Ohio University's Student Exodus: Who Goes Home And Why?

Ohio University's total enrollment is over 28,000 students across the state and online, with a gender distribution of 38.9% male students and 61.1% female students. The university's undergraduate enrollment is over 20,000, with 43% living in college-owned or affiliated housing and 57% living off campus. The university has seen significant increases in enrollment, with a 4.6% gain resulting in a total of 29,625 students. This growth is attributed to increases in graduate and undergraduate enrollment, as well as online undergraduate programs.

Total enrollment at Ohio University is over 28,000 students

Ohio University's total enrollment has climbed again, with a significant increase of more than 1,300 students, bringing the total to 29,625. This represents a 4.6% gain. The university has seen growth across its populations and campuses, including its main campus in Athens, its regional campuses, and its online programs.

The increase in enrollment is attributed to a combination of factors, including the value offered by the university in terms of affordable tuition and its focus on ensuring students are prepared for success after graduation. The university's first-year to second-year retention rate has also jumped significantly to 84.1%, the highest it has been in over twenty years. This is due to the faculty's direct engagement with students and the various support programs in place, such as the Guarantee+ Graduation Plan, which helps students stay on track toward on-time graduation.

Ohio University's enrollment growth is not limited to a single area but is instead spread across multiple categories. There has been an increase in both graduate and undergraduate enrollment on the Athens campus, with a notable rise in online undergraduate enrollment, which saw a 14% year-over-year gain. The university has also experienced growth in its regional campuses and its 3-campus medical school.

The diversity of the student body is another notable aspect, with students enrolled from all 88 Ohio counties, all 50 states, and 99 countries worldwide. This diverse student population contributes to a rich and dynamic learning environment, fostering cultural exchange and a global perspective.

20,000 students are undergraduates at the Athens campus

Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, is a public institution founded in 1804. The university's Athens campus is home to around 20,000 undergraduate students, with a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,803 as of Fall 2023. This number has likely increased since, as the university's total enrollment climbed by more than 1,300 students in 2024, with growth across its populations and campuses.

The Athens campus offers over 250 academic programs to its undergraduate students, with an 18:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 30 students. The campus spans 1,800 acres and is located in a rural setting.

Ohio University's first-year student retention rate on the Athens campus has been impressive, jumping to 84.1% in 2024, the highest rate the university has seen since 2002. This can be attributed to the faculty's direct engagement and mentoring of students, as well as the work of the Student Affairs department in ensuring students are engaged with campus leadership opportunities and co-curricular activities.

The university's Guarantee+ Graduation Plan, implemented in Fall 2022, also contributes to student retention. This program assigns each student a Student Success Team, including an advisor, experiential learning specialist, and career coach, to help them maximize their educational experience and stay on track for on-time graduation.

With its large undergraduate population, diverse academic offerings, and supportive programs, Ohio University's Athens campus provides a vibrant and engaging environment for its undergraduate students.

43% of students live in college-owned housing

Ohio University's total undergraduate enrollment is 18,803 students, with a gender distribution of 38.9% male students and 61.1% female students. Of these, 43% of students live in college-owned housing, and 57% live off-campus. This is a large student body, and the university supports its students with a range of housing options.

Ohio University offers a vibrant and diverse community for its students, with a focus on creating a sense of home. The college-owned housing options are an integral part of this, providing a place for students to connect, engage, and build a strong foundation for their academic and personal growth. The university aims to foster a sense of belonging and community, encouraging students to thrive and succeed.

College-owned housing offers a unique experience for students, providing a convenient and supportive environment. With a variety of residence halls and apartments, students can find a place that suits their needs and preferences. These living spaces become a home away from home, where students can form lasting connections and create memorable experiences together.

The benefits of college-owned housing extend beyond convenience. It offers a sense of security and community, fostering an environment that enhances the overall student experience. Resident advisors or staff members are often available to assist with any concerns or crises, from roommate conflicts to health issues. This additional layer of support can be invaluable, especially for first-year students navigating the transition to university life.

In conclusion, the 43% of students who live in college-owned housing at Ohio University are offered a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in campus life. The university's commitment to providing a range of housing options ensures that students can find a place to call home, fostering a sense of community and engagement that enhances their academic journey and overall well-being.

57% of students live off campus

Ohio University's total enrollment has been steadily climbing, with a 4.6% gain in 2025, bringing the total number of students to 29,625. This growth is attributed to increases in both graduate and undergraduate enrollment on the Athens campus, as well as a notable rise in online undergraduate enrollment. The university attracts students from diverse backgrounds, enrolling individuals from all 88 Ohio counties, all 50 states, and 99 countries worldwide.

Among the student population, 57% choose to live off-campus, while the remaining 43% reside in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing. This distribution reflects a preference for off-campus living, which may be influenced by various factors such as independence, cost, or the desire for a different college experience.

The decision to live off-campus can offer students several benefits. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for greater independence and freedom from the traditional rules and regulations of on-campus residence halls. Students can set their own schedules, decorate their spaces to their liking, and have more control over their living environment. This can be especially appealing to those who desire a more adult lifestyle or prefer to create their own routines.

Additionally, off-campus living often offers more diverse housing options. Students can choose from a variety of apartments, houses, or shared rentals, allowing for different budgets, preferences, and levels of desired privacy. Those who opt for off-campus accommodations may also have access to larger living spaces, more amenities, and the ability to live with pets, which can enhance their overall quality of life.

Furthermore, living off-campus allows students to immerse themselves in the local community. They become part of the town's culture, interact with a broader range of people, and gain a sense of belonging that extends beyond the university bubble. This integration can lead to valuable connections, a deeper understanding of the area, and potentially more long-lasting relationships with local residents.

However, living off-campus is not without its challenges. Students may face longer commute times to and from campus, especially if they live farther away from the university. This can impact their participation in extracurricular activities, social events, or the ability to utilize on-campus resources as conveniently. Additionally, off-campus living may require more financial planning, as students need to consider factors such as rent, utilities, and groceries, which are typically included in on-campus housing packages.

Ohio University has students from 99 countries

Ohio University is a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from across the globe to its campus. With a total enrollment of over 28,000 students, the university boasts a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere, with a presence of students from 99 countries worldwide. This international presence enriches the educational experience, fostering a global perspective and cross-cultural understanding.

The university's main campus is located in Athens, Ohio, a quintessential college town nestled in the scenic Appalachian foothills. Here, about 20,000 undergraduate students call this beautiful place home, enjoying the vibrant local food, music, and arts culture that Athens has to offer. The town's charm, coupled with the university's academic excellence, attracts students from all corners of the world.

Ohio University's international student body is diverse, with representatives from countries like China, India, Ghana, Saudi Arabia, and Canada, to name a few. This diversity enhances the university's academic environment, exposing students to a wide range of perspectives and experiences. It creates a global community where students can broaden their horizons, develop cultural sensitivity, and form lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.

The university's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is evident in its efforts to support international students with special housing accommodations. It provides special housing and cultural resources to ensure that students from all countries feel welcomed and supported during their time at Ohio University. This dedication to creating a global community has resulted in a rich and dynamic campus life, where students can explore new ideas, embrace different cultures, and develop a deeper understanding of the world.

The presence of students from 99 countries speaks to Ohio University's reputation as a globally-minded institution. It reflects the university's ability to attract top talent from around the world and its success in fostering an environment that values diversity and embraces cultural exchange. This international presence enriches not only the student experience but also contributes to the university's overall excellence, making it a truly world-class educational institution.

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