Oral Roberts University (ORU) is a private Christian university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Founded in 1963, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields. Like any institution, ORU has its own set of pros and cons that prospective students should be aware of.
Pros:
- Strong academic programs: ORU has a strong reputation for its academic programs, particularly in the areas of theology, business, and nursing. The theology program has been accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), and the business program has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The nursing program is also highly regarded.
- Small class sizes: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, ORU offers small class sizes that allow for personalized attention and interaction with professors. This creates a more intimate learning environment that facilitates student success.
- Location: ORU is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which provides a suburban setting that some students may prefer. The university is also located within driving distance of major cities such as Dallas and Kansas City.
- Christian values: ORU is a Christian university that emphasizes faith and values. This can be an advantage for students who are looking for a college experience that is grounded in Christian principles.
- Student activities: ORU offers a variety of student activities, including clubs and organizations, intramural sports, and cultural events. The university also has a strong athletics program, with 16 varsity sports teams.
Cons:
- Limited diversity: ORU has a predominantly white student body, which can be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a more diverse college experience.
- Limited course offerings: While ORU has strong academic programs in certain areas, the university’s course offerings in other areas can be limited. This can be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a broader range of courses to choose from.
- Limited financial aid options: ORU offers financial aid options, but some students may find that the university’s financial aid options are limited. This may make the cost of attending ORU prohibitive for some students.
- Conservative values: ORU is a conservative Christian university that may not be a good fit for students who have more liberal or progressive views.
- Campus culture: ORU has a unique campus culture that emphasizes faith and values. This can be an advantage for students who are looking for a college experience that aligns with their beliefs, but it may not be a good fit for all students.
Overall, ORU offers a strong academic program and a focus on Christian values. Its small class sizes and suburban location may also be advantages for some students. However, the university’s limited diversity, course offerings, financial aid options, conservative values, and campus culture may be disadvantages for some students. Ultimately, students should carefully consider these factors and determine if ORU is the right fit for them.