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Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI

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Quick Facts

Seguir virtute e canoscenza (Italian) from Dante's Inferno("Seek virtue and knowledge")

Public research university
Type
12,450
Total Students
12,841
Undergrad
3,267
Graduate
$144M
Endowment
(2024)
$15K
Tuition (In-State)
$23K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
70%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Ora Pescovitz

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

About Oakland University

Oakland University: A dynamic public research institution born from a historic estate.

Oakland University, nestled in Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills, Michigan, boasts a truly unique origin story. It was brought to life in 1957 thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Matilda Dodge Wilson and her husband, Alfred G. Wilson, who donated their magnificent 1,443-acre estate, including the historic Meadow Brook Hall. Initially known as Michigan State University-Oakland, the institution quickly blossomed, charting its own course and gaining full independence by 1970, evolving into the vibrant university it is today.

As one of Michigan's esteemed public research universities, Oakland is recognized for its "high research activity" (R2 classification), fostering an environment of innovation and discovery. Students can explore a vast academic landscape, with 132 bachelor's degree programs and an impressive 138 professional graduate certificate, master's, and doctoral programs. A particular highlight is the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, which underscores the university's commitment to cutting-edge professional education.

Beyond academics, Oakland University offers a rich and engaging student experience across its expansive campus. With over 16,108 students calling it home, the campus blends historic charm with modern amenities, including nationally ranked golf courses and significant recent investments in student housing, athletic fields, and parking. The spirit of the Golden Grizzlies, Oakland's NCAA Division I athletic teams competing in the Horizon League, adds to a lively campus culture, ensuring a well-rounded and dynamic university journey.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1957 by a historic donation from Matilda Dodge Wilson and Alfred G. Wilson, including their 1,443-acre estate and $2 million.
  • A public research university classified as "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," one of eight such institutions in Michigan.
  • Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with 132 bachelor's and 138 graduate programs, including professional certificates, master's, and doctorates.
  • Home to the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, providing advanced medical education.
  • Features a sprawling 1,443-acre suburban campus, which includes the U.S. National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook Hall.
  • More than 16,108 students enrolled in Fall 2022, making it the 6th largest 4-year university in Michigan.
  • NCAA Division I athletics compete in the Horizon League, with teams proudly known as the Golden Grizzlies.

Timeline

1908
John Francis Dodge and Matilda purchased Meadow Brook Farms.
1926
Matilda and Alfred Wilson began construction of Meadow Brook Hall (completed 1929).
1957
Founded as Michigan State University-Oakland through the donation of the Wilson estate.
1959
Enrolled its first students.
1963
Renamed Oakland University.
1970
Gained institutional independence from Michigan State University.
2009
Tenured faculty members represented by the Oakland University AAUP went on strike.
2011
Hosted a nationally televised Republican presidential debate.
2014
Completed $65 million campus expansion projects, including a new student housing complex and Elliott Tower.
2017
Ora Hirsch Pescovitz began her tenure as Oakland University's seventh president.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Oakland University

🏥

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

A prominent medical school contributing to the university's commitment to health sciences.

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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