Ohio Christian University
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Author: Kaitlyn Short
Ohio Christian University offers both online and face-to-face courses to increase degree flexibility options for its students. OCU has acquired a number of different accreditations, including one from the Higher Learning Commission, a charter from the State of Ohio, and the Association for Biblical Higher Education. While OCU is a Christian-based university, students are not required to practice the Christian faith in order to attend. Last year, 3,668 students attended Ohio Christian University, pursuing campus-based and online education. Also, 99% of students receive some sort of financial aid, a statistic that is not found at many for-profit institutions that have an online learning program. In Fall 2011, most of Ohio Christian University's students attended satellite campuses.
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The Good
- Financial Aid and Acceptance Rate
- Diverse Program Offering
- High Student-to-Teacher Ratio
Financial Aid and Acceptance Rate
One of the most surprising statistics is the fact that OCU offered 99% of its students financial aid, making it easier for students to get an education without worrying about the financial burden. While that is impressive, there are other statistics that prospective students might also appreciate. The acceptance rate for OCU is competitive, making a degree from OCU a prized commodity. Ohio Christian University accepted 63% of students that applied for the 2011 academic year. Students who are accepted are qualified and it creates a more competitive educational experience.Diverse Program Offering
Students will have the opportunity to pursue a degree in one of the following areas of study:- Business and Government
- General Studies and Nursing (OCU also offers a very flexible nursing program. Students can complete a traditional BSN degree, while also completing their RN certification through post-graduate study to complete a BSN program.)
- Music and Worship Leadership
- Psychology and Counseling
- Religion and Ministry
- Teacher Education
High Student-to-Teacher Ratio
For a small, religious institution, the number of programs that are offered by Ohio Christian University is impressive. They offer certificate certifications, associate degrees, bachelor degrees, and master degrees, ranging in majors from an MBA, to music, to disaster planning and relief. Also, OCU has a student:teacher ratio of 15:1. This applies to both the online and on-campus students and it allows for maximal interaction between students and the instructor.The Bad
- Tuition and Fees
- Program Weaknesses
- No Life Experience Credit
Tuition and Fees
Tuition costs are a little tricky to figure out for Ohio Christian University Students. Most online platforms include all educational materials in the tuition cost, but OCU charges separately. Costs for books will vary by program/course, so those fees will be tacked on in addition to tuition. Also, technology fees were not included in tuition fees. The $175 technology fee per semester might deter a part-time student who was pursuing their degree online.Program Weaknesses
Other common concerns include:- Difficulty working with faculty
- Having to take out loans to finance online schooling
- Taking religious courses even if not interested
No Life Experience Credit
For students who have worked for a number of years and are looking to gain some additional education, there is no credit for life experience option. That means working professionals may be required to take courses despite already mastering the material in their career.The Bottom Line
- Create account online
- Indicate degree level
- Fill out contact information
- Submit online application
- Await admissions decision
