About Oakland University
Oakland University was founded in 1957 when Matilda Dodge Wilson and her husband Alfred Wilson donated their 1,500-acre estate to Michigan State University. In 1959, what is now Oakland University opened under the name Michigan State University-Oakland. When it first opened there were only 570 students and the campus was comprised of just three buildings. In 1963, Michigan State University-Oakland was renamed Oakland University. Today it remains the only major public research university located in Oakland County, Michigan. Part of the mission of OU is “…In all its activities, Oakland University strives to exemplify educational leadership in a diverse and inclusive environment.”
Students enrolled at Oakland University choose a major in one of six different schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business Administration
- School of Education and Human Services
- School of Engineering and Computer Science
- School of Health Science
- School of Nursing
To accommodate the busy lives of many of its students, Oakland University online offers a slew of courses and over 30 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates that can be completed entirely online. Complete a flexible, convenient online program that is practical and career-oriented. Students benefit from Oakland’s senior faculty who have professional training to better teach in online classrooms and experience teaching in campus classrooms.
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Accreditation & Licensing
Oakland University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Type:
4-year, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableGraduate Enrollment:
3,755Fully Online Graduate Students:
20%Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$22,750Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
68%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$9,977Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesOakland University can be a faster way to finish your degree when transfer credits apply well. In some cases, students have brought in all prior credits. That can reduce repeat classes and save time. The school is also seen as affordable and easy to navigate, with listed annual tuition of $23,188.
A smooth path depends on accurate aid and billing. When those records are correct, students can stay focused on classes and keep moving toward graduation. Overall, Oakland looks strongest for students who bring usable transfer credits and want a clear, efficient plan to finish.
At Oakland University, students often get quick help with class questions. Professors and faculty are welcoming and easy to reach. That steady support gives students a clear place to go when they need help.
Advising and degree planning work well for many students. Transfer credits can move over smoothly, which helps students keep their pace and finish on time. Program guidance is practical, including useful nonprofit management skills.
Some students report uneven service with billing and account fixes. A costly repayment tied to a school error shows why these issues matter. Even so, many students still describe Oakland University as a supportive place to learn.
Oakland offers a variety of online classes. That format helps with work and parenting schedules. The online pace gives needed room in busy weeks.
Online support is a real plus here. Graduate learners describe strong help in online classes. Tutors and learning resources are part of that support. The setup works best for adults balancing school and life.
At Oakland University, classes often feel practical and tied to real careers. Many professors are welcoming and ready to help. That support can make assignments and class discussions easier to manage. In some programs, course plans are built around clear job goals.
One track is designed to prepare students for a first licensure exam pass. Teaching style can vary by class and department. Some courses rely more on lectures, while others include more active work. Students usually get the best classroom experience when they take part early, use tutoring and academic support, and stay in direct contact with instructors.
Oakland University gets a mostly positive response, with a few uneven spots. Professors are a clear strength. Classes feel practical and connect to real career goals. Faculty are often friendly, clear, and helpful.
Online classes add useful flexibility for busy students. This format can fit work and family schedules well. Students can also use online tutoring and other learning support when they need help.
Cost can feel manageable, and transfer credits may help students finish in less time. The main notes are usually office processes, not teaching. Financial aid and billing can be inconsistent. Career support after graduation may vary more than classroom quality.
Oakland University gets a mostly positive response, with a few uneven spots. Professors are a clear strength. Classes feel practical and connect to real career goals. Faculty are often friendly, clear, and helpful.
Online classes add useful flexibility for busy students. This format can fit work and family schedules well. Students can also use online tutoring and other learning support when they need help.
Cost can feel manageable, and transfer credits may help students finish in less time. The main notes are usually office processes, not teaching. Financial aid and billing can be inconsistent. Career support after graduation may vary more than classroom quality.
Online Programs offered by Oakland University
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Frequently Asked Questions About Oakland University
Is Oakland University accredited?
Yes. Oakland University is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How many online programs does Oakland University offer?
Oakland University offers 17 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Oakland University offer?
Oakland University offers programs from bachelor's through master's and doctoral levels.
How should students contact admissions at Oakland University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Oakland University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Oakland University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Oakland University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Oakland University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most Oakland University programs require?
Most listed programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Is Oakland University military friendly?
Oakland University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.
How can students request information from Oakland University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Oakland University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Occupational License, Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Oakland University accept life experience credit?
Oakland University does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are Oakland University programs fully online or mixed?
Oakland University includes 100% Online and Mostly Online options, so students should check the format of their specific program before applying.
What kinds of online programs does Oakland University offer?
Oakland University has online program options in areas such as Education, Nursing, Healthcare, and Engineering; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Do any Oakland University programs have specialized accreditation?
Program-specific accreditors include Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); ABET (ABET).
Are any admission tests required for Oakland University programs?
One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Oakland University?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any Oakland University programs have state authorization limitations?
State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Oakland University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Oakland University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Oakland University programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
Featured Ranking Reports
Oakland University is featured in 12 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Oakland University is located in Michigan
Michigan at a Glance:
Top Majors in Michigan:
Top Incentives in Michigan:
- Michigan Tuition Grant: Up to $3,000 annually
- Michigan Competitive Scholarship: Up to $1,500 annually
- Futures for Frontliners: Free tuition at community colleges
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