Ohio Dominican University
Acceptance rate
94.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$35,720
$48,602 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
843
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
41.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Ohio Dominican University (ODU) is a private Catholic university located in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1911, the university has a rich history and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. ODU emphasizes a holistic education that integrates liberal arts and professional studies, allowing students to develop critical thinking skills, ethical reasoning, and a strong sense of social responsibility. The university's mission is centered around the motto "To Be, To Know, To Do," which reflects its dedication to preparing students for meaningful lives and successful careers.
The campus environment at ODU fosters a strong sense of community and inclusivity, with a diverse student body engaging in various extracurricular activities and service initiatives. Students have access to a range of facilities, including modern classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and recreational spaces that encourage both academic and personal growth. The university also boasts a dedicated faculty who are not only educators but also mentors, providing guidance and support to students throughout their academic journey. With a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, Ohio Dominican University is committed to equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for success in their chosen fields, making it a vibrant place for learning and personal development.
Discussion on Key Metrics of Ohio Dominican University
Ohio Dominican University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in several key metrics over the years. One of the most notable aspects is the tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2014 to 2024, undergraduate tuition increased from $28,932 to $34,370, reflecting a considerable rise of approximately 19%. This trend of escalating tuition is consistent with the broader national narrative where college costs continue to outpace inflation, raising concerns about affordability for students and families.
Another critical metric is the student population. The number of undergraduate students has seen a sharp decline from 2,127 in 2013 to just 846 in 2023, a staggering decrease of around 60%. This decline may indicate challenges in attracting and retaining students, which could be influenced by several factors, including tuition costs, competition from other institutions, and changing demographics in higher education.
The graduation rates also present an intriguing picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from approximately 34.5% in 2013 to about 42.4% in 2023, suggesting that those who do enroll are increasingly likely to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe. This increase may be indicative of enhanced academic support or improved student engagement strategies at the university.
Retention rates have remained relatively stable but show a slight decline, with a retention rate of approximately 66% in 2013 dropping to 57.8% in 2023. This trend could be a concern for the university as high retention rates are often correlated with student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.
In summary, Ohio Dominican University faces challenges in enrollment and retention while striving to improve graduation rates. The rising tuition costs continue to be a critical issue, reflecting a national trend that warrants attention from university administrators and policymakers alike.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Columbus
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 3 mi
- Also known as
- ODU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Shonna Riedlinger (Acting President)
- Phone
- 6142514500
- Address
- 1216 Sunbury Road, Columbus, OH 43219
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 82.0%, women 85.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Ohio Dominican University
The admission data for Ohio Dominican University reveals several noteworthy trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate fluctuated significantly, starting at approximately 67.3% in 2009 and dropping to around 51.9% in 2023. Conversely, the female acceptance rate showed a similar trend, with a high of about 69.6% in 2009 and a decrease to around 52.9% in the most recent year.
These declining acceptance rates indicate a more competitive admission environment, which could be attributed to various factors, including an increase in applications or a shift in the university's admission policies. The peak enrollment of 366 in 2009 has gradually decreased to 208 in 2023, which raises questions about the university’s attractiveness and the overall trends in higher education enrollment during this period.
Additionally, the number of denied applicants peaked in 2014 with 1,342 denials, which corresponds with a significant drop in enrollment. This could suggest that the university was becoming more selective, potentially in response to the changing landscape of higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on quality over quantity.
The data also indicates a notable increase in deferred admissions, particularly in 2016, suggesting that the university may be adopting a more strategic approach to managing its applicant pool. Overall, Ohio Dominican University’s admission trends reflect broader shifts in the higher education sector, characterized by increasing selectivity and a competitive landscape for prospective students.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of Ohio Dominican University's Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates
Ohio Dominican University has shown a significant trend in the submission rates of standard test scores over the years. Particularly for the ACT, the submission rates have been relatively high, peaking at 97% in 2007. However, there has been a noticeable decline in the subsequent years, with the rate dropping to as low as 8% in 2019. This trend indicates a shift in the admissions strategy, possibly reflecting a broader national trend where many universities have begun to adopt test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
The SAT scores provide further insights into the academic profile of students being admitted. While the 25th percentile scores for reading and math began around the 420-440 range in earlier years, they have gradually increased to the 500-570 range in more recent years, suggesting that the university is attracting more academically prepared students. This shift in score range could be indicative of a more competitive applicant pool or a strategic effort by the university to elevate its academic standards.
Moreover, the number of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly, from 39 submissions in 2011 to just 4 in 2023. This sharp decline, coupled with the low submission rates, may be reflective of changing perceptions regarding the importance of standardized testing in the college admission process. As more institutions move towards holistic admissions practices, it's vital for Ohio Dominican University to adapt its strategies to maintain its appeal to prospective students while ensuring that it continues to attract candidates who are well-prepared for the academic challenges ahead.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,942 applicants in 2025, 94.2% admitted
1,830 admitted 112 not admitted Yield 11.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's46 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's37 (46% international)
- Anesthesiologist Assistant · Master's22 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's17 (12% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's14 (0% international)
- Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Ohio Dominican University
The graduation data from Ohio Dominican University for 2023 reveals notable trends in various academic disciplines. The most prominent field appears to be the Physician Assistant program, which graduated 49 students at the master's level, indicating a strong demand for healthcare professionals in the current job market. This aligns with national trends where healthcare careers continue to thrive, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Business Administration also stands out, with 40 master's graduates, alongside 4 associate graduates. This dual emphasis on higher-level business education reflects the growing recognition of business acumen across industries. The presence of international students in this field, with 6 graduates, highlights the program's global appeal.
In the realm of education, various specializations such as Curriculum and Instruction and Teacher Education showed graduation numbers, mainly at the master's level. This suggests a commitment to training future educators, which is crucial given the ongoing teacher shortages in many regions.
Moreover, the data indicates a growing interest in interdisciplinary studies, as evidenced by the 10 graduates in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies. This trend may signal a shift toward more integrated approaches to education, preparing students for complex, interconnected global challenges.
Interestingly, while fields like Psychology and Sociology produced a modest number of graduates, their presence underscores the importance of social sciences in understanding human behavior and societal dynamics.
Overall, the data reflect a balanced approach to education at Ohio Dominican University, with robust growth in healthcare, business, and education, thus preparing students for diverse career paths in an evolving job landscape.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,611-$84,152 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Insurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Anesthesiologist Assistant. | - | |||
| Physician Assistant. | $107,341 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | |||
| Biopsychology. | - | |||
| Data Analytics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,209 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 64.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 505
- First-year undergraduates 206
- Graduate students 366
- Transfers and others 132
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (843)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Ohio Dominican University in 2023
The student demographic data for Ohio Dominican University in 2023 reveals a diverse and interesting composition among its undergraduate and graduate populations. The undergraduate first-year students, numbering 209, have a higher percentage of female students at 56.9%, compared to 43.1% male students. This trend of higher female enrollment is not isolated to first-year students; it appears consistently across other categories as well.
The undergraduate continuing students total 531, showing a more balanced gender ratio with 50.3% male and 49.7% female. This suggests that the university retains both genders fairly equally in this category. However, the transfer students, although fewer in number at 55, also depict a slightly higher female representation, with 52.7% female and 47.3% male students.
In contrast, the graduate student body, comprising 430 individuals, displays a significant gender disparity, with only 27.4% being male and a striking 72.6% female. This pronounced imbalance could reflect broader trends in higher education, where more women are pursuing advanced degrees compared to men.
Overall, the data indicates a significant female presence across all categories of students at Ohio Dominican University, particularly in graduate studies. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise. Understanding these dynamics is essential for the university to tailor its programs and support services effectively, ensuring a conducive environment for all students to thrive academically and socially.
Age Composition of Students at Ohio Dominican University
The age demographics at Ohio Dominican University present an intriguing perspective on the student body. The largest group of students, aged 18-19, comprises 135 male undergraduates and 158 female undergraduates, indicating a youthful and vibrant atmosphere on campus. This trend continues with the 20-21 age group, which also shows a significant number of students, reflecting the university's appeal to traditional college-age individuals.
As we progress through the age brackets, a notable decline in the number of students can be observed. The 22-24 age group retains a healthy representation, with 120 total students, including both undergraduates and graduates. However, the numbers start to dwindle in the older categories, particularly for those aged 25-29 and above. For instance, the 25-29 age group has only 43 total students, while the 30-34 and older groups see even fewer participants.
This distribution highlights a potential trend in higher education, where younger students are more prevalent, while older students, who may be pursuing further education later in life, are less represented. This could be attributed to various factors, including financial constraints, family responsibilities, or career commitments.
Moreover, the presence of a small yet significant number of graduate students in older age brackets suggests that lifelong learning remains an important goal for some individuals. As society continues to evolve, educational institutions like Ohio Dominican University may need to adapt to cater to a diverse age range, ensuring that they provide opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional students. Overall, this age composition data paints a picture of a university that serves primarily a younger demographic while still acknowledging the value of mature learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
41 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
37 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Ohio Dominican University
The data on international student enrollment at Ohio Dominican University reveals significant trends over the years, showcasing fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate populations. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduates has seen a notable increase, culminating in a peak of 39 students in 2023, which corresponds to an impressive 4.61% of the total undergraduate population. This growth reflects a broader trend in U.S. higher education, where universities are increasingly recognizing the value of international diversity within their student bodies.
Conversely, the graduate student enrollment figures present a more complex picture. Although there was a marked increase in the percentage of international graduate students to 8.60% in 2023, the overall numbers have experienced fluctuations over the years, with some years reflecting an increase and others a decline. This inconsistency in graduate enrollment may be attributed to various factors, including changes in visa regulations, global economic conditions, and shifting academic program offerings that appeal to international students.
The overall increase in international student representation at Ohio Dominican University aligns with national trends where institutions are striving to attract a diverse student body amidst a competitive global market for higher education. The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery phases have further influenced enrollment patterns, emphasizing the importance of strategic outreach and support for international students in the coming years. As the university continues to adapt to these evolving dynamics, fostering an inclusive environment will be crucial for retaining and attracting international talent.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,602
- Undergraduate tuition
- $35,720
- Room and board
- $12,882
- Graduate tuition
- $14,010
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 22%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$32.9M
Expenses$32.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Midwest Athletic Conference
Great Midwest Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 126 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 49 | 45 |
| Soccer | 32 | 34 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Basketball | 24 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 133 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 54 | 46 |
| Soccer | 31 | 34 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 11 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 111 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 42 |
| Soccer | 33 | 30 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Golf | 15 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 3.6 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 22.7 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Kenyon CollegeGambier · 38.9 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 64.1 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of DaytonDayton · 67.8 mi
U.S. News #121
-
College of WoosterWooster · 77.4 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Oberlin CollegeOberlin · 97.5 mi
Liberal Arts #59
-
Xavier UniversityCincinnati · 100.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 100.9 mi
U.S. News #133
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Ohio Dominican University:
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is a major research institution located in Columbus, Ohio.
-
Denison University - With a rank of 39, Denison is a highly regarded liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Kenyon College - Also ranked 39th, Kenyon is a prestigious liberal arts college famous for its picturesque campus and strong emphasis on writing.
-
University of Dayton - This comprehensive university is ranked 133rd and is recognized for its commitment to service and community engagement.
-
Oberlin College - Ranked 51st, Oberlin is a well-known liberal arts college celebrated for its progressive values and excellent music program.
These institutions offer diverse educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Ohio Dominican University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Ohio Dominican University
The crime statistics from Ohio Dominican University present a varied picture over the years, reflecting both increases and decreases in different types of incidents. Notably, the data reveals that the overall crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2015 at 14.55 before experiencing a decline in subsequent years. The years 2021 and 2022 marked a significant drop in criminal activities, with rates falling to 5.65 and 5.09 respectively, suggesting a safer campus environment during that period.
However, the spike observed in 2023, with a crime rate of 14.89, raises concerns that warrant further examination. This resurgence could be indicative of a range of factors including changes in campus security policies, shifts in student behavior, or even broader societal issues impacting safety on campuses nationwide.
Particularly concerning are the figures related to drug and alcohol-related arrests, which have fluctuated significantly. The absence of gun-related incidents on campus over the years is a positive aspect, as it suggests that gun violence has not been a pressing issue at Ohio Dominican University.
In light of these trends, it is essential for university administration and local law enforcement to collaborate on enhancing safety measures and addressing the root causes of crime. Continuous monitoring and community engagement can pave the way for a more secure educational environment. For further information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Ohio Dominican University include Pedro Martinez (Hall of Fame baseball pitcher), Anne O'Hare McCormick (New York Times correspondent and Pulitzer winner) and Jonathan Sánchez (Puerto Rican former MLB pitcher who threw a no-hitter).
-
Pedro Martinez 1971–
Hall of Fame baseball pitcher
-
Anne O'Hare McCormick 1880–1954
New York Times correspondent and Pulitzer winner
-
Jonathan Sánchez 1982–
Puerto Rican former MLB pitcher who threw a no-hitter
-
Macklin Robinson 1993–
Professional soccer goalkeeper
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.