University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus logo

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Norman, OK

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Public research university
Type
21,496
Total Students
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$27K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Graduation Rate
6-year
89%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Sooner pride runs deep at OU, a top-tier research university blending academic excellence with championship athletics.

The University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus stands as a beacon of academic and athletic excellence, classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity." Located in Norman, Oklahoma, this vibrant public research institution serves a diverse student body, boasting over 34,500 students in Fall 2024. OU is renowned for its extensive academic portfolio, offering 174 baccalaureate, 199 master's, 101 doctoral, and 88 certificate programs, alongside significant research endeavors with over $416 million in expenditures in 2022. Beyond its academic prowess, OU is celebrated for its distinctive "Cherokee Gothic" architecture and world-class museums, including the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.

Founded in 1890 as Norman Territorial University, OU predates Oklahoma's statehood, overcoming early challenges like a devastating fire in 1903 that spurred the architectural planning of its iconic North Oval. Historically, the university played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, with the McLaurin vs. Oklahoma State Board of Regents case in 1950 serving as a vital precedent against segregation in higher education, foreshadowing Brown v. Board of Education. This legacy of resilience and progress continues to shape its identity, reflecting a deep commitment to its community and the advancement of knowledge.

Prospective students will discover a dynamic campus experience on 3,000 acres, characterized by a rich history, a strong sense of community, and unparalleled opportunities. From its historic North and South Ovals to state-of-the-art facilities like the National Weather Center, OU fosters an environment of discovery and growth. The university's exceptional athletic programs, with 45 team national championships across various sports, including football, softball, and gymnastics, add to the spirited campus life, embodying the "Sooner" spirit of ambition and achievement. With an endowment of $1.81 billion, OU continues to invest in its future, ensuring a robust and engaging educational journey for generations to come.

Key Highlights

  • Designated an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," with over $416 million in research expenditures in 2022.
  • Offers a comprehensive range of 174 baccalaureate, 199 master's, 101 doctoral, and 88 certificate programs.
  • Home to two prominent cultural institutions: the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History.
  • A collegiate athletic powerhouse, ranking 13th all-time in NCAA history with 45 team national championships, including 7 in football and 8 in softball.
  • Boasts a distinctive "Cherokee Gothic" architectural style across its 3,000-acre Norman campus.
  • Serves 34,523 students (Fall 2024), with 24,562 undergraduates.
  • Manages a substantial endowment of $1.81 billion (FY2024).

Timeline

1890
Founded as Norman Territorial University by the Oklahoma Territorial legislature.
1892
First president, David Ross Boyd, arrived and first students enrolled.
1893
School of Pharmacy established; first university building opened.
1903
The university's only building burned down, leading to campus development plans for the North Oval.
1907
Oklahoma achieved statehood, and the institution was renamed the University of Oklahoma.
1940
North campus and airfield built as Naval Air Station Norman, later acquired by OU in the post-war period.
1950
The U.S. Supreme Court, in McLaurin vs. Oklahoma State Board of Regents, overturned the university's segregation policy at the graduate level.
1994
David Boren began his presidency, initiating tremendous growth and campus expansions.
2019
Joseph Harroz Jr. appointed interim president, later becoming the 15th president in 2020.

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

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School of Pharmacy

Established in 1893 due to high demand for pharmacists in the Oklahoma Territory.

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OU College of Law

A prominent law school, whose Dean Joseph Harroz Jr. was appointed university president.

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