Best
Value Colleges in Cincinnati in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Cincinnati, OH, combines foundational coursework with practical experience in a major regional business center. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or sales representative. Popular local options include the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, and Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, each offering business-related study pathways suited to varied goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Cincinnati, OH offers coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students learn to evaluate behavior and understand mental health. Options include the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, and the College of Mount St. Joseph. Graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, research assistant, or social services worker; becoming a licensed psychologist requires further education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Cincinnati offers a mix of theory and hands-on learning. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and gain internship experience. Popular choices include the University of Cincinnati and Xavier University, with Cincinnati State also offering pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or data analysts, working across business, healthcare, and technology organizations.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Cincinnati, Ohio, combines coursework in human development, counseling theories, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Students may complete supervised field experiences and learn approaches to mental health and career concerns. Graduates pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors, depending on degree, licensure, and experience. Cincinnati-area options include University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, and Mount St. Joseph University. Compare curricula and accreditation when choosing.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Cincinnati, Ohio, prepares students to provide evidence-based care in hospitals, clinics, and settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Programs lead to careers as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or healthcare coordinators, depending on degree and licensure. Popular options include the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, and The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Best Colleges in Cincinnati, OH Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 19,472.5, compared with 37,226.3 at schools in the top 10%, a substantially higher median among those schools.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 100.0% of students across the colleges, compared with 68.0% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 68.0%. Colleges receive an average of 6,634.25 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 20,527.2 applicants.
• The median number of male applicants is 243.5, compared with a median of 513.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,180.33 on the SAT and 23.4 on the ACT.
• Average enrollment is 5,920.18 students, including averages of 487.38 enrolled men and 530.38 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.6%, compared with 73.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 42.5% for men and 57.5% for women.
• Eleven institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are 11 coeducational schools, with zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost against financial aid, and compare acceptance rates and applicant volumes with their academic profile. They should also consider SAT and ACT averages, enrollment, graduation outcomes - including differences by gender - and the degree levels available, since these figures vary across the schools.

How much does studying at a college in Cincinnati, OH cost?

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Cincinnati, OH, is $22,621.08. Treat this as a useful local benchmark as you compare options such as the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, and Cincinnati State; your actual bill will depend on the school, program, and living arrangements.

• Tuition and fees average $21,968.67.
• Room and board average $11,784.22.
• Books and supplies average $1,509.

Tuition is only one part of attending, while housing, meals, course materials, and personal costs can change your out-of-pocket total. Before choosing a campus, compare each institution's cost estimate and ask about aid, scholarships, payment plans, and whether commuting from home could reduce expenses. Planning early can make a degree feel within reach. If you are considering UC, Xavier, or Cincinnati State, request a program-specific estimate rather than relying on a citywide average. Your residency, enrollment load, and program requirements may affect the amount you pay.

How long does it take to finish college in Cincinnati, OH?

Most bachelor's degrees in Cincinnati take about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree typically takes two. At the University of Cincinnati or Xavier University, your timeline depends on your major, course sequencing, and whether you study year-round. Programs with labs, clinical placements, or required internships may take longer. Some students also need extra time to complete all requirements.

Reported graduation rates offer a useful reality check: the average is 54.6%, while the top 10% of schools average 73.2%. Rates average 49.62% for men and 56.6% for women.

• To finish sooner, bring in AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits, transfer eligible coursework, or take summer classes; confirm each credit counts toward your chosen degree.
• Ask advisors at UC, Xavier, or Cincinnati State about accelerated terms, year-round prerequisite courses, and manageable schedules. Mapping requirements early can prevent delays and help you stay encouraged as you progress.

Salary

A useful earnings benchmark for graduates in Cincinnati, OH is a median alumni salary of about $50,465. Graduates of top-10% schools have a median alumni salary of approximately $73,894, showing the potential for higher earnings depending on the school and career path.

If you're considering the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, or Cincinnati State, remember that these figures are broad benchmarks - not guaranteed salaries for graduates of any one institution. Your field of study, experience, and role can all affect what you earn, but it's encouraging to see the potential for Cincinnati graduates to build rewarding careers.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Cincinnati?

Within Cincinnati city limits, the two major universities are the University of Cincinnati (UC) and Xavier University. The count can change depending on what you include: the wider Cincinnati area has additional universities, and some nearby schools are outside the city itself. For a prospective student, checking each campus's location is a useful first step.

What is the largest university in Cincinnati?

The University of Cincinnati is the city's largest university by student enrollment. Its size means students can explore a broad range of academic programs, campus activities, and services. UC's main campus is in the Uptown neighborhood, so it also offers a lively college setting within Cincinnati.

How many universities are there in Cincinnati?

If you mean the broader Cincinnati metropolitan area rather than the city limits, there are more than two universities, including institutions across the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky and in nearby suburbs. There is no single count without defining the area and deciding which types of higher-education institutions to include.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Cincinnati, OH Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Cincinnati is a large public research university in the heart of Cincinnati, giving local students access to internships, cultural attractions, and a broad campus community without leaving the city. It enrolls 45,563 students, the largest figure among these five schools. Its 75% graduation rate and 85% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking an accessible route to a degree. Reported total study cost is $27,019, while median alumni salary is $55,214, useful figures to weigh against your goals.

Xavier University is a private Jesuit university in Cincinnati, known for a close-knit campus and emphasis on liberal arts, service, and professional preparation. Its enrollment of 4,987 is considerably smaller than the University of Cincinnati's, which may suit students who prefer a more compact community while remaining in the city. Xavier reports a 69% graduation rate and an 86% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $49,195, and median alumni salary is $64,858; compare those outcomes with budget and intended career.

Mount St. Joseph University is a private Catholic institution in Cincinnati's western suburbs, offering a smaller-campus setting within reach of the city's neighborhoods and services. Its 1,994 enrolled students create a more intimate scale than the larger local universities listed here. The school reports a 56% graduation rate and 59% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $36,950, with median alumni salary of $46,021. For Cincinnati-area students, consider campus commute, program availability, and financial aid alongside these figures when assessing fit.

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences is a Cincinnati-based college focused on nursing and health education, making it a specialized option for students pursuing patient-care careers locally. It enrolls 717 students, offering a smaller community than broad-based universities. Its reported graduation rate is 56%, and acceptance rate is 59%. Total study cost is $17,325, the lowest among these five institutions, while median alumni salary is $73,919, the highest. Check program requirements and clinical placement details as you compare.

Art Academy of Cincinnati is a small, specialized art and design college in downtown Cincinnati, suited to students seeking a creative education in an urban setting. Its enrollment is 213, the smallest among the five schools, which may support a close campus community. The academy reports a 41% graduation rate and 34% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $37,257, and median alumni salary is $24,923. Prospective students should compare portfolio expectations, studio resources, and career plans when considering this path.