Central State University: 88.8% Acceptance Rate

88.8%Acceptance

$7,824Tuition

3,412Students

26%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$33,267Earnings

Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24HBCU

About Central State University

Central State University has served as Ohio's second-oldest historically Black university since 1887. The 3,412 students gather on a rural campus in Wilberforce, where the school has built its reputation around affordability and access. With an 88.83% acceptance rate, Central State opens doors for students who might struggle elsewhere. The university draws a predominantly Black student body (49.27%) along with a growing Hispanic population (9.38%).

The financial picture tells a complex story. Students pay an average net price of $16,544 after aid, which seems reasonable for a four-year degree. However, graduates earn a median of $33,267 ten years after graduation, while carrying $30,739 in debt with monthly payments of $326. Only 16.93% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule. The math creates challenges for many graduates trying to build financial stability.

Academic success proves elusive for many students here. Just 25.60% graduate within six years, and only 51.19% return for their sophomore year. The 17:1 student-faculty ratio suggests adequate attention, but outcomes indicate students need stronger support systems. The Marauders compete in seven Division II sports, providing campus energy for a community where persistence matters more than prestige.

Academics & Faculty

Central State University serves as Ohio's only public historically Black university, focusing on undergraduate education with strong programs in education, business, and criminal justice. The 17:1 student-faculty ratio provides reasonable access to professors, though the 25.6% six-year graduation rate suggests many students face challenges completing their degrees. The university has built a reputation for teacher preparation and social work programs that serve Ohio's communities. With 3,412 students, classes remain relatively small despite being a public institution. The low 51% retention rate indicates students often struggle with the transition to college life, but those who stay benefit from the supportive HBCU environment and dedicated faculty committed to student success.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Full-Time Faculty: 100.0%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 25.5%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 25.6%
Retention Rate: 51.2%
Median Earnings (10 years): $33,267
Carnegie Classification: Baccalaureate College

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Criminal Justice and Corrections.	Bachelor	$30,409
Business/Commerce, General.	Bachelor	$28,133
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods.	Bachelor	$28,055
Biology, General.	Bachelor	$27,476
Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies.	Bachelor	$25,967
Psychology, General.	Bachelor	$25,194
Journalism.	Bachelor	$21,508

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Campus Life

Central State sits on 60 acres in southwestern Ohio, about an hour east of Dayton and two hours from Columbus. The university houses 42% of its 3,412 students on campus, creating a close-knit residential community where familiar faces become the norm. Ohio's four-season climate means packing both winter coats for snowy January days and lighter gear for humid summers.

As a historically Black public university founded in 1887, Central State carries deep traditions of academic excellence and community building. Women make up 66% of the student body, and the campus reflects a strong sense of sisterhood alongside brotherhood. Weekend life revolves around the residence halls, athletic events featuring the Marauders' seven varsity teams, and trips to nearby Xenia or Yellow Springs for dining and entertainment. The rural-fringe setting means students often create their own fun through campus organizations, Greek life, and informal gatherings. With a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, professors know students by name, fostering mentorship relationships that extend well beyond graduation.

Setting: Rural-Fringe
Housing Capacity: 1,437 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1887

Campus Safety (2023)

10 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Fondling	3	3
Dating Violence	1	1
Rape	1	1

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 22°–37°F
July Avg: 64°–83°F
Annual Precipitation: 43.3"
Annual Snowfall: 20.3"

Student Demographics

Central State University draws a predominantly Black student body that reflects its identity as one of Ohio's historically Black colleges and universities. Women make up two-thirds of the 3,412 students, which aligns with the university's strong programs in education, social work, and business. Nearly half the students come from outside Ohio, showing the school attracts students from across the Midwest and beyond who seek the HBCU experience. The high number of Pell Grant recipients demonstrates Central State's commitment to serving first-generation college students and families seeking affordable higher education opportunities.

Men: 34.0%
Women: 66.0%
White: 17.7%
Black: 49.3%
Hispanic: 9.4%
Asian: 1.6%
In-State Students: 48.2%
Pell Grant Recipients: 42.2%

Location

Central State University sits in Wilberforce, Ohio, about 20 miles northeast of Dayton. The campus occupies 60 acres in a rural-fringe setting that blends small-town charm with easy access to urban amenities. Wilberforce itself is a historic village known for its connection to African American education and civil rights history. The area offers a quiet, focused environment for study while keeping students within reach of Dayton's internship opportunities and cultural attractions. With 48.2% of students coming from in-state, many appreciate the balance between Ohio's college town atmosphere and proximity to larger cities like Columbus and Cincinnati. Students considering colleges in Ohio may also compare Central State University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Wilberforce, Ohio 45384-1004

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $33,267
Median Earnings (5 years): $41,406
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $23,000
Loan Repayment Rate: 16.9%
Monthly Loan Payment: $326/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $30,739

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Central State University?

Central State University accepts 88.83% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. This historically Black public university in Ohio focuses on providing educational opportunities rather than exclusivity. The high acceptance rate reflects the institution's mission to serve students who might not have access to higher education elsewhere.

How much does Central State University cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $16,544 after financial aid, with 42.18% receiving Pell Grants for low-income families. In-state tuition runs $7,824 while out-of-state students pay $9,824, making it one of the more affordable four-year options in Ohio. The school keeps costs reasonable to serve its mission as an HBCU focused on accessibility.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Central State University?

The student-faculty ratio stands at 17:1 across the university's 3,412 students. Central State operates on a semester system and maintains smaller class sizes typical of regional universities. However, the 51.19% retention rate suggests students face challenges beyond just classroom attention.

What are the graduation rates at Central State University?

Only 25.60% of students graduate within six years, with the four-year rate at 25.49%. These low completion rates reflect the challenges many students face at under-resourced institutions. Graduates who do finish earn a median of $33,267 ten years after graduation, though many carry significant debt burdens.

Where is Central State University located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits in Wilberforce, Ohio, a rural-fringe setting that houses 1,437 students in residence halls. Women make up 65.97% of the student body while men represent 34.03%. The Marauders compete in NCAA Division II with 259 total athletes across seven varsity sports in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Is Central State University a historically Black university?

Yes, Central State University is an HBCU founded in 1887, with 49.27% Black students and 17.70% White students making up the majority of enrollment. The university carries forward the HBCU tradition of serving students who historically faced barriers to higher education. Only 48.20% of students come from Ohio, showing the school draws students from across the country seeking the HBCU experience.