Otterbein University Overview

Otterbein University is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Westerville, OH. It has an enrollment of 2,180 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 82.90%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $21,920. Tuition is $33,674.00 without financial aid.

Otterbein University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Otterbein University, 80.16% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Otterbein University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12 to 1.

Otterbein University Website

Otterbein University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 82.90%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1134.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 23.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Otterbein University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $21,920.

The average tuition is:

• $16,212, when family income is less than $30,000

• $19,293, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $20,720, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $21,960, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $25,121, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 72.33% of students received a federal student loan and 23.99% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $33,674.00 without financial aid.

Otterbein University Net Price Calculator

Otterbein University Majors/Salaries

Otterbein University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Otterbein University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,456
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,228
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,170
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,925
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,060
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,569
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,999
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $59,858
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $111,017
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Doctoral Degree) – $144,240
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,342
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $52,107
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260

Otterbein University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Otterbein University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.14%
• Asian: 3.39%
• Black: 8.90%
• Hispanic: 6.70%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.05%
• Non-resident alien: 0.00%
• Two or more races: 5.18%
• Unknown: 1.56%
• White: 74.08%

At Otterbein University, 3.86% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Otterbein University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Otterbein University?

School spirit at Otterbein University is quite strong. Otterbein has a definite campus culture, with numerous traditions and events that foster school pride. These include homecoming festivities, athletics events, and other student-led activities. The university’s mascot, Cardy the Cardinal, is also a beloved symbol of Otterbein pride. Additionally, Otterbein’s tight-knit community and small class sizes contribute to a supportive and enthusiastic learning environment. Overall, if you are looking for a school with a strong sense of community and school spirit, Otterbein University is a great choice.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Otterbein University?

Otterbein University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students. Some of the popular extracurricular activities at Otterbein University include: 1. Theater and performing arts 2. Athletics – including football, basketball, and soccer 3. Student government and leadership organizations 4. Campus Ministry 5. Greek life 6. Club sports – such as Ultimate Frisbee and dodgeball 7. Music and choir groups Apart from these, Otterbein University also offers a host of other clubs and organizations catering to various interests such as community service, politics, environmentalism, and more.

How are the food choices at Otterbein University?

Otterbein University offers a wide range of food choices for students, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The dining hall has a variety of stations, including a grill, deli, pizza station, salad bar, and hot entrees. There are also several food locations on campus, such as the Courtyard Cafe and Cardinal’s Nest, which offer quick bites and snacks throughout the day. Additionally, students have access to food delivery services like GrubHub and Uber Eats, which allow them to order from local restaurants and have food delivered to campus. Overall, Otterbein University offers a diverse range of food options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Is there Greek life at Otterbein University?

Yes, Otterbein University has a significant Greek life presence on campus. There are more than 15 active Greek organizations, including sororities and fraternities, for students to choose from. These organizations promote leadership development, community service, academic success, and social activities for their members. Students interested in Greek life can attend recruitment events during the fall and spring semesters to learn more about the organizations and find a good fit.

What is Otterbein University known for?

Otterbein University is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of theatre and music. The university is also known for its commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in internships, research, and service projects. Additionally, Otterbein prides itself on its small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty, as well as its beautiful, park-like campus in Westerville, Ohio.

What are the most popular school clubs at Otterbein University?

Otterbein University offers a variety of clubs and organizations for students to get involved in. Some popular clubs at Otterbein University include Alpha Psi Omega – Theatre Honor Society, Otterbein Democrats, Otterbein Republicans, Otterbein Habitat for Humanity, and Otterbein Improv Players. These clubs and many others offer students the opportunity to socialize, build leadership skills, and participate in community service projects.

Is the campus at Otterbein University safe?

Otterbein University is located in Westerville, Ohio which is considered to be a relatively safe area. The university takes safety and security very seriously, and there are measures in place to ensure the safety of students, faculty and visitors on campus. The campus is patrolled by the Department of Campus Safety & Security 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, the university has emergency blue light phones installed throughout campus that enable students to quickly call for help if needed. The university also provides safety programs, such as a free shuttle service and safety escorts to ensure students feel secure while on campus.