Ohio Northern University
Ada, United States • Founded 1871
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1871, the Ohio Northern University is a non-profit private multidisciplinary higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium town of Ada (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), Ohio.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Ohio Northern University (ONU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Methodist religion. Ohio Northern University (ONU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 153-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 60-69% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
ONU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
For visits or applications to Ohio Northern University, location and primary contact details are below. Open days are typically announced via social channels — follow them to receive event notifications.
Academic Details
The academic indicators below give context on how Ohio Northern University operates at scale. A lower staff-to-student ratio generally signals more faculty access, though research-heavy institutions skew the read.
Academic Structures
The academic-side structure of Ohio Northern University, broken down by unit type. International branch campuses, where they exist, are sometimes organised as separate units with their own structure.
Unit 5 items
- Claude W. Pettit College of Law
- Getty College of Arts and Sciences
- James F. Dicke College of Business Administration
- Rudolph H. Raabe College of Pharmacy
- T. J. Smull College of Engineering
Programs Offered
Ohio Northern University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below — use the filter to narrow your shortlist. Programme entry windows and admissions criteria typically appear on each programme's dedicated page.
62 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 51 programmes
Showing 10 of 51.
Master's Degree 3 programmes
Doctorate 1 programme
Professional Doctorate 4 programmes
Certificate 2 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 1 programme
How to apply to Ohio Northern University
Five steps that capture how most applications to Ohio Northern University flow, from research through submission to follow-up correspondence.
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1
Research programmes at Ohio Northern University
Ohio Northern University's catalogue includes 62 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Ohio Northern University's admissions process.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Lodge your application
Submit your completed application through Ohio Northern University's official website at www.onu.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (419) 772 2000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ohio Northern University
A short Q&A covering Ohio Northern University's essentials — founding, location, scale, ranking, and academic structure.
In what year was Ohio Northern University established?
Ohio Northern University was founded in 1871 (approximately 155 years ago).
Where is Ohio Northern University located?
Ohio Northern University is located in Ada, United States.
Is Ohio Northern University a public or private institution?
It is a private higher-education institution.
What is the student enrolment at Ohio Northern University?
Student enrolment at Ohio Northern University is around 2,489.
Is Ohio Northern University affiliated with a religion?
Ohio Northern University is associated with Christian-Methodist.
How is Ohio Northern University organised academically?
Ohio Northern University has 5 academic units.
Who recognises Ohio Northern University?
Ohio Northern University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find Ohio Northern University online?
Ohio Northern University's official website is www.onu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Subject-specific rankings sometimes diverge from overall national rankings. A university below Ohio Northern University overall may lead in your subject — worth checking subject tables separately.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
These universities are also members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Methodist
Ohio Northern University and the universities below share a Christian-Methodist affiliation.
Faculties at nearby universities
Universities located near Ohio Northern University are listed below.
Where Else to Study Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences
These universities in the United States also offer Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences programmes, alongside Ohio Northern University.
Universities Compared with Ohio Northern University
Universities of a similar scale and standing to Ohio Northern University are listed below.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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