University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) vs University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU)
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![]() University of Central Oklahoma |
![]() University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus |
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Overview |
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Location | Edmond, Oklahoma | Norman, Oklahoma |
Campus setting | Suburb: Large | Suburb: Midsize |
College type | 4 year | 4 year |
Control/business model | Public | Public |
Calendar system | Semester | Semester |
Degrees offered | Undergraduate and Graduate | Undergraduate and Graduate |
Students retention rate | 67.0% | 89.0% |
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No | No |
Religious affiliation | ||
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Admission |
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Acceptance rate | 81.3% | 85.2% |
Application fees |
Undergraduate:
$50
Graduate:
$60
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Undergraduate:
$40
Graduate:
$50
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SAT range | N/A | 1150 - 1340 |
ACT range | 18 - 24 | 23 - 29 |
Students submitting SAT score | 21.0% | |
Students submitting ACT score | 83.0% | 52.0% |
Total number of applicants | 8,708 | 17,318 |
Total number of admissions given out | 7,080 | 14,760 |
Admitted students who chose to enroll | 1,662 | 4,582 |
Yield rate | 23.5% | 31.0% |
Test scores (SAT/ACT) | N/A | N/A |
High school GPA | Required | Required |
Recommendation letters | Not required | Not required |
High school transcript | Not required | Not required |
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) | Required | Required |
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Tuition and Fees |
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Sticker price |
In state:
$30,788
Out of state:
$41,675
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In state:
$31,293
Out of state:
$47,097
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Average net price | $17,477 | $22,022 |
Tuition |
In state:
$6,822
Out of state:
$17,709
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In state:
$4,920
Out of state:
$20,724
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Room & board |
Room/dormitory:
$3,990
Meal plan:
$4,550
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Room/dormitory:
$6,768
Meal plan:
$4,932
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Available payment plans |
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Financial Aid |
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Students receiving financial aid
(Grants & scholarships) |
76.0%
Average amount $6,531 |
100.0%
Average amount $10,298 |
Students receiving federal student loan |
34.0%
Average amount $6,109 |
37.0%
Average amount $5,372 |
Students taking out private loans |
5.0%
Average amount $11,559 |
9.0%
Average amount $15,502 |
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Students and Campus |
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Undergraduate students |
11,771
Men 37.8% Women 62.2% |
21,152
Men 48.8% Women 51.2% |
Graduate students |
1,479
Men 31.1% Women 68.9% |
6,890
Men 45.2% Women 54.8% |
Racial/ethnic diversity |
Moderate
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Low
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Out-of-state students | 5.1% | N/A |
International students | 3.9% | 5.2% |
Campus local/setting | Suburb: Large | Suburb: Midsize |
Dormitory capacity | 1,860 | 6,405 |
First year students are required to live on campus? | No | No |
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from | Oklahoma Texas Kansas California Missouri | N/A |
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Academics |
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Popular study areas |
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Students to faculty ratio | 16:1 | 17:1 |
Institutional accreditation | Higher Learning Commission | Higher Learning Commission |
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Outcome |
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Graduation rate | 37.0% | 75.8% |
Dropout rate | 19.0% | 22.4% |
Transferred out | 37.9% | N/A |
Alumni salary by major (Top 10) |
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
Public Health (Bachelor's Degrees)
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degrees)
Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
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Dentistry (First Professional Degrees)
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (First Professional Degrees)
Petroleum Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
Psychology, General (Doctoral Degrees)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (First Professional Degrees)
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the main differences in location and campus environment between the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) and the University of Oklahoma (OU)?
UCO is located in Edmond, a suburb of Oklahoma City, offering a more suburban and community-focused environment. OU is situated in Norman, a city with a strong college-town atmosphere. OU's campus is larger and more traditional, while UCO's campus is more compact and accessible.
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How do the tuition and fees compare between UCO and OU?
Generally, UCO has lower tuition and fees compared to OU. This makes UCO a more affordable option for many students. However, tuition costs can vary depending on residency status, program of study, and other factors. It's always best to check the official university websites for the most up-to-date information.
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What are the academic strengths of each university?
OU is known for its strong programs in petroleum engineering, law, journalism, and the arts. UCO excels in education, nursing, business, and the performing arts. Both universities offer a wide range of academic programs, but their areas of emphasis differ.
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How does the student body size and class size differ?
OU has a larger student body than UCO, leading to potentially larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. UCO generally offers smaller class sizes, which can provide students with more individualized attention from professors.
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What are the opportunities for student life and extracurricular activities at each university?
Both universities offer a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. OU, with its larger student body, typically has a wider selection of Greek life, Division I athletics, and large-scale events. UCO provides a strong sense of community and offers numerous opportunities for student involvement, including NCAA Division II athletics.
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How do the research opportunities compare at UCO and OU?
OU, being a larger research university, has more extensive research facilities and funding opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. UCO also offers research opportunities, though they may be more focused on undergraduate research and specific program areas.
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What are the career services and support available at each university?
Both universities provide career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs. OU, with its broader alumni network and connections, may offer more opportunities in certain fields. UCO's career services are well-regarded and focus on connecting students with local and regional employers.
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How does the housing and residential life differ?
Both universities offer on-campus housing options. OU has a wider variety of housing options, including more traditional dorms and apartment-style living. UCO offers a range of housing options, often at a more affordable price point. The specific housing experience will depend on the individual's preferences and budget.
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Which university is better for a student seeking a strong sense of community?
UCO often fosters a stronger sense of community due to its smaller size and more localized focus. However, both universities have active student communities and offer opportunities to connect with peers.
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How do the athletic programs compare?
OU competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with a strong presence in football, basketball, and other sports. UCO competes in NCAA Division II athletics, offering a competitive environment in various sports. The level of competition and the size of the fanbase differ significantly.
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