University of Central Oklahoma
The Vibe Check
University of Central Oklahoma offers a tight-knit, supportive atmosphere where the Broncho spirit is palpable at sporting events and campus activities. It feels like a place where you can find your community without getting lost in the crowd. The campus blends historic architecture with modern spaces, fostering a comfortable and engaging environment for learning and growth.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1050
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UCO is recognized for its strong programs in business, health professions, and criminal justice, offering practical and career-focused curricula. The university emphasizes experiential learning through internships, clinicals, and student teaching placements. While large lecture classes exist for introductory courses, smaller, discussion-based upper-level classes allow for more direct interaction with faculty.
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 Edmond
Located in the suburb of Edmond, student life is a mix of campus events and easy access to the amenities of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Students often enjoy the numerous coffee shops, local restaurants, and parks in the downtown Edmond area. For a bigger city experience, downtown OKC is a short drive away, offering concerts, professional sports, and a vibrant nightlife.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($48,351):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The UCO University Police Department provides 24/7 patrols, escort services, and emergency call stations throughout the campus. The surrounding city of Edmond is consistently ranked as one of the safest communities in the state, contributing to a secure environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition provides excellent value for Oklahoma residents.
- ✓ Strong career-focused programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Business.
- ✓ Prime location in the safe and growing suburb of Edmond with easy access to Oklahoma City.
- ✓ A wide range of student organizations and NCAA Division I athletics foster campus spirit.
Cons
- ✗ The 36.4% graduation rate is significantly below the national average, which may be a concern.
- ✗ The 65.5% first-year retention rate suggests some students struggle to persist.
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is nearly 2.5 times the in-state rate, making it less affordable for non-residents.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UCO is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. It has a notable reputation for its Visual & Performing Arts programs, particularly its acclaimed American Theatre Company. The university also prides itself on providing hands-on learning experiences and internships that prepare students for the workforce.
No, the University of Central Oklahoma is not considered a highly selective school. With an acceptance rate of 81.76%, it has an open admissions policy for students who meet the baseline requirements. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 960 and 1140, making it an accessible option for many applicants.
Campus life at UCO is active and community-oriented, with over 200 student organizations and a strong sense of school spirit centered around its NCAA Division I athletics. Students can participate in leadership programs, Greek life, and numerous campus events. The location in Edmond provides a safe, suburban setting while being just a short drive from the cultural and entertainment offerings of the Oklahoma City metro area.
For Oklahoma residents, UCO offers a compelling value proposition. The in-state tuition of $8,522 is substantially below the national average, and the 10-year median earnings of $48,351 for graduates provide a solid return on investment. While the out-of-state cost is higher and the graduation rate is a factor to consider, the affordability and strong career programs make it a worthwhile choice for many in-state students.
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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 12,498
- In-State Tuition $8,522
- Out-of-State $19,409
- Zip Code 73034
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At $8,522 for in-state tuition, UCO presents a strong financial value for Oklahoma residents, significantly lower than the national average for public universities. The $18,990 average net price is manageable for many families, especially with over a third of students receiving Pell Grants. With a 10-year median earnings of $48,351, the degree offers a solid return on investment for a public university education.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.