Introduction
Oklahoma City University (OCU) is a private university based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and is one of the oldest universities in the state. Founded in 1904, the university has a rich history and a vibrant campus life. It is home to some of the most talented students from around the country and the world. From its early days as a small school to its current status as a thriving research university, OCU has always been a place of discovery and learning. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the interesting facts about Oklahoma City University, from its history and campus life to the many achievements of its faculty and alumni.
The Founding of Oklahoma City University
In 1904, Oklahoma City University was founded as Epworth University by the Methodist Episcopal Church. It was the first university in the state and was established to provide higher education opportunities to students in the Oklahoma Territory. The school was originally located on the grounds of the Epworth Methodist Church and was made up of two buildings, a chapel and a gymnasium. In 1910, the school was renamed Oklahoma City University and began offering its first four-year degree programs.
Campus Life
Oklahoma City University has a vibrant campus life, with a variety of student organizations, clubs and activities. OCU is home to a wide range of student organizations, including the Student Government Association, the Student Activities Board, and the Student Alumni Association. The university also has a thriving Greek life, with more than 20 fraternities and sororities. The university also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the annual OCU Homecoming Parade and the OCU Arts Festival.
Academic Programs
Oklahoma City University offers a wide range of academic programs, from undergraduate to graduate and professional degrees. The university offers more than 70 undergraduate degree programs, including business, education, engineering, communications, and the arts. It also offers more than 30 graduate and professional degree programs, including law, medicine, nursing, and public health. The university also has a strong international presence, with study abroad programs in more than 20 countries.
Notable Alumni
Oklahoma City University has produced a number of notable alumni over the years, including several U.S. senators, governors, and representatives. Notable alumni include former U.S. Senator Tom Coburn, former U.S. Representative J.C. Watts, and former U.S. Senator Don Nickles. The university has also produced a number of notable athletes, including former NBA player Wayman Tisdale and former NFL player and Hall of Famer Barry Sanders.
Athletic Programs
Oklahoma City University is home to a number of athletic programs, including baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. The university’s teams compete in the NCAA Division I and are known as the Stars. The university’s most successful athletic program is its men’s basketball team, which has made several NCAA tournament appearances and won the NAIA Division I National Championship in 2002.
Research and Innovation
Oklahoma City University is committed to research and innovation, and is home to a number of research centers and institutes. The university’s research centers include the Center for Applied Research and Technology, the Center for Energy and Environment, the Center for Health and Wellness, and the Center for Business and Public Policy. The university also has a number of research institutes, including the Institute for Leadership Studies, the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Institute for Global Engagement.
Conclusion
Oklahoma City University is a vibrant university with a rich history and a vibrant campus life. From its founding as Epworth University to its current status as a thriving research university, OCU has always been a place of discovery and learning. With its wide range of academic programs, vibrant student life, and commitment to research and innovation, Oklahoma City University is an institution that is sure to continue to produce some of the most talented students from around the country and the world.”