Thomas More University

Thomas More leans into its Catholic liberal arts identity but with a pragmatic twist: business (68 graduates), nursing (26 graduates), and kinesiology dominate its most popular majors. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, with standout programs in accounting, environmental science, and political science. Small class sizes are the norm, fostering close faculty-student relationships. The university also offers accelerated dual-degree programs, allowing undergrads to start on master’s coursework—a selling point for career-focused students. While the core curriculum includes philosophy and theology, the vibe is more applied than theoretical, with a focus on job-ready skills.

• Top Majors: Business, Nursing, Psychology, Kinesiology
• Notable Programs: Accounting, Environmental Science, Political Science
• Dual-Degree Options: Available for motivated undergrads

Life at Thomas More revolves around its suburban campus in Crestview Hills, where dorms house a tight-knit community (annual cost: ~$8,150). The university leans into Catholic traditions, including communal meals that evoke medieval academic customs. Student reviews highlight a low-key social scene, with Greek life virtually nonexistent and athletics (especially DIII sports) filling the gap. Clubs range from ministry groups to niche academic societies, but the overall vibe is quiet and commuter-friendly—many students live off-campus or hail from nearby Greater Cincinnati. Weekend excitement often means trips to Cincinnati’s bars and restaurants rather than raucous on-campus parties.

• Housing Cost: ~$8,150/year
• Athletics: NCAA Division III
• Social Scene: Subdued, with off-campus options in Cincinnati

Thomas More’s graduation rate lags behind national averages at 40-43%, but those who persist see solid returns: 61-66% of recent graduates secured jobs within six months, with near-perfect placement for certain cohorts. Alumni typically land roles in regional healthcare, education, and business, with salaries reflecting the area’s modest cost of living. The university’s career services emphasize local networks, making it a strong choice for students planning to stay in Kentucky or Ohio. While not a pipeline to elite grad schools, it delivers practical outcomes for students who leverage its small size to build relationships with professors and local employers.

• Graduation Rate: 40-43%
• Job Placement: 61-66% (varies by year)
• Regional Focus: Strong ties to KY/OH job markets

Thomas More’s sticker price is steep (~$38,000 tuition), but 77.7% of students receive financial aid, bringing the average net price down to $21,314. The university heavily promotes its institutional scholarships, with average aid packages around $26,926 for freshmen. The Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator hints at aggressive discounting for strong applicants, especially those from middle-income families. While not a bargain for everyone, the aid strategy makes it competitive against regional public schools—provided students maximize scholarship opportunities.

• Net Price: $21,314 (after aid)
• Aid Recipients: 77.7% of students
• Avg. Aid Package: $26,926

Thomas More carves a niche as a small, Catholic, career-focused university that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Its hyper-local job placement and dual-degree options appeal to pragmatic students, while the liberal arts core ensures a dash of intellectual rigor. The campus vibe is unpretentious and community-oriented—think shared meals and DIII sports rather than cutthroat pre-professionalism. For students seeking a values-driven education with a clear ROI in the Greater Cincinnati area, it’s a compelling choice. Just don’t expect the rah-rah spirit of a Big Ten school; here, success is measured in steady jobs and lifelong connections, not football wins.