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Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI

publicgraduate

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: Where virtue and knowledge meet high-impact research.

Oakland University stands as a dynamic public research institution in Michigan, recognized for its "high research activity" (R2 classification) and a profound commitment to academic excellence. Nestled across a stunning 1,443-acre campus in Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills, OU provides a vibrant and inspiring environment for learning and growth. The estate is distinguished by the historic Meadow Brook Hall, a U.S. National Historic Landmark that adds a unique historical dimension to the student experience.

The university's foundation is a remarkable story of philanthropy. In 1957, Matilda Dodge Wilson and her second husband, Alfred G. Wilson, generously donated their expansive estate, along with $2 million, to establish what was initially Michigan State University-Oakland. After gaining institutional independence in 1970, Oakland University has flourished into a prominent standalone institution, retaining a piece of its unique heritage, including its distinct Rochester mailing address—a testament to its spirited beginnings.

Academically, Oakland University is a comprehensive institution, offering a broad spectrum of 132 bachelor's degree programs alongside an impressive 138 professional graduate certificate, master's, and doctoral degree options. This extensive academic portfolio includes the highly regarded Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, attracting ambitious students across diverse fields. With a total enrollment exceeding 16,108 students in Fall 2022, OU fosters a lively and supportive academic community prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Beyond the classroom, life at Oakland is enriched by a strong sense of community and opportunity. Home of the Golden Grizzlies, OU's NCAA Division I athletic teams compete fiercely in the Horizon League, rallying campus spirit. Recent years have seen significant investments in campus infrastructure, including new student housing, state-of-the-art recreational facilities, and a grand carillon tower, ensuring a modern and comfortable experience for all students pursuing virtue and knowledge.

Key Highlights

  • Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity," signifying a strong commitment to innovative research.
  • Set on a stunning 1,443-acre campus featuring Meadow Brook Hall, a U.S. National Historic Landmark and the fourth-largest historic house museum in the United States.
  • Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with 132 bachelor's degree programs and 138 graduate-level programs, including the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine.
  • Total enrollment of over 16,108 students (Fall 2022), fostering a vibrant and diverse academic community.
  • Founded in 1957 through a generous donation from Matilda Dodge Wilson and her husband, Alfred G. Wilson.
  • Boasts an endowment of $143.9 million (2024), supporting its continued growth and academic endeavors.
  • Motto "Seguir virtute e canoscenza" ("Seek virtue and knowledge") reflects its core mission.

Timeline

1926
Construction of Meadow Brook Hall begins by Matilda Dodge Wilson and Alfred G. Wilson.
1957
Founded as Michigan State University–Oakland through the donation of the Wilson estate and $2 million.
1959
Enrolled its first students.
1963
Renamed Oakland University.
1970
Gained institutional independence from Michigan State University.
2011
Hosted a nationally televised Republican presidential debate.
2013
Approved a $65 million investment in campus expansion and improvement projects.
2014
Completed major campus projects, including new student housing and Elliott Tower.
2017
Ora Hirsch Pescovitz began her tenure as the seventh president.
2023
President Ora Pescovitz's contract extended to June 2031.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Oakland University

🏥

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

One of the key professional schools offering medical degree programs.

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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