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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Oakwood University

Huntsville, Alabama · www2.oakwood.edu

中文

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
Huntsville, Alabama
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

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
47.6%
Women
44.3%

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)

Bachelor's20019 international (9.5%)
Master's110 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
21
Biomedical Sciences, General
18
General Studies
15
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
14
Psychology, General
11
Political Science and Government, General
9
Business Administration and Management, General
9
Counseling Psychology
8
Theology/Theological Studies
7
Finance, General
7

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

Biologyhas 42 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$29,863
Biomedical Sciences, General.$29,863
Biochemistry.-
Health professionshas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health and Wellness, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Physician Assistant.-
Pre-Physical Therapy Studies.-
Public Health, General.-
Dietetics/Dietitian.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.-
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.-
Businesshas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Organizational Leadership.-
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Organizational Behavior Studies.-
Management Information Systems, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Counseling Psychology.-
Liberal arts has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
General Studies.$36,568
Public administrationhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Policy Analysis, General.-
Social Work.-
Social sciencehas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Theology has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Urban Ministry.-
Lay Ministry.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Communication has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Broadcast Journalism.-
Photojournalism.-
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Computer and information sciencehas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Science.-
Educationhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Visual and Performing artshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Music, General.-
Voice and Opera.-
Human science has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

1,226 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 71.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,177)

Black
750 · 63.7%
Unknown
275 · 23.4%
Hispanic
88 · 7.5%
Two or more races
28 · 2.4%
Asian
18 · 1.5%
White
16 · 1.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
6.1%
18–19
37.5%
20–21
33.1%
22–24
16.1%
25 and over
7.3%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
14.3%
25–29
20.4%
30–34
4.1%
35 and over
61.2%

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.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 6.9% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 6.9%2017: 6.4%2018: 6.2%2019: 6.7%2020: 7.3%2021: 6.9%2022: 8.0%2023: 11.8%2024: 14.9%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 3.7%2018: 4.9%2019: 3.6%2020: 3.1%2021: 2.9%2022: 8.1%2023: 0.0%2024: 2.5%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

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
Tuition and room and board over time

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

Gifts and private grants
$18.2M28.7%
Tuition and fees
$17.2M27.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.8M15.5%
Government grants and contracts
$7.3M11.5%
Investment return
$2.3M3.7%
Sales and services of educational activities
$326K0.5%
Other
$8.3M13.0%

Expenses$65.8M

Institutional support
$12.9M19.6%
Instruction
$12.8M19.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.9M10.5%
Student services
$5.8M8.8%
Academic support
$4.2M6.3%
Public service
$1.1M1.7%
Research
$707K1.1%
Other
$21.4M32.5%

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.

All faculty
$49,650peers $65,931
Professor
$57,982peers $77,501
Associate professor
$50,004peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$45,185peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Basketball1518
Soccer1911
Baseball21-
Volleyball-15
Softball-13
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer2414
Basketball1615
Baseball22-
Volleyball-16
Softball-13
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Basketball1615
Baseball19-
Softball-12
Volleyball-11

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Oakwood University:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - This comprehensive university is ranked 142 and is recognized for its health sciences programs and research opportunities.

  4. Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution ranked 18, Vanderbilt is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
14
Drug referrals
10
Aggravated assault
5
Drug arrests
4
Fondling
3
Liquor arrests
3

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).

More alumni (3, by field)

Politics and law

  • Ronald Brise 1974–

    Florida state representative and Public Service commissioner

Arts and media

Other fields

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.