Oakland University
The Vibe Check
Oakland University feels like a dynamic commuter campus where practical ambition meets Midwestern warmth. Students are focused on career-ready majors but enjoy a close-knit, supportive atmosphere on a sprawling, wooded campus. There's a palpable sense of community driven by both school spirit and a diverse student body.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 25
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Oakland University offers strong, career-focused programs in Health Professions, Business, and Engineering, with faculty who are often industry-experienced and accessible. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities and research partnerships with local hospitals and corporations. The university provides a solid foundation for professional success with a practical, application-oriented approach to teaching.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Rochester Hills
Student life in Rochester Hills revolves around campus events, Division I athletics, and exploring the nearby Clinton River trails for hiking and biking. For off-campus fun, students head to the upscale Rochester downtown area for cafes and shops or take a short drive to the vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions of Detroit and Royal Oak. The suburban setting means a car is essential for accessing a wide variety of entertainment and dining options.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($58,612):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated campus police force and well-lit pathways, though as with any campus, students should practice standard safety precautions. The surrounding Rochester Hills area is an affluent, low-crime suburb, offering a secure environment for off-campus housing and activities.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong value proposition with low in-state tuition and solid post-graduation earnings.
- ✓ Excellent programs in high-demand fields like health professions and engineering.
- ✓ Significant research and internship opportunities through partnerships with the Detroit medical and business communities.
- ✓ A diverse and inclusive campus community with a supportive, accessible faculty.
Cons
- ✗ The 57.3% graduation rate is below the national average, suggesting some students struggle to complete their degree.
- ✗ As a sprawling commuter campus, some students may find it challenging to build a traditional, immersive college social life.
- ✗ Location in a car-dependent suburb means students need a vehicle to access much of the off-campus entertainment.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Oakland University is particularly well-known for its strong programs in Health Professions (especially its Beamer-SPR Center for Nursing), Engineering, Business, and Education. It also has a notable reputation in the visual and performing arts, with a renowned theatre program. The university is recognized for its significant research collaborations with the nearby William Beaumont Hospital system and its Division I athletics, particularly basketball.
No, Oakland University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 70%. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1030 and 1200 and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This makes it an accessible option for many students, though meeting or exceeding these averages strengthens your application.
Campus life at Oakland is a blend of active student organizations, Division I athletics, and a strong sense of community, though it has a significant commuter population. Students can get involved in over 300 clubs, Greek life, and campus events. The surrounding Rochester Hills area provides a safe, suburban backdrop, while the campus's proximity to Detroit offers easy access to urban experiences.
For Michigan residents, Oakland University is an excellent financial investment. With an average net price of under $14,000 and median graduate earnings of $58,612 after ten years, the return on investment is very strong. The university provides a high-quality education in high-demand fields for a fraction of the cost of many private colleges, making it a financially savvy choice.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 14,899
- In-State Tuition $14,694
- Out-of-State $23,188
- Zip Code 48309
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $13,584 and relatively low in-state tuition, Oakland University offers a strong return on investment for Michigan residents. The 10-year median earnings of $58,612 significantly outpace the cost of attendance, making it a financially sound choice. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition requires more careful consideration, but the ROI remains competitive compared to many private institutions.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.