University of Dayton

  • 8/10 Overall Rating
  • 4 Year
  • Dayton, OH
  • 4.5 2 reviews
#6 Best Private Colleges in Ohio

Overview

Total enrollment

10,506
University of Dayton overview
  • Location Dayton, Ohio
  • Website udayton.edu
  • Type Private 4 Year
  • Setting Midsize City
  • Religious Affiliation Roman Catholic
University of Dayton overview
  • Size Mid-size
  • Status Non-profit
  • Housing Yes
  • Level of Study Undergrad/Graduate

The University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic research university situated in Dayton, Ohio, approximately one hour north of Cincinnati. Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary (Marianists), the 388-acre campus features a mix of historic red-brick buildings and modern facilities, with the Great Miami River bordering its eastern edge. The university maintains a selective admission process and is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, business, and education, with its School of Engineering particularly known for materials research and aerospace studies. Most undergraduate students live on campus in residence halls or university-owned houses in the distinctive student neighborhood, a 25-block area of historically-preserved homes that creates a unique residential community. The Flyers compete in NCAA Division I athletics as members of the Atlantic 10 Conference, with their men's basketball program having a long-standing tradition of success.

Ratings

University of Dayton is rated within the top 30% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 8 out of 10.

  • Overall Rating
    8 out of 10
  • Academics
    9 out of 10
  • Resources
    7 out of 10
  • Outcomes
    8 out of 10
  • Value
    8 out of 10

Admissions

Admission Standards

Very High
University of Dayton admission standards
  • SAT (enrolled mid-50) 1200/1380
  • ACT (enrolled mid-50) 25/31
  • GPA 3.77

Acceptance Rate

65.4%
University of Dayton applications overview
  • Applications Due Feb 1, 2027
  • Enrollment Rate 11.7%
  • Application Fee $0

Applicant Competition Low

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Annual Cost to Attend

Tuition

$49,140
Costs for University of Dayton
Fee Cost
Tuition $49,140
Books and Supplies $1,000
Other Fees $0
Room and Board $16,800
Budget for Other Expenses $3,025
Total One Year Cost $69,965

Student Outcomes

Average Salary After 10 Years

$57,300 per year

Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate

74% within 6 years

Popular Areas of Study

Popular majors at University of Dayton are Business, Engineering, and Education. 28% of students major in Business, 13% in Engineering, and 8% in Education.

  • Business 28%
  • Engineering 13%
  • Education 8%
  • Communication 7%
  • Health Professions 5%

More Colleges to Consider

Students considering University of Dayton are frequently interested in these similar colleges.

Data source: NCES / IPEDS https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=202480.

GPA calculator: University of Dayton GPA calculator.

Last updated: August 2026