Overview
Franklin University was founded in Columbus in 1902 as the YMCA School of Commerce, a night school designed to provide practical education for working men and women. More than 120 years later, this foundational purpose remains unchanged. Franklin is a private nonprofit university built explicitly for the adult learner — the working parent, the career changer, the military veteran, the professional seeking advancement — and everything about the institution is designed with that student in mind.
Franklin's urban campus sits near downtown Columbus, but the majority of its approximately 7,000 students study primarily or entirely online. The university offers asynchronous coursework, self-paced certificate programs, and flexible scheduling that allows students to fit education into an already full life. Transfer credits are accepted generously, and prior learning assessment allows students to earn credit for what they already know from professional experience.
Franklin occupies a distinct niche from traditional residential universities. Students seeking a more traditional four-year campus experience in Columbus should explore The Ohio State University or consider the small-campus atmosphere of Wittenberg University in nearby Springfield. But for the student who needs flexibility first and foremost, Franklin delivers accredited degrees at an accessible price point.
Academics & Programs
Franklin offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong concentration in business, technology, and health-related fields — the areas most relevant to career advancement for its adult student population.
Notable Programs
- Business Administration: Franklin's largest program area, with concentrations in management, marketing, human resources, and supply chain. The business school holds ACBSP accreditation.
- Accounting: A highly practical program preparing students for CPA licensure and careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government auditing.
- Information Technology: Programs in cybersecurity, data analytics, computer science, and information systems aligned with employer demand in central Ohio's growing tech sector.
- Healthcare Management: Preparing students for administrative and management careers in hospitals, clinics, and health systems — a growing field in Ohio's large healthcare economy.
- Public Safety Management: A program tailored to law enforcement and public safety professionals seeking advancement into leadership roles.
- Graduate Programs (MBA, MS): Franklin's graduate programs in business, data analytics, and cybersecurity are popular among working professionals seeking promotion or career transitions.
Campus & Location
Franklin's urban campus is located in downtown Columbus, a few blocks from the Ohio Statehouse and minutes from the city's thriving business, healthcare, and technology sectors. The campus is compact by design, reflecting the reality that most Franklin students do not live on campus — they live and work throughout Columbus, Ohio, and across the country, accessing their education online.
For students who do want to access campus facilities, the location in downtown Columbus provides unparalleled access to internship sites, employer partners, professional networking events, and the resources of one of Ohio's fastest-growing cities.
Athletics
Franklin University does not have an intercollegiate athletics program, consistent with its mission as an institution designed for working adults and online learners. Campus recreation and wellness facilities support student health, but varsity sports are not part of the Franklin experience. This is simply a reflection of Franklin's focus: academic credentials, career outcomes, and accessibility for non-traditional students.
Costs & Financial Aid
| Cost | Annual |
|---|---|
| Tuition | ~$12,000 |
| Fees | ~$400 |
| Room & Board | N/A (primarily online) |
| Total (Est., online) | ~$12,400 |
At approximately $12,000 per year, Franklin University is one of the most affordable private universities in Ohio, and one of the most affordable online universities for Ohio residents generally. The university participates in federal financial aid programs, and many employers provide tuition reimbursement that can be applied to Franklin courses. Military veterans receive dedicated support and additional benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Franklin University was founded specifically to serve working adults, and its entire structure is built around that mission. Online and asynchronous course delivery, generous transfer credit policies, prior learning assessment, and military-friendly practices make Franklin one of Ohio's best options for non-traditional students seeking accredited degrees on a flexible schedule.
Yes. Franklin University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the most recognized and respected form of accreditation in U.S. higher education. HLC accreditation ensures that Franklin's degrees are recognized by employers, other universities, and licensing boards. Select programs hold additional specialized accreditations.
Yes. Franklin is known for its transfer-friendly policies. The university accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions and also offers Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), which allows students to earn credit for professional experience, military training, and certifications. This can significantly reduce the time and cost needed to complete a degree.
Sources
- Franklin University — franklin.edu
- NCES/IPEDS Data
- Higher Learning Commission — hlcommission.org