Heidelberg University (Ohio)

Heidelberg University is a private university in Tiffin, Ohio, United States. Founded in 1850, it was known as "Heidelberg College" until 1889 and from 1926 to 2009. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and enrolled 1,000 students in 2023.

Heidelberg University was founded by the German Reformed Church as "Heidelberg College" in 1850 in Ohio. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ, the successor to that denomination. In the mid-nineteenth century, there were a significant number of German immigrants in Ohio. The German Reformed Church had seventy-four churches in the state when members decided to establish the college. The college had five students enrolled in the first classes. By the end of the year, 149 students were enrolled.

On the morning of October 25, 2008, the Heidelberg College Board of Trustees unanimously agreed to transition to "Heidelberg University". The name change went into effect at the beginning of the 2009–2010 academic year.

From a historical perspective, this decision marks the second time the institution has been named Heidelberg University. In 1889, the decision was made to change from college to university, which remained until 1926, when the name Heidelberg College was returned.

— James A. Troha, Ph.D.

Interim President

According to a statement issued by former interim President Dr. James Troha to all Heidelberg students: "In considering the transition from college to university, the board and senior administrators addressed such issues as competition and trends in higher education and the perception of "university" among prospective students in the U.S. and abroad. Thorough research of both internal and external audiences indicated strong support to become Heidelberg University."

Heidelberg is situated on 110 acres (44.5 ha) enclosed in Tiffin, Ohio, the county seat of Seneca County, in northwestern Ohio. The campus is located on the east side of Tiffin on College Hill, within a half mile of downtown Tiffin.