Oakland City University logo

Oakland City University

Oakland City, IN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve

1885
Founded
Private university
Type
655
Total Students
522
Undergrad
143
Graduate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Ron D. Dempsey

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Oakland City University

Oakland City University: Blending faith, learning, and service since 1885 for a brighter future.

Nestled in Oakland City, Indiana, Oakland City University is a private institution with a rich legacy dating back to 1885. Guided by its inspiring motto, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," OCU fosters an environment where students are not only equipped with robust academic knowledge but also instilled with a strong sense of purpose and community service. Originally known as "the college on the hill," OCU has grown from a humble beginning with a single building to a fully accredited university offering a diverse range of programs.

Historically, OCU played a vital role in its rural community, adapting its offerings to meet vocational needs alongside traditional liberal arts and theological studies. Despite facing challenges like the Great Depression and shifts in enrollment, the university has consistently demonstrated resilience, evolving and expanding its campus and academic reach. Under strong leadership and with the unwavering support of its sponsoring denomination, OCU successfully transitioned to university status, marking a significant milestone in its journey.

Today, Oakland City University stands as a testament to enduring educational values. With a close-knit student body of 655, it provides a personalized and supportive learning experience. Prospective students can explore over 40 undergraduate programs designed to prepare them for a variety of careers, alongside 5 distinct graduate degrees for advanced study. The university's commitment to progress is evident in recent campus developments, ensuring a modern and engaging environment for current and future generations of learners. OCU continues its tradition of preparing students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1885, boasting over a century of educational heritage.
  • Motto: "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," reflecting a commitment to service-learning.
  • Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with over 40 undergraduate programs.
  • Provides opportunities for advanced study with 5 distinct graduate degrees.
  • A private, fully accredited university with a close-knit student body of 655.
  • Recent campus enhancements include the construction of two new buildings within the last five years.

Timeline

1885
Educational Board of General Baptists organized and gained state charter.
1891
First building completed; Oakland City College officially opened its doors.
1920
Mid-1920s marked a zenith with expanded facilities and enrollment exceeding 1,000 students.
1973
Experienced a significant drop in enrollment during the fall term.
1974
James Murray hired as president, leading a successful fundraising effort to keep the school open.
1990
Moved to university status under President James Murray's leadership.
2019
Ron D. Dempsey became the university's current president.
🏛️
141 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Ron D. Dempsey
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Oakland City University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search