The Ohio State University at Lima
General Information — The Ohio State University at Lima
About (Overview)
The Ohio State University at Lima, often referred to as Ohio State Lima, is a regional campus of The Ohio State University system located in Lima, Ohio. As a public regional campus, it offers students the opportunity to begin their undergraduate journey in a smaller, more intimate setting while still benefiting from the prestige, resources, and pathways of the larger Ohio State system. The campus emphasizes flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to start many of Ohio State’s more than 170 majors at Lima and either complete their degree on-site or transfer to the Columbus main campus to finish their studies. The environment is commuter-friendly, with many students balancing studies, work, and community commitments. The curriculum spans liberal arts, sciences, education, and professional fields, and the campus collaborates closely with nearby institutions such as Rhodes State College by sharing facilities and resources. The Lima campus maintains a modest student body size and fosters close student-faculty interaction. The campus library supports academic work with extensive resources, and student life includes a variety of clubs, organizations, and intramural opportunities. The Ohio State Lima campus is dedicated to delivering a quality, accessible education “close to home” while maintaining the rigor and reputation of The Ohio State University.
Contact Information
Address: 4240 Campus Drive, Lima, Ohio 45804, USA
Phone: (567) 242-7272
Email: General inquiries can be directed to the appropriate department via the campus email system ending with osu.edu.
School Facts — The Ohio State University at Lima
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1960 |
| Type | Public Regional Campus |
| Campus Size | Approximately 565 acres |
| Colors | Scarlet and Gray |
| Motto | Disciplina in civitatem — “Education for Citizenship” |
| Parent Institution | The Ohio State University |
The Ohio State University at Lima Rankings
| Ranking / Metric | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Lima Campus Graduation Rate | Approximately 12.4% |
| Lima Campus Retention Rate | Between 42% and 70%, depending on cohort |
| Ohio State (Main Campus) National University Ranking | Around 43rd among national universities |
| Ohio State (Main Campus) Global Ranking | Around 99th worldwide (THE), 151st (QS) |
The Ohio State University at Lima Academics
The Ohio State University at Lima Faculties / Departments
- Liberal Arts & Humanities
- Natural Sciences & Mathematics
- Social Sciences
- Education & Human Development
- Business & Public Affairs
- Public Administration & Social Service
- Health & Community Studies
- Engineering Technology / Applied Technology
- Interdisciplinary Studies / General Studies
The Ohio State University at Lima Courses and Programs / Majors
- Liberal Arts & Humanities
- Public Administration & Social Service
- Education (Teacher Preparation)
- Social Work & Youth Services
- Business Administration
- Natural Sciences (Biology, Environmental Science)
- Psychology & Behavioral Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Studies / General Studies
- Engineering Technology / Applied Technical Fields
- Health & Community Services
Online Learning
Ohio State Lima supports online and hybrid instruction options. A significant portion of students take at least one course online, and some complete much of their coursework through remote delivery. The Lima campus integrates with Ohio State’s digital infrastructure, giving access to online course catalogs, virtual learning environments, student support systems, and library databases. Online learning provides flexibility for working adults, commuters, and nontraditional learners who need adaptable study schedules. The emphasis on remote options ensures that the campus maintains inclusivity while offering quality education comparable to in-person programs.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Middle 50% Range / Typical Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | 1018 – 1260 | Average for admitted first-year students |
| ACT | 22.0 – 22.6 | Average for incoming class |
| GRE | Not commonly required (few graduate programs offered) | — |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates at The Ohio State University Lima campus generally range from 42% to 70%, depending on the year and student type. These rates reflect the challenges faced by regional and commuter campuses where students often balance family, work, and academic responsibilities. Graduation rates are modest, with completion around 12.4% for students who finish at Lima. However, many students transfer successfully to the main campus to complete their degrees, which is a built-in advantage of the Ohio State system. The university continues to implement student success programs, mentorship initiatives, and academic advising support to improve these outcomes over time.
The Ohio State University at Lima Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Applicants generally have high school GPAs in the B to A- range. The SAT middle range for incoming students is approximately 1018 to 1260, and ACT scores average around 22 to 23. The Lima campus maintains an inclusive admissions philosophy, emphasizing access and potential rather than purely competitive criteria.
The Ohio State University at Lima Acceptance Rate
| Year / Metric | Acceptance Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Current / Recent Period | Approximately 99% to 100% | Nearly open admissions policy |
| Historical / Comparisons | Consistently broad access | Supports regional and first-generation students |
The Ohio State University at Lima Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed Ohio State application form indicating Lima campus, along with official high school transcripts, standardized test scores if applicable, and a personal statement or essay if required. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and meet GPA minimums for transfer eligibility. Letters of recommendation may be requested for certain programs, especially education or honors. Additional documents, such as proof of residency and FAFSA forms, are encouraged for financial aid. The process is streamlined and student-friendly to ensure accessibility for all qualified applicants.
Application Process
- Complete the online application and select Lima campus.
- Submit official high school or college transcripts.
- Provide standardized test scores (optional or if required).
- Submit a personal essay or statement if applicable.
- Submit letters of recommendation if required.
- Complete financial aid and scholarship forms (FAFSA).
- Confirm admission offer and attend orientation before enrollment.
The Ohio State University at Lima Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Intake | Deadline / Important Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | December 1 (Priority Deadline) | Fee waived for early applications |
| Spring Semester | Late fall, prior to term start | For transfer and continuing students |
| Scholarship / Financial Aid | February to March | Aligns with FAFSA deadlines |
| Orientation / Registration | Before semester start | Mandatory for new students |
Essay Prompt
Essay prompts often ask applicants to describe their educational goals, reasons for choosing Ohio State Lima, contributions to campus life, or challenges they have overcome. Essays are reviewed to assess motivation, self-awareness, and alignment with Ohio State’s values of growth, community, and service.
The Ohio State University at Lima Scholarships
Ohio State Lima provides merit-based and need-based scholarships, along with special campus awards for academic excellence and leadership. First-year and transfer students are eligible for tuition-free initiatives for qualifying low- and middle-income applicants. Students are encouraged to submit scholarship forms early, as awards are based on academic merit, financial need, and community involvement.
The Ohio State University at Lima Tuition and Fees
| Type of Cost | Annual Amount / Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (Resident) | $8,937 per year | Standard tuition for in-state students |
| Net Price (After Aid) | $12,727 average | Reflects scholarships and grants |
| Room & Board | $9,438 per year | For on-campus or nearby housing |
| Books & Supplies | $1,012 per year | Estimated academic expenses |
| Other Fees | Varies | Includes activity and technology fees |
Student Profile and Demographics — The Ohio State University at Lima
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The student body at The Ohio State University Lima campus is primarily composed of White students, making up about 77%, followed by Hispanic/Latino at nearly 6%, African American around 5%, Asian about 4%, and multiracial students approximately 4%. Women represent the majority of the student population, with over 70% of degrees awarded to female students. Most students are traditional college-age (18–24), but the campus also serves nontraditional and part-time learners, creating a diverse range of life experiences and perspectives within the academic community.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Ohio State Lima supports a significant population of first-generation and low-income students. The campus offers a tuition-free pathway for eligible students from low and middle-income households. Additionally, comprehensive disability services ensure that all students have access to necessary accommodations, adaptive technologies, and academic support to promote equal opportunities. These programs reflect Ohio State Lima’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility for all learners.
Student Body — The Ohio State University at Lima
| Category | Number / Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Enrolled Students | Approximately 740 | Undergraduate-focused institution |
| Full-Time Students | 83.2% | Predominantly full-time enrollment |
| Part-Time Students | 16.8% | Includes working and adult learners |
| New First-Year Students | Around 260 | Annual new student enrollment |
| International Students | Minimal or none | Primarily domestic population |
University Diversity
The Ohio State University Lima campus represents a moderately diverse community. While White students comprise the majority, the campus includes an increasing number of Hispanic, African American, Asian, and multiracial students. Diversity initiatives include cultural programming, equity-based scholarships, and student organizations promoting inclusion and cross-cultural understanding. As a regional campus, Lima strives to create a welcoming environment that embraces individuals from varied social and economic backgrounds, enhancing the educational experience through multiple perspectives and shared community engagement.
Average Earnings
Graduates from The Ohio State University Lima campus typically earn competitive early-career salaries averaging around $55,000 per year, depending on the field of study. Many graduates pursue careers in education, public service, healthcare, and business administration. Because many students transition to the main campus to complete their degrees, actual earnings can vary widely based on final major and career path. Overall, Lima offers a strong return on investment, helping students from local communities achieve meaningful professional and financial success after graduation.
The Ohio State University at Lima Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The campus employs approximately 95 faculty members, including full-time professors, associate professors, and adjunct instructors. In addition to instructional roles, the campus maintains a dedicated administrative and support staff serving academic advising, library services, and campus operations. Faculty and staff emphasize personal attention and mentoring, reflecting the campus’s focus on small class sizes and accessible education.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Ohio State Lima’s faculty members are recognized for their academic credentials and professional experience. Many hold terminal degrees such as Ph.D.s and Ed.D.s, and they actively engage in research, publications, and community outreach. Faculty areas of expertise include liberal arts, education, psychology, environmental science, and business. Professors often collaborate with colleagues across the Ohio State system, contributing to research and curriculum development. Their achievements include research grants, teaching awards, and leadership in regional academic initiatives.
The Ohio State University at Lima Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Lima campus primarily serves commuting students but provides limited on-campus housing options and nearby apartments. Students can choose from off-campus residences or shared housing near Bath Township and Lima city. The campus offers over 20 student clubs, academic organizations, and intramural sports. Facilities include a modern library, student commons, study spaces, and multipurpose event areas. Campus activities focus on leadership, community service, and engagement opportunities designed to help students connect academically and socially.
Transportation
The campus is easily accessible by car and local public transportation within Lima and Bath Township. Most students commute using private vehicles, and campus parking is widely available. The campus is pedestrian-friendly, featuring walking paths and bicycle access. Public transportation options connect the campus to the city of Lima and nearby areas. For regional travel, intercity bus routes link Lima to larger Ohio cities, supporting both local and long-distance commuting needs.