America's unique private/public institution combining a private university and public community college in rural southeastern Ohio.
Rio Grande offers undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs, associate degrees, and professional/technical certificates. The institution emphasizes a learner-centered environment with personalized attention from faculty dedicated to both academic and humanistic growth. Programs span multiple disciplines, with options available through the main campus and four regional academic centers in Jackson, McArthur, Piketon, and Pomeroy. The College Credit Plus program allows high school students to earn college credits at no cost.
The 190-acre campus in southeastern Ohio provides a safe, supportive community atmosphere with over 60 clubs and organizations. Students benefit from Greek life, commuter council, and various co-curricular organizations. Facilities include the Jeanette Albiez Davis Library, Greer Museum, dining services, housing, health services, and recreational opportunities. The campus emphasizes engagement and mental wellbeing through chaplaincy programs, CARE team support, and student success coaching.
Rio Grande welcomes undergraduate, transfer, international, graduate, and allied health/nursing applicants. The admissions team provides personalized support through campus visits (in-person and virtual), application assistance, and athletic recruitment coordination. The institution emphasizes affordability and accessibility, positioning itself as a high-quality, high-value educational option. Regional admissions representatives serve specific geographic areas.
Rio Grande competes in 26 intercollegiate varsity sports through NAIA, primarily in the River States Conference. The RedStorm athletic program is historically significant—Bevo Francis set an NCAA single-game scoring record of 113 points in 1954 (standing for 58 years). Football, discontinued after 1949, will return in 2025 in the Appalachian Athletic Conference. The institution has produced notable alumni including NBA coach Bernie Bickerstaff and U.S. Representatives.