FAQ

USAO's Frequently Asked Questions

• I felt lost at a bigger college. What are the advantages of choosing USAO? You'll take classes taught by Ph.Ds your freshman year at USAO. Classes are much smaller here, so you won't be lost in a lecture hall that seats 1,000. (We don't even have one.) Student-teacher ratio at USAO is 18:1, which is among the lowest in Oklahoma.

• Science and Arts … is that it? USAO offers 23 degree programs across the spectrum, plus 13 pre-professional programs such as pre-law and pre-pharmacy. USAO is a public liberal arts college, one of only a few in the nation. Like all other good colleges, USAO will prepare you for a career. But more importantly, our unique curriculum will enrich your life and strengthen your skills in communication and problem-solving. We'll help you discover your potential, and you'll love the result.

• I have no idea what I want to major in ... is that a problem? Not at all. Just start college with an open mind. Explore your options. There is a category for students with an "undeclared major," and we don't make them wear a big scarlet "U" on their jackets, either. It's not a crime to begin college and then decide.

• What kind of help can I expect from my adviser at USAO? Unlike high school, in college you are in charge. You make the decisions for your future. Your adviser will assist you in choosing courses to complete a degree in your chosen field of study, but your adviser is not your mother. Lots more information, motivation, and career-development resources are available on campus through the university counselor, student life counselors, student services office, resident assistants, and, yes, even administrators. There's a network of people at USAO who want to help you succeed. That's what makes USAO a great place to be.

• Is it okay to change my major during the course of my college career? Absolutely. It's a simple form. No fee. It may add a few hours to your transcript, but it will probably enrich your life. Ever heard the pop song that says, "Lots of 40-year-olds don't know what they want to be when they grow up?"

• What is IDS? The simplest answer is, "It's our core curriculum required of all students in every major." But it's more than that; it's a philosophy of learning. It is learning in the truest sense of the word. Instead of rote memorization, you'll learn about how various perspectives from different fields (such as history, philosophy, math, etc.) all relate to each other on a given issue.  Click here to learn more about USAO's IDS program.

• Will my general ed courses from another college transfer in place of your IDS requirements? Yes, almost always. Every student is admitted individually, so bring your transcript, meet with the Registrar, and map your future.

• How's the food? And dorms? Can you do better than food served by Sodexho?  Students tell us it's better than ever. Lawson Court apartments are the newest in the state, opened in fall 2002. Sparks Hall reopened in 2000 after a $5.2 million restoration and houses both men and women. A $2.3 million renovation of the Student Center makes it a great place to eat and meet.  Learn more here...

• Why Chickasha? Small-town charm. Great location. Forty minutes from metro shopping and arts events.

• What is college actually going to cost me? For an Oklahoma student taking 12 hours per trimester living in Sparks Dormitory with a 15-meal plan is about $3,837 per trimester or $7,674 per fall/spring. For an Oklahoma student taking 12 hours per trimester and living in a 4-bedroom apartment in Lawson court with a 15-meal plan is about $4,467 per trimester or $8,934 per fall/spring.   Learn more here...

• How am I going to pay for college if my parents aren't rich? Nobody who wants to go to college should let finances be the obstacle that stops them. USAO can help you learn more about financial aid and the variety of grants, scholarships, and loans available.

• What kind of scholarships are available if I don't have a super-high ACT score? There are all kinds of scholarships: academic, naturally, but also leadership, talent in music, art, drama, athletics and more. At USAO, there is one scholarship unlike any in Oklahoma. Find out about the Third-Tri Fee Waiver. It could save you more than 25 percent of the cost of your education. More than $5 million in financial aid is transmitted each year by USAO in scholarships, grants, and loans. If you have additional questions, please visit our financial aid staff in person (Troutt Hall 108).

• What's the advantage of trimesters over regular semesters? Most colleges offer two semesters each year. At USAO, we offer three. If you want to graduate from college in three years (yes, it's actually possible!), you can do it at USAO. And that third trimester is free if you qualify. 

• Will a college degree from USAO really help me get a job? Yes. College graduates start with at least 35 percent more in salary than non-grads. And employers everywhere are seeking problem-solvers who think critically and logically - the kind of people that USAO and other good liberal arts colleges produce.

• What extracurricular activities are available at USAO? There's a lot to learn outside the classroom, too. At USAO, there are 27 active clubs on campus related to everything from academics and community service to minority culture to fencing. Theatre. Intercollegiate and intramural sports. Concerts. Art exhibitions. Social activities sponsored by the Student Association.  Find out more...
 

In compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, USAO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies or procedures. USAO complies fully with Section 3-114 of Title 65 of the Oklahoma Statues. This publication is issued by the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma as authorized by President John Feaver. Publication design by the USAO Office of Public Relations. All photography was produced by and is the property of USAO.