Edmond, Oklahoma, offers a lively educational landscape for prospective college students. Whether you are a high school graduate looking to start your academic journey or a professional seeking to advance your career, Edmond’s diverse higher education options provide numerous pathways to success.
Located just north of Oklahoma City, Edmond has become a flourishing destination for college students, offering a unique mix of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. With its tree-lined streets, active downtown, and strong sense of community, it’s no surprise many students choose to call Edmond home during their college years.
Overview of Colleges and Universities
Edmond’s educational landscape features a diverse array of institutions, with at least 12 colleges serving the area. This includes 7 private colleges and universities, 2 public institutions, and 2 community colleges offering two-year degrees. This mix provides students with various educational pathways, from technical certificates to doctoral programs, all within close proximity to the city.
- Students and alumni of Edmond’s universities embody the spirit and diversity of local higher education. Source: visitedmondok.com
The higher education environment in Edmond has seen some changes in recent years, with degree completions showing a slight decline. In 2023, students completed approximately 7,708 doctorates at colleges and universities near Edmond, representing a 7% decrease from 2019. Despite this trend, the area continues to maintain a strong educational foundation with institutions that cater to diverse student needs, from traditional campus experiences to flexible online learning opportunities.
Institution Profiles
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) stands as Edmond’s flagship public institution, offering an affordable education with in-state tuition averaging $8,522. UCO serves over 10,400 undergraduate students and awarded 2,713 degrees in 2023, including 2,234 bachelor’s degrees. With a beautiful campus in downtown Edmond, UCO provides a conventional college experience while maintaining strong connections to the local community.
- The engaging environment of Edmond’s institutions fosters connections and friendships. Source: uco.edu
Oklahoma Christian University (OC) represents one of the area’s notable private institutions, with undergraduate tuition around $25,900. OC serves approximately 1,856 undergraduates and awarded 652 degrees in 2023. The university offers a faith-based education with strong programs in engineering, business, and liberal arts. For those seeking flexibility, Franklin University provides fully online degree options, with 100% of its programs available remotely. Other noteworthy institutions include Southern Nazarene University, Oklahoma City University, and Southwestern Christian University, each offering unique academic environments and specialized programs.
Student Housing and Campus Life
On-campus housing at the University of Central Oklahoma offers students a lively community experience with several residence hall options. West Hall hosts many Living Learning Communities and the International House, while The Quad—UCO’s newest residence hall—features amenities designed to enhance both living and learning experiences. For those seeking more independence, University Commons provides apartment-style living with fully equipped kitchens. UCO’s housing application process begins early, with returning resident applications opening October 1 and new resident applications starting November 1.
- Friendly interactions are a cornerstone of student housing and campus life in Edmond. Source: uco.edu
Campus life at Edmond’s universities extends well beyond academics, with numerous student organizations enhancing the collegiate experience. UCO’s Residence Hall Association represents the 1,800+ on-campus residents and organizes popular events throughout the year, including welcome activities, community events, and cultural celebrations. The Sideliners organization focuses on student-led programming at Sidelines, the late-night dining option featuring karaoke nights and watch parties. For sports enthusiasts, Housing Hype encourages school spirit through athletic event attendance and intramural sports participation, creating a well-rounded campus experience.
Local Resources and Opportunities
Edmond’s job market offers promising prospects for college graduates, with approximately 687,875 jobs in the area as of 2024. The region has experienced above-average job growth at 1.5% from 2023 to 2024, with 83,558 job openings. Workers in Edmond earn an average hourly wage of $22.15, exceeding the national average of $20.75, making it an attractive place to begin a career after graduation. This healthy economic environment provides students with internship opportunities during their studies and potential employment after degree completion.
- Edmond students explore opportunities beyond the classroom in the local community. Source: uco.edu
Beyond employment, Edmond offers students a remarkable quality of life with numerous amenities. Local coffee shops and restaurants provide great study environments, while outdoor recreation options help reduce stress. UCO students enjoy free access to the University Boathouse at Arcadia Lake, offering activities like ropes courses, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The city’s lively downtown features shopping, dining, and entertainment options within easy reach of campus. For affordable off-campus housing, students can find numerous apartment complexes and rental homes throughout Edmond, many specifically catering to the college demographic with student-friendly leasing terms.
