Oklahoma City University (OCU) is a private Methodist university located in the vibrant heart of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Established in 1904, OCU has cultivated a rich tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. The university is known for its small class sizes, which foster personalized interactions between students and faculty, thus enhancing the learning experience. With a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, OCU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, allowing students to pursue their passions in various fields such as performing arts, business, law, and health sciences. The university's commitment to service is evident in its robust community outreach initiatives, encouraging students to engage with and contribute positively to their local environment.

A defining feature of Oklahoma City University is its vibrant campus culture, which is enriched by various student organizations, clubs, and activities. The university is particularly renowned for its performing arts programs, boasting exceptional facilities such as the Ann Lacy School of Dance and the Bass School of Music, which attract talented individuals from across the nation. Additionally, OCU encourages a balanced student life that includes competitive athletics, with the university's teams, known as the Stars, participating in the NAIA. With beautiful campus grounds and state-of-the-art facilities, OCU provides an ideal setting for academic growth and personal development. Furthermore, the university’s strong emphasis on ethical leadership and service to others aligns with its motto, "Enter to learn; go forth to serve," highlighting the institution's dedication to developing well-rounded individuals poised to make a positive impact in the world.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City University, a private institution, exhibits noteworthy trends in several key metrics over recent years. One significant aspect is the rising tuition rates. Between 2014 and 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has increased by approximately 19%, rising from $28,932 to $34,486. This trend reflects the broader national concern over college affordability, as many institutions grapple with balancing operational costs and accessibility for students. The rising tuition, paired with fluctuating room and board fees, places additional financial burdens on students and their families.

Student retention rates also tell an important story. Retention dipped slightly, with the most recent figures indicating around 77% of students returning for their second year in 2023 compared to approximately 81% in 2014. This decline may point to the growing challenges that universities face in providing support systems that enhance student engagement and satisfaction, suggesting that more focus is needed on improving the overall student experience.

Moreover, the graduation rates show a positive trend, particularly for 100% on-time graduation, which has improved from about 39% in 2014 to around 58% in 2023. This increase in timely graduation rates indicates that the university is likely taking steps to enhance academic support and advising, which are critical in helping students complete their degrees efficiently.

Lastly, the changing demographics of the student body are noteworthy, particularly the gender distribution among undergraduates. The proportion of male undergraduates has gradually decreased from about 38% in 2014 to roughly 34% in 2024. This shift may reflect broader societal trends regarding gender enrollment in higher education, where female students now often outnumber their male counterparts.

Collectively, these metrics provide a snapshot of the evolving landscape at Oklahoma City University, highlighting both the challenges and successes that the institution faces as it navigates the complexities of higher education today.

Graduation Trends and Observations at Oklahoma City University

The graduation data from Oklahoma City University reveals intriguing patterns, particularly in advanced degree offerings. Notably, the Doctorate in Law saw a substantial graduation number of 159, along with a smaller cohort of international students, emphasizing the program's appeal and demand. This aligns with a broader trend in legal education where advanced degrees continue to attract both local and international talent, reflecting the increasing importance of specialized legal expertise in today's complex global landscape.

In the realm of health sciences, particularly in the areas of Physician Assistant and Physical Therapy, the graduation figures illustrate a growing interest in these fields. With dedicated training programs and an increasing need for healthcare professionals, it's clear that the university is meeting market demands effectively. However, the absence of bachelor's degree graduates in these fields could suggest a stratified program design focusing on immediate graduate-entry pathways rather than traditional bachelor's routes.

Conversely, the absence of graduation data in numerous other disciplines, such as the social sciences and liberal arts, raises questions. The lack of graduates in these areas may indicate a strategic shift in institutional focus towards more lucrative fields, as institutions often adapt to the evolving educational landscape and prioritize programs that ensure employability and industry relevance.

Overall, the data suggests that Oklahoma City University is strategically aligning its academic offerings with labor market needs, particularly in high-demand fields such as law and healthcare, while potentially neglecting traditional liberal arts education. This focus could have long-term implications for the breadth of educational experience and diversity of thought among graduates, culminating in a narrower approach to education that may not fully address the educational needs of all students.

Analysis of Oklahoma City University Admission Trends

Oklahoma City University has shown notable fluctuations in both rankings and admission rates over the years, especially highlighted by the most recent ranking for 2025 at 296. This downward trend in rankings, from 234 in 2023 to 296 in 2025, raises questions about the university's competitive edge in the educational landscape. Looking at the admission rates for males and females, we see a significant variation as well. For instance, in 2010, the male admission rate was approximately 79.05%, while for females, it was around 77.30%. Over the years, these rates have generally declined, with a noticeable drop to about 69.15% for males and 71.26% for females by 2023. One possible interpretation is that the university may be facing increased competition, resulting in more stringent admission processes. Furthermore, analysis of enrollment statistics provides insights into the institution’s stability. The number of students enrolling has seen fluctuations, suggesting that while interest in the university persists, students may be exploring a wider array of options. For example, enrollment was at 405 in 2010 and has varied thereafter, with a current enrollment of 375 in 2024. Overall, the trends suggest that Oklahoma City University may need to reevaluate its admission strategies and ranking factors to better attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive landscape. As it moves forward, focusing on enhancing academic programs and student support services may be crucial for reversing the declining ranking and ensuring a vibrant academic community.

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Oklahoma City University

The data reflecting the admission test scores of Oklahoma City University from 2007 to 2024 reveals fluctuating trends in both SAT and ACT submissions and scores. Notably, the acceptance rates based on standardized testing highlight a broader narrative in higher education, where the role of academic assessments in evaluating candidate potential has continually evolved.

Throughout these years, the percentage of students submitting scores has varied, with some years showing as low as 21% of applicants providing scores. This decline may indicate growing alternative pathways for admissions, possibly tied to shifts in educational priorities; many universities are increasingly adopting test-optional policies. This strategy aims to eliminate barriers for students who may be exceptional but do not perform well on standardized tests.

On the score front, the range for both SAT and ACT scores shows variability, with some years reflecting a tightening of score brackets, which can draw an inference that incoming students are generally performing on a higher scale relative to their peers in previous years. As for the specific scores, the shifts in the mid-range scores (25th to 75th percentiles) suggest a competitive atmosphere, which is essential to attracting qualified candidates while maintaining educational standards.

Moreover, the growing diversity of applicant backgrounds and the increased emphasis on holistic admissions processes are indicative of broader changes in enrollment strategies among universities nationwide. As admissions landscapes continue to transform, it remains essential for institutions like Oklahoma City University to adapt their approaches to effectively evaluate prospective students beyond mere test scores, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic academic environment.

2024 Oklahoma City University Student Demographics Overview

The student demographics at Oklahoma City University for the year 2024 reflect a diverse and gender-imbalanced population across various categories. The university accommodates a total of 2,748 students, comprising new undergraduate students, returning undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students.

It's noteworthy that new undergraduate students make up a modest portion of the total with 375 enrollees, while returning undergraduates constitute the highest group at 899. Interestingly, graduate students account for a significant 1,316 individuals, indicating a strong emphasis on advanced education at the university. The gender ratios reveal a clear trend of female dominance among undergraduates, with 64.8% of the new freshmen and 66.9% of returning students identifying as women. This could suggest a welcoming environment for female students and an ongoing effort to promote gender equity in education.

When examining the ethnic composition among students, the university's data indicates a predominance of white students, which aligns with national trends observed in higher education institutions. Engagement with underrepresented groups, such as Hispanic and Asian students, is essential for fostering inclusivity. Furthermore, the presence of international students, although diminished in this data, adds to the multicultural tapestry of the campus, promoting diverse perspectives and experiences.

As society continues to evolve, it is crucial for Oklahoma City University to not only maintain these numbers but also enhance support mechanisms that promote diversity and inclusion across all student demographics, ensuring that every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Student Age Composition at Oklahoma City University in 2024

The age composition of students at Oklahoma City University in 2024 showcases a diverse demographic, reflecting current trends in higher education. Among students under 18 years old, there are more females, indicating a growing interest among younger women in pursuing college education. The largest age group is 18-19, which is expected as it typically includes recent high school graduates. Notably, there are 384 females and 200 males in this bracket, suggesting a significant gender disparity that might encourage discussions on outreach and support for male students.

As students progress in their education, particularly between the ages of 20-21, the gender distribution again highlights more females than males, particularly among undergraduates. Interestingly, the data shows a shift in demographics as students age into the 22-24 category, where graduate students become more prominent. This indicates a robust engagement in advanced studies, especially among women.

The age brackets of 25-29 and 30-34 include notable engagement from graduate male students, suggesting that older non-traditional students are increasingly pursuing higher education. Furthermore, the distribution within the 35-39 and 40-49 age brackets shows the importance of lifelong learning, with a significant number of both male and female students continuing their education later in life.

Overall, the data points to evolving educational pathways and highlights the need for policies that support a balanced and equitable environment for all students, regardless of age or gender. This composition will continue to shape the academic landscape and influence university programming in the years to come.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Oklahoma City University

The data on international student enrollment at Oklahoma City University reveals significant trends over the years. From 2005 to 2010, there was a generally healthy representation of international students, with percentages of international undergraduates ranging from 20.69% to as high as 28.18%. However, a noticeable decline commenced shortly thereafter. By 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students had plummeted to just 4.34%, with only 59 international students enrolled.

Similar trends are evidenced in the graduate student population, which recorded a peak percentage of international students at 57.19% in 2005. However, this figure also saw a decline over the years, hitting a low of 9.08% in 2023. This reduction in international enrollment coincides with broader patterns seen in many U.S. universities, where recent years have presented challenges such as visa restrictions, a global pandemic, and a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

The sharp decline in international student numbers raises concerns about the potential impact on cultural diversity and the university's reputation in attracting a global student body. These shifts may also affect the university's financial health, as international students often pay higher tuition fees. As educational institutions navigate these challenges, focused strategies may be necessary to rejuvenate international recruitment efforts and restore participation levels to those seen in the early 2000s.

Here are some notable institutions surrounding Oklahoma City University:

1. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 132 in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a rich academic experience with a variety of programs.

2. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 196, this comprehensive university is known for its strong engineering and agriculture programs.

3. University of Tulsa - Ranked 179, this comprehensive university emphasizes research and offers a unique blend of liberal arts and professional education.

4. Wichita State University - Ranked 296, this comprehensive university focuses on innovation, with strong connections to the community and industry.

5. The University of Texas at Dallas - This comprehensive university is ranked 109 and is renowned for its programs in business, science, and engineering.

6. Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 91, SMU is known for its strong business school and law program.

7. Texas Christian University - This comprehensive university is ranked 105 and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community service.

These universities contribute to a vibrant educational landscape around Oklahoma City University, providing a variety of options for students in the region.

Trends in Crime Rates at Oklahoma City University

The crime rate trends at Oklahoma City University from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations over the years. Initially, in 2013, the crime rate was at its highest, with approximately 12.85 incidents per 1,000 students. However, a noticeable decline occurred over the next few years, reaching its lowest point in 2018, with a rate of 4.57 per 1,000 students. This period of reduced crime may reflect improved campus safety initiatives or heightened awareness among students.

Interestingly, the year 2020 marked a substantial spike, with the rate soaring to 20.17 per 1,000 students. This increase could correlate with the peculiar circumstances brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, where shifts in student behavior and campus activity might have contributed to rising incidents. Following 2020, the data showcased another decline in the following years, suggesting that the university's efforts to address safety and crime may have regained effectiveness.

Examining specific categories, such as drug and alcohol-related arrests, may offer further insights. Alcohol-related incidents, in particular, can significantly impact campus safety. As universities continue to target these areas with educational programs and support systems, it could mitigate future incidents.

Overall, the trends suggest that while there are challenges to maintaining campus safety, concerted efforts may prove effective in reducing crime rates. Continuous monitoring and adaptation to student needs are essential strategies in fostering a safer university environment. For more information on how these rates are calculated, you can refer to this link.