Oklahoma State University: A Large Student Body

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a large public university with a total undergraduate enrollment of over 20,000 students. The university has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1 and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, with over 400 student organizations and a popular Greek life scene. OSU's athletic teams, known as the Cowboys and Cowgirls, compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference and have won numerous national championships. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1890, OSU has grown to become one of the premier land-grant universities in the country, known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus culture.

Oklahoma State University's undergraduate enrollment

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a large public university with a total undergraduate enrollment of over 20,000 students. The university offers 97 bachelor's degrees and has an acceptance rate of 71%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1, and the university has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

The cost of attendance for undergraduate students varies depending on their residency status. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance for Oklahoma residents was $25,860, while for out-of-state students, it was $41,380. The in-state tuition and fees are $9,244, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $24,764. The university offers a variety of housing options, including traditional residence halls, apartment-style buildings, and family-first apartment complexes.

OSU has a vibrant campus life, with over 400 student organizations, including fraternities and sororities. The university's athletic teams, known as the Cowboys and Cowgirls, compete in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference and have won numerous national championships. The university also has a strong research focus, with a classification of "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity".

With a long history dating back to its founding in 1890, OSU has grown to become a premier modern land-grant university. The university is committed to accessibility and providing a supportive academic environment for its students.

OSU's student-to-faculty ratio

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a public research institution located in Stillwater, Oklahoma. With more than 24,000 students enrolled, OSU has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1. This means that for every 20 students, there is one faculty member. This ratio is an important metric for students and faculty alike, as it can indicate the level of support and attention each student may receive from their professors.

A low student-to-faculty ratio is often seen as desirable, as it suggests smaller class sizes and more personalised learning. It can also mean that professors are more accessible and available to students, whether that be for answering quick questions after class or scheduling one-on-one appointments. This accessibility can be beneficial for students who require additional support or those who simply prefer a more intimate learning environment.

In contrast, a high student-to-faculty ratio may indicate larger class sizes and less individual attention for students. This can impact the dynamic between students and faculty, potentially making it more challenging for students to build relationships with their professors or receive tailored guidance.

At OSU, the 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio translates to a vibrant and inclusive community of over 24,000 students, with students hailing from all 50 states and more than 100 countries worldwide. This diverse student body is served by a faculty of around 1,200 staff across seven academic colleges, including a veterinary school and an osteopathic medical school.

The university's location and transport links

Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, is a vibrant and bustling campus with a significant student population. As of the Fall 2022 semester, the university boasted an overall enrolment of 24,444 students across all its campuses, with the majority of students choosing to study at the main Stillwater campus. This number includes students from all levels of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes.

Stillwater, affectionately known as "America's Friendliest College Town," is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 60 miles from both Tulsa and Oklahoma City, the state's largest metropolitan areas. This prime location provides students with easy access to a wealth of opportunities for entertainment, internships, and future career prospects. The city of Stillwater itself has a population of around 50,000 people and exudes a charming, small-town atmosphere, with a vibrant downtown area and a strong sense of community.

The university is conveniently located near several major transportation arteries, making it easily accessible for students travelling from near and far. Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO) is just a short drive from the main campus, providing quick and efficient travel options for those travelling by air. Additionally, the city is well-connected by road, with easy access to several major highways, including US-177, which runs directly through Stillwater, and Interstate 35, a major north-south interstate highway.

For students without cars, or for those looking for a more sustainable mode of transportation, Stillwater offers an efficient and affordable public bus system, known as the Stillwater Central Transit System. This bus network provides several routes throughout the city, including specific routes designed for OSU students, making it incredibly convenient to get around campus and the surrounding areas. The OSU campus also provides a dedicated shuttle service, known as the "Cowboy Carriage," which offers safe and reliable transportation for students, staff, and visitors around the campus and to various off-campus locations.

Stillwater's location along the BNSF Railway provides another transport option for students. The Stillwater Station is situated just a few blocks from the OSU campus, offering Amtrak train services that connect the city to various destinations across the country. This provides a unique and scenic travel option for students looking to explore other parts of the United States during their time at OSU.

With its prime location, robust public transportation system, and easy access to major cities and transportation hubs, Oklahoma State University offers a convenient and accessible educational experience for students, regardless of their travel preferences. The university's setting in the heart of Stillwater provides a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city opportunities, contributing to a well-rounded and enriching college experience.

OSU's tuition fees

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a public research institution located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, with more than 24,000 students enrolled across its five-campus system. The university is committed to making college education more accessible and affordable for its students.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

For the 2024-25 academic year, the undergraduate cost of attendance is $25,860 for Oklahoma residents and $41,380 for out-of-state students. This includes tuition and fees, as well as other expenses such as housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses.

The annual undergraduate tuition and fees are estimated to be $13,920 for Oklahoma residents and $29,440 for non-residents. OSU offers a block rate tuition program for full-time undergraduate students taking 12 to 18 credit hours, allowing them to pay a set rate per semester. The undergraduate resident tuition for the block rate is $2,708.25, while the non-resident tuition is $10,468.50. Both residents and non-residents are also charged mandatory fees of $1,913.25.

For undergraduate students taking fewer than 12 credit hours, tuition and fees are charged on a per-credit-hour basis. The per-credit-hour rate varies depending on the residency status and level of the course. Courses at the undergraduate level (starting with numbers 0 to 4) are charged at a different rate than graduate-level courses (starting with 5 or above).

Graduate Tuition Fees

The graduate cost of attendance varies depending on residency status. For the 2025-26 academic year, the estimated annual graduate cost is $29,080 for Oklahoma residents, $39,420 for out-of-state students, and $41,258 for international students. These estimates are based on 16 credit hours.

Graduate tuition and fees are also charged on a per-credit-hour basis. The rate depends on the residency status and the level of the course. Online programs for graduate students who are not taking any on-campus courses have a separate per-hour rate based on residency.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

OSU offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to make its education more affordable. More than 50% of OSU students graduate without any student loan debt. The university provides need-based scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans to help offset the cost of attendance. Additionally, OSU's Start2Finish guide assists students in navigating the process of receiving federal financial aid.

Student life and extracurriculars

Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a vibrant and inclusive community with a student body of over 24,000, including students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. OSU offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and a rich student life, ensuring that every student can find their place to thrive.

Housing & Residential Life

OSU offers on-campus housing in four distinct living styles: traditional halls, suites, deluxe suites, and apartments. Students can choose their own roommates or be matched with others based on interests, habits, and schedule preferences.

Dining Options & Meal Plans

With over 30 dining options on campus, OSU caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, ranging from convenience stores and cafeterias to national franchises and sit-down restaurants. Flexible meal plans give students the freedom to choose when, where, and what they eat.

Student Organizations & Clubs

OSU boasts over 400 student organizations and clubs, covering a diverse range of interests, including culture, leadership, art, and service. Students can pursue existing passions or discover new ones, ensuring they find a community where they belong.

Greek Life

OSU is home to 45 fraternities and sororities, which provide unique opportunities for academic focus, friendship, leadership development, and community service.

Intramural Sports

Students can participate in dozens of intramural sports, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle while fostering a sense of competition and teamwork.

Career Services & Internships

The university offers a variety of internship and employment opportunities, helping students build their professional networks and cover college costs. OSU provides resources and support for finding part-time jobs, work-study positions, and off-campus housing.

Wellness & Recreation

OSU is committed to being America's Healthiest Campus, offering recreational facilities like the Colvin Recreation Center and the Seretean Wellness Center. These facilities provide fitness training, nutrition counselling, and other wellness services to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Traditions & Spirit

As the Cowboys and Cowgirls, OSU takes pride in its spirit and traditions, including America's Greatest Homecoming, with over 80,000 attendees, and the dyeing of the library fountain during homecoming week. The university's colours, America's Brightest Orange and Black, are worn proudly by students and athletes alike.

Student Government

The Student Government Association (SGA) serves as the voice of the student body, working to ensure that students' voices are heard and their needs are met.

Community Engagement

OSU encourages students to give back through the Student Volunteer Center, which offers purposeful volunteer opportunities, and through community engagement initiatives that benefit Oklahoma and beyond.

Support Services

OSU provides a range of support services, including the Student Support program, which offers a holistic approach to helping students experiencing challenges. The university also offers basic needs resources, first-generation student support, and military-affiliated student support, ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed.

Frequently asked questions