Overview of the University of Tulsa
Established in 1894, the University of Tulsa (TU) is a private, comprehensive research university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States. TU’s 230-acre campus in the heart of the city serves approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students and boasts a student-faculty ratio of 11:1. As a leading private institution in the region, TU upholds a commitment to academic rigor, research innovation, and global engagement, offering a close-knit community with diverse academic programs and international reach.
Academic Strengths and Structure
The University of Tulsa is renowned for its programs in engineering, petroleum engineering, computer science, law, and business, with additional strengths in health sciences, the arts, and the humanities. TU features a distinctive interdisciplinary curriculum encouraging collaboration across disciplines. Notable for its research enterprise, the university hosts institutes such as the McDougall School of Petroleum Engineering and has research expenditures exceeding $24 million annually. TU is consistently ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report and maintains strategic partnerships with leading industry and academic consortia worldwide, including the Tulsa Innovation Labs and the Center for Global Engagement. TU also supports joint degree opportunities and fosters undergraduate research.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at TU is vibrant, offering over 150 student organizations, active student government, and various cultural, arts, and STEM-focused events throughout the year. The university is committed to diversity, aiming for inclusivity and internationalization—students from more than 60 countries call TU home. Comprehensive student support services include academic advising, mental health resources, and dedicated international student services. Residential options span traditional residence halls to modern apartments, while state-of-the-art athletic and recreational facilities contribute to a rich sporting culture. The Alexander Health Center, Lorton Performance Center, and active Greek life round out TU’s holistic student experience.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The University of Tulsa is dedicated to cultivating leaders through a commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity. With a focus on sustainability, equity, and fostering global citizens, TU strives to advance knowledge and positively impact society at regional, national, and international levels.
