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University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) vs University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU)

Envision yourself immersed in the vibrant tapestry of two esteemed institutions: the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU). While both universities share a commitment to academic excellence, they offer distinct experiences that cater to diverse aspirations. UCLA, nestled in the heart of Westwood, California, boasts a highly selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 12%, while OU, situated in the energetic city of Norman, Oklahoma, welcomes a broader range of students, reflected in its 62% acceptance rate. Explore the nuances that set these universities apart, from their popular majors and student body demographics to their graduation rates, meticulously presented in the comparison table below. Discover which institution aligns seamlessly with your academic pursuits and personal aspirations, embarking on a transformative journey that will shape your future.
University of California-Los Angeles logo

University of California-Los Angeles

 		University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus logo

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Overview

Location Los Angeles, California Norman, Oklahoma
Campus setting City: Large Suburb: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Quarter Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 97.0% 89.0%
Common app member No No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 10.8% 85.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $70
Graduate: $120
Undergraduate: $40
Graduate: $50
SAT range N/A 1150 - 1340
ACT range N/A 23 - 29
Students submitting SAT score 21.0%
Students submitting ACT score 52.0%
Total number of applicants 139,489 17,318
Total number of admissions given out 15,028 14,760
Admitted students who chose to enroll 6,584 4,582
Yield rate 43.8% 31.0%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $36,173
Out of state: $65,927
In state: $31,293
Out of state: $47,097
Average net price $13,393 $22,022
Tuition
In state: $11,442
Out of state: $41,196
In state: $4,920
Out of state: $20,724
Room & board $16,763
Room/dormitory: $6,768
Meal plan: $4,932
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Guaranteed tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

 45.0%
Average amount $17,592 		100.0%
Average amount $10,298
Students receiving federal student loan 11.0%
Average amount $4,391 		37.0%
Average amount $5,372
Students taking out private loans 1.0%
Average amount $19,764 		9.0%
Average amount $15,502

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students 32,122
Men 40.2% Women 59.8% 		21,152
Men 48.8% Women 51.2%
Graduate students 13,994
Men 50.5% Women 49.5% 		6,890
Men 45.2% Women 54.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students 21.9% N/A
International students 14.5% 5.2%
Campus local/setting City: Large Suburb: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 20,372 6,405
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from California Texas Washington New York Illinois N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Legal Profession
Students to faculty ratio 18:1 17:1
Institutional accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 92.1% 75.8%
Dropout rate 3.7% 22.4%
Transferred out 3.6% N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $129,237
  • Year 2: $134,761
  • Year 3: $179,615
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $150,028
  • Year 2: $143,744
  • Year 3: $157,681
Applied Mathematics (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $117,572
  • Year 3: $156,116
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $117,100
  • Year 2: $110,878
  • Year 3: $147,842
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $92,050
  • Year 2: $101,128
  • Year 3: $130,087
Mechanical Engineering (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $112,202
  • Year 2: $117,572
  • Year 3: $126,081
Engineering, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $116,282
  • Year 2: $111,435
  • Year 3: $123,214
Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $110,139
  • Year 2: $97,071
  • Year 3: $111,727
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $98,817
  • Year 2: $96,775
  • Year 3: $110,729
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $94,892
  • Year 2: $99,040
  • Year 3: $110,415
Dentistry (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $109,333
  • Year 2: $114,892
  • Year 3: $127,262
Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $112,154
  • Year 2: $118,296
  • Year 3: $122,093
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $111,425
  • Year 2: $107,694
  • Year 3: $107,979
Petroleum Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,626
  • Year 2: $91,017
  • Year 3: $99,981
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $103,025
  • Year 2: $95,473
  • Year 3: $99,412
Psychology, General (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $94,408
  • Year 3: $98,563
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $90,890
  • Year 2: $89,746
  • Year 3: $98,170
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,548
  • Year 2: $64,990
  • Year 3: $90,680
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,265
  • Year 2: $70,176
  • Year 3: $80,297
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,700
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: $80,055

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the main differences between UCLA and the University of Oklahoma (OU)?

    UCLA is a large, public research university located in Los Angeles, California, known for its strong academics, particularly in arts, sciences, and professional schools, and its location in a major metropolitan area. The University of Oklahoma, located in Norman, Oklahoma, is also a large public research university, but it's known for its strong programs in meteorology, petroleum engineering, and Native American studies, and offers a more traditional college town experience.

  • How do the locations of UCLA and OU differ, and how might that impact my college experience?

    UCLA's location in Los Angeles provides access to a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, and career opportunities. It's a fast-paced urban environment. OU, in Norman, offers a more relaxed, campus-centered atmosphere. Norman is a smaller city, providing a more traditional college town experience with a strong sense of community. Consider whether you prefer a bustling city or a quieter, more focused environment.

  • Which university is more selective in its admissions process?

    UCLA is significantly more selective than the University of Oklahoma. UCLA consistently ranks among the most selective universities in the United States, with a lower acceptance rate and higher average SAT/ACT scores for admitted students. OU, while still competitive, has a higher acceptance rate.

  • How do the academic reputations of UCLA and OU compare?

    Both UCLA and OU are respected research universities, but UCLA generally holds a higher national and international ranking across a broader range of academic disciplines. UCLA is particularly strong in areas like medicine, law, engineering, and the arts. OU is highly regarded for its programs in meteorology, petroleum engineering, and Native American studies. Your choice should depend on your specific academic interests.

  • What are the typical class sizes at UCLA and OU?

    Due to its larger size, UCLA tends to have larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. While OU also has large classes, particularly in popular majors, it generally offers more opportunities for smaller, more personalized learning experiences, especially in upper-level courses. However, both universities offer a range of class sizes depending on the department and course level.

  • How do the costs of attending UCLA and OU compare?

    The cost of attendance varies depending on residency. For California residents, UCLA is generally more affordable than OU due to lower in-state tuition. However, for out-of-state students, UCLA and OU may have comparable tuition costs, but the overall cost of living in Los Angeles is significantly higher than in Norman, Oklahoma. Consider tuition, fees, housing, and other living expenses when comparing costs.

  • What types of financial aid and scholarships are available at UCLA and OU?

    Both UCLA and OU offer a variety of financial aid options, including grants, loans, and scholarships. UCLA participates in the University of California's financial aid programs, while OU offers its own institutional scholarships and grants. Both universities encourage students to apply for federal financial aid through the FAFSA. Research specific scholarship opportunities offered by each university based on your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and background.

  • What student life and extracurricular activities are available at each university?

    UCLA offers a vast array of student organizations, clubs, and activities, reflecting the diverse interests of its large student body. From academic clubs to performing arts groups to sports teams, there's something for everyone. OU also has a vibrant student life with numerous organizations, a strong Greek system, and a passionate sports culture, particularly surrounding its football team. Both universities offer opportunities for leadership development, community service, and recreational activities.

  • How do the athletic programs at UCLA and OU compare?

    Both UCLA and OU have strong athletic programs and compete in NCAA Division I. UCLA is a member of the Pac-12 Conference (soon to be the Big Ten), while OU is a member of the Big 12 Conference (soon to be the SEC). Both universities have a rich history of athletic success, particularly in football and basketball. Consider which sports are important to you and the level of competition you desire.

  • What career services and internship opportunities are available at UCLA and OU?

    Both UCLA and OU offer comprehensive career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs. UCLA's location in Los Angeles provides access to a wide range of internship and job opportunities in various industries. OU also offers strong connections to employers in Oklahoma and the surrounding region, particularly in the energy, aerospace, and technology sectors. Consider your career goals and which location offers better opportunities in your field of interest.

  • What are the strengths of UCLA's campus culture?

    UCLA's campus culture is known for its academic rigor, diversity, and commitment to social justice. Students are highly motivated and engaged in research, activism, and community service. The campus is vibrant and bustling, with a strong sense of school spirit and a wide range of cultural events and activities.

  • What are the strengths of OU's campus culture?

    OU's campus culture is known for its strong sense of community, school spirit, and tradition. Students are friendly and welcoming, and there's a strong emphasis on building relationships and getting involved. The campus is beautiful and well-maintained, with a classic college town feel.

  • Which university is better for students interested in the entertainment industry?

    UCLA is generally considered a better choice for students interested in the entertainment industry due to its location in Los Angeles, the heart of the industry. UCLA offers strong film, television, and theater programs, as well as numerous internship and networking opportunities with major studios and production companies.

  • Which university is better for students interested in petroleum engineering or meteorology?

    The University of Oklahoma is widely recognized as a leading institution for petroleum engineering and meteorology. OU has strong faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and close ties to the energy industry and the National Weather Center, providing students with excellent research and career opportunities.

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