University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
The Vibe Check
The University of Cincinnati buzzes with the energy of a major city campus, where historic halls meet modern, state-of-the-art facilities. It feels like a place where students are always on the move, balancing rigorous academics with a vibrant, collaborative spirit. You get the sense that you're part of a large, proud community that's deeply connected to the surrounding urban landscape.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UC is a powerhouse in cooperative education, integrating professional work experience directly into the curriculum. The university excels in health professions, engineering, and business, offering students unparalleled research and internship opportunities through its extensive city partnerships. Teaching quality is strong, particularly in specialized programs where faculty maintain close ties to their industries.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Cincinnati
Student life in Cincinnati is dynamic, with easy access to professional sports, a renowned restaurant scene, and a thriving arts and music culture. Students love exploring neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine for its historic architecture and trendy bars or cheering on the Bearcats at Nippert Stadium, one of college football's most iconic venues. The city's riverfront parks, numerous festivals, and network of walking and biking trails provide endless options for weekend fun.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,810):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and its immediate surroundings are well-patrolled, with a visible security presence and extensive safety resources for students. As with any urban environment, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, but the university provides robust support systems like a 24/7 escort service and well-lit pathways.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier co-op program provides real-world experience and income
- ✓ Strong academic programs in high-demand fields like health professions and engineering
- ✓ Vibrant urban campus with the amenities and opportunities of a major city
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicate strong student support
Cons
- ✗ Large class sizes, especially in introductory courses
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state
- ✗ Campus can feel overwhelming for students who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Cincinnati is nationally renowned for its pioneering cooperative education (co-op) program, which integrates paid, professional work experience into the curriculum. It is also highly regarded for its top-ranked programs in architecture, design, and the arts (DAAP), as well as its strong colleges of engineering, business, and health professions. Its urban setting provides deep connections to local industries and cultural institutions.
No, the University of Cincinnati is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 88%. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is typically between 1160 and 1350, and the average ACT score is around 25-29. While admission is accessible for many, stronger academic credentials are required for competitive programs like nursing, engineering, and DAAP, which may have more stringent requirements.
Campus life is energetic and deeply integrated with the city of Cincinnati. Students can choose from over 500 student organizations, participate in Division I athletics, and enjoy a bustling social scene just steps from campus. The university offers a mix of traditional residence hall living and apartment-style options, and its location provides easy access to the city's restaurants, parks, and entertainment venues.
For many students, particularly Ohio residents, the University of Cincinnati represents an excellent value. The combination of a moderate in-state tuition, a high graduation rate, and strong post-graduation earnings makes the financial investment worthwhile. The co-op program is a key differentiator, as it allows students to earn money and gain valuable experience that often leads to full-time employment, offsetting costs and boosting long-term career prospects.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 34,656
- In-State Tuition $13,570
- Out-of-State $30,582
- Zip Code 45221
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $23,156 and a strong 10-year median earnings figure of $54,810, the University of Cincinnati offers a compelling return on investment. The significant difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition makes it an especially valuable deal for Ohio residents. The integrated co-op program, which allows students to earn a salary while gaining professional experience, further enhances its financial appeal by reducing the overall cost of a degree.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.