Higher Education
East Central Indiana is home to a diverse and dynamic higher education landscape, providing students with access to world-class academic programs, career-focused training, and research-driven innovation. From public universities to private liberal arts colleges and technical institutes, the region’s institutions play a crucial role in workforce development, talent retention, and economic growth.
Ball State University – Muncie
Ball State University is a cornerstone of education and economic development in Muncie and beyond. With nationally recognized programs in education, business, fine arts, communications, and health sciences, Ball State equips students with the skills necessary to drive innovation throughout Indiana. The university boasts a global alumni network of nearly 200,000 and an enrollment of over 22,500 students, reinforcing its impact on the region’s workforce and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Indiana Wesleyan University – Marion
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) stands as the largest private college in Indiana and a leader in Christian higher education. With a sprawling 350-acre campus in Marion, IWU serves nearly 3,000 traditional students and over 10,000 adult learners through its innovative online and education center programs across Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Offering more than 80 undergraduate degrees and 38 graduate programs, IWU is a key player in workforce development and professional education.
Taylor University – Upland
Recognized as the Best Midwest College by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years, Taylor University offers a nationally ranked liberal arts education. With a student body representing 43 states and 31 countries, Taylor fosters a global perspective while emphasizing academic rigor and community engagement. Its commitment to a well-rounded education prepares graduates to excel across industries, from sciences to social sciences and the arts.
Earlham College – Richmond
Earlham College is a premier liberal arts institution known for its commitment to experiential learning and international engagement. With a student population representing 47 states and 54 countries, Earlham fosters a diverse academic community. The college’s expansive 800-acre campus, including 600 acres of preserved natural land, serves as a living laboratory for research and environmental studies.
Indiana University East – Richmond
As a regional campus of Indiana University, IU East offers a broad selection of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs tailored to the needs of eastern Indiana and western Ohio residents. With more than 3,000 undergraduate and 200 graduate students, IU East provides high-quality, flexible education through in-person, online, and hybrid learning formats. Graduates enter fields such as business, healthcare, education, and public administration, strengthening the local workforce.
Ivy Tech Community College – Multiple Locations
Ivy Tech Community College plays a pivotal role in Indiana’s workforce development. With campuses in Muncie, Marion, Richmond, New Castle, Connersville, and Rushville, Ivy Tech provides accessible, career-focused education to nearly 200,000 students statewide. Offering over 125 areas of study, including business, health sciences, computing, and advanced manufacturing, Ivy Tech aligns its programs with regional industry needs, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers.
Higher education energizes the region’s economy providing a steady flow of skilled professionals
