U.S. News Ranks Otterbein University No. 2 for Undergraduate Teaching, Top 12% Overall

Posted Sep 22, 2026

Otterbein University has been collecting honors this fall, as it is recognized in national publications for its programs and values, including U.S. News & World Report and Washington Monthly.

U.S. News Best Colleges

Otterbein University has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for its commitment to undergraduate teaching, academic excellence, and focus on affordability, student success outcomes, and experiential learning. 

In the 2026-2027 U.S News Best Colleges rankings, Otterbein ranks second for Undergraduate Teaching Programs and in the top 12% overall among 171 peers in the Regional Universities–Midwest category. Among Ohio universities in its category, Otterbein ranks among the top five overall, and places third on the Best Value Schools list, fourth among Top Private Schools, and eighth among Top Performers on Social Mobility.

Otterbein is recognized on the following lists: 

  • #2 in Undergraduate Teaching Programs, Regional Universities–Midwest; #2 in Ohio
  • #20 Overall, Regional Universities–Midwest; tied for #4 in Ohio
  • #14 in Best Value Schools, Regional Universities–Midwest; #3 in Ohio
  • #15 in Top Private Colleges, Regional Universities–Midwest; #4 in Ohio
  • #43 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, Regional Universities–Midwest; #8 in Ohio 

Otterbein’s focus on undergraduate teaching and experiential learning opportunities prepares its students for success in their careers, as reflected in the University’s impressive outcomes.  The Class of 2025 reported that 93% were employed, enrolled in graduate school, or serving in the military or volunteer service within six months of graduation. For the past five years, Otterbein’s placement rate has been 8.5% higher than the national average. 

Among its more than 60 undergraduate majors, Otterbein offers programs in many high-demand STEM careers, like nursing and engineering, as well as programs in business and communication, health and sport sciences, social sciences and the arts and humanities, and is committed to providing opportunities to students who might not realize college is attainable.

The entire survey can be viewed at usnews.com/best-colleges.

Washington Monthly  

Washington Monthly has recognized Otterbein University for its contributions to the public good in its 2026 College Guide and Rankings. Among 1,504 peers nationwide, Otterbein ranks in the top 7% in the service category and in the top one-third overall. Among 397 peers in the Midwest, Otterbein ranks in the top 5% in the service category and top quarter overall.

The rankings can be viewed at https://washingtonmonthly.com/2026-college-guide/.