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University of Central Oklahoma

Edmond, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 14,460
  • Tuition Fee From$ 9,750
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength16,910
  • Global Diversity-
  • Gender Ratio-

Overview

About

The University of Central Oklahoma, located in Edmond, Oklahoma, is a public university that was founded in 1890 and is the third-largest university in Oklahoma. It is a non-profit research and higher education institution located in Edmond. The university was founded as a Territorial Normal School, it was Oklahoma's first such institution and officially began classes in 1891. The name of the institution was changed to Central State Normal School in 1904 and then to Central State Teachers College in 1919 before becoming Central State College in 1939. The state legislature granted it the authority to award postgraduate degrees in arts and business administration in 1971, granting it university status under the name Central State University. UCO adopted its current name in 1991.

 

The University of Central Oklahoma is divided into six colleges that offer 114 undergraduate majors and 58 postgraduate degrees in science, liberal arts, business, mathematics, education, fine arts, professional studies, and design. The university's Forensic Science Institute offers a multidisciplinary programme that includes educational, research, and training opportunities for students. And apart from that, it has the UCO Connected Campus, which offers a variety of online degrees to working professionals and those with demanding personal lives. 

 

The university has 250 active student organisations that work to foster community relationships while also promoting academic, personal, and social interests. It competes in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association as the Bronchos, with a sports affiliation from the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Currently, the university is home to approximately 17,000 students from 47 states in the United States and over 100 countries around the world. There are 1500 international students in the student body. It has 434 full-time academic affiliates and 400 part-time academic affiliates on its roster. The student-to-faculty ratio at WU is 19:1 with a class size of 20 to 25 students.

 

Admission to the university is available on a rolling basis for undergraduate courses, as well as during the fall and spring semesters for graduate programmes. UCO maintains a comprehensive list of alumni living all over the world, including those who have achieved great success and have been recognised for their contributions in their respective fields. Jim Beaver (Actor), Stanley Wright Case (Broadcast Journalist and Lawyer), Milena Govich (Actress), Lauren Paige Nelson (Miss America 2007), James Milton Heflin (Retired NASA Official), Clifford D. Chatman (Former Football Fullback), Paul Wight (Actor and Professional Wrestler) and Bijan Allip (Iranian Business Executive) are among the notable names on the list.

Ranking

University Of Central Oklahoma consistently ranks high among educational institutions, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and a diverse course offering. This strong performance solidifies its reputation as a leader in education and a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education. Listed below are some of the notable University Of Central Oklahoma rankings-

 

  • #2367 of 14,131 in the World- EduRank 2024
  • #656 of 2,597 in North America- EduRank 2024
  • #6 of 31 in Oklahoma State
  • #222 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programmes- U.S News & World Report 
  • #35 in Top Public Schools- US News & World Report  

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#1401

-

2023

#1201 - 1400

-

2022

-

-

Facilities

UCO maintain a beautiful campus spread across 210 acres, consisting of 34 state-of-the-art buildings that provide students with a variety of academic, administrative, recreational, and other support facilities. The university's facilities include a wellness centre, library, Y Chapel of Song, and high-tech laboratories. Three co-ed residence halls on campus provide accommodation in traditional-style rooms. Up to 302 students can be accommodated in the University Suites. Apart from that, UCO has a number of apartment buildings with four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, as well as a community clubhouse. The University Of Central Oklahoma facilities also include-

 

Student Services: Student Support Services is thrilled to be able to launch the website for the university’s hardworking students, faculty, and staff. The university does everything to support the efforts of the students to achieve their goals and reach their full academic potential. The university’s programme is dedicated to students from the moment they enrol until the day they graduate.

 

Housing Services: The University Commons, located on the northwest side of campus near the library and the Wellness Center, is the only apartment-style living option on the UCO campus. All bedrooms in the commons are fully furnished. Commons 1000 is the only room in Housing with full beds; students in Commons 2000 and 3000 have liftable twin beds. All apartments in the Commons have individually controlled heat and air, a fully equipped kitchen, and laundry machines.

 

Library Services: The Max Chambers Library at UCO has a long history of student, faculty, staff, and community involvement. The Library was founded in 1894 with a gift from the Lyceum Society, the forerunner of today's debate team. They raised $26 to buy the Library's first book collection, which was housed on the second floor of Old North.

 

ICT Services: Through the use of technology, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) strives to improve learning, service and communication, and increase student, faculty, staff, and community access to useful information.

 

Campus Life: UCO, located on 210 acres in the heart of Edmond, Oklahoma, allows students to live on campus in safe, comfortable dorms just steps away from their classes, the library, student activities, and the Wellness Center.

 

Sports Facilities: The Competitive Sport Clubs Program is made up of recognised student organisations that were formed to promote and develop common sports and/or recreational activities. The term "competitive" refers to clubs/teams that compete against collegiate and non-collegiate club teams outside of UCO.

 

Student Clubs: Participation in student organisations allows you to positively impact the University of Central Oklahoma. With over 200 recognised student organisations on campus, it's simple to find your place!

Notable Alumni

Milena Govich
Milena Govich
American Actress
Michael D. Brown
Michael D. Brown
Former Under Secretary of Emergency Preparedness and Response
Mary Fallin
Mary Fallin
Former Governor of Oklahoma

Courses

Admission

Established in 1890, the University of Central Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s largest metropolitan university. The institute aims to create future world leaders by generating opportunities for learning, growth and practical experience. More than 12,000 students study under 119 undergraduate and 81 graduate programmes. The university follows the motto ‘ubi motus est’ or ‘where movement is’ to indicate its cycle of continuous growth and evolution. Enrolling at such a prestigious institute is the dream of several international students.

When applying to any university, exploring the admission details in depth is essential. To learn more about University of Central Oklahoma admission, continue reading!

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

To ensure a successful application, you must analyse the entry requirements, research the courses, and apply accurately. The most important aspects to consider before applying are listed in the following sections.

 

Entry Requirements

The University of Central Oklahoma entry requirements will vary depending on the chosen programme and degree. Despite that, we can list the standard admission requirements for freshman and transfer students.

 

Freshman applicants can qualify for admission if they meet at least one of the below criteria:

  • 20 composite scores on the ACT or 1030 reading and math combined SAT scores.
  • 2.7 overall non-weighted GPA and ranking in the upper 50% of the graduating class.
  • 2.7 overall GPA in the 15-unit high school core curriculum.

If you’re applying for academic scholarships, remember to use the ACT superscoring average. This composite score is generated from your best scores in English, Mathematics, Science, and reading.

Transfer applicants can qualify for admission if they meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • If the applicant has 7 - 23 credit hours, acquiring a 1.7 GPA and meeting Freshman Admission requirements is necessary.
  • If the applicant has 24 - 29 credit hours, scoring a 1.7 GPA is necessary.
  • If the applicant has 30 or more credit hours, scoring a 2.0 GPA is required.
  • A 2.0 GPA is required if transferring from an out-of-state college.

 

Applicants also need state-required immunisations to apply to UCO.  Students can either connect with experts at UniScholars or visit the official UCO website to learn more about additional admission types and state-required immunisations.

 

Documents


As an international student, having a complete list of documents and keeping your profile ready before applying is essential. You could lose your spot even if you meet all the entry requirements because of inadequate documents. Below is a tentative list of all the University of Central Oklahoma documents you might need for any international freshman programme.

  • Online UCO application
  • Official academic transcripts
  • Proof of completion of a level equivalent to 12 years of education in the US
  • Results of English proficiency tests
  • Bank statement
  • Passport
  • Statement of financial sponsorship
  • International audition submission form (only for UG applicants of UCO School of Music)
  • A non-refundable application fee of USD 40.
  • If your transcript is in a language other than English, the official, original language document as well as an official, or certified, English translation will be required.

English proficiency test is mandatory for all international students applying from non-English speaking countries. The minimum required scores are as follows -

 

Exam

UG programme

PG programme

TOEFL IBT

61 

79

TOEFL PBT

500

550

IELTS

5.5

6.5

PTE Academic

44

53

iTEP Academic

3.5

4.0

 

In lieu of the above exams, UG applicants can show proof of 12 weeks of intensive English study at an approved ESL programme in the US after achieving a minimum TOEFL score of 460 (PBT) or 48 (IBT) or minimum IELTS overall band of 5.0 or PTE Academic of 36 or iTEP of 3.0.

Similarly, PG applicants can show proof of 12 weeks of intensive English study at an approved ESL programme in the US after achieving a minimum TOEFL score of 500 (PBT) or 61 (IBT) or minimum IELTS of 6.0, 46-52 PTE score, or 3.7 iTEP Academic score. They can also provide transcripts showing their undergraduate degree was completed from an accredited university or college within the United States or from a UCO-approved native English-speaking country.

For more details about the bank statement, passport, and statement of financial sponsorship, visit the university’s official website for documentation or ask experts at UniCreds a question. 

 

Eligibility


The University of Central Oklahoma eligibility criteria for each international student may vary depending on their nationality, years of education, preferred course, programme, and academic performance. As a standard requirement, students must have a GPA of 2.70 or equivalent. While you can get most of the details from the university’s official website, it is advisable to connect with the authorities to have a clear idea.

Students with further doubts regarding their eligibility and applications can contact the administration via mail at onestophelp.uco.edu or phone at (405) 974-2727.

 

How To Apply At The University Of Central Oklahoma?

Check out the below steps to learn how to apply at The University of Central Oklahoma. Visit their official website for detailed steps.

  1. Create a new account on their application website.
  2. Verify the email via the temporary pin.
  3. Set a new password and begin your application.
  4. Enter your personal details, educational background and academic qualifications.
  5. Choose your preferred courses in the application.
  6. Upload the documents, results of English proficiency tests and bank statements.
  7. Pay the application fee and complete your application.

 

Deadlines

The University of Central Oklahoma deadlines differ depending on the intake you choose. Currently, you can apply in three intakes - fall, summer, and winter. The detailed breakdown of the admission cycle and their respective dates is mentioned in the following table.

Event

Fall Deadlines

Spring Deadlines

Summer Deadlines

Classes Begin

August 19

January 16

May 28

Last day to enrol

August 23 (in-person)

Sug 25 (on web)

January 18 at 12 am

May 31 at 12 am

Last Day to Drop Without Grade/With Refund

August 30 (midnight)

January 26

June 5

Last Day to Change to Audit

November 1 (midnight)

-

-

Last day to withdraw with a W grade

-

April 5 at 12 am

July 12 at 12 am

Coursework Ends

December 6

May 3

July 30

Final Exams

December 9-13

May 6 to 10

July 30 to 31

Grades Due

Noon December 17

May 14

August 6

Grades Posted to Transcripts

December 17 (after 5 p.m.)

May 15 after 5 pm

 

Decision Dates

 

The university’s office will your admission status via email once they receive your application and admission requirements. You can check your application status by logging into your Self-Service Centre. Regular University Of Central Oklahoma decision dates are scheduled after 4 to 6 business days after receiving your online application form and other documents. Once accepted, you will receive the full admission packet including your acceptance letter, I-20 and scholarship documents (if eligible).

Read more about sending and receiving documents on the university’s official page.

 

University Of Central Oklahoma Selection Criteria

 

The selection criteria will differ for each student depending on their application type, academic qualifications, chosen programme, and preferred courses. Here are the standard selection criteria and how to beat them.

  • Academic Entry Requirements: Fulfil all entry requirements and eligibility criteria before applying to the University of Central Oklahoma.
  • Portfolio Review: Ensure your application has all the required documents and portrays academic growth. If not growth, you must have consistent grades.
  • Personal Statement: Write a unique personal statement that elaborates on your strengths and achievements, and why you would be a valuable asset to the university.
  • References: Most applicants must submit letters of recommendation with their application. If your LORs are positive, it makes your application stand out.
  • Interviews and Auditions: International non-degree students may have to appear for an oral interview. Practise your English speaking skills beforehand. Prepare why this programme is best suited to you.

 

University Of Central Oklahoma Acceptance Rate

The University of Central Oklahoma has an acceptance rate of 81%. This indicates that the university has a lenient enrolment process and applicants who meet all the entry requirements and eligibility criteria have a high chance of acceptance. If your application requires a personal statement and letters of recommendation, ensure that both reflect your unique qualities, academic growth, and determination to pursue the university’s programme.

 

Fees

Finances are an essential part of the admission process. The following table features the standard University of Central Oklahoma fees. Note that these are generic figures and your actual tuition fees can vary. You can apply for scholarships to supplement the annual tuition fees.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Resident Tuition and Fees

  • General tuition fee: $252.65 per credit hour
  • University fee: $41.27 per credit hour
  • Total tuition and university fee per credit: $293.92

Oklahoma resident sample cost (based only on mandatory fees)

  • 3 credit hours: $881.76
  • 12 credit hours: $3527.04

Additional mandatory tuition (per credit hour) 

  • College of Business courses: $16
  • Nursing courses: $16
  • Speech/language/pathology courses: $6
  • Professional teacher education courses: $5.00

Nonresident Tuition and Fees

  • Nonresident general tuition fee: $362.90 per credit hour
  • Total tuition and university fee per credit: $656.82

Non-Oklahoma resident sample cost (based only on mandatory fees)

  • 3 credit hours: $1970.46
  • 12 credit hours: $7881.84

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Resident Tuition and Fees

  • General tuition fee per credit hour: $330.3
  • University fee per credit hour: $41.27
  • Total tuition and university fee per credit hour: $371.57

Oklahoma resident sample cost (based only on mandatory fees)

  • 3 credit hours: $1114.71
  • 12 credit hours: $4458.84

Additional mandatory tuition (per credit hour)

  • Graduate MBA courses: $89.75
  • MS in business analytics courses: $60.00
  • MS in finance courses: $60.00
  • College of Business courses: $16
  • Nursing courses: $16
  • Speech/language courses: $25.00

Nonresident Tuition and Fees

  • Nonresident general tuition per credit hour: $417.00
  • Total nonresident tuition and fee plus tuition per credit hour: $788.57

Non-Oklahoma resident sample cost (based only on mandatory fees)

  • 3 credit hours: $2365.71
  • 9 credit hours: $7097.13


For detailed fee structure and additional fees, visit the university’s official tuition and fees website.

Scholarship

University of Central Oklahoma may require proof of financial support during the application process. While some students can cover the full tuition fees, others may need scholarships or loans. UniScholars is a valuable resource for students seeking scholarships. Their platform allows students to explore available scholarships, including validity periods and renewal information. UniScholars also offers personalized guidance through counselors to ensure students feel confident in their scholarship applications. Check some of the scholarships here: 

 

Scholarship

Grant

Eligibility

R&D Systems Scholarship

$1,500

The student must be pursuing a degree in a science-related field - Life Science, Medical Science, Health Science.

Washington DC Scholarships

Variable Amount

3.0 or above GPA in high school or UG degree

QS Connect Master’s Scholarship

$2,000

Study at a master’s (non MBA) level

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend University of Central Oklahoma. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or in a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

 

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodation near the University of Central Oklahoma, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.

Cost of Living

Edmond, one of the safest cities in the country, has a diverse set of assets - premier schools, convenient and robust shopping and dining, beautiful parks and outdoor facilities, championship golf and athletic facilities, a commitment to public art, and more - that work together to make the city not only a great place to visit but also an appealing and fun place to live. The city has a 12% lower cost of living than the national average. Housing costs 26% less than the national average, while utilities cost 3% less. When it comes to basic necessities like food and clothing, groceries are about 8% cheaper than in the rest of the country, and clothing is 8% cheaper. Here’s a breakdown of living expenses in the city:

 

Item

Cost (Per Month)

Off-Campus Accommodation

$505

On-Campus Accommodation

$754

Transportation

$96

Food 

$347

Entertainment

$44

Groceries

$40

Clothes

$65

Health Insurance

$80

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

$1,097

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

$1,346

Annual Cost of Living

$13,164

FAQs