Overview
The University of Akron is a public metropolitan research university located in Akron, Ohio, a city long known as the "Rubber Capital of the World." Founded in 1870 as Buchtel College, a private institution of the Universalist Church, it became a municipal university in 1913 and joined the Ohio state system in 1967. Today, UA serves approximately 19,000 students across colleges of engineering, business, law, arts and sciences, health professions, and the arts.
Akron occupies a specialized but globally significant niche in American higher education. Its polymer science and engineering programs are without peer worldwide, a distinction rooted in the university's deep historical ties to the rubber and polymer industries that defined northeast Ohio's economy for over a century. For students drawn to materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields, few universities in the world offer the combination of academic excellence and industry proximity that Akron provides. Students weighing a more broad-based undergraduate experience with close faculty relationships might also explore institutions like Wittenberg University, where interdisciplinary studies and direct faculty mentorship are central to the academic model.
The university has navigated significant enrollment shifts in recent years, investing in student success initiatives, campus renewal, and new program development to position itself for continued growth.
Academics & Programs
UA offers more than 200 undergraduate majors and a broad range of graduate and professional programs, including a well-regarded law school.
Notable Academic Programs
- Maurice Morton Institute of Polymer Science: Ranked #1 in the world for polymer science and polymer engineering. A global research destination producing leading innovations in materials and manufacturing.
- College of Engineering: Comprehensive programs in civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, and biomedical engineering with strong co-op and research opportunities.
- School of Law: An ABA-accredited law school with programs in intellectual property, constitutional law, and alternative dispute resolution.
- College of Business: AACSB-accredited programs in accounting, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship with close ties to northeast Ohio's business community.
- College of Health Professions: Nursing, speech-language pathology, social work, and allied health programs serving Ohio's healthcare workforce needs.
- Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences: The academic core of the university, offering programs across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Cooperative Education & Research
UA's co-op program, one of the oldest in Ohio, allows engineering and business students to alternate academic semesters with paid work experience in their field. Research at the university spans polymer science, biomedical engineering, cybersecurity, and environmental science.
Campus & Location
The Akron campus covers approximately 218 acres in the heart of the city, blending historic collegiate buildings with modern research and laboratory facilities.
- InfoCision Stadium – Summa Field: The on-campus football stadium hosting the Zips and community events.
- James A. Rhodes Arena: A multipurpose arena for basketball games and major university events.
- Bierce Library: The main library system supporting research and academic study across disciplines.
- Student Union: A central hub for dining, student services, and social activities.
Location: Akron, Ohio
Akron is a revitalized mid-sized city with a growing innovation economy, arts scene, and healthcare sector. The city's transformation from its industrial roots into a hub for biomedical, polymer, and technology industries creates excellent career pathways for UA graduates. Cleveland is 40 miles north, offering additional cultural and professional opportunities.
Campus Life & Student Experience
UA supports over 200 student organizations, Greek life chapters, and a growing residential community. The Akron campus has seen significant investment in student life infrastructure, including housing renovations and new dining options. A notable urban arts and music scene in Akron enriches student life beyond campus boundaries.
As a commuter-friendly urban university, UA serves a significant population of non-traditional and part-time students. This creates a diverse campus community but can make it harder to find the close-knit residential social environment associated with traditional college experiences.
Athletics
The Akron Zips compete in NCAA Division I as a member of the Mid-American Conference, fielding 19 varsity sports teams.
Zips Soccer: A National Powerhouse
Akron men's soccer is one of the most decorated programs in NCAA Division I history, with multiple national championships and consistent Final Four appearances. The Zips have produced numerous MLS and international professional players, making soccer the university's signature athletic achievement.
Football and basketball round out the major spectator sports, with the Zips competing at a high level within the MAC. The university's James A. Rhodes Arena provides an energetic game-day atmosphere for basketball.
Admissions
The University of Akron practices broadly open admissions, though specialized programs in engineering, nursing, and law have more selective entry requirements.
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 85%
- Average GPA: 3.3
- Average ACT: 20-26
- Average SAT: 1010-1220
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; priority deadline August 1
Costs & Financial Aid
Akron offers affordable in-state tuition, and its urban location means students can find cost-effective off-campus housing options throughout the city.
| Cost Component | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|
| Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $18,900 |
| Room & Board | $12,100 |
| Fees & Books | $2,000 |
| Total In-State (before aid) | $25,300 |
UA offers merit-based Presidential Scholarships and College Scholarships to qualifying Ohio residents. The university also participates in the Ohio College Opportunity Grant and federal Pell Grant programs for eligible students.
Outcomes & Alumni
Akron graduates in polymer science, engineering, and law enjoy some of the highest placement rates and starting salaries among Ohio public university graduates. The university's industry connections in northeast Ohio and nationally open doors for co-op students that convert to full-time roles.
- Polymer science graduates recruited by Goodyear, Bridgestone, Dow, BASF, and global materials companies.
- Engineering and law graduates benefit from strong alumni networks in Cleveland, Akron, and beyond.
- Notable alumni include NBA star LeBron James (non-degree) and former Ohio Governor Bob Taft.
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Akron is internationally recognized for its #1-ranked polymer science and polymer engineering programs. Engineering, law, and business programs are also strong. The university's location in northeast Ohio provides exceptional industry access for students in applied sciences and technical fields.
In-state tuition is approximately $11,200 per year, with total cost of attendance around $25,300 for Ohio residents. Merit scholarships and need-based aid are available, and co-op earnings can substantially offset educational costs for engineering students.
Yes. The Maurice Morton Institute of Polymer Science at Akron is consistently ranked the world's top program in its field. The faculty include leading researchers whose work has shaped global materials science, and the Akron-area rubber and polymer industry provides unmatched career connections for graduates.
Yes. The University of Akron School of Law is an ABA-accredited law school with particular strengths in intellectual property and constitutional law. It is one of the few law schools in Ohio at a public university, making it a cost-effective option for Ohio residents pursuing a legal education.
Sources & References
- University of Akron Official Website — uakron.edu
- U.S. News & World Report — Best National Universities & Best Programs
- National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) — IPEDS Data for University of Akron
- Mid-American Conference — mac-sports.com
- UA Office of Financial Aid