Student Testimonials
Read what students and alumni have to say about online degrees and certificates at Ohio State.
Finding Support Online
From social work to clinical research and beyond, students from across Ohio State’s online programs cite caring faculty mentors and strong peer networks with setting them up for success in their classes and their careers. We asked our online students to share how this support made a difference in their educational journeys and what it means to them to have a community to rely on – even from a distance.
Alumni
"The online format made it possible for me to complete my degree while also earning my fieldwork hours, which has put me in a great position to prepare for the BCBA® exam."
“The MAA program has provided me with the opportunity, exposure, and confidence needed to step into more advanced roles. I am confident that I am ready to dive into the world of aeronautics and positively contribute.”
“This program has been extremely enlightening. It has pushed me outside of my clinical area of expertise into different avenues such as leadership, patient advocacy, local and global population health. I had assumed my career trajectory would follow a certain path, but this DNP program has opened my eyes to different things that I am passionate about.”
"I felt very connected to the Ohio State community as an online student. I felt like this was more of a cohort-based program and was able to connect with my classmates through the online classes, group projects, and discussion boards in a way that I was not expecting."
"I truly appreciate how flexible and autonomous this program was, so I could continue my practice as a nurse practitioner while completing the program. I also had control over the design of my final project, allowing me to focus on a topic and initiative I was passionate about."
I honestly felt like I was on campus—an on-campus experience online.
The coursework was the piece of the puzzle I was missing. It instilled the confidence I needed to apply for a program director position.
Completing my thesis was my greatest personal and professional accomplishment.
I want to inspire parents, caregivers, and full-time professionals to know that they can do this.
The RDH to BS program helped me become a more knowledgeable and well-rounded hygienist, significantly boosting my professional confidence.
"My goal is to assist veterans and their families as they transition to civilian life. The HDFS program has helped me move toward this goal by deepening my understanding of the transition process. It has challenged me to look beyond my own military experience and consider the diverse needs of the veteran community."
Meeting the staff, orienting myself to the campus, immersing in the culture, and most importantly connecting with my peers made all the difference. Those in person interactions laid the foundation for my relationships that have already proven to be crucial to our success so far…and my sanity!
Although finding time to travel and take time off work and family commitments can be challenging, especially for those coming from out of state or, in my case, out of the country, I truly believe the experience was more than worth it.
"HDFS allowed me to broadly explore opportunities in the helping fields while building skills that can be applicable in nearly any setting…It gave me a deeper understanding of why people are the way they are, how their childhood and environment affect that, how they interact with people, and how they work through challenges."
“This program is online, but I feel so connected to my professors! I would have never expected our community to be so present while doing classwork from our homes."
"Every week I learn something new and bloom into a more confident person, whether it’s through my thesis, practical application, or community work. Ohio State has created a space for me to continue my growth as a scholar."
"I can’t rave enough about the HDFS program! The professors are amazing. They made class fun, but more importantly, they truly cared about student wellbeing. The classes are so interesting, and the material learned in class can be applied to everyday life."
I would recommend pre-veterinary students not to pursue a master's just to make themselves more competitive. Instead, pursue a program you're genuinely interested in and one that will enhance your abilities as a veterinarian or research. For me, the Ohio State MSTP program was that stepping stone.
I knew I needed a flexible program, and the MSTP program seemed like an excellent fit. The program objectives covered topics I was interested in related to research but not necessarily things I would have had the chance to explicitly study in veterinary school.
Yes, I would recommend this program to students interested in either veterinary medicine or biomedical research. There are so many foundational concepts in this degree that can prepare you for research careers or serve as a checkpoint for veterinary students.
I recommend this program to any dental hygienist with a desire to enter higher education. This program will build a strong educational foundation in a flexible format that makes right now the right time to pursue your passion.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of this program that presents itself through the thesis project. The thesis project requires original research advised by a committee of faculty. My classmates and I expanded our networks by forming diverse thesis committees comprising faculty from various colleges and departments.
The program equipped me with the teaching tools to be effective in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings.
“I never imagined being a student again. Don’t let your age hinder you from pursuing a program to equip you with the tools needed to address the change you want to see in the world.”
“I decided to pursue the MPH to enhance my competencies to better serve patients in the community where I work (and) effectively advocate on behalf of my patients.”
“The Program for Experienced Professionals has been a space to build on my advocacy work and focus the frustrations I feel about big issues such as health care inequities, addiction stigma and climbing overdose deaths.”
“After I earn my bachelor's degree, I am planning to go to graduate school for physical therapy. Earning my degree in health science online at Ohio State will help me because it gives me different views and perspectives on the health care system as a whole, along with giving me all of the prerequisites that I need for graduate school.”
"The Ohio State University’s College of Dentistry is the only dental school in Ohio with a dental hygiene program, and since I plan on attending dental school at Ohio State, it was the perfect fit.”
“My main motivation to pursue the RDH to BS program was to transition into the academic side of dental hygiene. I saw the program as an opportunity to open the door to teaching clinical and possibly didactic dental hygiene courses in the future.”
"I’m particularly proud of the work I did with USA Cares, a nonprofit supporting veterans in transition. Through Professor Bartman’s class, I had the chance to serve as a consultant, which gave me a unique, hands-on way to apply everything I’d learned about leadership and service. The chance to contribute meaningfully to an organization that supports those who have served our country was a humbling and rewarding experience."
"The support I received during the online DNP program was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I joined, I felt truly seen – not just as a student, but as a whole person navigating complex professional and personal responsibilities. Faculty were consistently compassionate and accommodating, showing deep understanding of the realities working professionals face."
"Graduating from this program strengthened my leadership capabilities and opens doors to executive-level opportunities. I feel well-prepared to lead change and influence health care policy."
"It’s a rigorous, supportive, and well-rounded program that truly prepares you for the responsibilities of becoming a BCBA."
“I knew I wanted to expand my education, and completing my degree felt like the right first step.”
“If I could describe this program in one word, it’s passion. The faculty are passionate, the program is structured with purpose, and it reignites your own passion for dental hygiene.”
"The MHI program was really great for me. Being a full-time mother of three, I thought it offered a lot of flexibility. I changed careers in the middle of it, and I went from working three days a week to working five days a week, but I still felt the program was very doable."
"I learned to embrace and appreciate the online format. It enabled me to continue to work full time, take advantage of generous employer tuition benefits, and progress toward my career goals while accommodating my family life."
"As an online student, there's so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless."
"With everything I had going on in my life, I was really grateful that this program (the MS HSPAL) allowed me to self-pace myself in an asynchronous way. I was impressed by the ways in which Ohio State can deliver education to engage everyone that's online to make it feel like you're in person."
"This program (the MS HSPAL) is here because of those that went before us. So many people have put so much time and effort into developing this program – to giving feedback, pouring their careers into pharmacy administration and advancing the profession. I can’t say enough about becoming involved with those around you. Listen to them, look at their leadership styles, and make it authentically yours."
"The Human Development and Family Science program at Ohio State did a tremendous job of teaching me valuable skills that can benefit me in a variety of professions."
“What distinguishes RN to BSN program from others is evidence-based practice. In the program, we’re working to put into practice what we’re learning, but also making sure we’re doing what’s best for the patients – and that piece of evidence-based practice really sets it apart.”
"The graduate courses I took were designed to get an early start on [my thesis] research and to continue working on the thesis process in subsequent courses until I had a finished product. I loved so much how this process worked that I’ve replicated it with the capstone groups I mentor."
"Personally, my master’s degree has helped me reach my goals in academia and gain leadership positions. One of my coworkers was interested in getting her master's degree and I’ve talked so much about the online program at Ohio State that she’s currently enrolled!"
"One of the great things about this degree completion program at Ohio State is it's all online. It's great to balance with work life…some days I would work 8-4 and some days I would work 1-7, and I could fit schoolwork in between."
The online format was critical in supporting my learning but also maintaining my work-life balance…the opportunity to complete my coursework online at my own pace was very helpful.
The MS in Dental Hygiene program has prepared me for teaching, research, and advancing the profession while inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists.
The skills I’ve gained in the MS in Dental Hygiene program, finding and applying research, have elevated the quality of care I deliver.
The evidence-based research and education courses are helping me build a foundation for public speaking and achieving my goal of becoming an educator.
Having the flexibility to study online while continuing to work full-time was a game-changer. The program’s structure allowed me to regularly see connections at work and supplement my work-experience with relevant knowledge we were learning each week.
The online MS in Translational Pharmacology program at Ohio State gave me a broader understanding of the clinical research ecosystem. It helped me see how my role fits into the larger picture and anticipate the challenges faced by investigators, sponsors, and study coordinators alike.
If you’re serious about advancing in clinical research, it’s not just about knowing your job—it’s about understanding how the whole system functions. The program at Ohio State gave me that perspective, and that’s been invaluable in my career growth.
As one of the largest public dental colleges in the United States, Ohio State offers broad and unique opportunities for hygiene students.
Because of the courses that I took in this master’s program, I got a great foundation for how to teach dental hygiene and was able to get an adjunct teaching position at a local college.
“If you’re working and you need a flexible schedule, the online RN to BSN program at The Ohio State University is a great choice. And the faculty work really well with you too – they get right back with you if you’re having problems with an assignment or you’re mandated to work overtime, they’re understanding.”
“Having a degree is pretty important at an academic medical center. I didn’t realize the impact it would make until I had it. Now I feel like I’m on an equal playing field with others. My degree gave me a foundation and reminded me that I deserve to be here. I worked hard to get here.”
"The online RN to BSN program fits the needs of a full-time nurse, and the understanding faculty worked with me to make sure that I got the support I needed."
“I completed the program to provide better understanding and services for my patients. I have two children, and I was caring for my dad who was ill. The flexibility was huge because I couldn't have done it without.”
“The professors made it really easy. They have this real-world experience, and they're able to relate to things that I've experienced. Because a lot of the class was online, they always made themselves available. If I had a question, they were quick to respond.”
"Initially, I was worried about the unknown of going back to school after 30 years. Quite honestly, I loved it. I not only gained so much more through a multi-faceted approach of teaching, videos, speakers, group assignments, and interactions, but also was exposed to technology and programs that my company has since adopted. Therefore, I felt like I was ahead of the game at work and better positioned for success."
"I valued the camaraderie I developed with the other MHI students in my cohort. We were all advancing our education coming from various backgrounds. This program challenged me to become comfortable with the uncomfortable and take on new challenges related to my career and professional development."
“The online BSHS program is very comparable to what I experienced in-person. We all participate and collaborate. It’s very interactive.”
I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized.
The pharmacology master's program took my clinical research efforts to the next level through a better understanding of pharmacology, study design, and identifying outcomes that will help us determine the best treatment options for our patients.
“As a working professional with a family, I knew it would not be feasible for me to pursue a JD program. I am grateful that Ohio State provided this opportunity for someone like me interested in gaining more knowledge of specific legal practices, regulations, and laws that could help further a current career path or a different career path such as myself. You are able to select the courses in which you have a personal and professional interest, and the program now offers courses specifically for MSL student lifestyles. I have been in higher education my whole life but having an opportunity to make a career change has been the best decision I made when pursuing and completing the program.”
“I find myself using articles, techniques and strategies I’ve learned in class in my daily work practice. And the best thing is that it happened right away — the first chapter I read, I was taking notes for work, not just for class.”
“This is a very accommodating program that can build your foundation for the current work that you’re doing or help you expand into other areas.”
“I have a better grasp on public health because of the program and am prepared for real-world challenges I face at work on a daily basis.”
“This degree will give me more tools to do the work I’m doing with more impact and enable me to better respond to the health needs of the population I serve.”
"The Medical Laboratory Science program allowed me to develop and enhance my laboratory skills while also providing career guidance and mentorship. The knowledge, techniques, and advice I received from the program has allowed me to become a successful Medical Laboratory Scientist, Supervisor, Manager, and Senior Manager. My career goal is to continue to develop and grow as a leader while helping play a vital role in patient care."
"The Medical Laboratory Science program will allow you to become a certified Medical Laboratory Scientist and apply your passion for science and healthcare in a hands-on setting. A Medical Laboratory Scientist is crucial in diagnosing and treating diseases, as well as contributing to patient care outcomes through accurate testing and analysis."
"The medical laboratory science curriculum has been incredibly helpful for medical school, particularly the hematology, immunology, microbiology, blood banking, and body fluid analysis. I am constantly grateful for my education in the program and find that I not only learned the information well in the MLS program but that it is retainable. "
"The program is a journey. From clinical to administrative, I’m learning how to change the healthcare industry for the benefit of the patient."
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
“I could not have faced so many obstacles without the support, strength and guidance from the faculty and staff. Even when times were tough, they believed in me, so I believed in me.”
"Ohio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others."
"I really enjoyed the MLS program! The professors' deep understanding of the material made it engaging, and I can directly apply the knowledge I gained in my current job in blood banking. The classes on hematology and immunology that we took will be highly beneficial in my journey to becoming a physician."
“I have developed so many skills that I have been able to take into my job. The knowledge base that you gain at Ohio State is second to none. It’s better than I expected and more than I hoped.”
"I’ve made lasting relationships. I still meet my former classmates to discuss processes, improvements and research that we are conducting."
"I learned to embrace and appreciate the online format. It enabled me to continue to work full time, take advantage of generous employer tuition benefits, and progress toward my career goals while accommodating my family life."
“I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized.”
“While going into the program, I was concerned that by Ohio State being one of the largest institutions, I would feel like one in 1,000 students. Instead, I felt a sense of close-knit, connected support from both classmates and faculty.”
"The MPAL program has already opened new career options, and I have met a wonderful diverse group of people. The ability to engage and share experiences with peers across the country through the MPAL is something I truly appreciate and value."
"When comparing programs, the MPAL degree through the Glenn College at Ohio State stood out because it had leadership as a cornerstone of the curriculum. Not only do students learn the fundamentals of administration within the public sector such as budgeting and contracts, but they are also taught what good leadership entails."
"As a graduate student working part-time as Constituent Aide at the Ohio House of Representatives in downtown Columbus, I was able to have the flexibility of going to school and bring a very unique and valuable skillset into work each day. I was able to apply what I was learning into my work and influence others to make positive changes."
"I was most impressed by the breadth and depth of experience held by my peers in the program. Together, we learned from one another’s diverse backgrounds and created a life-long network of professionals across the county."
"The Master of Global Engineering Leadership provides the opportunity to learn and apply engineering tools, managerial theories, and best practices to design and operate enterprise systems."
"I have gained useful knowledge that is proving helpful in securing a position as an engineering leader in my company."
"The WPMBA program was truly the only way I could have earned my MBA while working full-time. An Ohio State education and network has, and always will, help me further my career."
"The Master of Science in Welding Engineering program is looked upon as the absolute top-tier program in the industry. The knowledge base that you gain at Ohio State is second to none."
"My favorite part of the online program was interaction with the professors. I could not have done it without such great support."
"The wide-ranging knowledge I received from this unique program truly moved the needle for my career, as it successfully prepared me for specialized roles through a stimulating academic curriculum. I highly recommend this program as an excellent opportunity to effectively alter the trajectory of your career in the best possible way."
General
As one of the largest public dental colleges in the United States, Ohio State offers broad and unique opportunities for hygiene students.
Making oral health matter through learning, discovery, and innovative patient care and service.
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
“I could not have faced so many obstacles without the support, strength and guidance from the faculty and staff. Even when times were tough, they believed in me, so I believed in me.”
"Ohio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others."
"I’ve made lasting relationships. I still meet my former classmates to discuss processes, improvements and research that we are conducting."
"I learned to embrace and appreciate the online format. It enabled me to continue to work full time, take advantage of generous employer tuition benefits, and progress toward my career goals while accommodating my family life."
Programs
I would recommend pre-veterinary students not to pursue a master's just to make themselves more competitive. Instead, pursue a program you're genuinely interested in and one that will enhance your abilities as a veterinarian or research. For me, the Ohio State MSTP program was that stepping stone.
I knew I needed a flexible program, and the MSTP program seemed like an excellent fit. The program objectives covered topics I was interested in related to research but not necessarily things I would have had the chance to explicitly study in veterinary school.
Yes, I would recommend this program to students interested in either veterinary medicine or biomedical research. There are so many foundational concepts in this degree that can prepare you for research careers or serve as a checkpoint for veterinary students.
“We designed the program using the RESNA code of ethics and standards. Based our curriculum on the ATP exam outline, and then expanded it to cover innovations like artificial intelligence and virtual reality.”
“We practice what we teach, our faculty work directly with students to identify and address accessibility needs. And many of our students with disabilities have gone on to make significant impacts in the field.”
“The lab allows students to experience the OSU Wexner Medical Center’s Assistive Technology Center remotely. They’re immersed in a simulated clinical setting where they can explore equipment, observe assessments, and gain insight into how assistive technology is applied in real life.”
Having the flexibility to study online while continuing to work full-time was a game-changer. The program’s structure allowed me to regularly see connections at work and supplement my work-experience with relevant knowledge we were learning each week.
The online MS in Translational Pharmacology program at Ohio State gave me a broader understanding of the clinical research ecosystem. It helped me see how my role fits into the larger picture and anticipate the challenges faced by investigators, sponsors, and study coordinators alike.
If you’re serious about advancing in clinical research, it’s not just about knowing your job—it’s about understanding how the whole system functions. The program at Ohio State gave me that perspective, and that’s been invaluable in my career growth.
"I chose this program because I wanted to get my Bachelor's degree and since I work full-time, this program being completely online was a no-brainer."
"I chose this program to further my education in management. I ultimately want to become a Radiology Manager, but I haven’t had management experience. This program seemed right since it was specific to those already in imaging, that’s why I chose it."
The pharmacology master's program took my clinical research efforts to the next level through a better understanding of pharmacology, study design, and identifying outcomes that will help us determine the best treatment options for our patients.
Students
“What I've learned in the online classes I have applied every day in my work as a technologist. It's a great program and I give a lot of credit to the great instructors who taught me. I highly encourage it!”
I honestly felt like I was on campus—an on-campus experience online.
The coursework was the piece of the puzzle I was missing. It instilled the confidence I needed to apply for a program director position.
Completing my thesis was my greatest personal and professional accomplishment.
I want to inspire parents, caregivers, and full-time professionals to know that they can do this.
The RDH to BS program helped me become a more knowledgeable and well-rounded hygienist, significantly boosting my professional confidence.
Meeting the staff, orienting myself to the campus, immersing in the culture, and most importantly connecting with my peers made all the difference. Those in person interactions laid the foundation for my relationships that have already proven to be crucial to our success so far…and my sanity!
Although finding time to travel and take time off work and family commitments can be challenging, especially for those coming from out of state or, in my case, out of the country, I truly believe the experience was more than worth it.
I recommend this program to any dental hygienist with a desire to enter higher education. This program will build a strong educational foundation in a flexible format that makes right now the right time to pursue your passion.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of this program that presents itself through the thesis project. The thesis project requires original research advised by a committee of faculty. My classmates and I expanded our networks by forming diverse thesis committees comprising faculty from various colleges and departments.
The program equipped me with the teaching tools to be effective in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings.
“In the online BSN to DNP program, you network with students from all over the country. It's like the best and brightest think tank on the planet. The instructors take great care and time to provide instructional materials that support student success…you feel supported throughout.”
"The combination of real-world case studies, practicum experiences, and constant feedback from professors and classmates has given me a toolbox — and confidence — to design interventions that truly improve clients’ quality of life."
"This program has enabled me to begin taking steps toward conducting research that I hope will make a difference in the lives of the children I will work with and the ABA community as a whole. It’s allowing me to dedicate time and resources to my studies and gain the knowledge I need to truly make an impact."
The online format was critical in supporting my learning but also maintaining my work-life balance…the opportunity to complete my coursework online at my own pace was very helpful.
The MS in Dental Hygiene program has prepared me for teaching, research, and advancing the profession while inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists.
The skills I’ve gained in the MS in Dental Hygiene program, finding and applying research, have elevated the quality of care I deliver.
The evidence-based research and education courses are helping me build a foundation for public speaking and achieving my goal of becoming an educator.
Because of the courses that I took in this master’s program, I got a great foundation for how to teach dental hygiene and was able to get an adjunct teaching position at a local college.
"I chose this program because I am passionate about serving others. I knew it was right for me because of its specific focus in service. I am proud of all of the leadership components I have applied to my current role. I have learned to understand others and lead by example to create an ethical environment."
"The professors and faculty genuinely care about their students’ learning experiences instead of just trying to push them to get good grades. I really love the flexibility of the program, too."
“I knew that if I paired this master's program with my current job, it would be a perfect complement. Taking this class was actually helping me with my job, and my job is helping me with the program as well.”
“The flexibility of this online health sciences program has been so ideal for me! I'm able to work full-time while taking care of my kids and still able to have the time to do classwork later in the day or when it's most convenient. I'm so grateful Ohio State offers this program and that I found it when researching the best online degree program for my busy lifestyle.”
“I work full time as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, so it is extremely important for me to be able to have flexibility in this online BS in Health Sciences program. I work four 10-hour shifts and the other three days I am able to focus on my coursework and life.”
“Because this BS in Health Sciences degree is so versatile, it will help me in a variety of ways. My goal is to transition into health care management, which is an avenue made possible by this degree!”
"What initially attracted me to this program was how different the Master of Healthcare Innovation program was compared to other healthcare master’s programs. It focused on innovative solutions and real-world applications, rather than just traditional healthcare management."
"The instructors were phenomenal. Not only were they experts in healthcare innovation, but they truly helped transform the way I think about change management, improvement, and innovation."
"I feel like I learned skills that are actually useful in the practice setting and have made me a better leader."
"The faculty are supportive, our cohort is close (even though we live all over the country), and the content we learn is applicable to every aspect of nursing education."
"The interaction with my classmates was amazing. The support I felt from all of them at one time or another was uplifting. The synchronous classes and group projects let us get to know each other and become invested in each other's success. This is the most cohesive group of students I have ever experienced in all my time taking classes."
"What stood out to me is the character of the leaders of the program. They are smart, tough, but most importantly they are genuine and I truly feel like they care about the outcomes of the students. They believe in us, and it makes it easier to believe in myself because of that."
"Wellness is not only preached, but actually practiced. The fact that it is actually embedded into the program as a course encourages and challenges us to take proactive measures to live well, in whatever capacity that we can."
"The best part is the curriculum. I have thoroughly enjoyed every course and enhanced my knowledge in many ways. And my second favorite thing is my new friends from all across the country."
"Nurse educators are very collaborative people, and I have found the Doctor of Nursing Education students at Ohio State to be some of the most giving and inspirational people I have ever met."
"This program has helped me attain knowledgeable skills, and I have gained more experience outside of the classroom. However, public administration has allowed me to develop a leadership distinction within my discipline and a sense of social responsibility to bring into my future profession and community."
“Unequivocally, the networks that I have built through the program have been one of the greatest assets I have obtained. The program is paving a path for me to advance within my organization as we strategically advance healthcare.”
"The program is a journey. From clinical to administrative, I’m learning how to change the healthcare industry for the benefit of the patient."
"As an online student, there's so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless."
"The MPA program has accelerated my growth in three major ways: innovation, partnerships, and systems leadership. I am grateful for the opportunities to learn from enthusiastic scholars who are innovating public policy and education."
"The online Master of Engineering Management program has enabled my professional career to move further along than any other form of training. The MEM program at Ohio State has given real-life scenarios and objectives to see what it truly means to lead projects and people."
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Connect with a knowledgeable Enrollment Advisor who can help answer your questions and explain different aspects of the more than 80 online degrees and certificates offered at Ohio State. They are here to help you on your education journey.
