Ottawa University is a private non-profit four-year institution of higher education based out of Ottawa, Kansas. It has a long history of providing education to traditional and adult students that promotes students to dedicate their lives to faith, leadership, and service. Its mission is to provide superior professional and liberal arts education in a caring learning environment that is centered on Christ. Ottawa University is dedicated preparing students to make an impact in their professional and personal lives as well as their surrounding communities.
Ottawa University is centered on students and is committed to providing supportive and inspiring education that includes excellent teaching and the incorporation of current technology. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs that feature a strong curriculum that is constantly being updated and improved to provide the best possible education to students.
Ottawa University Online offers flexible access to a variety of courses and degree programs in today’s fastest increasing career fields. The online programs feature 8-week sessions that enable students to complete their courses around their busy schedules. The courses are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system that includes a virtual classroom environment to facilitate effective communication among students and instructors. The virtual learning environment features email, discussion boards, and simple assignment submissions. Ottawa University Online allows students to sample a class as a guest to gain insight to the online learning experience.
Ottawa University Online bachelor degree programs include English, communication, business administration, health care management, public administration, political science/law enforcement administration, psychology, history, mathematics, and human services. Ottawa University Online offers three master degree programs: Master of Business Administration with concentrations in finance, marketing, leadership, and health care management; Master of Arts in Education with concentrations in education intervention, education leadership, curriculum and instruction, and education technology; and Master of Arts in Human Resources. The online division also offers individualized major programs where students are able to select a certain topic of special interest and incorporate wide range elective courses and experiences. It may include courses and learning experiences from various disciplines or subjects. Examples of special interest topics include arts management, Christian ministry, entrepreneurship, finance, leadership, marketing management, and liberal arts.
Ottawa University was founded in 1865 by Baptists to improve the lives of the Ottawa Indian tribe through higher education. Since its founding, the institution has been affiliated with Baptist churches and since 1905 it has been specifically associated with the American Baptists Churches USA. In the 1970s, Ottawa University was growing recognition as a leading innovative higher education institution. Ottawa University Online was established in 2008. Currently, Ottawa University serves more than 9,000 students through its seven campuses and growing online programs.
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Ottawa University.
Schools of Education
- The School of Arts and Sciences
- The School of Business
- The School of Education
Scholarships Offered
Ottawa University offers two competitive awards: Ottawa Higher Achiever Scholarship and Presidential Scholarship. It offers awards to freshman and transfer students including Ottawa Indian Award, Sibling Award, Alumni Award, Franklin County Award, American Baptist Church Award, and Regional American Baptist Church Award. It also offers activity awards for students who participate in extra-curricular or co-curricular activities such as athletics, bands, choir, theatre, and spirit squad.
Financing Options
Ottawa University participates in various financial aid programs including federal programs, private alternative loans, employer reimbursement, and veteran’s benefits. The federal programs include Federal Pell Grant, Federal Stafford Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Consolidation Loans, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Federal PLUS Loan, and Federal Graduate PLUS Loan. Private alternative loan lenders include Sallie Mae, US Bank, Wells Fargo, Discover Student Loans, and Alaska Student Loans. Ottawa University also offers a variety of payment plan options.
Credit Earning Options
Ottawa University enables students to apply previous credit toward degree programs and it offers multiple ways to assess credit including previous college coursework, training programs, examinations, certification or licensure, military experience, and life/work experience. It accepts up to 80 credits for previous coursework completed at an accredited institution with proof on an official transcript. Students who have completed professional development training programs may earn credit with the submission of proof of program completion. Credits may be awarded for approve national testing programs such as College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), Berlitz, Advanced Placement (AP), DANTES, Excelisor, International Baccalaureate, and Regents. Abiding by the guidelines established by the American College on Education, Ottawa University grants college credit for certain vocational certifications. Military students may gain credit based on evaluation of military training. Credits for life and work experience are granted based on learning portfolio.