Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Weatherford, OK

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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

From humble beginnings to a comprehensive university, SWOSU shapes futures in Oklahoma.

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) stands as a testament to educational resilience and growth, evolving from a territorial normal school in 1901 into a vibrant public university today. Nestled in Weatherford, SWOSU has a rich history of adapting to meet the educational needs of its students, initially focusing on teacher education before expanding significantly into vocational training, arts, sciences, and professional programs like its renowned School of Pharmacy.

The university's journey is marked by significant historical moments, including its tenacious survival through the Great Depression and substantial expansion during World War II. These periods shaped SWOSU into a robust institution, continuously broadening its academic offerings to serve a diverse student body. From awarding its first bachelor's degrees in 1921 to later adding master's programs, SWOSU has consistently demonstrated a commitment to higher learning and practical skill development.

SWOSU is dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and professionally. With its history of adapting curricula, from early teacher training to comprehensive university programs and the integration of Sayre Junior College in 1987, SWOSU prepares its students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to their communities. Under the leadership of President Diana Lovell, the university continues its legacy of providing accessible and impactful education in Southwestern Oklahoma.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1901 as 'Southwestern Normal School,' showcasing over a century of educational dedication.
✦Evolved from a teacher-training institution into a comprehensive public university.
✦Home to a significant School of Pharmacy, a key program added during World War II.
✦Awarded its first bachelor's degrees in 1921 and its first graduate degree (Masters of Teaching) in 1953.
✦Demonstrated remarkable resilience by successfully navigating financial challenges, including the Great Depression.
✦Expanded its regional footprint by merging with Sayre Junior College in 1987.
✦Currently led by its 18th president, Diana Lovell, who began her tenure in 2021.

Timeline

1901

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

1903

First classes held at the newly founded school in Weatherford.

1920

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

1921

First bachelor's degrees awarded by the renamed "Southwestern State Teachers College."

1939

Added a vocational training curriculum to its mission.

Significant expansion during World War II, including the addition of the School of Pharmacy.

1953

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

1974

Officially designated as "Southwestern Oklahoma State University" by the Oklahoma Legislature.

1987

Merged with Sayre Junior College, becoming Southwestern Oklahoma State University at Sayre.

2021

Diana Lovell began her tenure as the university's 18th president.

🏛️

125 Years

of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Southwestern Oklahoma State University

💊

School of Pharmacy

A key professional program offering specialized education, added during World War II.

Leadership

Diana “Diane” Lovell

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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