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Oklahoma City University

Accept Rate
70.39%
Grad Rate
66.9%
Enrollment
1,433
Avg SAT
1150
Tuition
$33,586
Median Salary
$54,655
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
B
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Oklahoma City University feels like a tight-knit, creative community nestled in the heart of the city, where students experience a blend of artistic energy and personalized attention. The campus has a vibrant, supportive atmosphere that encourages collaboration and growth, making it feel both intimate and connected to the urban pulse.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

70.39%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1150

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2575th Pctl
2026
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your involvement in arts, health, or leadership activities in your application, as OCU values well-rounded students. Aim for an SAT score above 1150 to strengthen your chances, and consider applying early to show demonstrated interest and secure scholarship opportunities.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1150
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

OCU is known for strong programs in visual and performing arts, health professions, and business, with a focus on hands-on learning and mentorship from faculty. Small class sizes ensure high-quality teaching, and students have opportunities for research and internships through partnerships with local hospitals, arts organizations, and businesses.

Popular Majors

Visual & Performing Arts
34.2%
Health Professions
29.3%
Business & Marketing
8.1%
Education
5.2%
Biology & Biomedical
3.2%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
3.2%
Computer Science
2.6%
Psychology
2.6%
Social Sciences
2.6%
Philosophy & Religion
2.6%
Communications
1.7%
Physical Sciences
1.1%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

66.9%
Graduation Rate
83%
Retention Rate
1,433
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$33,586
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$21,556
After financial aid
Total Cost
$46,144
Cost of attendance/year
22.6%
Receive Pell Grants
47.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Oklahoma City

Students enjoy exploring Oklahoma City's vibrant districts like Bricktown for dining and entertainment, the Paseo Arts District for galleries and festivals, and the Oklahoma River for outdoor activities. On campus, there are performances, intramural sports, and student organizations that keep social life active and engaging.

Local Rent Check

$884 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Oklahoma City
Explore Oklahoma City

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$134,344
$0Est. 4 Years: $134,344

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($54,655):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally safe, with a campus police department and well-lit pathways, but students should stay aware of their surroundings in the urban setting. Oklahoma City has improved safety measures in recent years, and OCU offers resources like safety escorts and emergency alerts.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong programs in visual and performing arts with real-world performance opportunities
  • โœ“ Personalized attention from faculty due to small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio
  • โœ“ Urban location provides easy access to internships, jobs, and cultural events in Oklahoma City
  • โœ“ High retention rate of 83% indicates a supportive and satisfying student experience

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation rate of 66.9% is below the national average for private universities
  • โœ— Limited enrollment of 1,433 may feel too small for students seeking a large campus vibe
  • โœ— Urban setting can pose safety concerns if students are not vigilant

Notable Alumni

Kristin Chenoweth
Tony and Emmy Award-winning actress and singer known for Broadway hits like 'Wicked'
Blake Shelton
Country music star and coach on 'The Voice'
Warren Spahn
Hall of Fame baseball pitcher and Cy Young Award winner

Frequently Asked Questions

Oklahoma City University is renowned for its strong programs in visual and performing arts, particularly the Meinders School of Business and the Wanda L. Bass School of Music. It also excels in health professions, education, and biology, with a focus on experiential learning and community engagement in an urban setting.

No, it has an acceptance rate of 70.39%, making it moderately selective. The average SAT score is around 1150, so applicants with grades and scores near or above this average have a good chance of admission, especially if they demonstrate involvement in relevant extracurriculars.

Campus life is active and community-oriented, with a variety of student organizations, performing arts events, and intramural sports. The urban location allows for easy access to off-campus entertainment, while the small campus fosters close relationships among students and faculty.

With an average net price of $21,556 and 10-year median earnings of $54,655, OCU provides good value, especially for majors in health, business, and arts where graduates see strong career outcomes. Financial aid availability and the university's focus on practical skills make it a worthwhile investment for many students.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Integris Health OU Health Chesapeake Energy Devon Energy Paycom
Smart Start Score
63

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,469
  • In-State Tuition $33,586
  • Zip Code 73106

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 34% โ™€ 66%

The Money Talk

With a net price of $21,556 and median 10-year earnings of $54,655, OCU offers a solid return on investment, especially for in-demand fields like health professions and business. The tuition is competitive for a private university, and financial aid options like Pell Grants help make it accessible for many students.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

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Compare with University of Bridgeport

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $33,586
Housing (12 mo) $10,608
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $51,394
With avg financial aid:
$21,556/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.