John Buchtel statue

About UA

University information

Founded

1870 as Buchtel College

President

Robert J. (R.J.) Nemer | Website

Our students

The University attracts students from a variety of backgrounds and geographical locations, with fall semester representation totaling 14,813 students from Ohio, around the U.S. and 70 foreign countries. See our student profile.

Academics

We offer a wide variety of in-demand undergraduate and graduate programs, including many that are recognized nationally for their excellence. See our areas of study.

UA Mission

The University of Akron, a publicly assisted metropolitan institution, strives to develop enlightened members of society. It offers comprehensive programs of instruction from associate through doctoral levels; pursues a vigorous agenda of research in the arts, sciences and professions; and provides service to the community. The University pursues excellence in undergraduate education and distinction in selected areas of graduate instruction, inquiry and creative activity.

UA Vision

The University of Akron will be a leading public research university with an unsurpassed commitment to community engagement with a great American legacy city, Akron. We will:

Be an opportunity university for all types of learners
Be known as a willing and constructive partner for business, government and the non-profit sector
Be an institution of innovation willing to invest in unique approaches that increase opportunity for students and reduce costs
Sponsor an array of superb academic programs relevant to the future
Make and keep promises to our students, ourselves and this community

The Akron campus

The University of Akron is a vibrant community within metropolitan Akron, with more than 80 buildings on 218 acres.

Other course options

UA offers courses at Wayne College in Orrville, OH and online.

Map showing University of Akron sites in Medina, Lakewood, Orrville and elsewhere

Intercollegiate athletics

A member of the Mid-American Conference, UA fields 17 NCAA Division I-A intercollegiate teams for men and women. Follow them at GoZips.com.

Visit us!

Students visiting The University of Akron Join us for a Visit Day! to meet current students and faculty. You'll learn about our excellent academic programs, scholarship programs, financial aid and living on campus. And you'll see our modern classrooms, laboratories and Rec Center.

More information for visitors

Jobs

Innovators and entrepreneurs wanted: We are looking for people to provide for the changing needs and expectations of our diverse University community.

See open positions.

Our history

The institution now known as The University of Akron was founded as Buchtel College in 1870 by the Ohio Universalist Convention, which was strongly influenced by the efforts, energy and financial support of Akronites, particularly industrialist John R. Buchtel.

By 1907, Buchtel College's emphasis on local rather than denominational interests led it to become a private, nondenominational school.

UA and the Akron community

Aerial view of the University of Akron campus UA is a vital urban research university inspired by its people, its promise and its place. We are firmly anchored in a great American city, and driven by collaboration, partnership and a steadfast determination to provide opportunity and success to all learners.