Bachelor of Science in Nursing:
An impressive 100%* of the Class of 2023 passed the National Council State Licensing Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt. The 46 graduates worked especially hard, starting their education during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and being the first class to take the “Next Generation NCLEX,” enhanced to assess clinical judgment in nursing.
*Compared to 84.4% for Ohio and a 87.62% national passage rate.
Washington Monthly:
Washington Monthly has recognized Otterbein University for its contributions to the public good in its annual rankings. Among 604 Master’s Universities, Otterbein ranked second in the service category, which encompasses community and national service.
College of Distinction:
Otterbein has once again been recognized as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction. Otterbein also received program-specific recognition in Business, Education, Engineering, Nursing, and Career Development, and was recognized for its Equity and Inclusion.
U.S. News & World Report:
In the 2024 Best Colleges rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Otterbein has once again ranked in the top 20 among 164 peers in the Regional Universities – Midwest category.
It is in the top three regional universities in Ohio and 20th in the Midwest. Additionally, Otterbein was recognized on the following lists: Best Colleges for Veterans (ranked sixth, top 4%); Best Undergraduate Teaching (ranked 12th, top 7%); Best Value Schools (jumped 11 places to rank 26th); and A+ School for B Students. View the entire survey at usnews.com/best-colleges.
Teaching Award:
Chemistry Professor Joan Esson was named the 2023 Ohio STEM Educator of the Year by Ohio Project Kaleidoscope. 
The awards committee cited Esson’s implementation and invention of evidence-based pedagogies; generation of student interest via real-world applications of chemistry; advancement of chemistry teaching though research and publication; mentorship of early-career chemistry educators; and leadership on campus and in local chemistry education organizations.
