Most
Popular Colleges in Columbus in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Columbus, OH, offers access to a diverse business community and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations analyst, or business development associate. Popular local options include The Ohio State University, Franklin University, Capital University, and Columbus State Community College, which offers associate-level business programs and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Columbus, Ohio, explores behavior through science and community engagement. Programs commonly cover developmental psychology, cognition, social psychology, statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Students gain experience through labs, internships, or community service. Graduates pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, or research coordinator; advanced counseling and clinical positions usually require graduate study. Ohio State University, Capital University, and Ohio Dominican University offer psychology study in Columbus.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Columbus, OH offers paths from foundational programming to advanced computing. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular options include The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, and Franklin University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT consultants in technology, healthcare, finance, and government.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Columbus, Ohio, typically combines psychology foundations with supervised practice. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention. Programs may include practicum or internship experiences. Graduates pursue roles such as licensed professional counselor, school counselor, substance use counselor, career counselor, or behavioral health case manager, subject to degree and state licensure requirements. Columbus options include Ohio State and Capital University for interested students.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Columbus, Ohio, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and maternal-child and mental health nursing. Popular local options include The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, and Mount Carmel College of Nursing. Depending on the degree and licensure, graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, care coordinators, or public health nurses in hospitals.

Best Colleges in Columbus, OH Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 27,600.0; for schools in the top 10%, it is higher at 40,825.0.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 82.64% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 82.64%. Schools receive an average of 7,370.09 applicants, while top 10% schools average 4,520.0 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 25.0 for men and 150.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,237.5 on the SAT and 23.67 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 6,477.55. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 555.44 and 585.6, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 51.91%, while the average for top 10% schools is 88.0%. Median graduation rates are 50.0% for men and 51.5% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, and graduation rates. Degree offerings and school type can also help you find an institution that fits your goals; the higher costs and graduation rates reported for top 10% schools are worth weighing against your own priorities.

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

The average reported cost of studying in Columbus, OH, is $27,705.55. Treat this as a planning benchmark, not a guaranteed full-degree price: your actual spending will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and time to graduation. Comparing nearby options such as The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College can help you find a path that fits your goals and budget.

Reported average figures include:

• Tuition and fees: $27,419.36.
• Room and board: $13,729.75.
• Books and supplies: $1,347.57.

These categories do not align neatly with the reported total, so avoid adding them together as though they describe one student's bill; costs may use different scopes. Ask each school for a current, program-specific estimate and check whether your plan includes commuting, housing, meals, and financial aid. The encouraging part is that Columbus offers both a large university experience and a community-college option, giving you ways to compare costs before enrolling.

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

In Columbus, OH, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Columbus State Community College often takes two. At The Ohio State University and other local colleges, part-time attendance, changing majors, or taking time off can extend that timeline.

Graduation rates show how many students finish: the average is 51.91%, or about 52 of every 100 students. The average for the top 10% of schools is 88%. Reported averages are 56.6% for men and 52.6% for women.

Faster completion may be possible through:

• Transfer credits, AP or CLEP exams, summer courses, or accelerated schedules can shorten the timeline.
• Ask an adviser at Ohio State or Columbus State which credits fit your major before enrolling, so you avoid repeating classes.
• Online or hybrid courses may help balance study with work and family.
• Seeing requirements fall away feels encouraging; credits can save time and tuition.

Salary

Graduates in Columbus, OH have a median alumni salary of about $53,247. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $79,822 - a promising benchmark as you consider your college and career options.

Columbus students may explore institutions such as The Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College. These figures offer a broad earnings reference, not a salary guarantee or a prediction for any particular school, degree, or career; your results can vary with your field of study and experience.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Columbus?

The Ohio State University is the most attended college in Columbus. Its Columbus campus enrolls more students than any other local college, offering a huge range of academic programs, research opportunities, and student organizations. For a prospective student, that scale can mean many paths to explore and a lively campus experience.

What is the richest university in Columbus?

The Ohio State University is generally the richest university in Columbus when "richest" means the size of its endowment. Its endowment supports research, scholarships, teaching, and other university priorities. A large endowment does not mean every student's costs are low, so compare tuition and financial aid offers when planning your budget.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Columbus, OH Ranking in 2026-2027

Ohio State University offers a large public university experience in Columbus, OH, with 61,326 enrolled students. Its 88% graduation rate and 61% acceptance rate provide useful context for applicants. Total study cost is $38,958, while median alumni salary is $51,760. Students can explore a broad range of academic fields, research, and campus activities in Ohio's capital. Consider class size and personal support alongside these figures when comparing local options and planning your degree and living expenses in the Columbus area.

Capital University provides a smaller private university setting in Columbus, OH, enrolling 2,327 students. Its 60% graduation rate and 70% acceptance rate can help frame your admissions and completion expectations. Annual total study cost is $42,744, and median alumni salary is $45,220. The campus offers a close-knit alternative to larger institutions, with city resources nearby. Compare available programs, financial aid, and career outcomes directly, and consider how a smaller student community fits your learning preferences and goals in Columbus.

Hondros College of Nursing enrolls 3,857 students and focuses on preparing learners for nursing careers. Its 21% graduation rate, 85% acceptance rate, $17,264 total study cost, and $61,725 median alumni salary offer distinct points for comparison. For Columbus, OH residents, its nursing-focused programs make it a specialized regional choice. Ask about clinical placements, licensure preparation, campus location, and schedule options before enrolling. The relatively low cost and higher reported salary may interest career-minded applicants, but individual outcomes vary by program.

Ohio Dominican University offers a smaller university experience in Columbus, OH, with 1,139 enrolled students. Its 41% graduation rate and 94% acceptance rate provide admissions context, while the total cost of study is $35,110. Median alumni salary is $44,650. The university's setting may appeal to students seeking a more compact campus community within the city. Review program offerings, financial aid, and student support services, then weigh the reported outcomes against your career plans and budget before choosing a Columbus degree.

Columbus College of Art & Design is a specialized college for students drawn to art and design fields in Columbus, OH. It enrolls 917 students, with a 56% graduation rate and 68% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $40,825, and median alumni salary is $27,558. Its focused creative environment can suit applicants seeking studio-based learning and a connection to the city's arts scene. Compare specific majors, portfolio expectations, equipment costs, and career pathways, as outcomes depend on discipline and choices.