Ohio State Lima, Bluffton University announce partnership

The Ohio State University at Lima and Bluffton University announced a new partnership this week establishing a pathway for Bluffton students to study engineering using the resources of both institutions.

“We are pleased to join in a new partnership with Bluffton University,” said Margaret Young, interim dean and director of Ohio State Lima. “Collaborating as public and private universities allows us as institutions of higher education to better meet local workforce needs and will support growth throughout our region. It is always exciting to create innovative pathways to student success.”

Young and Jane Wood, Bluffton University president, discussed plans to broaden access for students in west central and northwest Ohio during a media conference on Tuesday morning.

“Bluffton University is excited to join in partnership with The Ohio State University Lima campus to offer more students the opportunity to study engineering,” said Wood. “Beginning in the fall of 2024, Bluffton University students will be able to live four years on Bluffton’s campus and complete a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology degree in Lima. Collaboration amongst higher education institutions is essential and increases opportunities for future employment needs in the state of Ohio.”

Students will take approximately half of their classes at each location and will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Engineering Science from Bluffton University and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology from Ohio State Lima. They’ll also be able to fully participate in Bluffton’s campus community and participate in athletics and student clubs/organizations while earning their degrees.

Students will follow a strict curriculum that will allow them to graduate and complete both degrees in just four years.