Acceptance Rate
96%
Avg. SAT
1168
75th percentile
“Wright State University shines as a practical, research-driven public school rooted in Dayton's aviation heritage.”
Dayton, OH
Location
Large Suburb
Campus Setting
Nestled just outside Dayton, Ohio, Wright State University carries a legacy tied to the birthplace of aviation. Founded in 1967 and named after the Wright brothers—Orville and Wilbur, who pioneered flight in nearby Kitty Hawk—the university embodies a spirit of innovation and grit. Its campus, located in Fairborn, serves as a hub for nearly 9,000 undergraduates, drawing students from across Ohio and beyond who seek an affordable, accessible education with a focus on applied learning. The surrounding Dayton area, once an industrial powerhouse, offers a quieter, suburban feel with a rich history of invention, though it lacks the bustle of a major metropolis.
This is a place for students who value hands-on experience and aren’t looking for a flashy, high-pressure college environment. You’ll thrive here if you’re self-motivated, eager to dive into research or internships early on, and comfortable carving your own path in a less structured social scene. However, if you crave a vibrant urban campus or a highly selective academic culture, Wright State’s more laid-back, commuter-heavy vibe might feel underwhelming.
One tradeoff is the location’s relative isolation from big-city amenities. While Dayton has cultural spots like the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, it’s not a college town brimming with nightlife or endless entertainment. You can expect a campus that feels functional rather than picturesque, with a focus on getting the job done rather than creating a quintessential college aesthetic.
Photo Gallery
+16
+8
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
Wright State University stands out for its commitment to practical, career-focused education, particularly in fields like engineering, nursing, and business. The university is known for its strong ties to the nearby Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which fuels research opportunities in aerospace and defense technology, especially for undergrads willing to seek them out. You’ll find professors who prioritize real-world application, often integrating projects or internships into coursework, though introductory classes can feel large and impersonal at times.
The academic culture leans toward accessibility, with a nearly open admissions policy that welcomes a wide range of students. This means you can expect a mix of academic preparedness among peers, and some might find the pace less rigorous compared to more selective schools. Competitive programs like nursing or engineering may require extra effort to secure spots or stand out, but the university’s emphasis on undergraduate research—rare for a public school of this size—offers a chance to build a strong resume if you take initiative.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
7,505 undergrad • 3,098 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
64%
Black / African American
10%
Hispanic / Latino
4%
Asian
4%
Other / Multi-racial
19%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Dayton, OH
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at Wright State has a down-to-earth, no-frills feel, shaped by its large commuter population and practical-minded student body. Many students balance jobs or family responsibilities, so the social scene often revolves around smaller, tight-knit groups rather than sprawling campus-wide events. You’ll find energy during basketball games at the Nutter Center, a major venue that doubles as a community event space, and in student-led initiatives like service projects or career fairs. Traditions, while not as storied as at older universities, include events like Raiderthon, a dance marathon supporting local charities.
Living on campus is an option, but with many students commuting, the residential experience can feel quiet, especially on weekends. The Ohio weather poses another challenge—winters are cold and gray, often dampening outdoor activities. Off-campus, Dayton offers affordable living, but entertainment options are limited compared to bigger cities, so you’ll need to get creative or travel for a change of scenery.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
68%
4 Years Graduation Rate
37%
6 Years Graduation Rate
52%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$49,500
68% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Wright State University-Main Campus and return in the fall. 37% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 52% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
37%
4-5 years
15%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
47%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$10,174
Acceptance
96%
Undergrads
7,505
4-Year Grad Rate
37%
Endowment
$144M
Dayton, OH 45435-0001
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