The University of Dayton is a private, Catholic research university located in Dayton, Ohio. Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary (Marianists), it operates independently of state funding, relying on tuition, donations, and endowments.
As a private institution, it has greater autonomy in curriculum design, admissions policies, and financial management compared to public universities. It emphasizes a holistic education rooted in Marianist values, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.