Oberlin College
Innovation. Arts. Justice. Since 1833.
📍 Oberlin, United States 🇺🇸
Quick Facts about Oberlin College
- Type: Private Non-Profit
- Students: 2,785
- Campus: Suburban
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Intakes: August
About Oberlin College
Academics
Oberlin offers an expansive and rigorous educational program through its College of Arts and Sciences and its renowned Conservatory of Music. Students can choose from over 40 academic majors and numerous interdisciplinary minors and concentrations, or even design their own specialized course of study through the Individual Majors Program. The teaching approach emphasizes close faculty mentorship, with professors teaching courses from introductory to advanced levels without the aid of teaching assistants, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Popular majors include Music Performance, Biology, Psychology, Politics, and Environmental Studies, reflecting the institution's strengths in both the arts and sciences.
International Students
Oberlin College is home to a vibrant international student community representing more than 50 countries, with international students making up approximately 12% of the student population. International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) provides comprehensive support, including one-on-one advising, educational programs, community building, and assistance with visa paperwork and immigration regulations. While specific English-taught program listings are not highlighted as distinct from the general curriculum, all courses at Oberlin College are taught in English. The college actively promotes cultural integration through various student organizations and campus events.
Campus & Location
Oberlin College is an integral part of Oberlin, Ohio, a community of about 8,600 residents located 35 miles southwest of Cleveland. The town offers a charming atmosphere with historical architecture, quaint shopping, galleries, and diverse restaurants, all within walking distance of the campus. Campus features include the highly acclaimed Allen Memorial Art Museum, the Weltzheimer/Johnson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the scenic Oberlin Arboretum. The college provides transportation options, including an airport shuttle to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) and a free shuttle service, ObieExpress, to various locations in the greater Cleveland area.
Career Outcomes
Oberlin's Career Exploration and Development (CED) office is dedicated to helping students chart meaningful professional paths through holistic mentoring, one-on-one advising, and cohort programming. The Conservatory also has a dedicated Office of Conservatory Professional Development to assist music students and alumni with career development. Oberlin students have access to resources like ObieOpps for internships and jobs, and support for faculty-mentored research through the Office of Undergraduate Research. The college also connects students with its extensive alumni network through an online directory.
Information for International Students at Oberlin College
Oberlin College in Oberlin, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$1666/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Oberlin College
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Oberlin College:
- TOEFL minimum: 100
- GPA minimum: 3.7
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at Oberlin College (39 programs)
Oberlin College offers 39 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (36)
- German Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
Students gain proficiency in the German language and explore German literature, culture, and history, opening doors to careers in international business, diplomacy, education, and translation.
Field: Humanities - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program analyzes social structures, interactions, and institutions, equipping students with critical perspectives and research skills for careers in social justice, urban planning, public policy, and market research.
Field: Social Sciences - Mathematics (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students develop strong logical reasoning and problem-solving skills through the study of abstract structures and quantitative relationships, leading to careers in finance, data analysis, education, and research.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Art History (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines art and architecture across different cultures and historical periods, developing visual literacy and critical analysis skills for careers in museums, galleries, conservation, and academia.
Field: Fine Arts - American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores the history, culture, and society of the United States through an interdisciplinary lens, preparing students for careers in various fields or further academic study.
Field: Humanities - Classics (BA) — 48 months · English
Students study the languages, literature, history, and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome, developing strong linguistic and analytical skills for various fields including academia, law, and journalism.
Field: Humanities - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores political systems, theories, and behaviors, preparing students for careers in government, law, journalism, public policy, and international organizations.
Field: Social Sciences - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their practical application, preparing them for high-demand careers in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, developing rigorous analytical and argumentative abilities useful in law, ethics, and academia.
Field: Humanities - Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines human societies and cultures across time and space, providing students with cross-cultural understanding and research skills valuable in fields like social work, public health, and international development.
Field: Social Sciences - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore living organisms, their structures, functions, and evolution, preparing them for careers in healthcare, research, environmental science, and biotechnology.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Physics (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program explores the fundamental laws of the universe, from subatomic particles to cosmology, preparing students for careers in research, engineering, technology, and education.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Dance (BA) — 48 months · English
Students engage in rigorous training in various dance forms, alongside theoretical and historical studies, preparing them for careers as performers, choreographers, educators, and arts administrators.
Field: Fine Arts - Environmental Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This interdisciplinary program explores environmental issues from social, political, economic, and scientific perspectives, preparing students for careers in environmental advocacy, policy, education, and sustainable development.
Field: Interdisciplinary Programs - Music Theory (BM) — 48 months · English
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and principles of music, developing advanced analytical skills for careers in music analysis, composition, or academic research.
Field: Music - Religion (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across cultures and history, preparing students for careers in education, non-profit work, and interfaith dialogue.
Field: Humanities - Economics (BA) — 48 months · English
Students learn to analyze economic systems, policies, and markets, developing quantitative and analytical skills highly sought after in finance, business, government, and research.
Field: Social Sciences - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, leading to careers in pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental analysis, and chemical engineering.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Astronomy (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students investigate celestial objects, phenomena, and the universe's origins, preparing them for careers in astronomical research, space science, and science communication.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Music (Arts and Sciences) (BA) — 48 months · English
This program offers a broad liberal arts education with a focus on music theory, history, and performance, suitable for students interested in music as part of a broader academic pursuit or for careers in music journalism, arts management, or education.
Field: Fine Arts - Gender and Sexuality Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This program critically examines gender and sexuality as social and cultural constructs, preparing students for careers in social justice, advocacy, education, and public policy.
Field: Interdisciplinary Programs - Jazz Studies (BM) — 48 months · English
This program provides specialized training in jazz performance, improvisation, and theory, preparing students for careers as jazz musicians, educators, or composers.
Field: Music - Environmental Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary program investigates environmental issues and solutions, preparing students for careers in conservation, environmental policy, sustainability, and ecological research.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Art (BA) — 48 months · English
Students develop creative and technical skills in various artistic mediums, fostering critical thinking and expression for careers in fine art, design, art education, and cultural institutions.
Field: Fine Arts - African American and African Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This interdisciplinary program examines the histories, cultures, and political experiences of people of African descent globally, preparing students for careers in social justice, education, public policy, and cultural institutions.
Field: Interdisciplinary Programs - Composition (BM) — 48 months · English
Students develop skills in creating original musical works across various styles and genres, preparing them for careers as composers, arrangers, or for further study in music composition.
Field: Music - Conducting (BM) — 48 months · English
This program focuses on the art and technique of leading musical ensembles, preparing students for careers as conductors of orchestras, choirs, or bands, or for further graduate studies.
Field: Music - Neuroscience (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary program explores the structure and function of the nervous system, preparing students for careers in medicine, research, psychology, and biotechnology.
Field: Natural Sciences and Mathematics - Theater (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore all aspects of theatrical production, including acting, directing, design, and dramatic literature, preparing them for careers in performance, technical theater, arts administration, and education.
Field: Fine Arts - Music Performance (BM) — 48 months · English
This highly specialized program provides intensive training in a specific instrument or voice, preparing students for professional careers as performers, educators, or for advanced graduate studies in music.
Field: Music - Opera (BM) — 48 months · English
Students receive intensive vocal and dramatic training for operatic performance, preparing them for professional careers as opera singers or for advanced studies in vocal arts.
Field: Music - Cognitive Science (BA) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program integrates psychology, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy to understand the mind and intelligence, leading to careers in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and cognitive research.
Field: Interdisciplinary Programs - Music History (BM) — 48 months · English
This program offers a deep dive into the historical development of music, its cultural contexts, and analytical approaches, preparing students for careers in musicology, archiving, or arts administration.
Field: Music - Music Education (BM) — 48 months · English
This program combines musical training with pedagogical methods, preparing students for careers as music teachers in schools and private studios, fostering musical development in others.
Field: Music - History (BA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a deep understanding of past events and their impact on the present, fostering critical thinking and research skills valuable in many careers, including law, education, and public service.
Field: Humanities - History (BA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a deep understanding of past events and their impact on the present, fostering critical thinking and research skills valuable in many careers, including law, education, and public service.
Field: Humanities
Master Programs (1)
- Master of Music (MM) — English
An advanced program for musicians seeking to refine their performance, composition, or scholarly skills, preparing them for professional careers or doctoral studies in music.
Field: Music
PhD Programs (1)
- Doctoral Programs in Music (PhD) — English
These programs offer the highest level of academic and artistic training in music, preparing scholars and performers for leadership roles in academia, research, and professional music.
Field: Music
Scholarships & Tuition at Oberlin College
✅ Oberlin College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at Oberlin College
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Suburban
- Housing cost: ~$1666/month
Key Highlights
- First co-ed college, diverse.
- Oldest continuously operating conservatory.
- Strong liberal arts and music.
- Pioneering social justice history.
- Faculty mentorship, small classes.
- Vibrant international community.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
Notable Alumni
- Albert Rees
- Robert Maynard Hutchins
- John Heisman
Frequently Asked Questions about Oberlin College
What is Oberlin College?
Oberlin College is a private non-profit university located in Oberlin, United States. It has approximately 2,785 students.
What are the admission requirements for Oberlin College?
TOEFL minimum: 100. GPA minimum: 3.7. Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at Oberlin College?
Courses at Oberlin College are taught in English.
How many programs does Oberlin College offer?
Oberlin College offers 39 programs: 36 Bachelor's, 1 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.
Does Oberlin College offer scholarships?
Yes, Oberlin College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Oberlin College provide visa support?
Yes, Oberlin College provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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