2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Ohio

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,756 reviews

Sophomore: CWRU is a great environment for premed students! I would estimate ~65% of undergraduates here are on the premed track, which makes for a very research heavy environment, where faculty is very cooperative and willing to work with students. Unfortunately the campus is isolated in a suburban-esque area of Cleveland, there's not much to do since stepping off campus is relatively dangerous as well. The undergraduate educational environment, however is quite tailored to the premed experience. Competition between premeds is pretty rough, and the school has a pretty bad case of the "Case Complex", meaning if you're not premed, you might be on the receiving end of a little snark on behalf of some Case students. Classes are quite manageable if you plan your schedule accordingly, don't try to overload yourself with classes and you'll be fine! Dining options on the North Residential Campus is gnarly compared to the South Side, so dine at Fribley whenever you get a chance.... Read 1,756 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $38,166

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Gambier, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  403 reviews

Sophomore: I love this college! Not only is the faculty really interested in developing intellectual engagement, I have been pleasantly surprised by the incredible theater scene here. I came to Kenyon from a well-known arts school with a major in drama, and I was concerned I would not find a high level of drama instruction. That has not been the case. I have had plenty of chances to perform as well as to go to performances, and I've gotten to meet a lot of students and faculty who are very serious about theater and film. It's a wonderful place.... Read 403 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $38,927

• SAT range 1340-1500

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  5,776 reviews

Sophomore: Ohio State University is a college that focuses on job opportunities and athletics, and its degree requirements for students reflects that. Many professors are either very professional or have no teaching experience whatsoever, and it is a guess as to which one you'll receive half of the time. Campus events and community are great though, and there are plenty of groups to get involved with if you're interested in any subject. Although there are some instances of crime around campus, very rarely does any serious crime happen on campus grounds. The university has plenty of support and equipment for athletes as well, so if you are interested in any form of athletics, feel free to enroll into The Ohio State University!... Read 5,776 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $19,474

• SAT range 1250-1440

• Oberlin, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  659 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 659 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $44,689

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Granville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  717 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Denison so far has been amazing! It is a place filled with motivated, fun, and smart people who push me to be the best student and person. The classes are thought-provoking and challenging, but taught by thoughtful and caring professors. The classes are challenging in a rewarding way and there are handfuls of people here to help. Outside of the classroom, there are countless amounts of clubs and organizations to get involved with which is a great way to meet new people, especially upperclassmen. There is always a multitude of things going on on campus, so I am never looking for things to do. Also, if I do want to get off campus, the village of Granville is a beautiful and homey place to spend time and Columbus is just a 25-minute drive and has so many fun things to do. Overall, my time at Denison has been super positive, and challenging, and I'm super grateful to be a student here.... Read 717 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 28%

• Net price $38,833

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Berea, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,067 reviews

Sophomore: The community within Baldwin Wallace is the best. Everyone, staff, and students, are so charming to one another. Walking down the street, just about everyone will smile or wave at you. It was a bit difficult to make friends at first, but I found that simply getting involved and attending different activities hosted by various clubs and groups was a fantastic way to get out and meet new people. I do have a bit of an issue with certain offices responding to emails, and parking for freshmen is a nightmare. But nonetheless, I could not have picked a better university to spend the next 4 years at!... Read 1,067 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $26,577

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,050 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 4,050 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $20,827

• SAT range 1150-1350

• Ada, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  603 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 603 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $25,006

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Wooster, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,355 reviews

Sophomore: The professors are experts in their fields Ava are very knowledgeable and passionate! Small class sizes allow for engaging classes and the opportunity for flexibility. The students are intelligent, diverse, and friendly. It truly is a great experience!... Read 1,355 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $24,934

• SAT range 1220-1430

• Cedarville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,227 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 1,227 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $25,380

• SAT range 1120-1350

• Westerville, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  715 reviews

Junior: The faculty at Otterbein University is amazing. The professors are passionate about teaching students so that they will succeed in whatever feild they go into. Otterbein also has so many opportunities for students to get involved. As a transfer student, finding a group to beling to at school was a little difficult at first. Staff members went out of their way to help me get involved! I came from a predominately online based university, so learning in person is also one of the perks for me. If you want to meet great people, learn from professionals, and be offered resources from student mentors to help you get to where you want to go... Otterbein is for you.... Read 715 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $22,138

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Athens, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  3,841 reviews

Sophomore: As a senior in high school looking at colleges, Ohio University wasn’t even on my radar. When I stepped foot on campus for my visit, I knew this was where I’d spend my next four years. OU is a beautiful college with many majors, organizations, and activities that help students with their success. The professors and administration prioritize student’s safety and ensure academic goals are met. Although you’ll never have a dull moment on campus, there are several things to do in the surrounding region. It is located in the beginning foothills of Appalachia inside the eclectic town of Athens with Strouds Run State Park, Hocking Hills, Lake Hope, and many other places and things to enjoy nearby. I am proud to call myself a Bobcat!... Read 3,841 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $20,496

• SAT range 1070-1290

• Kent, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  4,805 reviews

Freshman: Kent State is an amazing school! They have great club academics and athletics that really cater to anyone's needs or dreams. As a poly science student I have an overwhelming amount of resources that help me in my studies, networking and making myself a better person. At first I had doubt about Kent State due to it living in the shadow of Ohio State University (I live in central Ohio near Columbus for reference.) But I was so wrong. The only thing I will say is that compared to urban universities it lack things to do BUT Kent is considered a suburban area school so for what it is it goes above my expectations overall. If your into off campus parties Kent has a great Greek Life in place and there parties are great. Like a slightly watered down version of Ohio University at Athens frat party.... Read 4,805 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $18,947

• SAT range 1000-1210

• Dayton, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,780 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 1,780 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $14,198

• SAT range 950-1250

• Alliance, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  1,150 reviews

Sophomore: As I complete my second year here at the University of Mount Union I have found that this school was a perfect fit for myself as a college student wanting to achieve a higher education. With being a double major, Biology and Psychology I am required to take more credit hours in order to be able to complete the criteria needed for this degree. I have found it easy to navigate my way through sophomore year with the help of the amazing professors and counselors provided on campus. I really enjoy the small class size at the university as I have no trouble when needed to get extra assistance from my professor. If there were to be any change, I think it should be focused on the smaller majors, where the students who are creative need more funding. As a small private school outside funding can help expand students knowledge all around!... Read 1,150 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $23,750

• SAT range 980-1180

• Bowling Green, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  2,614 reviews

Niche User: Bowling Green State University was a wonderful experience for me. I have been on countless college visits, but none of them truly felt like home for me. It is a big university with a small-town feel which was perfect for me. The tour guides are very friendly, personable, and honest. It was nice to hear about everything from the dorm living to the activities around the campus such as their favorite restaurants and what they like to do in their free time. Overall just a great experience, defiantly recommend at the least visiting the beautiful campus. Cannot wait to start next year!... Read 2,614 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $16,684

• SAT range 1020-1210

• Cincinnati, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,177 reviews

Sophomore: Xavier is a community driven school that prioritizes each of its students. The school has amazing faculty and staff that I was able to connect with and gave great advice about my college career and life thereafter. I was always able to find clubs and after class activities to take part in with friends and always felt included. Overall, I have had a fantastic time at Xavier so far!... Read 1,177 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $32,370

• SAT range 1090-1280

• Delaware, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  648 reviews

Graduate Student: I am an international student. My life at Ohio Wesleyan University was great! I remember, as yesterday, when they picked me up from an airport. I guess not many schools do that. The international office was very helpful throughout my life. Since the classes were small, compared to big schools, I was able to get professors' assistanship a lot.... Read 648 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $25,522

• SAT range 1210-1390

• Youngstown, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,435 reviews

Sophomore: Youngstown State is one of the closest universities to home. It is the most comfortable and affordable choice for many students in my area. As far as it being affordable goes, I am one of many who struggle to get any scholarships through this university. This is my ultimate issue with this school aside from the parking situation. After tearing down a whole parking deck, parking at YSU is very chaotic. Being a school that most students commute to and from, you would thing parking would be a priority. However, finding a spot within a 10-minute walking distance proves to be hard every day. I do think this school does a very good job of being inclusive and trying to get students involved. They host many events in the center of campus which is important and highlights the college experience.... Read 1,435 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $12,290

• SAT range 930-1180

• Cleveland, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,963 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 1,963 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $15,517

• SAT range 900-1170

• Tiffin, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  287 reviews

Senior: The campus is beautiful with lots of opportunities for everyone. The close atmosphere makes the community feel as if we are one big family. The class sizes are not too large so students can receive one-on-one assistance and relationships with their professors. It tends to get stressful and overwhelming at times, but you will get there anywhere you go. Only one complaint that I have is the times in which classes are given. There are not multiple times for most classes in my licensure so I have overlapping classes at times. Overall I am happy that I choose Heidelberg!... Read 287 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $21,650

• SAT range 1030-1160

• Oxford, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  3,371 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 3,371 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $24,616

• SAT range 1160-1370

• Akron, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,930 reviews

Senior: I am a returning student at The University of Akron. After earning an associate's degree in 2002, I joined the working world. After many, many years away from school, I decided to return for a bachelor's degree. I reached out to an advisor who was extremely helpful. She worked with me to make sure that all of my prior credit hours were applied to my new degree, and worked with me to create a school schedule that would accommodate my full time work schedule. She has been instrumental each semester to ensure that I stay on track to meet my graduation goals! Taking online classes has been much easier than one would expect. All of the professors and instructors are accessible through email, and will meet in person, or teleconference. Email responses are very quick. Everything has made returning to school so much better than I anticipated.... Read 2,930 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $17,443

• SAT range 990-1230

• Columbus, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  951 reviews

Sophomore: I first chose Capital because it was a calm and inviting vibe. The small classes and having professors personally know you make learning and studying more personal and applied is a great way to retain more information. It’s also a small campus so you get familiar with people quickly which adds to the inviting vibe. Their multitude of resources is also a huge help for almost anything ranging from tutoring to mental health services. Overall, Capital is definitely for those who want small attentive classes and prefer to have a sense of familiarity around campus.... Read 951 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $22,742

• SAT range 1000-1260

• Toledo, OH•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  2,112 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 2,112 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $17,764

• SAT range 1030-1280