Education is a fundamental pillar that empowers society at large. It equips individuals with knowledge and skills, and universities play a big role in providing education. Walsh University, based in North Canton, Ohio, is one such university that takes a holistic approach towards the complete development of its students to create a brighter future and discover their life purpose. Rather than teaching students what to think, the university shows them how to think critically and independently. Its hands-on experiential learning, which includes study beyond opportunities, internships, research and scholarship, and personal learning networks, goes beyond textbooks, creating a well-rounded educational experience.
The Journey of Excellence
Walsh University has a strong reputation for balancing academics with spiritual and social growth, offering nearly 100 majors and minors, award-winning athletics, and vibrant student life. Based on the Catholic intellectual tradition, its supportive faculty is dedicated to helping students aim higher, and its core curriculum includes volunteer work, which helps students find their sense of purpose and lifelong commitment to service. The university is dedicated to preparing its students for future challenges through a blend of innovation, experiential learning, and robust industry partnerships.
For instance, its Center for Scientific Excellence, in collaboration with Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, offers students and faculty the opportunity to engage in extensive research projects. It also offers internship opportunities on par with some of the top research institutions in the country. Another example is its partnership with Abbott Nutrition involving Vitamin D absorption research, where undergraduate students gain hands-on experience beyond the traditional classroom. This research highlights the capability of smaller universities to conduct impactful studies.
The university has also been at the forefront of Science of Reading methodology in its teaching preparation program which has already yielded extraordinary results in terms of increasing literacy rates in the elementary schools it serves. Grounded in the latest brain research and literacy development, this program focuses on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. Its DeVille School of Business also stands out in providing practical experience through internships with top global firms such as Ernst & Young, Goodyear, and The Timken Company.
Nurturing the Hearts & Minds
The Cavs Cor Cordium is a vital initiative. It engages each student in a personal learning network. This initiative nurtures connections and learning. It also helps in building community and enhancing student involvement both on and off campus. The phrase translates to “heart of hearts.” It plays a significant role in promoting academic excellence and nurturing lifelong connections among students.
Edna McCulloh, the Associate Vice President for Academic Administration, launched Its First Gen Cavs program. This mentoring program is specifically designed for first-generation college students, who make up 45% of the student body. First Gen Cavs provides intentional engagement opportunities, celebrating first-generation students and laying a foundation for their success throughout their college journey and beyond. Each student in this program is paired with a faculty or staff mentor, and students who have gone through the program also serve as peer mentors.
The Campus Ministry aims to build an open and vibrant Christian community. It is rooted in the Church’s rich tradition and sacramental life. The ministry offers a variety of retreats, small group communities, fellowships, service opportunities, worship nights, and mission trips and welcomes students from all backgrounds.
The ministry university provides comprehensive counseling and advising services. These services assist students in developing their academic plans and help students understand their rights and options within the Walsh community. It also educates students on their responsibilities. Academic advisors are assigned by major, and they work closely with students to promote critical thinking and personal growth.
Popular In-demand Programs of the University
| Popular Walsh University In-demand Programs | Why the Programs Stand Out |
| Nursing | Byers School of Nursing is highly regarded and recently named one of the top five nursing schools in Ohio by Nursing Almanac. It prepares students for fulfilling careers as registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, or nurse educators. It emphasizes real-world experience and Judeo-Christian values. It offers a variety of tracks, including a traditional BSN, a Fast Track BSN, and advanced degrees like the MSN and DNP. Nursing students perform clinicals at world-renowned hospitals such as the Cleveland Clinic. |
| Exercise Science | It is designed for students interested in the scientific principles behind exercise and physical activity. It combines rigorous academic coursework with a practical approach in the field, preparing graduates for careers in health, fitness, and rehabilitation. |
| Education | The education program is known for producing well-prepared teachers who are ready to make a difference in the classroom. The curriculum combines theory with practical teaching, ensuring that the graduates are ready to lead and inspire the next generation of students. |
| Digital Marketing and Analytics | It blends marketing theory with practical learning. Students gain a global perspective and learn how to use marketing as a business function to create sustainability. Its curriculum emphasizes ethical and responsible marketing practices, preparing students for various roles in the marketing field. |
| Sports Management | It prepares students for careers in the sports industry, focusing on critical thinking and technical skills needed to design, manage, and secure sports facilities and organizations. Students gain a solid foundation in business principles and the unique aspects of sports management. |
| Computer Science Networking | It equips students with the skills needed to design, build, manage, and secure computer networks across industries. It covers LAN, WAN, and mobile networks, as well as cybersecurity, ensuring graduates are ready to keep people connected and information secure. |
| Business Administration | Its interdisciplinary approach provides a broad range of business courses, experiential learning opportunities, and internships, making the graduates well-rounded and competitive in the global marketplace. |
| Skilled Technical Workforce Program | The Skilled Technical Workforce program teaches essential skills for thriving in a technology-based economy and equips businesses with practical technology solutions. Designed to meet the Ohio TechCred Program criteria, the courses emphasize core competencies, aligning with statewide and national initiatives to enhance worker value. It addresses the manufacturing labor shortage by providing training and upskilling for unemployed and underemployed individuals, aiding them in finding and maintaining meaningful employment. The National Science Board recognizes Walsh University as a national leader in implementing this program. |
Honors and Accolades the University has Garnered
- Walsh University has been named one of the top 25 Catholic universities in the nation, consistently earning a spot in The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College.
- Walsh University is featured among the top Catholic colleges and universities in the U.S. Catholic Universities and Colleges Guide by the Catholic Herald.
- Walsh University has earned recognition as one of the Colleges of Distinction and Ohio Colleges of Distinction.
- It also received program-specific accolades for the DeVille School of Business, Gary and Linda Byers School of Nursing, and the Division of Education in the School of Arts, Sciences, and Education.
- Walsh University has been consistently recognized as a Military Friendly® School since 2010, achieving a No. 4 ranking for private schools offering a doctorate.
- The university was also designated a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Ohio Department of Higher Education for its support of students with military backgrounds.
Inclusive and Vibrant Campus Culture at the University
Walsh University’s campus culture is built on human dignity and respect, community, and active engagement, grounded in the 900+ year Catholic intellectual tradition. A first in the nation to integrate cultural humility training across its campus, promoting emotional and cultural awareness, empathy, and humility for a positive and inclusive environment.
Students have countless opportunities to get involved and grow as active members of the Walsh community. With dozens of clubs and organizations, students can find their niche, develop leadership skills, and engage in meaningful activities. Participating in these co-curricular activities helps students discover new interests, meet new people, and enhance their overall educational experience.
One unique aspect of its campus culture is the Peacemaker team. This group of undergraduate students lives in the freshman residence halls and works closely with Campus Ministry and Residence Life staff. The Peacemakers are committed to personal integrity, ongoing formation, and the spiritual development of the university community. They host events like bonfires, socials, and small group prayer gatherings, fostering a sense of community and mentorship for the freshman class.
Social and Community Service Activities
Walsh University’s mission is to educate its students to become leaders in service to others through a values-based education. The Blouin Scholars Program has been a significant part of the university’s community engagement for over a decade. Selected students work in interdisciplinary teams to address local and global issues through service and experiential scholarship. Each scholar collaborates with peers, faculty advisors, and topic experts to make a positive impact on a particular community issue while earning their degree. The program includes domestic and international field study, providing an immersive and transformative educational experience.
Since 2005, Walsh University has aligned student learning with the mission of service to the community by offering high-quality academic experiences that partner students with local organizations, including Service Saturday and its MLK Jr. Day of Service. Each year, several hundred students participate in various service activities, such as sorting clothes for the homeless, cleaning parks, and mentoring youth. This day of service allows students to give back to the community and live out the values of Dr. King.
Walsh’s athletes are also heavily involved in community service. Its athletics program has been recognized as a finalist for the NCAA Division II Award of Excellence several years running for its commitment to community service. The athletes, Blouin Scholars, and the Cavs Coalition have been recognized for their efforts to raise awareness about human trafficking. They advocate against human trafficking through the Community Freedom Summit and Freedom Walk. This initiative is a partnership between Not For Sale: One Step At A Time and Walsh University.
Implementation of Technology in Education System
The university recognizes the critical role technology plays in modern education and is actively leveraging it to enhance the learning experience for students. “Task Force Reviews – Artificial Intelligence,” is a key initiative that aims to develop a comprehensive, enterprise-wide AI integration plan and focus on educating the university community about AI and adopting AI tools responsibly. It has launched educational videos for incoming students and professional development sessions on AI, along with its first AI course, “Science Research Innovation Through AI Technology.” This hybrid course is tailored for science majors and other interested students, focusing on AI-driven idea generation, prompt engineering, collaborative projects, and the ethical use of AI.
Future Initiatives and Programs
The university recently restructured the aviation program in collaboration with the FAA-approved American Winds College of Aeronautical Sciences. The Bachelor of Science in Professional Aviation 2+2 program allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree from Walsh University while building flight hours and obtaining an associate degree in Aeronautical Science from American Winds. This innovative program reduces the time and cost needed to become a professional pilot and offers a seamless process by integrating academic studies with practical flight training. The university is also working with the airline industry to develop cadet programs, co-ops, and other benefits for its aviation graduates, addressing the pilot shortage and creating many career opportunities.
In response to the upcoming retirement wave among school superintendents and executives, the university introduced a specialized MBA program in School District Leadership. This hybrid program combines in-person sessions with online content and customized case studies to prepare future administrators. The program integrates business and educational best practices to prepare individuals for leadership roles in both public and private schools. It has also expanded its exercise science offerings with a new online Master of Science in Exercise Physiology program, set to launch in 2025.
The university is also partnering with Dai Nam University in Hanoi, Vietnam, to offer a collaborative Bachelor of Business Administration program. This program will allow business majors in Vietnam to earn a Walsh University degree, with courses taught by both Walsh and Dai Nam University faculty.
Advice for Prospective Students
When choosing a college, it’s important to consider the environment and opportunities that truly supports a student’s personal and academic growth. At Walsh University, students will discover a nurturing community dedicated to their success. With small class sizes and faculty who genuinely care, students receive personalized attention that helps them flourish. This close-knit environment creates strong connections and a welcoming sense of belonging, making the college experience truly fulfilling.
Walsh University offers an authentically Catholic education, guiding students intellectually, spiritually, and morally toward lives of purpose and service. Through engaging, hands-on learning opportunities, the university prepares students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their first destination job and become impactful leaders. More than a degree, Walsh University is an education partner for life.
