Overview
Central State University holds a unique and vital place in Ohio higher education as the state's only public historically Black college or university. Located in the small community of Wilberforce in Greene County — just east of Dayton — Central State was founded in 1887 and has served generations of students with a mission centered on access, opportunity, and academic excellence.
The university's heritage is deeply intertwined with African American history. Wilberforce, Ohio, was a center of abolitionist activity and is also home to Wilberforce University, the nation's oldest private HBCU. Central State's campus sits on land with profound historical significance, and the university embraces this legacy while preparing students for 21st-century careers.
Students seeking the intimate community of an HBCU with Ohio's affordable public tuition find Central State an excellent choice. For those who prefer a liberal arts setting with similar personal attention, nearby Wittenberg University in Springfield — just 20 minutes away — offers another outstanding option.
Academics & Programs
Central State offers more than 40 undergraduate programs across four colleges, with particular strengths in several distinctive areas.
Notable Programs
- Manufacturing Engineering: Central State is one of few HBCUs with an ABET-accredited manufacturing engineering program, preparing graduates for advanced manufacturing careers.
- Water Resources Management: A unique interdisciplinary program reflecting the university's land-grant mission and commitment to environmental stewardship.
- Education: A strong tradition of preparing teachers and educational leaders, continuing Central State's founding mission.
- Business Administration: Comprehensive business programs covering accounting, management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
- Music: A vibrant music program closely tied to the university's celebrated marching band tradition.
Campus & Location
Central State's 135-acre campus in rural Wilberforce features a mix of historic and modern buildings set among rolling hills. The campus includes the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center, a Smithsonian affiliate that serves as both an educational resource and a cultural landmark. Wilberforce is located approximately 20 miles east of Dayton, providing access to the Dayton metropolitan area's amenities and employment opportunities.
Athletics
The Central State Marauders compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) in NCAA Division II, fielding 14 varsity sports. The university has a proud athletic tradition, but its most famous athletic asset is the Invincible Marching Marauders, one of the most celebrated marching bands in the HBCU tradition, known for electrifying halftime performances.
Costs & Financial Aid
| Cost | Annual |
|---|---|
| Tuition (In-State) | $7,600 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $9,200 |
| Room & Board | $10,800 |
| Total In-State | $18,400 |
Central State is one of the most affordable public universities in Ohio. The university offers institutional scholarships, and many students qualify for the Ohio College Opportunity Grant and federal Pell Grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Central State University is Ohio's only public historically Black college or university, founded in 1887. It is a member of the SIAC and maintains a proud tradition of serving the African American community.
Very affordable — in-state tuition is approximately $7,600 per year, making it one of the lowest-cost public universities in Ohio. Total cost of attendance is under $19,000.
The Invincible Marching Marauders are nationally recognized as one of the premier HBCU marching bands, known for their precision, energy, and showmanship at football games and special events.
Sources
- Central State University — centralstate.edu
- NCES/IPEDS Data
- SIAC Conference — thesiac.com