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ABOUT

About USAO

A Distinctive Education. A Lasting Impact.

As Oklahoma's only public liberal arts university, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma offers a distinctive educational experience that brings together the sciences, humanities, and arts. Nationally recognized for quality and value, USAO is a leader in interdisciplinary education, encouraging students to think critically, communicate effectively, and explore ideas across disciplines.

For more than a century, USAO has combined academic excellence with a commitment to creativity, curiosity, and personal growth. Through small classes, close relationships with faculty, and a welcoming campus community, students are challenged to broaden their perspectives and prepare for meaningful, purposeful, and productive lives.

Like the best private liberal arts colleges, USAO offers small classes, award-winning faculty, and a campus culture that fosters inclusivity, close faculty-student interaction and undergraduate research opportunities. USAO offers a vibrant residential campus experience where our students have the opportunity to attend cultural events and fine arts performances, or cheer on our athletic teams as they compete in 13 NAIA sports. USAO educates the whole person and encourages growth through public service.

Statement of Core Belief

We believe the best path to a meaningful and purposeful life is an education that integrates knowledge from many disciplines to equip individuals for the 21st century.

Top 10 Distinctives of USAO

Discover what makes the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma a distinctive place to learn, grow, and explore.
1. A Broad Educational Experience
As Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts university, USAO provides a well-rounded education grounded in the sciences and humanities, strengthening communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
2. An Interdisciplinary Core
USAO’s Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) curriculum connects knowledge across disciplines, offering an innovative approach to learning that remains as relevant today as when it was introduced 50 years ago.
3. Innovative Team-Teaching
USAO pioneered a team-teaching approach that brings professors from different disciplines into the same classroom, giving students multiple perspectives on shared subjects.
4. Highly Qualified Faculty
Every full-time faculty member holds a postgraduate degree, and nearly 90% hold terminal degrees in their fields. Classes are taught by professors, never teaching assistants.
5. A Close-Knit Community
With a low student-to-faculty ratio and a welcoming campus environment, USAO makes it easy for students to build meaningful relationships with professors and classmates.
6. Curiosity and Creativity
At USAO, curiosity drives learning and creativity is encouraged. Students are inspired to ask questions, explore new ideas, and think beyond traditional boundaries.
7. Students Stay and Graduate
USAO attracts curious, motivated students who thrive in its distinctive learning environment and graduate at higher rates than students at many similarly sized public universities.
8. Graduates Who Lead
USAO graduates build on their undergraduate education through successful postgraduate study and go on to become leaders in their chosen professions.
9. Quality Meets Affordability
USAO consistently earns national recognition for affordability, upward social mobility, and academic rigor, demonstrating that a high-quality education can remain accessible.
10. A Unique Role in Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts university, USAO fulfills a distinctive educational mission that is unmatched within the state’s higher education system.
Student smiling while seated at a desk in a USAO classroom, surrounded by classmates.

An Education Unlike Any Other

As Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts university, USAO offers a distinctive interdisciplinary education that connects the sciences, humanities, and arts. Through small classes, dedicated faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, explore new perspectives, and develop the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact.

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A Legacy of Learning Since 1908

Founded in 1908 as one of the first institutions established by Oklahoma’s first Legislature, USAO began as a pioneering women’s college. More than a century later, our university continues to honor its distinctive mission, embracing innovation, academic excellence, and a commitment to preparing generations of students for meaningful and purposeful lives.

Discover Our History
Historic black-and-white photograph of three women using telephones, with one pointing toward a wall-mounted switchboard.

 

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