Oklahoma is home to a diverse range of private colleges and universities that offer students high-quality education in various fields of study. These institutions emphasize personalized attention, smaller class sizes, and often, faith-based education. From liberal arts colleges to specialized universities, Oklahoma’s private colleges offer opportunities for academic growth, leadership development, and community engagement.
Overview
The University of Tulsa (TU), located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a prestigious private university with a strong focus on research, liberal arts, and professional education. Established in 1894, TU has a rich history of academic excellence and is known for its rigorous programs in engineering, law, business, and the arts. TU fosters a student-centered approach, combining small class sizes with world-class faculty to ensure a supportive and challenging academic environment.
Academic Programs
The University of Tulsa offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees through its six academic colleges:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Offers programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts.
- Collins College of Business: Provides degrees in business administration, finance, accounting, and energy management.
- College of Engineering and Natural Sciences: Known for its programs in petroleum engineering, computer science, and cyber security.
- College of Law: A well-regarded program focusing on corporate law, energy law, and Native American law.
- Oxley College of Health Sciences: Offers nursing, exercise science, and health sciences degrees.
Notable Programs:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Law (Energy Law and Native American Law)
- Cyber Security
- Business Administration
- Psychology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 4,400 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, ensuring personalized attention and small class sizes.
- Athletics: The Tulsa Golden Hurricane competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with strong programs in football, basketball, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 150 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and Greek life.
Research and Innovation
TU is a leader in research, particularly in the fields of engineering, energy, and cyber security. The university houses several research centers, such as the Institute for Information Security (iSec), which is renowned for its work in cyber defense and information technology. TU’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research and global engagement ensures that students are prepared to tackle complex challenges in various industries.
Oklahoma City University
Overview
Oklahoma City University (OCU) is a private liberal arts university located in the heart of Oklahoma City. Founded in 1904 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church, OCU is known for its exceptional programs in performing arts, business, and law. The university emphasizes a holistic education that integrates academic achievement, personal growth, and community service.
Academic Programs
OCU offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its colleges and schools:
- Petree College of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in biology, English, political science, and philosophy.
- Meinders School of Business: Offers degrees in business administration, economics, marketing, and accounting.
- School of Law: Known for programs in constitutional law, civil rights law, and legal research.
- Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment: One of the top dance programs in the country, specializing in dance performance, choreography, and entertainment business.
- Wanda L. Bass School of Music: Offers programs in music performance, composition, and music education.
Notable Programs:
- Dance and Performing Arts
- Law
- Business Administration
- Music Performance
- Nursing
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.
- Athletics: The OCU Stars compete in NAIA athletics, excelling in sports such as basketball, soccer, and rowing.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 70 student organizations, including student government, performing arts groups, and faith-based organizations.
Performing Arts and Civic Engagement
OCU is nationally recognized for its performing arts programs, particularly in dance and music. The university has produced many successful performers and artists who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. In addition, OCU emphasizes civic engagement, encouraging students to participate in community service projects and leadership development opportunities throughout the Oklahoma City area.
Oklahoma Baptist University
Overview
Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU), located in Shawnee, is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. Founded in 1910, OBU offers a faith-based education that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. The university’s mission is to integrate faith with learning, leadership, and service.
Academic Programs
OBU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across several schools, focusing on a liberal arts education infused with Christian values:
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences: Offers programs in psychology, history, political science, and English.
- College of Fine Arts: Provides degrees in art, music, theatre, and graphic design.
- Paul Dickinson College of Business: Includes programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and management.
- Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry: Focuses on preparing students for Christian ministry, pastoral work, and missions.
- College of Nursing: Known for its comprehensive nursing program, combining clinical practice with ethical leadership.
Notable Programs:
- Theology and Ministry
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Music and Theatre
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, providing personalized academic support.
- Athletics: The OBU Bison compete in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in track and field, soccer, and baseball.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 30 student organizations, including faith-based groups, service clubs, and academic societies.
Christian Education and Global Missions
OBU is dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education that prepares students for lives of leadership and service. The university places a strong emphasis on global missions, offering students the opportunity to participate in mission trips and service projects around the world. OBU’s integration of faith and learning ensures that students develop both intellectually and spiritually during their time on campus.
Oral Roberts University
Overview
Oral Roberts University (ORU), located in Tulsa, is a private Christian university founded in 1963 by evangelist Oral Roberts. ORU is committed to providing a Spirit-empowered education that combines academic excellence with a focus on spiritual growth. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in a Christian environment that encourages students to pursue academic achievement alongside spiritual development.
Academic Programs
ORU offers degrees in various fields through its colleges and schools:
- College of Arts and Cultural Studies: Includes programs in English, history, government, and media studies.
- College of Science and Engineering: Provides degrees in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science.
- College of Business: Offers programs in business administration, marketing, finance, and international business.
- College of Education: Known for programs in early childhood, elementary, and secondary education.
- College of Theology and Ministry: Focuses on preparing students for leadership roles in the church, missions, and Christian education.
Notable Programs:
- Theology and Ministry
- Business Administration
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Nursing
- Government and International Studies
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 4,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1, ensuring a personalized and supportive learning environment.
- Athletics: The ORU Golden Eagles compete in NCAA Division I athletics, particularly excelling in basketball and baseball.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 50 student organizations, including ministry groups, academic clubs, and leadership programs.
Spirit-Empowered Education
ORU is known for its Spirit-empowered approach to education, integrating faith with academics and encouraging students to pursue excellence in all aspects of life. The university emphasizes global missions and leadership, offering students opportunities to engage in service projects both domestically and internationally. ORU’s vibrant campus life is centered around spiritual growth, with regular chapel services and ministry opportunities that foster a deep sense of community and purpose.
Southern Nazarene University
Overview
Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is a private, Christian liberal arts university located in Bethany, Oklahoma, just outside of Oklahoma City. Founded in 1899 by the Church of the Nazarene, SNU provides a faith-based education that integrates academic excellence with spiritual formation. The university’s mission is to prepare students for lives of service and leadership in a Christ-centered community.
Academic Programs
SNU offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines:
- College of Humanities: Offers degrees in history, English, theology, and psychology.
- College of Natural, Social, and Health Sciences: Includes programs in biology, chemistry, nursing, and criminal justice.
- School of Business: Provides degrees in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.
- School of Education: Known for programs in elementary, secondary, and special education.
- School of Theology and Ministry: Prepares students for careers in Christian ministry, pastoral work, and missionary service.
Notable Programs:
- Theology and Ministry
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Education
- Psychology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1, promoting personalized attention and small class sizes.
- Athletics: The SNU Crimson Storm competes in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and track and field.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 30 student organizations, including service clubs, academic honor societies, and faith-based groups.
Service and Leadership
SNU emphasizes service, leadership, and spiritual growth, encouraging students to participate in local and global missions, service-learning projects, and community outreach. The university’s commitment to Christian education is reflected in its campus life, where students are encouraged to grow in their faith while developing the skills needed for professional success. SNU’s close-knit community fosters a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and spiritually.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Overview
Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU), located in Bartlesville, is a private, Christian university affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. Founded in 1909, OKWU provides a faith-based education that focuses on academic excellence, Christian discipleship, and service to others. The university’s mission is to promote biblical truth, scholarship, and servant leadership.
Academic Programs
OKWU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, with a strong emphasis on Christian education and leadership:
- School of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in English, psychology, history, and political science.
- Chesapeake Energy School of Business: Provides degrees in business administration, marketing, and finance.
- School of Ministry and Christian Thought: Focuses on preparing students for careers in ministry, pastoral work, and missions.
- School of Nursing: Offers programs in nursing and health care administration.
- Graduate and Professional Studies: Offers online programs for working professionals, including business and education degrees.
Notable Programs:
- Ministry and Christian Thought
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Education
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,200 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, ensuring close relationships between students and faculty.
- Athletics: The OKWU Eagles compete in NAIA athletics, excelling in basketball, soccer, and cross-country.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes faith-based groups, ministry teams, and leadership organizations.
Biblical Truth and Servant Leadership
OKWU is dedicated to providing an education that is grounded in biblical truth and Christian discipleship. The university emphasizes servant leadership, encouraging students to engage in service projects, ministry work, and community outreach. OKWU’s small campus and faith-based community provide a nurturing environment where students can grow both academically and spiritually.