Otterbein University

Academic Programs

Worcester State University has been nationally recognized for the high quality degree programs offered as well as for the dedication of the faculty who teach. Worcester State University’s mission is to champion “academic excellence in a diverse, student-centered environment that fosters scholarship, creativity, and global awareness.” The University’s mission statement continues, “A Worcester State education equips students with knowledge and skills necessary for lives of professional accomplishment, engaged citizenship, and intellectual growth.” Worcester State University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1957.

More than 60 undergraduate majors and minors are offered at Worcester State University. The University’s twenty-plus academic departments are organized into two schools: the School of Education, Health, and Natural Sciences, which houses the departments of Biology; Chemistry; Communication Sciences and Disorders; Computer Science; Earth, Environment, and Physics; Education; Health Sciences; Mathematics; Nursing; and Occupational Therapy; and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, which houses the Business Administration and Economics; Communication; Criminal Justice; English; History and Political Science; Philosophy; Psychology; Sociology; Urban Studies; Visual and Performing Arts; and World Languages departments. Over 30 master’s degrees and post-baccalaureate certificates are also offered.

Student Life

Approximately 2800 students are enrolled at Otterbein and there are traditional dormitories, themed residence halls, apartment-styled housing as well as Greek housing available. Otterbein students also participate in over 100 clubs and organizations as well as club and intramural sports. For the varsity athlete, the tan and cardinal Otterbein Cardinals participate in 10 sports in NCAA Division III competition, cheered on by “Cardy” the Cardinal. Like many universities, Otterbein has their campus traditions ranging from the school Love Song to Christmas Tree lighting and doughnut runs. Students appreciate the close relationship between faculty and students; the overall sense of community is very strong. The school’s stated vision is for “Otterbein University will be nationally recognized as a model community of educators, leaders, and learners who set the pace for higher education and contribute to the common good.” Each student is taught under the school’s core values of Diversity, Equality, Inclusiveness, Lifelong Learning, Opportunity, Service and Sustainability which are hallmarks of the liberal arts education.