Skip to content

Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

Ardmore, Oklahoma · www.sotech.edu

中文

Undergraduates

679

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Graduation rate

68.0%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 68.0%

About

Southern Oklahoma Technology Center (SOTC) is an esteemed educational institution located in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Established to provide vocational and technical training, SOTC plays a critical role in enhancing the skills of the local workforce. With a focus on hands-on learning and practical experience, the center offers a diverse array of programs ranging from healthcare and information technology to manufacturing and automotive technology. The school is committed to equipping students with the industry-specific skills necessary for today’s job market, making it a pivotal player in workforce development in the region.

The center prides itself on its state-of-the-art facilities, which are designed to simulate real-world working environments. This includes modern labs and equipment that allow students to gain practical insights and experience in their chosen fields. SOTC also boasts a highly qualified faculty, many of whom have extensive industry experience, ensuring that students receive not only theoretical knowledge but also valuable mentorship. Furthermore, the center emphasizes community involvement and collaboration with local businesses, which enhances employment opportunities for graduates. As a result, SOTC has established a strong reputation for producing skilled graduates who are well-prepared to meet the demands of employers in Southern Oklahoma and beyond.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

The data from Southern Oklahoma Technology Center reveals significant insights into its student demographics, graduation rates, retention rates, and student-to-faculty ratios over the years.

One notable observation is the fluctuation in student enrollment. From a peak of 796 undergraduate students in 2016, the numbers have seen a decline to 563 in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors such as economic conditions, changes in local industry demands, or competition from other educational institutions. It is crucial for the institution to investigate these trends to enhance its appeal and attract more students.

Another critical metric is the graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate has dropped dramatically from approximately 74% in 2019 to just 33% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the effectiveness of support systems for students and the possible need for curricular improvements. A high graduation rate is often a critical factor for prospective students and can significantly influence the institution's reputation.

Retention rates have also shown variability, reaching a high of 88% in 2021 but declining to about 87% in 2023. While still relatively strong, the retention rate suggests that the institution is successfully retaining most of its students; however, the slight dip may indicate emerging issues that require attention.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a troubling increase, with the ratio rising from 8:1 in 2013 to 17:1 in 2023. A higher ratio can often lead to reduced individual attention for students, potentially affecting their academic success and overall satisfaction with the educational experience.

In summary, while Southern Oklahoma Technology Center has strengths, such as relatively high retention rates, the significant declines in student enrollment, graduation rates, and the increasing student-to-faculty ratio suggest that there are pressing challenges that need to be addressed. The institution may need to implement strategic initiatives to improve these metrics to enhance its educational offerings and foster a supportive learning environment.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Oklahoma City, about 90 mi
Nearest international airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 90 mi
Ardmore, Oklahoma
Also known as
Southern Tech
Academic calendar
Continuous
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Mike Martin (Interim Superintendent)
Phone
5802232070
City
Ardmore, Oklahoma
Address
2610 Sam Noble Parkway, Ardmore, OK 73401

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Certificate660 international (0.0%)
Top 6 Certificate majors by graduates
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General
31
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training
20
Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician
6
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician
5
Carpentry/Carpenter
3
Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor
1

U.S. studentsInternational

Students

679 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 100.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (679)

White
297 · 43.7%
Two or more races
119 · 17.5%
Unknown
96 · 14.1%
Hispanic
71 · 10.5%
Black
15 · 2.2%
Asian
5 · 0.7%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

The data from Southern Oklahoma Technology Center for the year 2023 reveals insightful trends regarding student demographics. The total enrollment is notably diverse, with a significant representation of undergraduate freshmen, continuing students, and a considerable number of students from various racial backgrounds.

Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 42 students, with a striking gender imbalance where only 21.4% are male, indicating a predominance of female students at 78.6%. This trend may suggest a growing interest among women in technical and vocational education, aligning with national trends where female enrollment in STEM-related fields is on the rise.

For the continuing undergraduate students, the enrollment is considerably higher at 118. The gender distribution here is more balanced, with 38.1% male and 61.9% female. This slight increase in male representation compared to freshmen may reflect a more diverse and inclusive environment fostering retention among male students in higher education.

The total number of enrolled students across categories is 403, where male students constitute 54.6% and female students 45.4%. This overall demographic indicates a shift towards a more balanced gender representation within the institution. Additionally, the breakdown of students by ethnic backgrounds reveals a significant number of white students, alongside Asian, Latinx, and other minority groups, further emphasizing the multicultural atmosphere of the institution.

Overall, the data paints a positive picture of inclusivity and diversity, which is crucial in today's educational landscape. These trends are essential not only for fostering a supportive learning environment but also for preparing students to thrive in a diverse workforce.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

The age distribution data from Southern Oklahoma Technology Center reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the majority of students are under the age of 18, with 112 male and 114 female undergraduates, showcasing the institution's appeal to younger learners. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that vocational and technical education increasingly attracts high school graduates seeking practical skills.

As age increases, the number of students declines sharply. For instance, the 18-19 age group comprises 119 male and 88 female undergraduates, demonstrating a slight preference for male enrollment in this category. However, the figures dwindle significantly in older age brackets, with only a handful of students aged 20-24 and even fewer beyond that age range. This pattern suggests that as individuals progress in age, they may either enter the workforce directly or pursue alternative educational routes.

Interestingly, there is a stark absence of graduate students in the data, which could indicate that the center primarily serves undergraduate populations. The lack of graduate representation may reflect the institution's focus on practical training for younger individuals rather than advanced academic pursuits, which is consistent with trends in technical education.

Overall, the data indicates a clear trend of younger students dominating the enrollment figures, which could have implications for curriculum development and resource allocation at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center. Furthermore, understanding these demographics can help shape future outreach strategies to attract a more diverse age range of students.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 2.9%2019: 0.3%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
20162025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

The data from Southern Oklahoma Technology Center reveals a notable decline in the number and percentage of international undergraduate students from 2018 to 2019. In 2018, the institution had 656 undergraduate students, of which 19 were international students, constituting approximately 2.90% of the total undergraduate population. However, by 2019, the total number of undergraduates increased slightly to 678, yet the number of international students dropped dramatically to just 2, resulting in a mere 0.29% representation.

This trend raises concerns about the institution's appeal to international students and the factors influencing their enrollment decisions. Various elements could contribute to such a decline, including changes in global migration policies, increasing competition from other institutions, and possibly a decrease in the attractiveness of the region for international students.

Additionally, the absence of data for graduate students makes it challenging to assess the overall international student experience at the center. In a globalized educational landscape, where institutions are increasingly striving to attract international talent, it is crucial for Southern Oklahoma Technology Center to evaluate its strategies and improve its outreach efforts to rebuild its international student community.

As institutions worldwide face similar challenges, the situation at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of international students to foster a diverse and enriching academic environment.

Cost

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$17.0M

Government grants and contracts
$16.5M97.2%
Tuition and fees
$291K1.7%
Investment return
$184K1.1%

Expenses$10.5M

Instruction
$4.7M45.0%
Academic support
$1.8M16.6%
Student services
$758K7.2%
Institutional support
$407K3.9%
Scholarships
$336K3.2%
Other
$2.6M24.2%

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding the Southern Oklahoma Technology Center:

  1. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in various fields including engineering, business, and the arts.

  2. The University of Texas at Dallas - With a rank of 115, this institution excels in technology and management programs, making it a great choice for students interested in STEM fields.

  3. Southern Methodist University - Ranked 89th, this private university in Dallas offers a strong liberal arts education alongside professional programs, particularly in business and law.

  4. Texas Christian University - With a rank of 98, TCU is known for its vibrant campus life and offers a well-rounded education with a focus on the liberal arts.

  5. University of Tulsa - This university, ranked 195, provides a comprehensive education with strong programs in engineering, business, and law.

  6. Texas A & M University-College Station - A prestigious institution with a rank of 47, Texas A&M is recognized for its research initiatives and strong programs in engineering and agriculture.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities in the region, catering to diverse academic interests.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Incidents, 2023–2025

Stalking
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Southern Oklahoma Technology Center

The crime data from the Southern Oklahoma Technology Center presents a relatively low and stable trend over the years, with the most notable aspect being the significant drop in reported incidents. From 2013 to 2018, the data shows a crime rate of 0.39 per 1,000 students in 2013, which then dramatically decreased to zero in the following years until 2022. This is indicative of a successful implementation of safety measures or a change in community behavior towards crime prevention.

However, in 2023, there was a noticeable increase, with a reported rate of 1.78 per 1,000 students, which is concerning. The increase is primarily attributed to incidents related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses, a trend that has been observed in various educational institutions across the United States. The rise in crime rates highlights the ongoing challenges that educational institutions face in maintaining a secure environment for students.

It is essential for the institution to address this uptick in crime proactively by reinforcing security measures, providing educational programs on substance abuse, and fostering a supportive community culture. The overall data reflects a broader narrative within society, where crime can fluctuate based on various social and economic factors, including the ongoing impact of global events and local policies.

For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.