Ohio Northern University

Ohio Northern University (ONU), located in Ada, Ohio, is a private institution founded in 1871. It is recognized for its strong academic programs and a consistently high job and graduate school placement rate for its graduates. ONU emphasizes a high-quality learning environment that prepares students for successful careers, community service, and lifelong personal growth.

Academics

ONU offers over 70 programs of study across five colleges: Arts & Sciences, Business, Engineering, Pharmacy, and Law. The T.J. Smull College of Engineering is particularly noted for its innovative, hands-on curriculum and high placement rates. The Raabe College of Pharmacy also boasts a strong reputation, with a 98% placement rate for its 2025 graduates and a 96.1% NAPLEX pass rate, ranking it first in Ohio. The university maintains an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention for students.

International Students

Ohio Northern University welcomes international students and provides various services to support their social and academic well-being. These services include assistance with the admissions process, one-on-one tutoring, writing support, and a peer-based mentoring program called Polar Pals. While international students constituted approximately 2.2% of the total student body in 2020, with students from at least 15 countries, the university actively seeks sponsorship programs to bring international students to campus. The largest international student populations at ONU are from Japan, Saudi Arabia, and China.

Campus & Location

Ohio Northern University is situated in the scenic village of Ada, Ohio. The campus spans 342 acres and features 17 residential facilities. Ada offers a safe and community-oriented environment, with local amenities like an ice cream shop and Mexican restaurants, as well as parks and natural areas for outdoor activities. For those seeking more urban experiences, larger cities like Columbus, Findlay, and Lima are within driving distance.

Career Outcomes

Ohio Northern University consistently demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with a 95% job and graduate school placement rate for the Class of 2025. The College of Engineering and the Raabe College of Pharmacy often report even higher placement rates. The Polar Career Center offers robust support, including resume building, salary negotiation tips, LinkedIn navigation, and career fairs that connect students with numerous employers. Notable employers who have recruited at ONU career fairs include American Structurepoint, BAE Systems, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Honda, and Marathon Petroleum Corporation.