Unconventional college guide features schools with engaging programs  Westerville, OH—Otterbein University has been recognized for its committed implementation of high-impact educational practices, earning its title as one of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction. Additionally, Otterbein has received program-specific recognition in Business, Education, Nursing, and Engineering.  “Our students and alumni already know what a remarkable education and community Otterbein provides. Now, with the recognition as a College of Distinction, we hope that word about our model program continues to spread,” said Otterbein President John Comerford. Otterbein has proven itself to be at the forefront of American higher education with a modern, student-centered approach to teaching. Its unique Five Cardinal Experiences, complete with an experiential learning transcript, engages students with character-building first-year seminars, service-learning programs, alternative spring breaks, diversity and global learning programs, interdisciplinary programs, collaborative assignments and projects, undergraduate research, living-learning communities, common intellectual experiences, capstone projects, study abroad programs, and internships.  “Throughout its history, Otterbein has always shown that it makes an active effort to be inclusive and welcoming to all students. Not only do the folks at Otterbein nurture a diverse range of students, but they also supply them with an excellent education that will help them get their voices heard as they lead with success. We cannot be more honored to welcome Otterbein to our community,” said Wes Creel, founder of Colleges of Distinction. “We are absolutely thrilled to recognize Otterbein University as a College of Distinction for its commitment to student success,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction. “Its extensive liberal arts curriculum informs and enriches everything students do both in and out of the classroom. And with such an involved engagement of experiential high-impact practices, Otterbein goes the extra mile in professional education.” Colleges of Distinction’s selection process consists of a review of each institution’s freshman experience and retention efforts alongside its general education programs, alumni success, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and more. Schools are accepted on the basis that they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes. In addition to the College of Distinction inclusion, the Field of Study badges that Otterbein earned are true marks of honor in the world of higher education, representing programs that invest in student engagement in fields that demand innovative, critical thinking. Colleges of Distinction has granted these awards after an comprehensive vetting process, individually selecting schools based on such qualities as accreditation, breadth of program, and a track record for success.

Education: Otterbein’s future educators are bolstered by an enriching liberal arts perspective, allowing them to be empathetic, creative, and efficient mentors for their students. Otterbein offers programs to prepare teachers in several settings: Early Childhood (Pre-K through grade 3), Early Childhood Intervention Specialist (Pre-K through grade 3), Middle Childhood (grades 4-9), and Secondary (Adolescent/Young adult, grades 7-12). Adolescent/Young Adult licenses may be obtained in: Integrated Language Arts, Integrated Science, Integrated Social Studies, Integrated Mathematics, Life Science, Chemistry, and Physics. A Multi-Age license for Pre-K through grade 12 can be obtained in Music, Art, Spanish, and French (post-bacc only).

Nursing: The accredited Nursing program at Otterbein has enabled its students to take calculated action, even in high-pressure situations. Their well-rounded perspective allows them to think on their feet and care deeply for their patients. Otterbein offers nursing programs at the undergraduate, master’s and doctorate levels.

Business: The fast-paced, modern world of business requires effective communication and innovative strategies. Otterbein’s undergraduate majors and MBA program keep its future leaders ahead of the curve and ready to grow alongside the industry. Majors include accounting and public accounting; business administration and management; business analytics; economics; finance; international business and management; and marketing.

Engineering: The rarest of Colleges of Distinction’s Field of Study awards, the Engineering Badge honors Otterbein for its computer science, engineering physics, environmental health and safety, mechanical engineering and systems engineering programs. Students in these programs learn not only how to be technological innovators, but also how to use their knowledge in the most creative ways. Inspired and inventive, these students are working toward a better future. To view Otterbein’s profile or to find more information about the innovative learning experiences it offers, visit collegesofdistinction.com/Otterbein.

About Colleges of Distinction: Since 2000, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook have honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The cohort of schools in the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience. The website and annual guidebooks provide dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information, and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.