Oakwood University
Acceptance rate
45.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$22,512
$31,896 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,177
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
33.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 46.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Oakwood University, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Established in 1896, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that fosters not only intellectual development but also moral and ethical values. The university's motto, "Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve," encapsulates its mission to prepare students for meaningful lives of service in their communities and beyond.
The campus is characterized by a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates diversity and promotes a rich cultural environment. Oakwood offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in fields such as health sciences, business, and education. The university also boasts a dedicated faculty who are committed to mentoring and supporting students throughout their academic journeys. In addition to its academic programs, Oakwood provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and community service, which enhance student life and engagement. The university's emphasis on spiritual development is evident through its numerous religious programs and activities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among its students. Overall, Oakwood University remains a distinguished institution that nurtures the minds and spirits of its students, preparing them for successful futures.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Oakwood University
Oakwood University, a private institution, has exhibited notable changes in several key metrics over the years. One significant observation is the increase in tuition fees, particularly for in-state undergraduate students. The tuition rose from $16,236 in 2014 to $21,838 in 2024, indicating a substantial increase of approximately 34.5%. Such rises in tuition can reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions face increasing operational costs, impacting affordability for students and families.
Another important metric is the graduation rate for undergraduate students. The timely graduation rate improved from about 22.5% in 2013 to 27.2% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the university may be implementing effective retention and support programs, helping students to complete their degrees on time. Additionally, the 150% graduation rate also exhibited a positive trend, growing from around 39.6% in 2013 to nearly 49.9% in 2023, showcasing a commitment to enhancing student success.
Moreover, the retention rate has shown fluctuations but remained relatively stable, ranging from about 70% to 79% over the years. The slight increase to 77.1% in 2023 indicates a favorable environment for students, which is essential for building a loyal student body and improving overall academic performance.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, with a notable decrease from 14:1 in 2013 to 10:1 in 2021, before slightly increasing to 11:1 in 2022 and 2023. A lower student-to-faculty ratio often correlates with better academic support and personalized attention, which can enhance the educational experience.
In summary, Oakwood University is navigating the challenges of rising tuition while demonstrating improvements in graduation rates and maintaining a stable retention rate, which are critical factors in assessing the overall health and effectiveness of the institution.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Huntsville
- Nearest international airport
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- OU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Seventh Day Adventist
- President
- Gina Spivey-Brown (President)
- Phone
- 2567267000
- City
- Huntsville, Alabama
- Address
- 7000 Adventist Blvd NW, Huntsville, AL 35896
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 62.4%, women 65.9%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Oakwood University
Over the years, Oakwood University has showcased a dynamic landscape in its admissions process, reflected in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Analyzing the data from 2009 to 2023, it is evident that the male acceptance rate has fluctuated significantly, with a notable drop in 2013 to approximately 31%, indicating a highly competitive admission cycle during that time. Conversely, the female acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, albeit lower in the earlier years, which may point to increasing female enrollment initiatives or changing demographics in applicant pools.
The total enrollment numbers show a general trend of decline from a peak in 2010, followed by more modest figures in recent years. This could suggest a shifting focus in the university's strategy for attracting students, possibly in response to broader trends in higher education, such as the declining number of high school graduates or changes in regional demographics.
Moreover, the data reveals a significant increase in deferrals in 2021, with nearly 970% compared to earlier years. This spike could reflect the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as prospective students grappled with the best timing for their college experience.
Overall, Oakwood University appears to be navigating the complexities of enrollment and admissions with resilience. The institution's ability to adapt to changing circumstances will be crucial as it continues to attract a diverse student body in an increasingly competitive higher education environment.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Commentary on Oakwood University's Admission Scores and Trends
The data from Oakwood University presents a notable trend in the admission scores and the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores over the years. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 55% in 2007 to 45% in 2023. This trend could reflect a broader shift in college admissions policies, where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, as seen in national conversations around standardized testing.
When assessing the actual score ranges, the 25th percentile SAT reading score has fluctuated between 390 and 460, while the 75th percentile has ranged from 520 to 578. The upward movement in the 75th percentile score over the years indicates that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to have stronger performance, suggesting potential changes in the applicant pool's quality.
The consistent score ranges also highlight the competitive nature of admissions at Oakwood University, which could be reflective of its growing reputation. However, the decline in submission rates could also indicate a need for the university to enhance its outreach and support for prospective students, especially in the context of a changing educational landscape where standardized testing is being scrutinized.
In summary, while Oakwood University is seeing a shift in its applicant demographics with stronger scores among those submitting, the decreasing percentage of test submissions calls for a strategic approach to maintain and attract a diverse applicant pool in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
1,873 applicants in 2025, 45.2% admitted
847 admitted 1,026 not admitted Yield 30.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's4 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's3 (0% international)
- Public Health, General · Master's2 (0% international)
- Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's1 (0% international)
- Urban Ministry · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Oakwood University
The graduation data from Oakwood University in 2023 reveals significant trends in various fields of study. Notably, the General Studies program leads with 25 graduates in the bachelor's category, which reflects the flexible nature of this major that appeals to a diverse student population. This is indicative of a growing trend where students prefer programs that allow them to explore multiple disciplines, aligning with the increasing demand for interdisciplinary skills in the job market.
In the realm of biological sciences, there were 24 bachelor's degree graduates, including 5 international students. This highlights the university's appeal to international students in STEM fields, reflecting a broader national trend where international students are increasingly opting for science-related programs in the U.S. The presence of international students is crucial, as it enriches the academic environment and fosters global perspectives among the student body.
The data also shows that theology and psychology programs had modest numbers of graduates, with 13 and 11 bachelor's degree holders, respectively. These figures suggest a steady interest in the humanities and social sciences, areas that are vital for developing critical thinking and interpersonal skills.
Interestingly, no master's or doctoral graduates were recorded in these fields, which could point to a gap in advanced studies or a potential area for growth. Furthermore, the absence of associate degree graduates in several programs might indicate a need for increased support and recruitment for these pathways, especially in vocational training programs, which are essential for meeting workforce demands.
Overall, Oakwood University's graduation statistics underscore the importance of adaptability in curriculum offerings to meet the evolving preferences of students while also highlighting areas for potential growth and enhancement in specific academic programs.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $29,863 | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $29,863 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Organizational Leadership. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $36,568 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - | ||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - | ||
| Urban Ministry. | - | ||
| Lay Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | ||
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Broadcast Journalism. | - | ||
| Photojournalism. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Voice and Opera. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,226 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 71.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 853
- First-year undergraduates 255
- Graduate students 49
- Transfers and others 69
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,177)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Oakwood University for 2023
In 2023, Oakwood University showcases a diverse student body comprising various classifications of students, including new undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students. The data indicates a total of 1,417 students, with the highest number being continuing undergraduates, which reflects the university's capacity to retain students and foster a supportive academic environment.
The gender distribution across these categories reveals interesting trends. New undergraduates have a slight female majority, with 52.4% of them being women, while continuing undergraduates show an even larger female representation at 58.9%. This trend may highlight the university's appeal to female students and can be indicative of broader societal trends in higher education where women are increasingly enrolling and succeeding in academic settings.
When looking at the transfer undergraduates, the gender imbalance shifts further, with only 32.4% being male. This could suggest that transfer students face unique challenges that may deter male students from continuing their education. Graduate students present a more balanced gender ratio, with 51.3% males and 48.7% females, indicating a shift towards equality in advanced studies.
The demographic breakdown also includes various ethnic backgrounds, although specific numbers are sparse. It’s crucial for universities like Oakwood to continue fostering inclusivity and representation within their student body. The growing enrollment of diverse students can enhance the educational experience by promoting cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Overall, Oakwood University’s demographic data for 2023 illustrates a commitment to diversity and highlights potential areas for growth, particularly in support for male transfer students.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Oakwood University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Oakwood University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body in 2023. A significant portion of the undergraduate population is concentrated in the younger age groups, particularly those under 19 years old, where there are 220 male and 300 female students. This trend suggests that Oakwood University attracts a substantial number of traditional-aged college students, which is consistent with many universities across the United States.
The data indicates that the undergraduate male population is notably higher in the 18-19 age bracket, comprising 37.5% of all male students, while the corresponding female population in this age group makes up a staggering 50% of total female students. The sharp decline in numbers for students aged 22-24 is evident, which may reflect graduation rates or the transition to graduate studies, as the majority of graduate students are found in the 25-29 age range.
It's noteworthy that the representation of graduate students is minimal in the younger brackets, with most graduate males and females falling within the 25-34 age categories. This aligns with broader trends in higher education, where many individuals pursue advanced degrees later in life after gaining some work experience.
Moreover, the data reflects a slight aging trend among students, as indicated by the presence of students aged 35 and older, although their numbers remain relatively low. This could point toward a growing acceptance of non-traditional students in higher education institutions, particularly as lifelong learning becomes increasingly valued in today's job market.
In summary, the demographic data from Oakwood University illustrates a youthful undergraduate population with a gradual transition to older students in graduate studies, reflecting both traditional educational pathways and the evolving landscape of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 6.9% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Oakwood University
The data on international student enrollment at Oakwood University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in undergraduate programs. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates fluctuated, with a notable increase observed in 2023, where it reached 11.81%. This marks a promising resurgence compared to previous years, such as 2018 and 2019, where the percentages were considerably lower, indicating a potential recovery in international interest post-pandemic.
The total number of undergraduate students also shows an upward trend, peaking at 1953 in 2012, although it subsequently declined to 1431 in 2023. This decline, coupled with the increase in the number of international students, suggests that while overall enrollment may have dipped, the university is attracting a more diverse student body.
In contrast, graduate student enrollment data presents a more erratic picture, with the percentage of international students remaining relatively low, peaking at 14.58% in 2011, but dropping significantly in subsequent years, often below 5%. This inconsistency may reflect broader challenges facing graduate programs in attracting international students, possibly linked to visa policies and global competition among universities.
Overall, while Oakwood University is witnessing a revitalization in its undergraduate international enrollment, the graduate program's appeal needs further enhancement to attract a more significant number of international students. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the university may need to implement targeted strategies to bolster its global presence and appeal.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$31,896
- Undergraduate tuition
- $22,512
- Room and board
- $9,384
- Graduate tuition
- $14,516
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -3%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$63.6M
Expenses$65.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference
Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Soccer | 19 | 11 |
| Baseball | 21 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 24 | 14 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Baseball | 22 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Baseball | 19 | - |
| Softball | - | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Alabama--HuntsvilleHuntsville · 2.3 mi
U.S. News #262
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 51.8 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 86.8 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 89.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Lipscomb UniversityNashville · 93.6 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Belmont UniversityNashville · 95.6 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Vanderbilt UniversityNashville · 96.4 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 117.4 mi
U.S. News #299
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 118.3 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Oakwood University:
-
University of Alabama in Huntsville - Ranked 227 in the US News 2024 rankings, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly noted for its engineering and science disciplines.
-
The University of the South - A highly-regarded liberal arts college, ranked 51, that emphasizes a strong academic curriculum combined with a focus on character development and leadership.
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham - This comprehensive university is ranked 142 and is recognized for its health sciences programs and research opportunities.
-
Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution ranked 18, Vanderbilt is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33, this comprehensive university is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from across the globe.
These institutions provide diverse educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Trends at Oakwood University
The crime data from Oakwood University indicates a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents over the past decade. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students stood at 20.21, which saw a notable increase in 2014, peaking at 27.85. This rise could reflect broader national trends in campus safety concerns during that period. However, subsequent years show a significant decrease, particularly in 2022 when the rate dropped to an astonishing 2.48, suggesting improvements in campus safety measures or changes in reporting practices.
Interestingly, while the overall crime rate has seen a downward trend, specific types of offenses have fluctuated. For instance, arrests related to gun possession and drug-related incidents were notable in various years, with a peak in 2017 for drug arrests. The data indicates a strong commitment to addressing issues such as domestic violence and stalking, which are critical for maintaining a safe campus environment.
The substantial decrease in crime rates in recent years may reflect the university's proactive approach to safety, possibly implementing more comprehensive educational programs or community outreach initiatives. It's important to note that such a significant drop could also warrant further investigation into whether all incidents are being reported consistently.
Overall, while the data presents a positive outlook on campus safety, continuous monitoring and community engagement remain essential to ensure that the decline in crime rates is sustained. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Oakwood University include Davido (Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer), Brian McKnight (R&B singer-songwriter and record producer) and Clifton Davis (Actor, singer, songwriter and minister).
-
Davido 1992–
Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer
-
Brian McKnight 1969–
R&B singer-songwriter and record producer
-
Clifton Davis 1945–
Actor, singer, songwriter and minister
-
John F. Street 1943–
97th mayor of Philadelphia
-
T. R. M. Howard 1908–1976
Surgeon, civil rights leader and entrepreneur
-
Erica Thomas 1987–
Former Georgia state representative
-
Angela Brown 1962–
Dramatic soprano admired in Verdi roles
-
Barry Black 1948–
62nd chaplain of the United States Senate
-
Wintley Phipps 1955–
Singer, minister and founder of U.S. Dream Academy
More alumni (3, by field)
Politics and law
-
Ronald Brise 1974–
Florida state representative and Public Service commissioner
Arts and media
-
Eric Thomas 1970–
Motivational speaker, minister and author
Other fields
-
Delbert Baker 1953–
Adventist minister and former Oakwood University president
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.