The University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus, located in Norman, Oklahoma, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and research innovation. Established in 1890, the university has grown significantly, currently hosting over 30,000 students across various undergraduate and graduate programs. A hallmark of the university is its vibrant campus culture, which encourages a strong sense of community and collaboration among students. The university's motto, "Life is the pursuit of truth," reflects its dedication to fostering a learning environment that values inquiry, critical thinking, and intellectual growth.

The university boasts a rich array of facilities designed to support both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The libraries, including the Bizzell Memorial Library, provide extensive resources for research, while advanced laboratories and collaborative spaces promote innovation and hands-on learning. Additionally, the University of Oklahoma is renowned for its commitment to athletics, particularly in football, where it has a storied history and a passionate fan base. This sports culture enhances student life, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. The university also prides itself on its diverse academic offerings, including strong programs in meteorology, engineering, and the arts, preparing graduates for successful careers in various fields. With a focus on both personal and professional development, the University of Oklahoma continues to be a leading institution for higher education in the United States.

Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $7,341 in 2014 to $9,595 in 2024, representing a significant rise of approximately 30.7%. This escalating cost may raise concerns about affordability for many students and their families, especially as out-of-state tuition has surged even more dramatically, from $19,530 in 2014 to $26,665 in 2024, a staggering increase of around 36.5%.

In contrast to rising tuition, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has improved from 31.7% in 2013 to 46.0% in 2023, indicating a 14.3 percentage point increase. This improvement suggests that the university's initiatives to enhance student support and academic counseling may be yielding positive results, ultimately helping students to complete their degrees more efficiently.

Additionally, student retention rates have remained relatively high and stable over the years, hovering around the 85% mark. The retention rate was 84.2% in 2013 and has only slightly fluctuated, reaching 87.9% in 2023. This consistency in retaining students is a positive indicator of student satisfaction and institutional support, which can lead to better academic outcomes.

Overall, while rising tuition fees present a challenge for prospective students, the university's improvements in graduation and retention rates reflect positively on its commitment to supporting student success. Balancing affordability with academic achievement will be crucial for the university moving forward, especially in the current educational landscape where financial pressures are a significant concern for many students.

Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

The graduation data from the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus for 2023 reveals significant insights into the academic landscape, especially regarding the distribution of degrees among various disciplines. Notably, the Social Work program stands out with a substantial number of master's degree graduates, totaling 301, of which 1 is an international student. This indicates a strong focus on graduate education in social work, reflecting the increasing demand for professionals in mental health and community services.

In contrast, the Marketing program shows a significant number of bachelor degree graduates at 275, with 3 being international students. This aligns with the national trend of growing interest in marketing and business fields, which are pivotal in today’s digital economy. The absence of master's and doctorate graduates in this area could suggest either a saturated market for bachelor's degrees or a preference for professional experience over advanced degrees in marketing.

The Law program presents an interesting case with 168 doctorate graduates, which highlights the rigorous academic training required for legal professions. However, it has no bachelor or master's degree graduates reported, raising questions about the pipeline of students transitioning into law from undergraduate studies.

Overall, the data reflects broader trends in education, such as a strong emphasis on graduate programs in fields like Social Work and Law, while also highlighting the popularity of bachelor’s degrees in business-related disciplines. This distribution could inform strategic decisions for future program development and recruitment strategies at the university.

Commentary on Admission Trends and Rankings at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

The admission trends and rankings at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus over the years reveal a dynamic landscape influenced by various factors. Notably, the university's ranking has experienced fluctuations, with a decline to 132nd place in the latest data for 2025, which reflects a broader trend seen at many higher education institutions amid increasing competition and shifting student demographics. Admission rates for both male and female applicants have also varied significantly. For instance, the acceptance rate for males in 2023 was approximately 71.4%, while for females it was around 74.1%. This indicates a relatively competitive admission environment, with both genders experiencing similar challenges when applying. The total number of enrolled students in 2023 was 4,683, though it is crucial to note the number of denied applicants, which was 5,836, suggesting a large pool of potential students who were not admitted. The data highlights a consistent pattern of high denial rates, particularly in recent years, which could be indicative of the university's efforts to maintain or improve its academic standards. As the institution navigates these changes, it will be essential for the University of Oklahoma to adapt its strategies to attract and retain students while simultaneously addressing ranking challenges. Overall, the evolving landscape of admissions at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus underscores the importance of strategic planning and responsiveness to market demands in higher education. As the university moves forward, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop and how they will impact the institution's reputation and student body diversity in the coming years.

Trends in Admission Scores and Submission Rates at the University of Oklahoma

The data from the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a general decline, dropping from 43% in 2007 to just 26% in 2023. This trend may reflect a broader national shift towards test-optional admissions policies, which many universities have adopted in recent years to increase accessibility for a diverse applicant pool.

In terms of scores, the range for SAT reading and mathematics has fluctuated, with the 25th percentile scores demonstrating modest changes. For instance, the lower bound for SAT reading and math was recorded at 500 in 2014, while it improved to 570 by 2023. This indicates that while fewer students are submitting test scores, those who do are achieving higher results.

The ACT scores exhibit a similar pattern, with both the composite and individual subject scores showing an upward trajectory. This might suggest that the university is attracting a more academically prepared cohort, despite the declining submission rates.

The landscape of college admissions is evolving, and while standardized tests like the SAT and ACT have historically played a crucial role in evaluating applicants, the recent data indicates a shift towards a more holistic approach. As institutions continue to adapt to changing societal norms and educational philosophies, it will be interesting to observe how these trends impact future admissions and the overall academic environment at the University of Oklahoma.

2023 Student Demographics at the University of Oklahoma

The student body composition at the University of Oklahoma in 2023 presents an intriguing mix of diversity and gender representation. Notably, the number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 4,683, with a gender distribution showing 43.8% male and 56.2% female students. This trend of a higher proportion of female students is consistent with many universities across the United States, reflecting broader demographic shifts in higher education.

In contrast, the undergraduate juniors have a more balanced gender ratio, with nearly equal representation at 49.9% male and 50.1% female among the 15,152 students. This balance might indicate a growing trend where male and female students are engaging equally in their academic pursuits as they progress through their undergraduate years.

The transfer student population, comprising 1,007 individuals, shows a slightly higher male representation at 51.8%. This could suggest that male students are more likely to transfer, potentially due to various factors such as academic or personal circumstances.

Graduate students, totaling 7,026, also reflect a higher percentage of female students at 57.9%. This is significant as it indicates an increasing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, which may be a response to the growing emphasis on higher education for career advancement.

Overall, the data suggests that while the university is making strides in gender representation, there is still a notable disparity in specific categories. As educational institutions continue to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends to ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of gender or background.

Age Demographics of Students at the University of Oklahoma

The age demographics of students at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus reveal a diverse student body with a significant presence of traditional college-age students, particularly those between 18-21 years old. In the 18-19 age range, there are 3,570 male undergraduates and 4,796 female undergraduates, indicating a slight gender imbalance, with females representing approximately 57% of that age group. This trend continues into the 20-21 age bracket, where undergraduates still dominate, showing that the university attracts a large number of students who are in the early stages of their academic careers.

As we analyze older age groups, a notable decrease in the number of students can be observed. For instance, the 22-24 age group shows a decline, with 1,882 male undergraduates compared to 1,212 female undergraduates. This could suggest that many students may be transitioning to the workforce or pursuing internships upon reaching this age, reflecting a common trend found in many universities across the United States.

Interestingly, the data indicates a growing representation of graduate students, especially in the 25-29 age group, where a sizable number of females (1,044) outnumber males (859). This shift may be indicative of a societal trend where more women are pursuing advanced degrees, aligning with national statistics that show women earning the majority of graduate degrees in recent years.

Overall, the data paints a picture of a vibrant campus environment, reflecting both traditional and non-traditional age students, with an increasing female presence in higher education. As universities adapt to these demographic shifts, it will be essential for institutions to continue fostering inclusive environments that cater to the diverse needs of their student populations.

Trends and Insights on International Students at the University of Oklahoma

The data on international students at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students exhibited fluctuations, peaking at 5.71% in 2015, while the numbers have generally declined in the latter years, reaching 3.49% in 2023. This decline is noteworthy, especially considering the global context where international education has been increasingly sought after, particularly following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of graduate students, the proportion of international students also shows a downward trend, from a high of 18.21% in 2004 to just 12.57% in 2023. This decline mirrors broader national trends where U.S. universities have faced challenges in attracting international students due to visa restrictions and global competition from institutions in other countries, notably Canada and Australia.

The decreasing trend in international student enrollment could have implications for the university’s diversity and cultural exchange, which are essential components of the educational experience. Moreover, international students contribute significantly to the university’s economy and local communities, often paying higher tuition fees compared to domestic students.

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for the University of Oklahoma to implement strategies that attract and retain international students. This could include enhancing support services, fostering partnerships with institutions abroad, and promoting the unique aspects of studying in Oklahoma. Understanding and addressing the underlying reasons for the decline will be vital for the future growth and sustainability of the international student community at the university.

Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus:

1. Oklahoma City University - Ranked 296 in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 196, this university is known for its strong emphasis on research and a wide range of degree offerings.

3. University of Tulsa - Ranked 179, this university focuses on providing a rigorous liberal arts education and is well-regarded for its programs in law and business.

4. The University of Texas at Dallas - This university is ranked 109 and is recognized for its innovative research and strong emphasis on STEM fields.

5. Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 91, SMU is known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts.

6. Texas Christian University - Ranked 105, TCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong focus on community involvement.

7. Baylor University - Also ranked 91, Baylor is a private Christian university known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service.

8. Texas A & M University-College Station - This prestigious university, ranked 51, is recognized for its research contributions and strong engineering programs.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and contribute to the vibrant academic community in the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

The data from the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus reveals a significant downward trend in the crime rates from 2013 to 2022. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students decreased from 18.66 in 2013 to just 7.01 in 2022, indicating a reduction of approximately 62.4%. This decline is particularly noteworthy in the context of national trends, where many universities have struggled with rising crime rates in recent years.

Among the various types of crimes recorded, arrests related to firearm possession and alcohol offenses were prevalent throughout the years. However, the data shows a general decrease across these categories, which may reflect improved campus safety measures and heightened awareness of public safety. For instance, the number of firearm arrests rose to 5 in 2023, indicating a need for continued vigilance in addressing this issue, particularly as universities navigate the complexities of student life and safety.

Moreover, the drop in reported incidents of domestic violence, assault, and theft suggests that both students and the administration are becoming more proactive in creating a safer campus environment. This is essential, as a secure learning atmosphere significantly contributes to the overall well-being and academic success of students.

In conclusion, while the decrease in crime rates is encouraging, it is imperative for the University of Oklahoma and similar institutions to maintain their commitment to safety. Continuous monitoring and adaptation of policies are necessary to sustain these positive trends and ensure the well-being of the campus community. For further insights into crime rates and their calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.