University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) vs University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU)

Envision yourself as a college student, navigating the exciting yet daunting task of selecting the perfect university. If you're torn between the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) and the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU), this comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key differences between these two esteemed institutions. From acceptance rates and popular majors to student body demographics and graduation rates, we've compiled a detailed table to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're seeking a vibrant urban setting or a close-knit community, a focus on liberal arts or a specialization in STEM fields, this side-by-side analysis will empower you to find the university that best aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences. Dive into the comparison and discover the institution that will nurture your growth and set you on the path to success.
University of Central Oklahoma logo

University of Central Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus logo

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Overview

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%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 81.3% 85.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $60
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $50
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

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $30,788

Out of state: $41,675
In state: $31,293

Out of state: $47,097
Average net price $17,477 $22,022
Tuition
In state: $6,822

Out of state: $17,709
In state: $4,920

Out of state: $20,724
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $3,990

Meal plan: $4,550
Room/dormitory: $6,768

Meal plan: $4,932
Available payment plans
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

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

Students and Campus

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
Low
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

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
  • Liberal Arts
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Legal Profession
Students to faculty ratio 16:1 17:1
Institutional accreditation Higher Learning Commission Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

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)
  • Year 1: $60,801
  • Year 2: $54,661
  • Year 3: $72,607
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,936
  • Year 2: $67,324
  • Year 3: $69,619
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,320
  • Year 2: $61,192
  • Year 3: $63,948
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $47,536
  • Year 2: $55,625
  • Year 3: $58,073
Public Health (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $45,015
  • Year 2: $44,216
  • Year 3: $55,170
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $47,206
  • Year 2: $49,729
  • Year 3: $54,652
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,587
  • Year 2: $48,265
  • Year 3: $54,308
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $49,115
  • Year 2: $51,607
  • Year 3: $53,363
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,019
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $49,609
Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $45,625
  • Year 2: $45,500
  • Year 3: $48,898
Dentistry (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $109,333
  • Year 2: $114,892
  • Year 3: $127,262
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $112,154
  • Year 2: $118,296
  • Year 3: $122,093
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $111,425
  • Year 2: $107,694
  • Year 3: $107,979
Petroleum Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,626
  • Year 2: $91,017
  • Year 3: $99,981
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $103,025
  • Year 2: $95,473
  • Year 3: $99,412
Psychology, General (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $94,408
  • Year 3: $98,563
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $90,890
  • Year 2: $89,746
  • Year 3: $98,170
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,548
  • Year 2: $64,990
  • Year 3: $90,680
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,265
  • Year 2: $70,176
  • Year 3: $80,297
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,700
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: $80,055

Frequently Asked Questions


  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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