, unlike giant public schools. While the party seen is pretty boring, the student life activities and events are great; there is always something happening on campus. And the natural areas around campus are gorgeous, especially in the fall.... Read 670 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $44,689

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Berea, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,071 reviews

Junior: I chose BW because I fell in love with the campus, and I felt like I was at home when I stepped onto the campus for the first time. This campus is accepting of people from all backgrounds and has plenty of organizations like Allies, Black Student Alliance, and SALSA. The campus is also tiny, meaning that I can walk across from the very south of campus to the very north in about 10-15 minutes. It's also close to amenities like shopping and dining and is only 25 minutes from downtown Cleveland. However, I would like to see some changes. For one, there needs to be more parking for students, as the parking situation across campus could be better. I struggle to find parking for my car at any given time. The dorms also need some love, as most of them look like they last updated in the 90s. Overall, however, I love the campus, the faculty, and everything else about it. I would highly suggest BW!... Read 1,071 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $26,577

• SAT range 1040-1250

• University Heights, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  859 reviews

Sophomore: I really enjoy all my profs here! Everyone is so knowledgable and accessible - office hours or other meetings outside of class are so helpful and easy to plan. The profs really want you to succeed and provide all kinds of opportunities. Lots of different ways to be involved - through on campus jobs where you meet some pretty cool people, clubs, and service organizations and opportunities. The people aren't half bad either, but be ready to see some cliques. It's not a bad thing (everyone finds their niche) since groups are so flexible, but it is a small school where you will prob know of most people. Great time for fun, networking, learning, and being a young adult!... Read 859 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $28,661

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Findlay, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  873 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Findlay is a great place to focus on school and make friends. There are very few distractions and it is a great school centered around athletics and since there are a great deal of student athletes many of them are intertwined through their respective sports and therefore have people to aid them in their studies as well. They also have a great staff who are dedicated to helping their students and ensuring a proper education. Not only this, but they are willing and happy to give you advice outside of school as well. In my personal experience, the university of findlay is absolutely amazing and I would not trade the experience for anything else!... Read 873 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $23,042

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Ada, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  608 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman at Ohio Northern University majoring in exercise physiology. First time coming to campus was a great experience, I immediately felt at home and loved the people! There is a lot of green space on campus and everything is within a 15 minute walk. Athletic facilities are good, two weight rooms and a cardio room for students to use. Academics are great, professors really care about your success and offer help outside the classroom. Many students play sports on campus, the team environment and coaching staff is wonderful. My favorite part is seeing students pass by one another waving and saying hello, very friendly environment.... Read 608 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $25,006

• SAT range 1090-1300