University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH, USA

Reviews

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Nathan from Edgewood, KY

a current student here
23 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I was delighted to find that most of the professors at UC really know their stuff and they are willing to help if you don't understand them on the first go. However, it certainly is useful to ask around about potential professors. I had a Chemistry lecture that was useless, but the TA really helped me stay on track. That being said, a lot of the TA's, especially in the math department, are really truly horrible. Office hours and learning centers (free!) are your friend if you get stuck with one of these TA's.
Am enjoying being here
The campus at UC is probably the most beautiful thing in Cincinnati. I love walking around campus and it feels like an urban city but has plenty of green spaces and quiet corners. I couldn't ask for more in a college campus. I also find that most of the students are very open to new people from all kinds of backgrounds.
Bang for the buck
I got lucky in that I qualified for in-state tuition. I think the price is great for in-state eligible students. The campus is very modern -- there is WiFi everywhere, almost every classroom has a computer/projector setup, and the professors are good about using Blackboard and email. The out-of-state price is very high, and I would only recommend it if you enroll in a top-ranking program like DAAP or CCM. For the in-state engineering student, UC is a great choice!
Tips for prospective students
Use office hours, study groups, learning communities, and learning center hours to your advantage. There are tons of resources at your disposal when you are a student at UC. Apply early -- even if you're not sure, because applying before December guarantees you a $2000/year scholarship. Go on a campus visit, but also wonder around campus on your own (during the school day) and try to drop in a couple classes (discreetly of course).
Great for these types of students
In-state engineering students
Musical and/or artistic students
Social people
Academic students

Timothy from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There are a lot of good teachers, but be warned about TAs. They are part of major classes and teach once a week. There knowledge varies heavily, but there are some who do know their topic well. the recitation (one with a TA) is a class where you should ask questions if you don't understand. To make it less intimidating think of it as asking a friend who happened to take the class before you.

As for the lectures themselves with your professor, I've had a lot of good professors. If you don't manage to get something out of your professor during lecture, there are office hours where you can talk to the teacher, and there's half a dozen centers where graduates and upper classmen can help you.
Am enjoying being here
The first few quarters I've had ups and downs. My down was mostly because of the course work, but that's what i get for choosing one of the harder colleges (engineering) the campus has to offer. Even in a tough college like Engineering I've had a lot of fun. There are dozens of groups and if there isn't one for your interest you can make one. My friends and I, we made the UC breakdancing club. You can often find us around main street in the glass box below the rec center. And never have we turned down someone who wants to learn.

Other than clubs, there's a lot of chill spots. Sigma sigma, mainstreet cinema, catskeller (restaurant, arcade), during fall and spring The commons at the end of mainstreet has events everywhere. Food, music, and a lot of it is FREE.
Bang for the buck
I won't say it's cheap, but it's definitely not bad. 10,000 (books ect,). Books are something that you should ask around for. Many upper classmen are trying to get rid of their old books and will sell theirs for absurdly low prices. I've gotten books that were 80 for 10, and 160 for 30. You won't find those prices too often but you'll get at least 50% off if you ask around.

Lastly. Co-op. We founded co-op in the engineering building. If your major has co-ops. I would advise taking the extra year being a student and Co-op. You'll 1) bring your resume up 2) get real world experience for your major 3) make money to pay off loans 4) possibly learn a language and do international co-op. 5) after graduation possibly get hired by a company you co-op'ed with.

Tips for prospective students
Be forward. Make friends join an learning community where you will be placed with other people with the same schedule as you.

Form groups to study with. My grades went up when I studied with other people. Because it means I get to teach them which ends up as practice for me and they can help me if I don't get something or I'm on the wrong track.

If you are on a science based major (engineering for example) take some AP and get them out of the way. the transition from highschool to a tough college will most likely rattle a new student. The first few quarters will be lighter if you take AP.

If you aren't sure where to go, take some classes and find out what you want to do. Even if it seems like junk classes and a waste of 10,000 (with books ect.) you can build your GPA, get Grants, get scholarships, and then get into a College you want to be in for sure. So 10,000 will probably turn into 3,000 if you do well.
Great for these types of students
Engineers
DAAP (artistic outlooks)
Coop (UC founded it)
Finding a major.

Amanda from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There is always an interesting class to take, and the professors are very helpful! They encourage you to do your best, while presenting you with challenging information. If you are a freshman, most professors understand the transition from high school to college, and one aspect that really adds to this is the learning communities many of the majors require or highly suggest. This allows you to learn from other students and work more closely with your teaching assistant.
Am enjoying being here
There is always something to do! There are extensive opportunities to get involved, whether it be on-campus clubs or organizations, Greek life, sporting events, etc. or even just hanging out in the dorms or apartments. People are super friendly and you will never be bored!
Bang for the buck
Speaking from the prospective of an in-state student, The University of Cincinnati is very affordable. They also offer a wide variety of scholarships and aid for students.
Tips for prospective students
There is so much to do that will enrich your experience here, so make sure to look at all of the student organizations to see what UC has to offer you. Also, be sure to take a campus tour and talk to current students! Research the possible majors, and consider their great medical facility if you are interested in a health care career.
Great for these types of students
UC is perfect for students who study hard, but like to have fun! Students who value diversity and meeting new people would love this school, seeing as how one of UC's main focuses is diversity. There are many different types of people on campus, and I feel that UC is perfect for anyone!

Caitlin from Akron, OH

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am currently in UC's college of DAAP- Design, Art, Architecture, and Planning. It is a fantastic place to study; the majority of the professors are UC graduates who teach part time. They start from the basics no matter how much previous experience you have. This gives more students the ability to go into design fields, because it doesn't require any prior knowledge of art or design. The school also has a very strict grading scale which is a powerful motivator for most students.
Am enjoying being here
I love the campus and the area around Cincinnati. UC is located in the middle of many amazing places only a short bus ride away. For example, we are near the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Cincinnati Zoo, the Krohn Conservatory, and many great shopping areas. If you want to stay on campus, there are hundreds of clubs to join too. I find I rarely have an hour with nothing to do let alone a whole day!
Bang for the buck
Although college is undoubtedly expensive, for the price of UC you get a great education, good food in the three dining halls, a great living environment, and an overall good experience.
Tips for prospective students
Don't second guess yourself on what you want or what you want to pursue in college. I have many friends who change their major because they went into their second choice major instead of taking the initial risk with what they truly loved. To those with undecided majors, UC also has a wonderful exploratory program to give you a taste of everything, thereby helping you find your passions and potential career.
Great for these types of students
The University of Cincinnati is exceptionally ranked in the fields of nursing, engineering, and arts and design, but really it's a place that fits just about everyone's interests and passions.

sydney from covington, ky

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
the university if cincinnati is absolutely amazing- the campus is beautiful, teachers are so well fit for their position and helpful, there are endless amounts of resources for truly anything you need, and the education you receive is at the utmost high. i love attending uc and feel like college would have been much harder and there would have been a huge lack in motivation had i gone elsewhere.
Tips for prospective students
highly consider uc! it is a little bit more expensive than schools in the surrounding area, but it is worth the money. they have great facilities, education, resources, and connection for internships and careers.
Academic Rigor
the courses are challenging, but completely do-able. most professors are willing to help you, there are so many tutor sessions, and resources for help available to help you plan and assist you if you're struggling.
Dorm Life
i didn't stay in a dorm for a semester, but i have stayed over night a couple times- the dorms were nice and comfortable, they're located conveniently and one is connected to the food hall- which is the best food on campus! dorm life also has activities going on downstairs commonly. i've stayed in dorms at three other colleges and uc was my favorite!
Food and Dining
it's cafeteria food, so it's not to die for. however, the stir fry and the market are pretty amazing! i love the themed food days and chicken nugget wednesday.
What to do for fun
you're seriously in the best place for fun. you're on an amazing college campus that always has events going on, games, and a movie theater. plus, there's clifton- the city. there's a beautiful park off of ohio st. that overlooks the city. on ludlow ave. there is a cute vintage theater where students get discounts, there are lots of places to eat and get coffee.
Campus Safety
campus has their own police force and the city police force so there are tons of people looking out for your safety. you'll be safe as long as you are aware of your surroundings and smart. there is a blue help phone visible on every place on campus at all times.

Naira from Mason, OH

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
University of Cincinnati is a big school that offers a copious amount of sports and organizations. The professors are kind, open and willing to help. The main campus offers beautiful scenery, modern to historic architecture, and various stores/businesses.
Tips for prospective students
When I was a freshmen, I learned several tips along the way. First, don't get intimated by the huge campus, it may seem scary now, but after a week or so, you'll be able to find all your classes with ease. Don't be shy and afraid of joining clubs and organizations. Explore! You never know what will interest you and keep you motivated in school unless you look at what this amazing university offers. One of my favorite places to be is the Recreational Center which I use to work out and escape the daily stresses of life. In addition, I absolutely love the different architectures of each building. It could vary from modern and contemporary, to historical and classical. Overall, this university is amazing and I love what is has to offer!
Academic Rigor
There are a lot of classes offered at all the campuses. Each class has certain requirements and expectations for each and every student. It amazes me how all the professors I have met so far, are willing to help each student understand the material. Not only that, but each professor actually cares about the student's well-being, regardless of how well they are doing in the class. The university expects each student to work for their grades, they have absolutely no tolerance for cheaters and plagiarism. Overall, the school wants the student's to become well-rounded individuals with various interests in all areas.
Dorm Life
Personally, I think all dorms, regardless of the campus, is expensive. I have not lived on campus so I cannot go in depth about the experience. However, from my friends and classmates who do live on campus say that they love living on campus. For one, it provides an intimate connection between social life to professional life for students. It allows the students to get in touch with themselves, as they grow fond of the immense freedom from living under a roof away from your family. Albeit, there are some cons to living on campus. The most important one, is the cost. As well as the cramped quarters, living with others or even by yourself. The third con is the fact that you might miss your parents or your home life when anxiety kicks in as you're studying for exams.
Food and Dining
This campus offers a lot of variety when it comes to food. They have 2 food courts (think buffet-style) and they have small fast food places. Some examples are, Starbucks, Subway, Chick-Fil-A, Burger King, Taco Bell and more. These small businesses are all in the middle of campus, near the Recreation Center.
What to do for fun
Join clubs, organizations, sports, Greek life, and be an undergraduate researcher. There is so much to do with a wide spectra of hobbies/topics/skills you can pick up along the way. You can also get a job on campus to get some extra bucks if you'd like. Don't be scared and explore the possibilities that University of Cincinnati has to offer!

KhanRad

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Campus Safety
The University of Cincinnati takes the safety of its students and staff very seriously. Due to its inner-city setting, the University of Cincinnati works hard to ensure that students and staff alike feel safe on campus. There are police positioned at or near each campus border and/or building, monitoring all activity that takes place. This includes sporting events, career fairs, student organization events, etc. The UCPD always responds in a timely manner whenever there is a call of duty.

Arlandra from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Lots of walking.Great scenery. Many fun extracurricular and exciting course opportunities.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for scholarships around the fall of senior year. This is the easiest way to get aid.
Join a few clubs, and make friends.
Live on campus. There is a lot to do and it's easier to make friends.
Take a couple of non-required classes for fun (especially Human Sexuality! It gets over 300 students each class because it's so fun and popular).
Academic Rigor
There are many different teachers and teaching styles here and it's not hard to find a good teacher who will both challenge and help you.
Dorm Life
Dorms aren't perfect, but they're the easiest way to make a bunch of new friends and saves time on getting to class. I live less than 5 mins away from campus, but it's still not as good as living with people who I can connect with.
Food and Dining
Many options for food on campus, but there's an even better selection in Clifton and surrounding areas.
What to do for fun
Movies, food, art, you can find almost anything nearby.
Bang for the buck
Can get pretty costly if you don't manage your aid right.
Campus Safety
Not perfect, but currently going through a transition and always looking for student's safety opinions

Josh from Zanesville, OH

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Cincinnati is an amazing campus located in the beautiful city of Cincinnati, OH. There are so many things to do on and off campus, you will never get bored. There is also so many ways to get involved, frim Greek life to atheletics.
Tips for prospective students
Do not be dumb off campus. The area can be a little intemidating, but as long as long as you pay attention and be careful you can go anywhere in the city without a problem.
Academic Rigor
The rigor various on your courses, major and what you feel is rigorous. I am an education major, one of the easier majors by popular opinion, and some of my classes are fairly difficult. I have still been able to maintain a pretty good GPA though.
Dorm Life
UC's dorms are more like a community than just a place to live. It is so easy to meet new people and the dorms have hall governments that plan events at least once a week. Very fun to just stay in the dorm for the night.
Food and Dining
The food is good on and off campus. In the dining halls there is always something good. Especially on chicken tender tuesdays and steak Thursdays.
What to do for fun
Greek life, sports, reading on the green. Anything you could ever want to do is available. We also have the largest indoor rock wall in the state.
Bang for the buck
It is very affordable and even offers a large scholarship that starts your freshman year and you receive until you graduate.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
An amazing expirience to watch is the UC Bearcat Bands football pregame. Just look it up in youtube and you will understand.
Great for these types of students
Any type of student.
Clubs and Activities
Literally a club for anything and if there is not one you like then make your own.
Greek Life
So many fraternities, social and professional. I am even a member of a service fraternity.
Campus Safety
Campus is patrolled 24 hours a day all year by the UC campus police. They do a great job of keeping campus a safe place as well as around campus. There is also a free taxi service that will pick you up anywhere within a mile of campus and take yout anywhere.

Heather from Lima, OH

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I highly enjoy my classes here at the University of Cincinnati. Not only are the classes academically challenging, but they are interesting. For my Introduction to Criminal Justice class we had multiple speakers come in and give us a real life telling of the field. We also took trips to different departments around Cincinnati, one of them the Police Training Academy. Plus, with being one of the highest ranked research schools in the United States, I have already gotten involved in research assisting to help broaden my view of the psychological field.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love the University of Cincinnati. Coming from a more rural town, the urban feel of the city really was a change that I enjoyed. The city always seems to have something to do. It might seem like the campus is quite large, but you can get anywhere on it in under ten minutes. There are plenty of restaurants, and I absolutely love the recreation center. The only downfall would be the wind in Cincinnati.
Bang for the buck
I believe that Cincinnati is worth the amount of money that I am paying for the school overall. The dorm pricing is a bit high in comparison to some places, but overall it is not bad. I believe the amount I am paying for the education I am receiving is easily worth it. Plus, with all the extra activities that is sponsored by the school, along with the state of the art recreation center, it is well worth it. Especially for part of my major in Criminal Justice since it is the 3rd highest ranked college for it in the United States. Along with that, it is also one of the top engineering and art schools around.
Tips for prospective students
I would say to get involved with the campus. You can always cut back after the first semester if you don't feel like you have enough time for everything, but you might as well see what you enjoy doing. Don't be afraid to go out and talk to people. Put yourself into social situations, and join a learning community. It might sound cheesy, but it really dose help you become more welcome in the society of the campus.
Great for these types of students
Art students, research students, criminal justice students, Engineering students, and anyone looking for a campus that has an electric atmosphere.