Oklahoma City University embraces the United Methodist tradition of scholarship and service and welcomes all faiths in a culturally rich community that is dedicated to student welfare and success. Men and women pursue academic excellence through a rigorous curriculum that focuses on students' intellectual, moral and spiritual development to prepare them to become effective leaders in service to their communities.
Quality Education
Private United Methodist university offering both liberal arts and professional programs on undergraduate and graduate levels
Outstanding Programs
More than 60 undergraduate majors; 12 graduate degrees (including a law degree and the MBA), and the Adult Studies Program for working adults to earn a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree
Special Opportunities
Service learning opportunities across the curriculum; University Honors Program; OCULEADS, a scholarship and leadership program; Center for Interpersonal Studies through Film and Literature; Washington Semester Program; study abroad programs
Experienced Faculty
78 percent of our faculty members hold the highest degrees in their fields. Professors, not graduate assistants, teach all classes.
Active Campus
More than 60 student-led organizations, including five national fraternities and sororities, our own chapter of Habitat for Humanity, multi-cultural student associations, Student Government and more.
Stellar Athletics
The OCU Stars have won 41 national NAIA championships.
Ideal Location
104 park-like acres in the heart of Oklahoma City, just minutes from a diverse range of educational, social, cultural and recreational opportunities.
Exceptional Financial Support
More than $10 million awarded annually in academic merit or performance scholarships, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Many other scholarship programs such as the Clara Luper Scholars and the American Indian Scholarship Program offer assistance to our students. More than 90 percent of students receive academic, merit, performance or need-based financial aid.
Brief History of OCU
Oklahoma City University was chartered as Epworth University on September 1, 1904. The first students came to a 104 acre campus that boasted one all-purpose building. One hundred sixteen enrolled that fall. The original building is still standing and forms part of Epworth United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.
Surviving the storms of financial difficulties, the university moved to Guthrie in the fall of 1911. Classes were conducted in the old Oklahoma Territory capitol building. At this time the name was changed to Methodist University of Oklahoma. In 1922, the name was changed to Oklahoma City College. The college was relocated to its present location in Oklahoma City. The current administration building housed both classrooms and student dormitories. In 1924, the college was renamed Oklahoma City University.
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Enrollment: More than 2,100 undergraduate students and 1,700 graduate students from 46 states and 49 foreign countries
Student/Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average class size for freshmen: 17
Average class size for upperclassmen: 13
Campus: 104 park-like acres in the heart of Oklahoma City
Affiliation: Private United Methodist university established in 1904
Faculty: More than 78 percent of faculty hold highest degrees in their fields; no classes taught by graduate assistants
Involvement: More than 60 student organizations, including five national fraternities and sororities.
National Rankings: Consistently ranked as a top-tier, master's-level university by U.S. News & World Report; listed in America's Best Christian Colleges & 100 Best College Buys
Financial Aid: More than 90 percent of students receive academic, merit, performance or need-based financial aid
Workplace: Named a "Great College to Work For" by Chronicle of Higher Education; only University listed in "Best Places to Work in Oklahoma"
