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The University of Central Oklahoma (commonly referred to as UCO) is a public, coeducational university located in Edmond, Oklahoma and the third largest university in the state. Founded in 1890 UCO was one of the first institutions of higher education to be established in what would become the state of Oklahoma and as such, is also one of the oldest universities in the southwest region of the United States. UCO’s mission and purpose for existing is “to help students learn by providing transformative education experiences to students so that they may become productive, creative, ethical and engaged citizens and leaders serving our global community.” The school’s mission statement continues, “UCO contributes to the intellectual, cultural, economic and social advancement of the communities and individuals it serves.”
Academic Programs
University of Central Oklahoma is accredited through The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Offering more than 100 undergraduate degrees and over 55 graduate degrees, OCU is made up of several colleges and schools including: College of Business; College of Education & Professional Studies; College of Fine Arts and Design; College of Mathematics & Science; College of Liberal Arts; and The Jackson College of Graduate Studies. Additional centers and student resources include UCO’s International Education Opportunities; Undergraduate Research Opportunities; Center for eLearning and Connected Environments; Center for Excellence in Transformative Teaching & Learning; and the Center for Global Competency.UCO’s campus is also home to the Forensic Science Institute (FSI), a comprehensive training and research organization that educates students in all aspects of evidence collection, preservation, analysis, reporting and testimony. In addition, UCO’s Volunteer Service Learning Center encourages students to become active participants in the Edmond and Oklahoma City communities through public service and as well as civic engagement.
Student Life
University of Central Oklahoma has a total student population of nearly 17,000 – including 15,000 undergraduate students. On-campus housing is offered in UCO’s Murdaugh Hall, West Hall, The Quad, University Suites, University Commons, or in Living Learning Communities and OCU’s housing ranks highly in satisfaction surveys. Dining options include a well-equipped cafeteria, and the two Starbucks coffee shops on UCO’s campus serve as popular meeting places on the campus. UCO’s boasts a Green campus in terms of design and construction and the university has received the Green Power Leadership award from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its use of green power as well as multiple ‘Keep Oklahoma Beautiful’ awards.One of UCO’s trademark events includes ‘Stampede Week’. 20-year tradition at UCO, Stampede Week is held during the first week of classes provides students with the best opportunity to make connections, meet new people, see entertainers, find jobs on campus, join a social group and simply, “kick off being a ‘Broncho’ the right way.”