Wright State University: A Smart Choice For Students?

Wright State University is a public university located in Fairborn, Ohio, that was founded in 1967. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, which is on par with the national average of 15:1. The university has a 95% acceptance rate and offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. The campus is of moderate size, with a great library system and diverse student activities. However, reviews for the university are mixed, with some students reporting a lack of support from the administration and issues with sexual assault culture.

Student experience: social life, campus facilities, and nearby amenities

Wright State University is a public institution with a large undergraduate population of 7,012 students and a spacious 651-acre campus. The university is committed to inclusivity and global engagement, with 60 countries represented in their Spring 2024 student population. Recognising the value that international students bring to its community, the university has partnered with the #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship programme, which provides talented individuals with the opportunity to study in the US.

The campus was designed with students in mind. It features an extensive tunnel system stretching nearly two miles beneath the Dayton campus, connecting 23 out of 24 buildings in the academic core area. This innovative infrastructure shields students from inclement weather as they move between buildings.

The university offers specialised housing tailored to cultural and logistical requirements, including shared dormitories and communal spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds. Living in close proximity fosters a sense of community and provides countless opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The campus also boasts a vibrant community with various clubs and organisations that cater to a range of interests and passions. Students can take advantage of the numerous on-campus job opportunities, which offer part-time positions that accommodate class schedules and provide valuable work experience.

Wright State University's campus is located in Dayton, Ohio, and offers a range of nearby amenities and attractions. The university's website and student forums can provide up-to-date information on the latest offerings and recommendations from current and former students.

Student-teacher ratio and access

Wright State University, named after Ohio's Wright brothers, offers a blend of access, affordability, and innovation. The university has a total undergraduate enrolment of 7,012 (as of Fall 2023) and a campus size of 651 acres. The average annual cost, including tuition, books, and supplies, is $12,214, with in-state tuition and fees being $10,076 and out-of-state tuition and fees being $19,494.

The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, with more full-time teachers than the average school. 64% of instructors teach full-time, while only 36% are part-time non-faculty or non-tenure-track faculty. This is below the national average of 51.4% for part-time staff, indicating a commitment to a strong, long-term instructional team. The university also has 102 instructional graduate assistants who provide teaching or teaching-related duties, such as teaching lower-level courses, assisting professors, and grading student work.

Wright State University guarantees the same annual cost of tuition, housing, and dining for four years for new incoming, in-state, degree-seeking undergraduate students. This guarantee provides financial predictability and stability for students and their families.

The university is located in Dayton, Ohio, which offers a vibrant downtown scene with shops, restaurants, and sports venues. The surrounding area is diverse, with almost a million residents. The cost of living and housing in Dayton is affordable, and the city offers a rich quality of life with outdoor recreation, performing arts, cultural amenities, professional and college sports, historical landmarks, and extensive shopping and dining options.

Course quality and departmental resources

Wright State University is a public university located in Fairborn, Ohio, in the Dayton area. It was founded in 1967 and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various departments, including Theatre, Medicine, and Engineering.

Wright State University has a good reputation for its academic programs and is known for its challenging and rewarding coursework. The university offers a wide range of resources to support students in their academic pursuits. The student-to-faculty ratio at the university is 14:1, which is slightly better than the national average of 15:1. This ratio suggests that students can expect a reasonable level of interaction and access to professors. Additionally, the university boasts a higher percentage of full-time faculty (66%) compared to the national average of 47%, indicating that students will have ample opportunities to engage with their instructors.

The university's website and student reviews provide insights into the quality of education and resources available in specific departments. For example, the College of Education has received praise from alumni, who have highlighted the dedication and support of the professors. The Nursing program is also well-regarded, with alumni attributing their success in the field to the high-quality education they received.

However, it is important to note that some student reviews have indicated issues with constant restructuring and short-staffed departments. There are concerns about the focus on publishing and career advancement by professors, which may impact the overall quality of instruction. Alumni reviews also highlight a lack of support in securing internships and a negative reputation in the professional community.

When considering the course quality and departmental resources at Wright State University, it is essential to weigh both the positive and negative experiences shared by students. While the university offers a range of academic programs and resources, individual experiences may vary depending on the specific department and instructor.

Career outcomes and alumni salaries

Wright State University offers a range of career services to help students and alumni pursue meaningful careers, build professional and personal networks, and find job opportunities. The university's career services centre provides access to the Handshake database, where students can learn about career workshops, fairs, presentations, and employer-hosted events. They can also apply for internships, volunteer opportunities, fellowships, and career positions.

The job roles of Wright State University graduates span various sectors, including accounting, administration, education, human resources, sales, research, data and analytics, and business development. According to the First Destination Survey for 2020-2021, the primary pursuit of graduates was finding employment, with job locations in California, Ohio, Indiana, and other states.

While specific information on alumni salaries is not readily available, the university's career services provide resources and opportunities for students and alumni to secure well-paying jobs. The estimated annual cost for off-campus tuition, fees, and living expenses for Ohio residents attending Wright State University is $12,872, indicating a relatively affordable educational option.

Wright State University's career services and alumni network can be valuable assets in securing internships, employment, and other professional opportunities. The university's reputation and ranking in the Best Colleges list also contribute to its appeal, with a #392-434 ranking in the 2025 edition. These factors can positively impact a graduate's career prospects and salary potential.

Tuition fees, scholarships, and affordability

Wright State University is a public institution founded in 1967 with a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,012 as of fall 2023. The university has a large campus of 651 acres and follows a semester-based academic calendar.

Wright State University is committed to keeping a quality education affordable for students and their families. The university's tuition fees are among the lowest in Ohio for four-year universities. The tuition fees for in-state students are $10,076, while for out-of-state students, it is $19,494. These figures include both tuition and fees. The university also offers a range of financial aid options to make the cost of attendance more affordable.

The university provides a cost estimator on its website to help students and families estimate the total expenses, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing, dining, and other costs. The estimator is specifically designed for students assessed general undergraduate or graduate fees. For specialized programs, such as the Boonshoft School of Medicine or the School of Professional Psychology, students are advised to contact their respective departments for detailed cost information.

The Wright Guarantee Tuition Program is a notable initiative that guarantees the same annual cost of in-state tuition, housing, and dining for new and transfer undergraduate students over a four-year period. This program provides stability and predictability for students and their families. However, it is important to note that this guarantee does not apply to non-Ohio resident students, and their tuition rates may vary.

Wright State University offers various scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans to help students finance their education. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $9,671, and 67% of first-year students received some form of need-based financial aid. Merit-based scholarships are also available and are awarded based on academic, athletic, or other outstanding achievements. Additionally, students can explore opportunities to work while studying to supplement their financial resources.

The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive information on tuition costs, scholarships, and other forms of assistance. Students are encouraged to reach out and explore all the available options to make their educational journey more affordable.

Frequently asked questions