Oakwood University

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Oakwood University

Overview & Academics

  • Oakwood University is a private, historically Black Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) institution located in Huntsville, Alabama. Founded in 1896, it is recognized as one of the nation’s leading HBCUs.
  • The university is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and emphasizes Christian values, academic excellence, and service.
  • Offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across more than 50 areas of study including Science, Business, Theology, Education, Nursing, and Health Sciences.
  • Features schools and departments such as the School of Business, School of Religion, School of Arts & Sciences, School of Education & Social Sciences, and the School of Nursing & Health Professions.
  • Oakwood University integrates faith, research, and innovation into its academic approach.

Admissions

  • Oakwood University employs a holistic admissions process reviewing academic achievements, test scores (optional for some programs), character references, and personal essays.
  • The application process can be completed online, with rolling admissions considered for most programs.
  • Requirements include a completed application form, official transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (as required), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Admission Stats

  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 72%.
  • Average GPA of entering freshmen: 3.2–3.5.
  • SAT (middle 50%): 920–1120; ACT (middle 50%): 17–23.
  • Enrollment yield (percent of admitted students who enroll): Approximately 42%.

Cost

  • Tuition (2023–24): Approx. $19,598 per year for undergraduate students.
  • Additional fees (room, board, etc.): $8,500–$10,000 depending on residence and meal plan choices.
  • Financial aid: Over 90% of students receive some form of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, and work-study.

Student Population

  • Total enrollment: Around 1,400–1,600 students.
  • Undergraduate: Approx. 90% of total enrollment.
  • Diverse student body drawn from across the US, Caribbean, Africa, and other international locations.
  • Strong focus on fostering leadership, service, and spiritual growth.

Rankings & Distinctions

  • Ranked among top HBCUs by national college guides.
  • Recognized as the #1 producer of African-American graduates who go on to doctorates in the STEM fields among HBCUs.
  • Consistently awarded for civic engagement, innovation, and sustainability.

Campus & Culture

  • 140-acre campus in Huntsville, Alabama, with historic buildings, green spaces, and modern facilities.
  • Students have access to research labs, an on-campus farm, residence halls, dining facilities, a state-of-the-art health sciences complex, and a comprehensive library.
  • Campus culture emphasizes spiritual growth, service, social justice, and a supportive community atmosphere.
  • Seventh-day Adventist religious traditions are integrated into campus events and daily life.

Athletics & Traditions

  • Member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA); athletic teams known as the Oakwood Ambassadors.
  • Sports include basketball, volleyball, soccer, and track & field.
  • Traditions include “Oakwood Live!” (annual recruitment and campus preview event), spiritual assemblies, university-wide service projects, and a legacy of choral music—particularly the renowned Oakwood Aeolians choir.

Mission

  • The mission of Oakwood University is to transform students through biblically based education for service to God and humanity.
  • Values include integrity, excellence, respect, compassion, and a Christ-centered worldview.

Leadership & Current Developments

  • President: Dr. Leslie N. Pollard.
  • Leadership emphasizes innovation, sustainability, spiritual growth, and preparing graduates for global citizenship.
  • Recent initiatives include the launch of new STEM programs, expansion of online learning, and enhanced community engagement efforts.

Programs

  • Associate, bachelor’s, master’s, post-baccalaureate certificates, and professional programs.
  • Popular majors: Nursing, Biology, Social Work, Business Administration, Computer Science, Music, Pastoral Ministry, and Public Health.
  • Graduate programs include Master’s in Religion, Public Health, and Business Administration.
  • Specialty offerings: Adult & Continuing Education, Honors Program, and Pre-professional tracks (law, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy).

Campus Life

  • Residential campus with several dormitories and themed housing options.
  • On-campus dining, fitness center, intramural sports, and cultural events designed to foster holistic development.
  • Regular worship services, spiritual life activities, and community service projects are central to student life.

Student Organizations

  • Over 45 student clubs, organizations, and honor societies including Student Government Association, Pre-Professional Societies, NAACP chapter, and cultural clubs.
  • Notable musical ensembles: Oakwood Aeolians, Gospel Choir, and University Orchestra.
  • Other opportunities include leadership development programs, campus ministry teams, and involvement in local outreach initiatives.