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
“I knew I wanted to expand my education, and completing my degree felt like the right first step.”
Jennifer Barkans
RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate
“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.”
Jennifer Barkans
RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate
"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."
Amy W., MHI, BSN, RN
Master of Healthcare Innovation Graduate
"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."
Jane Ginther
DNP Graduate
"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."
Audra Hanners
DNP Graduate
"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."
Lisa Mostafavifar, PharmD, MS, BCPS, BCNSP
MS in Health-System Pharmacy Administration and Leadership Grad
"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."
Somer Slappey, PharmD, MS, BCPS, BCCCP
MS Health-System Pharmacy Administration and Leadership Grad
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, especially the field of mental health.
Brian L.
Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science
“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.”
Christopher Walker
RN to BSN Graduate
"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."
Holly Erenfeld
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene
"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!"
Holly Erenfeld
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene
"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."
Joe Osborne
RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate
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.
Victoria Lohr, BSDH, RDH
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The MS in Dental Hygiene program has prepared me for teaching, research, and advancing the profession while inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The skills I’ve gained in the MS in Dental Hygiene program, finding and applying research, have elevated the quality of care I deliver.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The evidence-based research and education courses are helping me build a foundation for public speaking and achieving my goal of becoming an educator.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
As one of the largest public dental colleges in the United States, Ohio State offers broad and unique opportunities for hygiene students.
Piper Sullivan
Dental Hygiene Program
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.
Amy Shah
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Graduate
“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.”
Jesse Glass
RN to BSN Graduate
"I needed to complete my degree and the AS to BS program allowed me to do that while working full time. I was also a full-time care giver, and this program gave me the flexibility to complete it at my own pace. Having been a technologist for 40 years and in management for over 20 much of the subject matter was review. I took some great elective courses that gave me new perspectives on patient care."
Tonette O.
Associate Director, Ambulatory Imaging Services, AS to BS Radiologic Sciences Graduate
"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."
Brittany Jeter
RN to BSN graduate
“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.”
Audra Jordan
Master in the Study of Law Grad
“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.”
Matt Busser
Master in the Study of Law Grad '25
"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."
Amy S.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Graduate
"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."
Julia S., DNP, MHI, RN, EBP-C
Master of Healthcare Innovation Graduate
“The online BSHS program is very comparable to what I experienced in-person. We all participate and collaborate. It’s very interactive.”
Chloe Lawton-Chadwick
BS in Health Sciences Grad
“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.”
LaShanda C. Coleman
Master in the Study of Law Grad '22
“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.”
Heather Thobe
Online MPH-PEP Grad '23
”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.”
Paul Matherny
Online MPH-PEP Grad '23
“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.”
Julia Applegate
Online MPH-PEP Grad '20
“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.”
Akua Amponsah
Online MPH-PEP Student
"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."
Jacob Diaz, MHA, MLS (ASCP) CM
MLS Certification Grad
"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."
Jingcai Wang
MLS-Certification Program Grad
"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. "
Jack Watkins
MLS Grad
"The program is a journey. From clinical to administrative, I’m learning how to change the healthcare industry for the benefit of the patient."
Emily C.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Grad
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
Derek Danek
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Tomitha Zimmerman
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Cara North
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Morgan Martin
MLS Grad
"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."
Mike Moore
Ohio State Online Grad
"I’ve made lasting relationships. I still meet my former classmates to discuss processes, improvements and research that we are conducting."
Larry Martin
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Jane Ginther
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Demi MacLennan
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Stephanie Moore
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Katie Laux
MPAL Grad
"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."
Blake Petty
MPAL Grad
"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."
Katie Rozsa
MPA Grad
"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."
Kidron Stamper
MPAL Grad
"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."
Stephanie Moore
Master of Global Engineering Leadership Grad
"I have gained useful knowledge that is proving helpful in securing a position as an engineering leader in my company."
Raejean Johnson
Master of Global Engineering Leadership Grad
"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."
Nicole Thomas
MBA for Working Professionals Grad
"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."
Michael Moore
Master of Science in Welding Engineering Grad
"My favorite part of the online program was interaction with the professors. I could not have done it without such great support."
Karen Gilgenbach
Master of Science in Welding Engineering Grad
"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."
Kush Patel
AS to BS Radiological Sciences Grad
General
As one of the largest public dental colleges in the United States, Ohio State offers broad and unique opportunities for hygiene students.
Piper Sullivan
Dental Hygiene Program
Making oral health matter through learning, discovery, and innovative patient care and service.
The Ohio State University
College of Dentistry – Vision Statement
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
Derek Danek
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Tomitha Zimmerman
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Cara North
Ohio State Online Grad
"I’ve made lasting relationships. I still meet my former classmates to discuss processes, improvements and research that we are conducting."
Larry Martin
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Jane Ginther
Ohio State Online Grad
Programs
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
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.
Patrick Rowan, MS, CCRP
Online Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology Graduate
"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."
Haley Sears
AS to BS in Radiologic Sciences Student
"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."
Skyler W.
Skyler Werley – AS to BS in Radiologic Science Student
Students
“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.”
Jocelyn Keaton
BSN to DNP FNP Student
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.
Michaela W.
Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Specialization
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.
Thandiwe N.
Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Specialization
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.
Victoria Lohr, BSDH, RDH
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The MS in Dental Hygiene program has prepared me for teaching, research, and advancing the profession while inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The skills I’ve gained in the MS in Dental Hygiene program, finding and applying research, have elevated the quality of care I deliver.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
The evidence-based research and education courses are helping me build a foundation for public speaking and achieving my goal of becoming an educator.
Jennifer Barkans
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Student
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.
Amy Shah
Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Graduate
"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."
Niyokwizera E.
Online MPA student, Customer Relationship Advocate
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. It is great for international students to have that flexibility to take online classes and complete their degree.
Yifan Z.
“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.”
Lauren Lutman
Master in the Study of Law Student
“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.”
Precious Tuitasi-Beasley
BS in Health Sciences Student
“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.”
Jahnavi Chopra
BS in Health Sciences Student
“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!”
Ashley Murray
BS in Health Sciences Grad
"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."
Molly E.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Student
"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."
Todd J.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Student
"I feel like I learned skills that are actually useful in the practice setting and have made me a better leader."
Zachary S.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Student
"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."
Megan Ashcraft
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Marci Morgan
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Victoria Lambert
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Florence Okafor
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Kelly McCormick
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Tracy Koehler
Doctor of Nursing Education student
"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."
Courtney Moore
MPA Student
“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.”
Kelly L.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Grad
"The program is a journey. From clinical to administrative, I’m learning how to change the healthcare industry for the benefit of the patient."
Emily C.
Master of Healthcare Innovation Grad
"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."
Audra Hanners
Ohio State Online Grad
"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."
Abby Ordillas
MPA Student
"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."
Michael Martino
Master of Engineering Management Grad
Get Started
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.
