Top Engineering Schools in Oklahoma
1. University of Oklahoma (OU)
Overview
The University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, is a flagship public research university with a highly regarded College of Engineering. The Gallogly College of Engineering at OU offers a broad range of engineering programs, from aerospace to biomedical engineering, making it one of the top engineering schools in the region. OU’s engineering students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities through internships, co-ops, and research projects. The university is particularly known for its strong programs in petroleum engineering and aerospace engineering, thanks to its location in a state with a rich history in the energy and aerospace industries. OU provides students access to world-class facilities, including the Stephenson Research and Technology Center and the ExxonMobil Lawrence G. Rawl Engineering Practice Facility.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): #98 (2023)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 28,000+ (approximately 3,500 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, Industrial, Mechanical, and Petroleum Engineering.
- Graduate Degrees: Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various engineering disciplines.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 80%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1150-1350 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: 310+ (verbal and quantitative combined)
Famous Alumni
- David Boren – Former U.S. Senator and President of the University of Oklahoma.
- Shannon Lucid – NASA astronaut and biochemist.
- T. Boone Pickens – Oil tycoon, financier, and philanthropist.
- Ed Harris – Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind.
- Clay Bennett – Chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
2. Oklahoma State University (OSU)
Overview
Oklahoma State University, located in Stillwater, is a land-grant institution with a strong focus on engineering and technology. The College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT) at OSU offers a comprehensive range of engineering programs that emphasize practical, hands-on learning experiences. OSU is particularly known for its mechanical and aerospace engineering programs, which are supported by the university’s close ties to Oklahoma’s aerospace industry. Students at OSU have access to modern research facilities, including the Bert Cooper Engineering Laboratory and the Helmerich Research Center. OSU’s strong connections with industry leaders and its focus on entrepreneurship prepare graduates for successful careers in engineering.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): #104 (2023)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 24,000+ (approximately 4,000 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Aerospace, Biosystems, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical, and Petroleum Engineering.
- Graduate Degrees: Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various engineering disciplines.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 70%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1090-1280 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: 305+ (verbal and quantitative combined)
Famous Alumni
- Barry Sanders – NFL Hall of Fame running back.
- T. Boone Pickens – Billionaire oil magnate and philanthropist.
- Anita Hill – Attorney, professor, and prominent public figure.
- Garth Brooks – Country music superstar and Grammy Award winner.
- Boone Pickens – Legendary oilman and financial guru.
3. University of Tulsa (TU)
Overview
The University of Tulsa (TU), located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a private research university with a renowned College of Engineering and Natural Sciences. TU’s engineering programs are known for their rigor, small class sizes, and personalized attention. The university has strong connections to the oil and gas industry, making its petroleum engineering program one of the best in the country. In addition to petroleum engineering, TU also offers robust programs in mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Students benefit from access to advanced research facilities, including the Tulsa University Artificial Lift Projects and the Institute of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): #124 (2023)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 4,000+ (approximately 1,500 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Mechanical, and Petroleum Engineering.
- Graduate Degrees: Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various engineering disciplines, particularly in Petroleum Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 69%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1160-1350 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: 310+ (verbal and quantitative combined)
Famous Alumni
- J. Paul Getty – Billionaire industrialist and oil magnate.
- Wilma Mankiller – First female chief of the Cherokee Nation.
- Lorton Meadows – Founder of the Tulsa World newspaper.
- John Mabee – Philanthropist and co-founder of Mabee Petroleum Corporation.
- Jerry W. Thompson – CEO of Sunoco.
4. Oklahoma Christian University (OCU)
Overview
Oklahoma Christian University, located in Edmond, is a private Christian institution known for its strong academic programs, including its School of Engineering and Computer Science. OCU offers a personalized learning environment where students receive hands-on education and close mentorship from faculty. The engineering school offers programs in electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering, with an emphasis on ethical leadership and Christian values. The university’s small class sizes allow students to engage deeply with their coursework and participate in meaningful research projects. OCU also provides students with internship opportunities at local technology and engineering firms.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): Unranked (undergraduate-only program)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 2,200+ (approximately 300 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 63%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1100-1300 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: Not applicable (undergraduate-only program).
Famous Alumni
- Kurt Budke – Former head coach of the Oklahoma State University women’s basketball team.
- Michael L. Simpson – Former U.S. Representative from Idaho.
- Phil Vischer – Creator of VeggieTales and co-founder of Big Idea Productions.
- Gordon Lawson – Business leader and entrepreneur in Oklahoma’s oil industry.
- James C. Dobson – Founder of Focus on the Family.
5. Oral Roberts University (ORU)
Overview
Oral Roberts University (ORU), located in Tulsa, is a private Christian university with a mission to integrate faith and learning. ORU’s College of Science and Engineering offers engineering programs that focus on preparing students to solve real-world challenges through innovation and technical expertise. The engineering school emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and leadership, preparing students for careers in fields such as mechanical, electrical, and biomedical engineering. ORU’s engineering curriculum is integrated with the university’s Christian mission, encouraging students to approach their careers with a strong ethical foundation. The school offers modern laboratories and facilities, giving students access to the latest tools and technologies in their fields.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): Unranked (undergraduate-only program)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 3,500+ (approximately 400 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Mechanical, Electrical, and Biomedical Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 82%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1050-1230 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: Not applicable (undergraduate-only program).
Famous Alumni
- Joel Osteen – Pastor, author, and televangelist.
- Kathy Lee Gifford – Television host, singer, and author.
- Ron Shuping – Radio host and personality.
- Mark Rutland – Former president of ORU and evangelist.
- Richard Roberts – Evangelist and son of Oral Roberts, founder of ORU.
6. University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)
Overview
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), located in Edmond, offers a growing engineering program within its College of Mathematics and Science. UCO provides students with strong foundational knowledge in engineering disciplines such as electrical and mechanical engineering, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and research. The university’s engineering programs are designed to prepare students for careers in the aerospace, energy, and technology industries. UCO is also known for its strong connections with local industries, offering students internships and job placements that help them gain valuable real-world experience. With a supportive faculty and small class sizes, UCO provides a personalized educational experience for aspiring engineers.
U.S. News Ranking
- National Ranking (Engineering): Unranked (undergraduate-only program)
Student Statistics
- Total Students (Undergraduate & Graduate): 15,000+ (approximately 500 in engineering)
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate Degrees: Electrical, Mechanical, and Biomedical Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Overall Acceptance Rate: 80%
Average SAT and GRE Scores
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1230 (middle 50%)
- Average GRE Score for Engineering Master’s Students: Not applicable (undergraduate-only program).
Famous Alumni
- Shannon Lucid – NASA astronaut and biochemist.
- John Hope Franklin – Historian and author of From Slavery to Freedom.
- Fred Thompson – Former U.S. Senator and actor.
- Broncho Mendenhall – Former head football coach at the University of Virginia.
- Charlie Hough – Former Major League Baseball pitcher.