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Celebrating Northern

Student Life

Northern is an open frontier for exploration and fun. Excitement, creativity and tradition are cornerstones of campus.

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Student plays Jenga outside Lima Hall

Your new home away from home

Choose from a variety of homey residence halls, and never go hungry with lots of delicious food options.
  • Housing
  • Dining

Fun times ahead!

Welcome to life outside of the classroom where good times are easy to come by and new friends are found.

Fraternities and Sororities
Klondike's Pool Table
Bowling
Surfing on the Tundra
Concerts at ONU
Make new friends
Fraternities
Good time on the Tundra
Foam Party - Welcome Weekend
Fun at Welcome Weekend

Sports, Clubs and More

There are so many options at ONU to participate in! Most students join at least one club, sport, ensemble, etc. What are you passionate about?

  • 22% Students participating in at least one sport on campus
  • 82% Students involved in student organizations last year
  • 18% Students participating in a fraternity/sorority
  • 200+ Student organizations on campus to join
Student signs the Spirit Rock in front of McIntosh Center at Ohio Northern University

Check out highlights from Welcome Weekend!

Right out of the gate, our first-year students are treated to a sampling of the fun, energetic spirit that is the ONU experience.

Student Resources

Alexander Wooldridge is pictured at the career fair.
Polar Careers
Health and Wellness
Health and Wellness
Student Success Center
Student Success Center
  • With more than 200 clubs and organizations, there’s something for nearly every interest at ONU. And if you can’t find the club you’re after, start it yourself! By getting involved in organizations, you’ll uncover opportunities to make new friends, give back, travel, network and learn how to lead.

    A Professional Engineering Fraternity Indian Student Association Phi Alpha Delta International Fraternity
    Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy Industry Pharmacists Organization Phi Alpha Theta
    Active Minds Institute for Civics and Public Policy Phi Beta Delta - Gamma Epsilon Chapter
    African Student Association Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering Phi Delta Chi
    AIGA: The Professional Association for Design Interfraternity Council Phi Lambda Sigma
    Alpha Lambda Delta Academic Honor Society International Law Journal at Ohio Northern University Claude W. Pettit College of Law Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia: Rho Pi Chapter
    Alpha Mu Alpha International Law Society Phi Mu Delta
    Alpha Phi Omega J. Reuben Clark Law Society  Phi Sigma Rho
    Alpha Phi Sigma: Lambda Mu Chapter Japanese Student Organization Philosophy and Ethics Club
    Alpha Tau Delta Joint Engineering Council Pi Sigma Alpha
    Alpha Xi Delta Kappa Alpha Theta Polar Buddies
    American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists Kappa Delta Pi Polar Health Club
    American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists Kappa Epsilon Polar Paws
    American Constitution Society Kappa Mu Epsilon Polar Pediatrics
    American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Kappa Phi Polar Robotics
    American Marketing Association Kappa Pi International Honorary Art Fraternity PolarFit
    American Pharmacists Association Kappa Psi Polaris Literary Magazine
    American Society for Engineering Education Lambda Pi Eta Powerlifting Club
    American Society of Civil Engineers Latino Student Union Pre-PA Club
    American Society of Consultant Pharmacists Laws for Paws Pre-Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy Club
    American Society of Mechanical Engineers Lawtinos President's Club
    Amnesty International at Ohio Northern University  Leaders' Council Professional Association For Women In Science
    Anime Appreciation Association Legal Association for Women Professional Association of Medical Laboratory Students
    Asian American Student Union Men's Volleyball Club Public Interest Law Association
    Association of Computing Machinery Mock Trial Public Relations Student Society of America
    Association of Future Forensic Professionals Model United Nations Rho Chi
    Badminton Club Mortar Board Sample Organization
    Beta Alpha Psi National Community Oncology Dispensing Association Sigma Alpha Iota
    Beta Gamma Sigma National Student Nurses Association Sigma Delta Pi
    Biology Student Association  Northern Christian Fellowship Sigma Iota Epsilon
    Biomedical Science Design Team Northern Foam League Sigma Phi Epsilon
    Black Law Student Association Northern Nursing Without Borders Sigma Pi
    Black Student Union Northern Review Sigma Tau Delta - Delta Iota Chapter
    Brother to Brother Northern Stars Dance Team Sister to Sister
    Brothers in Christ  Ohio Collegiate Music Education Association Society for the Advancement of Management
    Business Peer Mentor Program Ohio Northern Gospel Ensemble Society of Automotive Engineers Baja
    Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship Ohio Northern Honors Program Society of Medical Professionals
    Christian Legal Society Ohio Northern Ski Club Society of Physics Students
    Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International Ohio Northern University - Pettit College of Law Moot Court  Society of Women Engineers 
    Civil Rights Law Journal  Ohio Northern University Cheerleading Spanish Club
    College of Pharmacy Peer Mentor Program Ohio Northern University Law Review Sports Law Society
    College Republicans Ohio Northern University Psi Chi Chapter Student Bar Association 
    Colleges Against Cancer Ohio Northern University Student Association for Disability Advocacy  Student Chapter of the Personalized Medicine Coalition
    Communication and Media Club Omicron Delta Kappa Student Investment Group
    Darkside Men's Ultimate Frisbee ONU Art Club Student Members of the American Chemical Society
    Delta Delta Epsilon ONU Astronomy Club Student National Pharmaceutical Association
    Delta Sigma Phi ONU Black Rose Rugby Club Student Planning Committee
    Delta Zeta ONU Campus Scouts Student Senate
    Dicke College of Business Administration Dean's Advisory Council ONU Catholic Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists
    Disc Golf ONU Club Ice Hockey Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
    Environmental Law Society ONU Club Tennis Studia Socialia Americae
    Fearless ShenANYgans ONU College Democrats Tau Beta Pi
    Fellowship of Christian Athletes ONU Herb Society Tau Beta Sigma
    Fencing Club ONU National Community Pharmacists Association Student Chapter TEA @ ONU
    Gaming Club ONU Women's Club Volleyball Teachers of Tomorrow 
    Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society (Pi Gamma Chapter) ONU Women's Ultimate Frisbee The Federalist Society
    Getty College of Arts & Sciences Dean's Student Advisory Board Open Doors: Ohio Northern's Lesbian, Gay, Bi/Pansexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Agender, and Ally Student Group Theta Alpha Phi
    Getty College of Arts & Sciences Peer Mentor Program Order of Omega Theta Chi
    Global Brigades at ONU Orientation Leaders University Singers
    Good News Bears OUTLaws and Allies Students’ Association  Women in Business
    Habitat for Humanity Panhellenic Council Women’s Fastpitch Club Softball
    Healthcare Business Association  Parks and REC Women's Club Soccer 
    Icelandic Legal Exchange Program Pharmacy Council Zeta Tau Alpha
  • You don't have to be a major in a music or theatre program to participate in our many music ensembles, marching band or theatre performances. It doesn't matter what you major in; we encourage you to continue your other passions! There are even non-major talent award options. Click here for more information.

  • We welcome diversity in all its forms at ONU. When you surround yourself with people from different backgrounds and cultures, you begin to look at the world through a new lens. Nineteen percent of our students are from other states and foreign countries, and the Office of Multicultural Development works to create an inclusive campus environment for everyone. We encourage you to develop new, diverse relationships at ONU. Who knows what inspiration could come of it?

    CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

  • The fraternities and sororities on campus all share common values and bonds, including scholarship, service, philanthropy, leadership and brotherhood/sisterhood. Choose from seven social fraternities and four social sororities. Approximately 20 percent of ONU’s student body is involved in Greek Life.

     

    WHY GO GREEK?

    • The Ohio Northern University Greek Community has a long tradition of being a valued part of ONU. Of the chapters on campus today, the earliest fraternity and sorority date back to 1905 and 1959, respectively.
    • Currently, there are seven social fraternities and four social sororities.
    • There are also two governing councils for the Greek organizations on campus. The Interfraternity Council is the governing organization of the fraternities; the Panhellenic Council is the governing body for the sororities.
    • With 450 students, roughly 20 percent of the campus population is involved in Greek life on Northern's campus.
    • The Greek organizations on campus all share common values and bonds, including scholarship, service, philanthropy, leadership and brotherhood/sisterhood, which can be seen through a variety of activities.
       

    SCHOLARSHIP

    • As a community, the members of each chapter are continually striving for higher achievements academically.
    • Each chapter also has an academics chair, who is responsible for helping fellow members stay committed to their studies while at Northern.
    • Opportunities for additional scholarships are also available through each of the organization's national and international offices.
       

    SERVICE AND PHILANTHROPY

    • Members spend countless hours providing services and raising money for the campus and the greater community.
    • The main philanthropies of the groups on campus include the following: Autism Speaks, Speech and Hearing Impaired, Breast Cancer Education and Awareness, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Choose Children, March of Dimes, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, USO, Ada Food Pantry, Red Cross, Ada Community Health Screenings, golf tournaments and highway cleanups.
    • As a community, the Greeks come together for many different occasions, including Relay for Life and community projects in Ada.
       

    LEADERSHIP

    • Within each chapter, dozens of leadership roles exist through which members can gain hands-on leadership experience and refine their skills.
    • Beyond the chapters, numerous leadership opportunities exist within the governing councils and the many other student organizations on campus.
    • Members are involved in a multitude of organizations, including Student Senate, Residence Life, Habitat for Humanity, Northern Christian Fellowship, varsity and club sports, band and numerous honoraries.
  • Discover a welcoming environment and people devoted to helping you transition from your home country to the USA and Ohio Northern University. We provide many resources to ensure your academic and social success.

    LEARN MORE HERE!

  • Our Leaders’ Council brings together students from all disciplines to develop leadership skills. Guest speakers, networking and an annual leadership dinner are just some of the opportunities offered to student leaders.

  • During Summer Orientation sessions, new students and their families are invited to campus for the opportunity to interact with other new students and their families, upperclassmen, faculty, staff, and administration. These daylong orientations are filled with informative sessions that will give you everything you need to know before classes begin in the fall.

     

    In the fall, all new students participate in Welcome Weekend. This four-day program occurs prior to the start of the fall semester. New students engage in a variety of activities and sessions throughout the weekend as they settle into their new home at ONU. Mark your calendars as all students including those who commute to campus are expected to attend all four days of activities.

    2023 Dates:

     

    Orientation:

    Sessions will be held June 5, 6, 15, & 16.

    Register for orientation - click here!

     

     

    Welcome Weekend:
    Will begin with Move-In Day Thursday, Aug. 19, and conclude Sunday, Aug. 22.

     

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    Accepted students:
    Reserve your spot in the entering class by submitting your deposit. Submitting your deposit provides student access to set up your ONU email, to register for Summer Orientation and select your housing.

     

    Deposited students:
    Learn more about taking all necessary next steps to become a Polar Bear here.

  • Feed your spirit as well as your mind at Northern. We have an active on- and off-campus religious life for worship, fellowship, outreach and serving others. Organizations include Habitat for Humanity, Northern Christian Fellowship, Gospel Ensemble, Chapel Band, the Jewish Union group and the Newman Club (ONU’s Catholic student ministry). ONU has been associated with the United Methodist Church since 1899.

    GO TO RELIGIOUS LIFE PAGE

  • Students interested in serving our country in the Air Force or Space Force can do so at ONU. The Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps program is offered through nearby Bowling Green State University. Enroll in the course(s) at ONU and travel to Bowling Green one day per week for instruction.  For more information, contact the ROTC program at 419-372-2176.

  • The purpose of the Student Code of Conduct is to explain student rights and responsibilities as members of the Ohio Northern University community. The Code of Conduct is based on the values contained in the University Mission Statement:

    "Influenced by a unique history and an enduring affiliation with the united Methodist church, Ohio Northern University’s mission is to provide a high-quality learning environment that prepares students for success in their careers; service to their communities, the nation and the world; and a lifetime of personal growth inspired by the higher values of truth, beauty and goodness. The University’s distinctive academic program includes mutually supporting liberal and professional education components that integrate practice with theory, complemented by excellent co-curricular offerings that enrich the northern experience. To fulfill this mission, faculty and staff engage with students so they can learn to think critically, creatively and entrepreneurially; communicate effectively; gain practical experience; solve problems collaboratively; and act as ethical and responsible members of a global community."

     

    OFFICE INFORMATION

     

    Hours: Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

     

    Greg Phlegar
    Director of Student Conduct
    Phone: 419-772-2434
    Fax: 419-772-2708
    Email: g-phlegar@onu.edu

  • About ONU's Student Handbook

    Ohio Northern University is dedicated to its mission to prepare students to lead lives of success, service and growth. Such an endeavor requires that community members behave in accordance with shared core values and principles. Beyond the learning that takes place in the classroom, the University is steadfast that an ONU education must also include the development of ethically responsible persons who have an understanding about the impact of their behavior on others. ONU has adopted a Student Handbook to provide students with general notice about the University’s student behavior expectations and other policies and about the procedures in place for resolving violations and other conflicts. This is a University administrative document rooted in student learning and in our obligation to maintain a positive and safe community for all. Our Student Handbook and its policies is premised on the notion that all ONU students will act with integrity and conduct themselves in ways that demonstrate respect to all persons and the environment. Every student who enrolls at ONU is expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the University’s policies and rules and to report to the University when they see others engaging in wrongdoing. Additionally, students are also expected to abide by each Colleges’ Handbook (See Appendices within the Handbook) and to the requirements contained within the Ohio Northern University Catalog.

    Note: The ONU Student Handbook is provided below as a .pdf download and includes hyperlink navigation for ease of use. See an overview of the Table of Contents; a more detailed table is provided within the document.

    Download the ONU Student Handbook here.

    ONU Student Handbook Table of Contents (Overview)

    I. Introduction
    II. General Information
    III. General Academic Requirements and Information
    IV. General Non-Academic Requirements and Standards of Conduct
    V. Residence Hall Policies and Procedures
    VI. University Affiliated Groups and Organizations
    VII. Fraternity / Sorority Life
    APPENDIX A: Student Records
    APPENDIX B: Sex Discrimination Policy
    APPENDIX C: Care Team Policy
    APPENDIX D: Emotional Support Animal Policy and Agreement
    APPENDIX E: Disciplinary Procedure for Non-Academic Violations
    APPENDIX F: Code of Student Academic Conduct
    APPENDIX G: Grade Appeals Procedure
    APPENDIX H: ONU Disabilities Policy
    APPENDIX I: Getty College of Arts & Sciences
    APPENDIX J: Smull College of Engineering
    APPENDIX K: Raabe College of Pharmacy
    APPENDIX L: Dicke College of Business Administration
    APPENDIX M: Pettit College of Law
    APPENDIX N: Student Traffic Appeals Procedure
    APPENDIX O: Student Fee Appeals Procedure
    APPENDIX P: Policies Regarding a Drug Violation by a Student Athlete
    APPENDIX Q: Computer Use Policy
    APPENDIX R: University Community Safety Policies
    APPENDIX S: Policy Prohibiting Hazing

  • WONB strives to be a primary source for news, sports, weather, public affairs and entertainment in West Central Ohio. WONB’s primary musical formats showcase the best of yesterday through today. Sunday listeners are treated to smooth jazz and gospel sounds. Working with and learning from broadcasting professionals, ONU students serve as WONB news and sports writers, anchors and reporters; producers and hosts of programs; and WONB promotion specialists. Students also write and produce public service announcements for community and nonprofit organizations. Listen to WONB online.

Avery Meadows
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I’ve met all my closest friends because of my fraternity. It’s provided so many opportunities for me to grow as a person academically, professionally, personally, etc.
Avery Meadows, pharmacy major

Office Staff Listing

Click below for the Office of Student Affairs staff listing,

  • Vice President for Student Affairs, 419-772-2430

Get in the game

Polar Bears don’t sit on the sidelines; they dive into fun activities every chance they get. And it’s easy to do with so many recreational options available.

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PUBLIC SAFETY

The mission of the Department of Public Safety is to protect students, faculty, staff and visitors as well as to preserve personal and University property from damage and loss. The responsibility for developing and maintaining a safe, secure and welcoming environment belongs to all members of the campus community. The department provides expertise and educational services in the areas of self-protection, crime prevention, personal security, workplace safety and environmental health.

Contact:
Gregory R. Horne, Director of Public Safety
419-772-2222
publicsafety@onu.edu

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, PLEASE DIAL 911.
Learn more about Public Safety

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Office of Student Affairs

McIntosh Center
525 South Main Street
Ada, Ohio 45810

419-772-2430
studentaffairs@onu.edu
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Take the first step toward living the Polar Bear life

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