Private liberal arts university in Ohio, founded 1850, affiliated with United Church of Christ.
Heidelberg offers a liberal arts education integrated with professional preparation across multiple disciplines. The university features five academic schools: Natural Sciences & Nursing, Allied Health, Education, Behavioral Sciences, and Humanities. Notable programs include Pre-Professional Health, study abroad opportunities, and the PlusOneAdvantage® MBA Scholarship. The university maintains a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio with an average class size of 17 students, and 88% of faculty hold the highest degree in their field.
The 110-acre campus in Tiffin features 26 buildings, 10 of which are on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing Greek Revival, Victorian Gothic, and English Gothic architecture. Approximately 85% of students live in campus-owned housing, including seven residence halls, senior apartments, and Cooperative Learning Communities (CLCs). The university has ten social Greek organizations (five fraternities, four sororities, one mixed-gender society), all local to Heidelberg. Students are culturally and geographically diverse, with 8% from other countries.
Heidelberg competes in NCAA Division III as a member of the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC), the third-oldest conference in the nation. The university fields 22 varsity teams plus esports (added 2023–2024). Notable achievements include the 1972 Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl football championship, multiple NCAA tournament appearances in volleyball, and strong performances in cross country, baseball, and wrestling. The athletic program dates back to 1892.
Heidelberg offers multiple visit options including individual campus visits (Monday–Friday, 10 AM–2 PM), virtual visits, and group events like Summer Preview Days and Saturday Visit Days. The university emphasizes personalized admission counseling and academic support through mentoring, tutoring, and advising. A Four-Year Graduation Guarantee is available, and the university serves international students and non-traditional learners.