One of the University of Oklahoma’s many objectives is to ensure prospective students with the belief that a college degree is attainable. First-generation students – those whose parents/guardians did not finish a four-year college degree – may often believe that a future promise of education is not afforded to them due to a lack of familial experience. OU has been recognized as one of the more successful higher-education institutes in attracting first-generation students. Recent freshman classes have seen a 25% share of its class be the first in their families to attend college.
Year One of the First-Generation Student Curriculum is designed to support students as they transition to the University of Oklahoma with confidence, clarity, and community. This foundational experience introduces first-generation students to the academic expectations, campus culture, and resources essential for success.
Year Two builds on the foundation established in the first year, shifting students’ focus from transition to active engagement and progress. First-generation students deepen their academic involvement, strengthen their professional identity, and intentionally expand their personal and professional networks.
Year Three focuses on preparing first-generation students for life beyond graduation. Students refine critical thinking, communication, leadership, and career-specific skills while gaining hands-on experience through internships, research, and leadership opportunities aligned with their goals.
Year Four serves as a capstone experience focused on transition and launch. As first-generation students prepare to graduate, they finalize post-graduation plans while stepping into leadership as mentors for future first-generation scholars. Students engage in advanced career counseling, graduate and professional school planning, and alumni network development.
25.4%
of the freshman class are
first-generation college students
27.1%
of OU students are
first-generation college students
*This includes undergraduate, graduate, and professional students on the Norman campus.
The University of Oklahoma was recently selected for the Network Member phase of the FirstGen Forward Network.
The University of Oklahoma has been recognized among 250+ higher-education institutions as a member of the FirstGen Network. OU was chosen based on our commitment to improving the college journey and advancing the futures and careers of our first-generation student population.
The academic year is filled with campus community events, educational paths and volunteer/leadership opportunities designed to maximize your college experience. Every month holds a different memory to be made and opportunity to be had.
August
24
First day of fall classes.
View other academic events, deadlines, and campus holidays here.
March
23
OU Health Campus Listening Session
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Health Campus Student Union, Room 262
March
23
Honors College Listening Session
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: TBA
April
1
OU-Tulsa Listening Session
Time: 1 PM to 2 PM
Location: OU-Tulsa Learning Center, Room 221
April
13
College of Law Listening Session
Time: 11 AM to Noon
Location: College of Law Seminar Room
April
15
Gallogly College of Engineering/Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy Listening Session
Time: 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Location: Engineering Quad
