Central State University
Wilberforce, Ohio 45384-1004
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
Central State University is a public rural institution in Wilberforce, Ohio. The school is accessible to a wide range of students.
A mid-sized campus of 3.4K undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The rural location provides a peaceful, focused academic environment.
26% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $33,267 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $16,544.
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History Central State University started in 1887 as a two-year normal and industrial department funded by the state.
- •It was first located at Wilberforce University, a historically black college in southern Ohio that was owned and operated by the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
- •In 1941, its curriculum was expanded to a four-year program emphasizing teacher education.
- •In 1947, it was separated from the university, and in 1951 renamed as Central State College.
- •In 1965, with further development, it achieved university status.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
71.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.7%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$13,740
Programs (31)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
51%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
21
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from OH state average
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Days out near Wilberforce
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Springfield, from real bookable tour times.
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