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A group of Ohio University students laugh and smile together after sitting in the stands of a stadium
Student Life at OHIO

Ohio University Student Life

A Community Designed to Help You Thrive

At Ohio University, we know that your college experience – and your future success – depends on more than stellar academic programs. (We have those too!) Our student life approach is rich with opportunities for you to discover new interests and talents, strengthen your leadership skills, and build a Bobcat network of friends who will support you for life.

A Campus Unlike Any Other

Ohio’s residential campus in Athens has been named the nation’s most beautiful public university campus (yes, that’s a real ranking), and is situated in one of America’s Best College Towns. Beyond the jaw-dropping views, it delivers an environment focused on your personal growth.

College Green

The iconic College Green houses the first buildings built on the Ohio University Athens campus, dating back to the early 1800s. It's a great hangout spot when the weather is nice — for picnics or hammocks.

Birds-eye view of Ohio University

An aerial view of Ohio University's Athens campus truly lets the campus beauty shine. The university is located along the Hocking River in the heart of Southeast Ohio.

Cherry Blossom Trees

Ohio University’s iconic sakura cherry blossom trees draw attention each year, as their blooms symbolize the arrival of spring in Athens. They were given as a gift in 1979 by our sister university, Chubu University, located in Kasugai Japan.

Wolfe Garden

Campus has greenspace all throughout that are ideal hangout or study spots. Wolfe Garden, pictured here, is right next to Alden Library, providing a quiet location for relaxation and contemplation.

Beauty All Around

Every angle of our Athens campus is truly beautiful. Surrounded by bricks, trees, and community, OHIO is an easy place to call home.

Emeriti Park

Emeriti Park is a peaceful place for a walk or study session. Benches line the pond, and trees provide a great spot for hammock hangouts.

Snow Covered OHIO

Our campus truly shines in every season — even draped under several inches of snow in the winter.

High Ropes Course

OHIO's Outdoor Pursuits Challenge Program hosts team-building exercises and events on their high ropes course and climbing wall.

 

Welcoming Bobcats from All Backgrounds

At Ohio University, we want all people to be visible and valued on our campuses. Our Make Respect Visible initiative unites our work to build an inclusive community – shining light on the good work, the hard truths, the opportunities and the people that are part of our community.

Diversity on Campus 

Dozens of Ohio University students practice yoga outdoors at sunrise

Residential Living

Our residential communities are situated on three distinct “greens” and instead of high-rise mega complexes you will find tight-knit residential campus communities where you’re likely to know your neighbors. Top-notch dining is always nearby with a wide variety of options to fit every lifestyle.

Housing & Residence Life Learn More About Dining

Get Involved

The Ohio University community is just that, a community, and there are countless ways for you to get involved. (Literally, we’ve lost count.) Student leadership groups, clubs, college advisory councils, interest-based student orgs, campus employment, Greek life and the list goes on. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we’ll encourage you to start your own.

Center for Student Engagement & Leadership

A group of students smiles at the camera in Athens at Ohio University
Ohio University students hike with backpacks on a forest trail

Well-Being & Recreation

Whether you want to compete regionally on one of our club sports teams, explore unique outdoor recreation in the most beautiful and environmentally rich part of Ohio or hit the golf course between classes, OHIO’s recreation options are second-to-none.

Recreation on CampusWell-Being

Community Engagement

As an Ohio University student, you'll be connected with real-world communities — anywhere from Athens' backyard to places across the globe. By getting involved with the community, you'll experience service learning that will benefit both you and the local area, creating a family of life-long engaged Bobcats. 

Community Engagement

Two Ohio University students help a child during a community visit
28,000+
students (undergraduate & graduate)
Best
college small town in America (USA Today/10Best)
500+
student organizations

Join the Bobcat Family

Discover more resources, information and opportunities for exploring and applying to Ohio University.

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