Ohio State University - Safety & Security

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

As with many areas, the off-campus spots are those most prone to problems, and generally speaking, students report few problems on campus throughout the year. A great benefit to being an OSU student is the courtesy shuttle that takes students back to the residence halls. Another valuable tool is the blue-light call-box, which can be used to notify campus police in case of emergency. These call-boxes are scattered all over campus, and students say that security will respond quickly to such calls. Due to a number of reported rapes, and the massive lack of self-control (especially during Ohio State vs. Michigan State games), security has been increased around campus. OSU has gotten a bad rap from the media over the past few years, and with good reason—people overturning cars and burning furniture in the streets is a pretty big safety risk. While this behavior certainly isn’t normal, it has occurred in the past. The biggest riot threat is in the spring, during an annual block party on Chittenden called “Chitfest,” which now results in campus practically turning into a police state. If you don’t want to run into law enforcement during these times, don’t leave your house—period.

The bottom line regarding safety at OSU and Columbus is learning which areas to stay away from—especially during the night—and making intelligent decisions. Given its history, it’s no surprise that OSU students are only beginning to feel really safe; hopefully, however, the University will continue to improve the current environment, and more secure feelings can take root.

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Students Speak Out

BuckeyeGirl says: Ohio State University 2016 Communication and Journalism

I walk alone on campus late at... I walk alone on campus late at night all the time, so based on my experience alone, I think it's pretty safe. 12345 Safety & Security: April 27, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

As a girl, it’s scary to walk by... As a girl, it’s scary to walk by yourself. This is not because there are hoodlums everywhere, but because it is a rather large city, and bad things can happen. 12345 Safety & Security Report

dramachick25 says: Social Sciences

I am a petite girl, so I probably... I am a petite girl, so I probably should be scared of my city surroundings, but I'm not. Off-campus security is great, and the police and campus security are very helpful in case of an emergency or if you just get the heebie jeebies. I find them very accessible because if you call for help, they will not turn you away or arrest you, even if you are underaged and doing something you shouldn't be doing. They are really there for your safety. 12345 Safety & Security: July 18, 2009 Report

chaanaae says: Ohio State University 2013 Undecided

Police and safety services A+ There is always campus security, campus police, and city police on campus. I always feel completely safe. There are student safety vans that transport students to desired destination when it gets dark.There are several panic buttons throughout campus to push when in a dangerous situation. 12345 Safety & Security: November 14, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

Let me just tell you that bike... Let me just tell you that bike cops rule! No matter how hard you try, you just can’t get away! 12345 Safety & Security Report

Did You Know?

The OSU Escort Service provides safe transportation around and near campus seven days a week, from early evening until 3:30 a.m.

The Student Health Center offers free anonymous HIV testing for all students.

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