Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Weatherford, OK

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

1901

Founded

Public university

Type

3,469

Total Students

4,450

Undergrad

817

Graduate

$25M

Endowment

$8K

Tuition (In-State)

$8K

Tuition (Out-State)

$15K

Avg Net Price

100%

Acceptance Rate

35%

Graduation Rate

6-year

70%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

President: Diana “Diane” Lovell

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

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

SWOSU: Over a century of resilience, evolving from normal school to a dynamic public university.

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) stands as a testament to educational endurance and evolution in Oklahoma. Established in 1901 as the "Southwestern Normal School," its journey has been marked by remarkable growth and unwavering commitment. From its humble beginnings focused on teacher education, SWOSU navigated the formidable challenges of the Great Depression, ensuring its survival and continued service to the state.

The university's academic landscape significantly broadened during World War II, expanding its offerings to include robust programs in the arts and sciences, and notably, establishing its respected School of Pharmacy. This period of rapid diversification laid the groundwork for the comprehensive institution it is today. By 1921, the first bachelor's degrees were awarded, marking a pivotal step, followed by the introduction of its first graduate degree, a Masters of Teaching, in 1953.

Today, as Southwestern Oklahoma State University, it serves as a public university led by President Diana Lovell, continuing its legacy of providing accessible and quality education. With a history of adapting and thriving through various eras, SWOSU offers prospective students a stable and evolving academic environment where they can pursue diverse fields of study, from its historic teacher education roots to cutting-edge pharmacy and beyond, all within a resilient and community-focused institution.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1901 by the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature, boasting over a century of educational service.
✦Successfully navigated the challenges of the Great Depression, demonstrating its enduring commitment to education.
✦Underwent significant expansion during World War II, prominently establishing its highly regarded School of Pharmacy.
✦Awarded its first bachelor's degrees in 1921 and introduced its first graduate degree (Masters of Teaching) in 1953.
✦Officially designated as Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1974, reflecting its comprehensive academic scope.
✦Expanded its footprint in 1987 by merging with Sayre Junior College, creating SWOSU at Sayre.
✦Led by its 18th president, Diana Lovell, continuing a rich leadership legacy since its founding.

Timeline

1901

Established as "Southwestern Normal School" by the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature.

1903

First classes were held.

1920

Preparatory school closed; four-year baccalaureate degree program replaced it.

1921

First bachelor's degrees were awarded.

1939

Added a vocational training curriculum to its mission.

WWII

Underwent significant expansion, adding programs in arts, sciences, and the School of Pharmacy.

1953

First graduate degree, a Masters of Teaching, was added.

1974

Formally designated as "Southwestern Oklahoma State University".

1987

Sayre Junior College in Sayre, Oklahoma, merged with SWOSU, becoming SWOSU at Sayre.

🏛️

125 Years

of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Southwestern Oklahoma State University

💊

School of Pharmacy

Established during World War II as part of the university's significant expansion in the arts and sciences.

Leadership

Diana “Diane” Lovell

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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