View of Peters Hall from a distance.

About Oberlin

Peters Hall is one of the stately academic buildings that faces Wilder Bowl.

Photo credit: John Seyfried

Oberlin is a place of intense energy and creativity, built on a foundation of academic, artistic, and musical excellence. With a top-ranking liberal arts college, a world-class conservatory, and a first-rate art museum all on a single campus, it is the ideal laboratory in which to study and design the world you want.

Our Mission and History

From its founding in 1833, Oberlin College has been a school with a mission, or rather, many missions. Beginning with abolition and coeducation, and most recently addressing the challenges of climate change, Oberlin has always been—to quote historian Geoffrey Blodgett ’53—a “peculiar mix of scholarly ambition and stubborn moral idealism.”

An outdoor sign on campus: Oberlin College, 1833

Leadership and Administration

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the college, ensuring that we achieve major goals and uphold our mission. The president provides day-to-day leadership and general supervision over the functions of Oberlin, reporting to the board and serving as member ex officio. Senior staff oversee academic and administrative functions of the college and advise and support the work of the president.

Entrance to Cox Administration Building

Academic Resources and Support

Beginning with your first year, you’ll work closely with an advisor to build a meaningful academic experience. Throughout your time at Oberlin, you’re supported with resources to help meet your educational needs, including mentoring, tutoring, and peer workshops.

students at a table talking to each other

Health, Wellness, and Safety

A safe and supportive community promotes learning and personal growth. We offer confidential individual assistance as well as campus programs addressing substance use, health and safety, stress management, and more.

A World of Learning

Access to our libraries and special collections, study abroad opportunities and more, you will expand your world view and enrich your overall academic experience.

Upcoming Events

From the Oberlin Alumni Magazine

Voices Carry

March 13, 2025

Grammy-certified vocalist and viola da gamba player Ari Mason ’14 finds her niche in video games, films, and a vocal library.

London Calling

March 13, 2025

For Tracy Chevalier ’84, the Oberlin-In-London program was a magical, intense period of cultural and intellectual stimulation. As the beloved study-away experience celebrates 50 years, the New York Times best-selling author looks back on the semester she spent studying and living in London.

A Banner Held High

February 26, 2025

In 2018, Oberlin College named its main library after civil rights leader Mary Church Terrell, Class of 1884.