Oberlin College

Oberlin College, located in Oberlin, Ohio, is a distinguished private liberal arts college and conservatory of music with a rich history of academic excellence, artistic innovation, and social justice. Established in 1833, it holds the distinction of being the oldest coeducational liberal arts college in the United States and was one of the first to admit African American students. Oberlin fosters a vibrant and diverse community that encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Academics

Oberlin offers an expansive and rigorous educational program through its College of Arts and Sciences and its renowned Conservatory of Music. Students can choose from over 40 academic majors and numerous interdisciplinary minors and concentrations, or even design their own specialized course of study through the Individual Majors Program. The teaching approach emphasizes close faculty mentorship, with professors teaching courses from introductory to advanced levels without the aid of teaching assistants, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Popular majors include Music Performance, Biology, Psychology, Politics, and Environmental Studies, reflecting the institution's strengths in both the arts and sciences.

International Students

Oberlin College is home to a vibrant international student community representing more than 50 countries, with international students making up approximately 12% of the student population. International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) provides comprehensive support, including one-on-one advising, educational programs, community building, and assistance with visa paperwork and immigration regulations. While specific English-taught program listings are not highlighted as distinct from the general curriculum, all courses at Oberlin College are taught in English. The college actively promotes cultural integration through various student organizations and campus events.

Campus & Location

Oberlin College is an integral part of Oberlin, Ohio, a community of about 8,600 residents located 35 miles southwest of Cleveland. The town offers a charming atmosphere with historical architecture, quaint shopping, galleries, and diverse restaurants, all within walking distance of the campus. Campus features include the highly acclaimed Allen Memorial Art Museum, the Weltzheimer/Johnson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the scenic Oberlin Arboretum. The college provides transportation options, including an airport shuttle to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) and a free shuttle service, ObieExpress, to various locations in the greater Cleveland area.

Career Outcomes

Oberlin's Career Exploration and Development (CED) office is dedicated to helping students chart meaningful professional paths through holistic mentoring, one-on-one advising, and cohort programming. The Conservatory also has a dedicated Office of Conservatory Professional Development to assist music students and alumni with career development. Oberlin students have access to resources like ObieOpps for internships and jobs, and support for faculty-mentored research through the Office of Undergraduate Research. The college also connects students with its extensive alumni network through an online directory.