Oakland University
Rochester Hills, MI
Quick Facts
“Seguir virtute e canoscenza (Italian) from Dante's Inferno”("Seek virtue and knowledge")
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
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.
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