Best
Value Colleges in Columbus in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Columbus, OH, combines courses in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analysis. Students develop communication, leadership, and decision-making skills through projects, internships, and case studies. Popular colleges include The Ohio State University, Franklin University, Capital University, and Columbus State Community College. Graduates pursue roles such as management trainee, business analyst, marketing coordinator, sales representative, human resources specialist, or operations coordinator across Columbus's healthcare, government, finance, and technology sectors.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Columbus, Ohio, combines scientific study of behavior with practical preparation for careers. Students typically take courses in developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Popular options include The Ohio State University, Capital University, and Franklin University. Depending on degree level and experience, graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, research assistant, or outreach worker. Advanced study supports licensure and clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Columbus, OH combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and mathematics. Students often build projects and gain experience through internships with technology, healthcare, finance, and government employers. Popular options include The Ohio State University and Franklin University, with Columbus State Community College offering related pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data analyst, cybersecurity specialist, or database administrator. Coursework develops teamwork and communication skills.

Counseling

Studying counseling programs in Columbus, OH, offers preparation for helping people manage emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, psychological assessment, multicultural counseling, group techniques, and supervised practicum. Local options include The Ohio State University, Capital University, and Ohio Dominican University. Graduates may pursue licensure and work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community agency practitioners, depending on degree, credentials, and state requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Columbus, Ohio, offers paths from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced study. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical practice. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or community health; some pursue roles in schools or public health. Columbus options include The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, and Mount Carmel College of Nursing, which offer nursing programs.

Best Colleges in Columbus, OH Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $21,745, compared with $40,451.60 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% group more expensive by this measure.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 82.64% at top 10% schools. The average acceptance rate is also 82.64%.
• Schools receive an average of 7,370.09 applicants, while the top 10% of schools average 4,520 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 25, compared with 150 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,237.5 on the SAT and 23.67 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,368.54. Average enrollment is 555.44 men and 585.6 women.
• The average graduation rate is 46.92%, compared with 82.4% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 45.5% for men and 48.0% for women.
• Eight institutions offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, nine offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 12 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When comparing colleges, prospective students should weigh total cost alongside financial aid, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, and available degree levels align with their priorities. The contrast between the overall and top 10% figures can help students assess whether higher costs correspond with outcomes they value.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Columbus, OH, is $25,041.31. Tuition and fees average $24,382.92; books and supplies, $1,429.12; and room and board, $13,550.60. These figures offer a useful starting point, but your actual budget depends on your school, program, and living arrangements for local students.

At The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College, compare costs for your intended program; tuition varies by school, residency, and course load. Sharing housing, living with family, or commuting may help control expenses and make your plans feel achievable. Ask about aid, scholarships, payment plans, and transfer options if you hope to begin at community college and later earn a bachelor's degree. Treat $25,041.31 as a planning benchmark, not a guaranteed full-degree price. Confirm whether each estimate covers one academic year or the entire program. With a little research, you can find an exciting Columbus path that fits your budget.

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

In Columbus, OH, a traditional full-time bachelor's degree usually takes about four years; an associate degree at Columbus State Community College commonly takes about two years. At The Ohio State University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full-time. Changing majors, working while studying, or needing prerequisites can add time, so meet an advisor early.

You may finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, using AP or dual-enrollment coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask Ohio State or Columbus State advisors to confirm which credits apply before enrolling; starting at a community college and transferring may help if the requirements align.

The provided figures show a 46.92% average graduation rate, compared with 82.4% for schools in the top 10%; rates are 50.42% for men and 46.67% for women. Your outcome can differ. Use advising, support, and a course plan to keep moving toward that rewarding finish.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Columbus, OH, median alumni earnings are about $53,247. Graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary have median earnings of about $76,997 - a promising benchmark as you consider how a degree could support your career goals.

• Columbus-area options include The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, Capital University, and Franklin University.
• Your actual earnings can vary based on your field of study, experience, and career path.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Columbus?

Using a narrow definition - four-year institutions formally called universities and located in Columbus - there are three: The Ohio State University, Franklin University, and Ohio Dominican University. The number changes if you include colleges or institutions in nearby suburbs, so it helps to check whether a school's campus is actually within Columbus city limits.

What is the largest university in Columbus?

The Ohio State University is Columbus's largest university by enrollment. Its extensive main campus offers a broad range of academic programs, student organizations, and campus activities, giving students plenty of ways to explore their interests and meet people. For someone studying in Columbus, its size also means a notably wide selection of courses and campus resources.

How many universities are there in Columbus?

For planning purposes, the clearest answer is three universities within Columbus under that same narrow definition. If you're comparing places to study, though, you may also want to include local colleges and schools just outside the city; that broader search will give you more options without suggesting they're all universities in Columbus proper.

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

Ohio State University offers a large, comprehensive university experience in Columbus, with 61,326 students and broad academic options. Its 88% graduation rate and 61% acceptance rate provide useful context for applicants. The listed total cost of studying is $38,958, while median alumni salary is $51,760. For a student already based in Columbus, studying here can mean access to the city's cultural, professional, and public resources alongside a major campus community. Consider program fit, costs, and commuting needs when comparing options.

Capital University, located in the Columbus area, is a smaller university setting with 2,327 enrolled students. Its 60% graduation rate and 70% acceptance rate offer a snapshot of outcomes and selectivity. The reported total cost of studying is $42,744, and median alumni salary is $45,220. Its compact scale may appeal to students seeking a more close-knit campus than a large institution. From Columbus, compare transportation, housing, and program availability as you assess whether Capital fits your academic and financial priorities.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is a focused option for students pursuing nursing education in Columbus, rather than a broad, multi-field university. It enrolls 672 students, with a 54% graduation rate and an 84% acceptance rate. The listed total cost is $27,600, and median alumni salary is $78,694. Those figures may interest applicants weighing healthcare-focused study and earnings, though salary outcomes vary. Living in Columbus can place students near healthcare settings; compare clinical placements, program requirements, and commute before applying.

Pontifical College Josephinum is a small, specialized institution in Columbus, with 104 enrolled students. Its 32% graduation rate and 96% acceptance rate are useful context, though applicants should confirm how these measures apply to its programs. Total cost of studying is listed as $30,000; median alumni salary is unavailable. Its distinctive educational mission may suit students seeking a focused path rather than a conventional large-campus experience. Columbus residents can assess local housing, transportation, and program-specific expectations directly with the college.

Ohio Dominican University offers a smaller university environment in Columbus, enrolling 1,139 students. The reported graduation rate is 41%, and the acceptance rate is 94%. Its total cost of studying is $35,110, with median alumni salary of $44,650. The university's undergraduate setting may suit students comparing a campus experience with access to the city. For Columbus residents, consider commuting or housing expenses alongside tuition, and review specific majors, student support, and career opportunities before deciding whether it meets your goals.