University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
The Vibe Check
The University of Oklahoma pulses with a spirited, community-focused energy fueled by a legendary football culture and a strong sense of tradition. It feels like a quintessential Big 12 campus where school pride is palpable, yet the large suburban setting provides a welcoming, manageable home for students. You'll find a blend of Midwestern friendliness and ambitious academic drive.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
OU is a top-tier public research university with standout programs in meteorology, engineering, business, and communications. The faculty is known for being accessible and dedicated to undergraduate teaching, fostering a collaborative environment. Students have extensive opportunities for hands-on research, particularly through institutes like the National Weather Center.
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 Norman
Life in Norman revolves around football Saturdays at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, where the entire town turns crimson and cream. When they're not cheering on the Sooners, students enjoy Norman's vibrant downtown with its local shops, diverse restaurants, and live music venues. The city also offers numerous parks, walking trails, and a short drive to the metro amenities of Oklahoma City.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($63,126):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Norman campus is generally considered very safe, with a dedicated and visible University of Oklahoma Police Department. The surrounding area is a typical college town with standard precautions needed, but the campus itself is well-lit and secure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier value and academic reputation, especially for in-state students.
- ✓ Unmatched school spirit and football culture creating a powerful sense of community.
- ✓ Strong, high-demand programs in Business, Engineering, and Meteorology.
- ✓ Large, active alumni network providing robust career support.
Cons
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition can be expensive without significant merit aid.
- ✗ Large class sizes in introductory courses are common.
- ✗ The campus and surrounding area can feel very conservative and traditional.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Oklahoma is widely known for its powerhouse football program and intense school spirit. Academically, it is a national leader in fields like meteorology (housed at the National Weather Center), petroleum engineering, and its highly-ranked Price College of Business. The university also boasts a beautiful, park-like campus with distinctive Collegiate Gothic architecture.
No, the University of Oklahoma is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 76.54%. This means it is an accessible option for many students. However, a strong application should include a solid GPA (ideally above 3.5) and competitive test scores (average SAT of 1239) to be a strong contender for admission and merit-based scholarships.
Campus life at OU is defined by a vibrant social scene and deep-rooted traditions. The 'Sooner Spirit' is everywhere, especially on game days, which are major events that unite the entire campus. Students can get involved in over 400 student organizations, enjoy a lively Greek life, and take advantage of Norman's college-town atmosphere, which offers a mix of local eateries, shops, and outdoor activities.
For in-state students, the answer is a resounding yes. The combination of low tuition, a high graduation rate, and strong post-graduation earnings makes it one of the best values in higher education. For out-of-state students, the value is still strong, especially if you can secure merit scholarships, thanks to the university's strong academic programs and powerful alumni network in key industries.
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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 23,172
- In-State Tuition $9,595
- Out-of-State $26,665
- Zip Code 73019
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, OU offers an exceptional return on investment, with a net price of around $17,413 and median earnings of $63,126 a decade after enrollment. Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, but merit scholarships can help offset the cost, making it competitive with other public universities. Given the strong alumni network and popular, high-earning majors like Business and Engineering, the degree is a solid financial investment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.