Oklahoma Christian University
Acceptance rate
96.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$27,180
$36,300 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,098
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
46.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Oklahoma Christian University (OCU) is a private Christian university located in Edmond, Oklahoma. Established in 1950, the university has a strong commitment to providing a quality education grounded in Christian values. OCU's mission is to transform lives for Christian faith, scholarship, and service. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education and personal development, encouraging students to cultivate their faith and engage with the community. The campus is known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, which fosters a sense of belonging among students from diverse backgrounds.
OCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, education, and the arts. The university is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on service learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations while making a positive impact. The faculty at OCU are highly qualified and dedicated, often going above and beyond to mentor students and support their academic and personal growth. In addition to academics, OCU promotes a vibrant campus culture through various student organizations, athletic programs, and community service opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded college experience. With its beautiful campus and commitment to excellence in education, Oklahoma Christian University continues to be a leading institution in preparing students for successful futures.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma Christian University has witnessed significant changes in several key metrics over the years. One of the most notable trends is the increase in tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition jumped from $18,800 to $25,900, reflecting a steady rise of approximately 37.5%. This upward trajectory in tuition costs is a widespread issue across many institutions, raising concerns about accessibility and student debt.
Another critical area is the graduation rates. The percentage of students graduating on time (within 100% of the expected duration) has improved from around 24.2% in 2013 to approximately 45.9% in 2023. This increase of over 88% suggests that the university has made strides in supporting students to complete their degrees efficiently, which is vital for their future employment and financial stability.
Retention rates, a crucial indicator of student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness, also display positive movement. Retention for undergraduates peaked at around 85.1% in 2014 but saw a decline to approximately 70.9% in 2020 before recovering to about 76.8% in 2023. This fluctuation may reflect broader challenges faced by students during the pandemic, which disrupted traditional learning environments.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shifted, with male students decreasing from about 51.4% in 2014 to 43.1% in 2023. This change may indicate a growing interest among female students in pursuing higher education, aligning with national trends promoting gender equity in education.
Overall, these metrics illustrate Oklahoma Christian University's evolving landscape, highlighting the challenges of rising tuition, improving graduation rates, fluctuating retention, and changing demographics.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Oklahoma City, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 100 mi
- Also known as
- OC, Oklahoma Christian, OCUSA, Oklahoma Christian University of Science and Arts, OCC, Oklahoma Christian College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Churches of Christ
- President
- Dr. Ken Jones (President)
- Phone
- 4054255000
- Address
- 2501 E Memorial Rd, Edmond, OK 73013
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 70.9%, women 64.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Oklahoma Christian University Admission Trends
The admission data from Oklahoma Christian University over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 59.9%, while the female acceptance rate was around 53.3%. Over the years, these rates fluctuated, with a peak in 2022 where the male acceptance rate soared to 96.2%, and the female rate to 96.7%. This dramatic rise in acceptance rates suggests a significant shift in the university's admission policies or perhaps a strategic move to attract more students in a competitive educational landscape.
Meanwhile, the enrollment numbers have shown a general increase from 436 in 2009 to a peak of 595 in 2012, followed by variations in subsequent years. The highest enrollment was noted in 2012, which correlates with a decrease in acceptance rates in the following years, indicating that the university may have been more selective during those periods. The number of students denied admission also illustrates the competitive nature of the university, peaking at 1192 denials in 2013.
The data indicates that in recent years, particularly from 2020 onwards, the university took a more inclusive approach, as evidenced by the high acceptance rates. This shift could be a response to broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly looking to diversify their student bodies and ensure higher enrollment numbers amidst declining applications nationally.
Overall, Oklahoma Christian University appears to be adapting its admission strategies to align with trends in higher education, focusing on inclusivity while navigating the challenges of student recruitment in a changing landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 59% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Oklahoma Christian University
The data from Oklahoma Christian University over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for both the SAT and ACT exams. There has been fluctuating participation in standardized testing among admitted students, with the proportion of those submitting SAT scores varying from 24% to 60% across the years. The highest participation rate was seen in 2008, while recent years have seen a decline, plummeting to around 25% in 2023.
Examining the score ranges, the SAT reading scores have shown a relatively stable range, with the lower 25th percentile typically around 470 and the upper 75th percentile reaching as high as 740 in earlier years. However, the trends indicate that the score ranges have shifted slightly downward in recent years, suggesting a potential change in the applicant pool or admissions criteria.
For the ACT, while the data is less comprehensive, it reflects similar patterns with a slight increase in scores over the years. The composite scores have ranged from 20 to over 26 for the 75th percentile, indicating that the university continues to attract students who perform well academically.
Overall, the shifts in both participation rates and score ranges may reflect broader trends in higher education admissions, where many institutions are re-evaluating the role of standardized testing. With an increasing number of universities becoming test-optional, it will be interesting to see how Oklahoma Christian University adapts to these changes in the future. The data indicates a potential need for the university to enhance its outreach and support for students to maintain a competitive edge in attracting high-achieving applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
1,186 applicants in 2025, 96.5% admitted
1,145 admitted 41 not admitted Yield 36.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Engineering, General · Master's118 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's67 (0% international)
- Engineering, General · Master's48 (0% international)
- Management Science · Master's31 (0% international)
- Computer Science · Master's16 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's16 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Oklahoma Christian University
The graduation data for 2023 from Oklahoma Christian University reveals interesting insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a total of 46 graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on healthcare education, which aligns with national trends of increasing demand for healthcare professionals. This reflects broader societal needs, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, where the importance of nursing and healthcare services has been magnified.
In the realm of general education, the Liberal Arts and Sciences program produced 39 graduates, showcasing the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education. This is particularly significant in an era where critical thinking and adaptability are highly valued in the job market.
On the other hand, it is striking to note that several engineering and science disciplines, such as Computer Engineering and Chemistry, reported no graduates for the year. This raises questions about the university's recruitment and retention strategies in STEM fields, which are essential for fostering innovation and meeting industry demands. The absence of graduates in these critical areas may hinder the university's ability to contribute to technological advancements and scientific research.
Moreover, the data also reveals a lack of international students graduating from various programs, with no recorded international graduates in fields like Theology and Religious Education. This could suggest potential barriers for international students in these programs or a need for enhanced outreach efforts to attract a more diverse student body.
Overall, the graduation statistics at Oklahoma Christian University highlight both strengths in healthcare and liberal arts education while also pointing to areas that may require strategic focus to enhance their academic offerings and student diversity.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | $93,233 | |||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $71,057 | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $71,320 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | - | |||
| Accounting. | $73,587 | |||
| Accounting and Finance. | $73,587 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | $74,248 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Management Science. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $45,009 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,084 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,927 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Artificial Intelligence. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | $71,911 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | $37,300 | |||
| Interior Design. | $37,300 | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $39,601 | |||
| Child Development. | $39,601 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $36,376 | |||
| Journalism. | - | |||
| Advertising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Law Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
2,851 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 72.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,304
- First-year undergraduates 401
- Graduate students 753
- Transfers and others 393
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,098)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Oklahoma Christian University in 2023
In 2023, Oklahoma Christian University showcases a diverse student body with varying gender ratios and ethnic backgrounds across different classifications of students. The undergraduate freshmen represent 357 students, with a fairly balanced gender ratio of approximately 51.8% male and 48.2% female. This suggests a healthy mix of new entrants who are likely to contribute fresh perspectives to the university community.
Conversely, the undergraduate juniors present a stark contrast with a total of 1,311 students, where females dominate the demographic at 59.3%, while males comprise 40.7%. This trend indicates a potential shift in enrollment patterns, possibly influenced by broader societal changes regarding higher education preferences among genders. The undergraduate transfer students also reflect a significant female presence at 65.4%, further emphasizing this trend.
Interestingly, the graduate student population of 587 exhibits a predominantly male demographic, with 64.7% males compared to 35.3% females. This could reflect the nature of graduate studies at the university, which may attract more male students in specific fields of study.
The ethnic breakdown of students within these categories, although not fully detailed, likely reflects the growing diversity in higher education institutions across the nation. The presence of various racial groups, including White, Asian, Hispanic, and others, hints at an inclusive environment that values multiculturalism.
Overall, the demographic data from Oklahoma Christian University in 2023 underscores significant trends in gender representation among different student classifications, highlighting ongoing changes in higher education that warrant further exploration.
Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Oklahoma Christian University
The age distribution data from Oklahoma Christian University reveals a diverse student body that spans various age categories. Notably, the largest representation comes from the 18-19 age group, which includes a total of 524 students (252 males and 272 females), reflecting the traditional college age demographic. This indicates that the university effectively attracts younger students, consistent with national trends where most undergraduate students fall within this age range.
As we move into the 20-21 age group, the numbers remain robust, with a total of 584 students (275 males and 309 females). This age group continues to be a pivotal segment, as students often transition from foundational studies to more specialized academic pursuits.
Interestingly, the data also highlights the presence of mature students in the 25-29 age range, where the total count is 300 (164 males and 136 females). This demographic is increasingly important in higher education, as adults returning to education often bring diverse experiences and perspectives that enrich campus life.
Moreover, the data shows a gradual decline in student numbers in older age categories. In the 30-34 age group, there are only 118 students, indicating that enrollment tends to decrease significantly as students age. This trend is common in many universities, often leading to fewer programs targeting non-traditional students.
Lastly, it is worth noting the presence of older students in the 50-64 and over 65 categories, albeit in smaller numbers. This reflects an encouraging trend of lifelong learning, where individuals seek further education regardless of age.
Overall, the student age composition at Oklahoma Christian University showcases a healthy mix of traditional and non-traditional students, which is essential for fostering a vibrant academic community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Data at Oklahoma Christian University
The data regarding international students at Oklahoma Christian University reveals a significant aspect of the institution's demographic composition. While specific figures are absent, the presence of international students typically indicates a vibrant and diverse campus environment, fostering cultural exchange and global perspectives among the student body.
In recent years, U.S. universities have witnessed fluctuations in international student enrollment due to various factors such as visa regulations, global events, and economic conditions. Institutions that prioritize inclusivity and support for international students often find themselves better positioned to attract a diverse array of talent. Furthermore, the contributions of international students extend beyond academics; they play a vital role in enriching campus life and driving innovation through diverse viewpoints.
Challenges remain, however, as the ongoing impacts of the pandemic and geopolitical tensions have affected international mobility. Universities are increasingly tasked with creating supportive frameworks that not only assist international students in their academic pursuits but also help them integrate into the local community.
As Oklahoma Christian University continues to navigate these challenges, fostering a welcoming environment for international students will be crucial. By doing so, the university can enhance its appeal as a destination for students from around the world, thereby enriching its educational offerings and strengthening its global reputation. In conclusion, while specific data may be lacking, the importance of international students in shaping a dynamic and inclusive educational landscape cannot be understated.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$36,300
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,180
- Room and board
- $9,120
- Graduate tuition
- $10,620
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$52.7M
Expenses$53.2M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Lone Star Conference
Lone Star Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 107 | 58 |
| Baseball | 84 | - |
| Soccer | 37 | 37 |
| Swimming | 39 | 32 |
| Basketball | 18 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 18 | - |
| Bowling | - | 13 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 89 | 41 |
| Baseball | 95 | - |
| Soccer | 37 | 32 |
| Swimming | 37 | 32 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Bowling | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 66 | 42 |
| Baseball | 80 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | 29 |
| Swimming | 32 | 29 |
| Basketball | 20 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 15 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 27.8 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 41.8 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 93.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 145.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of North TexasDenton · 166.8 mi
U.S. News #208
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 186.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 187.1 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 195.2 mi
U.S. News #85
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 200.1 mi
U.S. News #236
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Oklahoma Christian University:
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 185, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
-
University of Tulsa - Ranked 195, this private university provides a rigorous academic environment and a variety of programs, particularly in engineering and business.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, SMU is known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts, and it offers a vibrant campus culture.
-
University of Texas at Dallas - This university is ranked 115 and is recognized for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape in the region and provide various opportunities for students in different fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Oklahoma Christian University
The data from Oklahoma Christian University over the past decade presents a notable fluctuation in crime rates, particularly regarding offenses related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol. In 2014, the campus experienced a peak annual crime rate of 11.90 incidents per 1,000 students, which is alarming. However, there has been a significant downward trend since then, culminating in a striking decline to 0.00 in 2021, indicating a substantial improvement in campus safety.
In 2018, the university recorded only 0.41 incidents per 1,000 students, showcasing remarkable progress from previous years. This trend of decreasing crime rates continued into 2022, where the rate was 0.92, and slightly dropped to 0.79 in 2023. Such reductions may be attributed to enhanced campus security measures, community outreach programs, or a cultural shift among the student body towards safer practices.
The absence of violent crimes such as murder or sexual assault during these years is particularly encouraging. However, it is crucial to maintain vigilance and continue promoting a safe campus environment. The reduction in incidents related to drugs and alcohol also reflects positively on student behavior and wellness initiatives.
Overall, while the data signals an encouraging trend towards lower crime rates, ongoing efforts in safety education and intervention programs remain vital to sustaining these positive changes. For further details on crime rate calculations, refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Oklahoma Christian University include Jim Beaver (Actor, writer and film historian), Molefi Kete Asante (Temple professor and theorist of Afrocentricity) and Butera Jane Knowless (Rwandan pop singer).
-
Jim Beaver 1950–
Actor, writer and film historian
-
Molefi Kete Asante 1942–
Temple professor and theorist of Afrocentricity
-
Butera Jane Knowless 1990–
Rwandan pop singer
-
Irere Claudette
Rwandan Minister of State for ICT and TVET
-
Peace Uwase 1978–
Rwandan accountant and central bank executive
-
Chris Lemons 1979–
American soccer player
-
Alicia Pillay 1980–
Former South African professional tennis player
-
Greg Lee 1962–
Actor and comedian
-
Joe Clifford Faust 1957–
Science fiction author
More alumni (3, by field)
Politics and law
-
Dan Branch 1958–
Former Texas House Republican member
Sports
-
Roderick Green 1979–
Paralympic athlete, 2000 Paralympics medalist
-
Sherri Coale 1965–
Former Oklahoma Sooners women's basketball head coach
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.