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University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK

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Quick Facts

"College for the Curious Mind"

1908
Founded
Public liberal arts college
Type
896
Total Students
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$9K
Avg Net Price
56%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Graduation Rate
6-year
71%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Kayla Hale

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

About University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Oklahoma's public liberal arts college for curious, rigorous minds.

Nestled in Oklahoma, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) stands as the state's sole public liberal arts college, a vibrant hub for the curious and intellectually driven. Founded in 1908, USAO has a rich and transformative history, evolving from a women's industrial institute into a coeducational institution dedicated to a rigorous, broad-based education. Its unique mission emphasizes an 'intellectually rigorous and accelerated course of study,' attracting students eager to delve deep into diverse fields.

USAO prides itself on its distinctive academic approach, featuring a trimester system that allows motivated students to progress quickly through their studies. While initially focused on industrial training, the college swiftly embraced a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum, offering degrees across art, English, history, music, languages, sciences, philosophy, home economics, and physical education. The university's deaf education program is particularly renowned, boasting statewide recognition and a legacy of excellence. In fact, USAO maintains the highest admission standards in Oklahoma, ensuring a student body committed to academic distinction.

The student experience at USAO is defined by this commitment to inquiry and growth. The campus itself is a testament to its storied past, with its entire grounds recognized as a national historic district—a singular honor in Oklahoma. Modern amenities like the remodeled Student Center and the Lawson Court Apartment Complex blend seamlessly with historic architecture. With a close-knit community of 1000 students and a dedication to cultivating well-rounded individuals, USAO truly embodies its motto: 'College for the Curious Mind.' Recent initiatives, such as the Mission Enhancement Plan, continue to underscore its unique role in higher education, fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and minds are challenged.

Key Highlights

  • Oklahoma's only public liberal arts college, offering a distinct and rigorous academic experience for 1000 students.
  • Founded in 1908, it evolved from a women's college to a coeducational institution with a comprehensive liberal arts focus.
  • Maintains the highest admission standards in the state of Oklahoma, attracting a select group of students.
  • Features an "intellectually rigorous and accelerated course of study" through a unique trimester system.
  • The entire campus was listed as a national historic district in 2001, a singular honor among Oklahoma's educational institutions.
  • Home to a recognized and historically significant deaf education program, with a legacy of statewide recognition.

Timeline

1908
Founded as the Oklahoma Industrial Institute and College for Girls.
1912
Renamed Oklahoma College for Women (OCW).
1925
Shifted to offering college-only classes, focusing solely on higher education.
1955
Became racially integrated; Clydia Troullier enrolls as the first Black student.
1965
Became coeducational and was renamed Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts.
1972
Renamed University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (current name).
1998
Opened a newly remodeled $2.2-million Student Center.
2001
The entire campus was approved as a national historic district.
2005
Embarked on a Mission Enhancement Plan to emphasize its unique liberal arts role.
2015
Construction of Coming Together Park began, featuring granite sculptures by Jesús Moroles.
🏛️
118 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Kayla Hale
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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