Southwestern Oklahoma State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is a public university with campuses in Weatherford and Sayre, Oklahoma. Established in 1901 by the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature as "Southwestern Normal School," SWOSU has a rich history of serving the educational needs of Oklahoma and beyond.
A History of Growth and Adaptation
The journey of SWOSU began with the vision of training teachers for the burgeoning public school system. Although the institution was founded in 1901, classes didn't commence until 1903. Weatherford was chosen as the location, winning a court battle against several other towns.
Early Years as a Normal School
The Southwestern Normal School initially offered a two-year degree program for teacher education and a preparatory school. Classes were held in three abandoned saloons on Main Street while the first building was under construction. James R. Campbell, the first president, along with twelve faculty members, welcomed 113 students.
Transition to a Four-Year Institution
In 1920, the school transitioned into a four-year institution and was renamed Southwestern State Teachers College. The preparatory part of the school was closed.
Overcoming Challenges
The Great Depression presented significant challenges, with attempts made to close the school due to financial constraints. The institution had to remove several presidents to survive politically.
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Expansion and Diversification
During World War II, SWOSU experienced significant expansion, adding programs in the arts and sciences and establishing its School of Pharmacy, now a nationally known program. Brief periods saw the institution named "Southwestern State College of Diversified Occupations" and "Southwestern Institute of Technology." The Oklahoma Legislature formally changed the name to Southwestern State College.
Modern Era
In 1974, the institution's name was changed to Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Pres. Al Harris added several new buildings and reached a record enrollment of over 5,500 in the 1960s and 1970s. With a student enrollment of 4,915, the school entered its centennial year under the leadership of Pres. Joe Anna Hibler.
Campus and Facilities
The Weatherford campus spans over 100 acres and houses diverse buildings, some dating back to the school's opening in 1903 and others constructed as recently as 2014. The Pioneer Cellular Event Center opened in January 2014.
Academics and Programs
SWOSU offers a wide array of academic programs, including 38 bachelor's degrees, 7 associate degrees, 6 master's degrees, and 1 doctorate. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1 and provides a Veteran's assistance program and a distance learning program. As of June 2017, SWOSU was ranked in a MSN "Best Schools of 2017" list. SWOSU also offers the President’s Leadership Class (PLC), a four-year program for a select group of scholars that consists of “leadership training that fosters both intellectual and personal growth.”
SWOSU at Sayre
SWOSU at Sayre was founded in 1938 as a Junior College and merged with Southwestern Oklahoma State University in July 1987 by act of the Oklahoma legislature. It offers open admission to high school graduates.
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Athletics
SWOSU's athletic teams are known as the Bulldogs. The university competes at the NCAA Division II level as a member of the Great American Conference (GAC). SWOSU began play in the GAC in the 2012-2013 academic year.
Student Life
There are nearly 100 student organizations such as SGA (Student Government Association), CAB (Campus Activities Board), NSO (New Student Orientation), GSM Project (Gender and Sexual Minorities Project, formally SODA (Sexual Orientation Diversity Association)), RHJB (Residence Hall Judicial Board) and Greek Fraternities and Sororities that offer activities to make campus life more exciting for students. The events these organizations put on are typically free to students. SGA is the official governing body of SWOSU students, advocating for student interests and providing student services and resources. Providing students with outdoor activities, the SWOSU-run Crowder Lake University Park features sailing, camping, canoeing, and fishing.
Affordability and Financial Aid
SWOSU is known for its affordability.
Tuition
In-state tuition: $8,469
Out-of-state tuition: $8,499
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Additional Costs
Room and Board: $7,634
Books and Supplies: $1318
Financial Aid
Average Net Price: $12,891
Total Needs Based Scholarships/Grants: $16,118,014
Total Non-Need-Based Scholarships/Grants: $5,563,758
Students receiving federal loansAverage Federal Loans Per Year$5,076Average Other Loans Per Year$7,749
Admissions
SWOSU has "selective" admissions. The college has rolling admissions, which means applications are accepted any time throughout the year.
Average ACT Composite: 21
Average SAT Composite: 1085
Campus Safety
Campus safety measures include:
24-HR escort safety rides Yes
Mobile campus emergency alert Yes
Reputation and Recognition
SWOSU has gained national recognition through its sports and academic programs. It is known for its fast-growing Engineering department and has been recognized for its online programs.
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