Langston University

About Langston University

Langston University holds the distinguished honor of being Oklahoma's only historically black college and university, carrying forward a proud legacy of educational excellence and community uplift since its founding in 1897. Named for John Mercer Langston, the first African American elected to the United States Congress from Virginia, the university has grown from its origins as the Colored Agricultural and Normal University to become a comprehensive institution serving approximately 2,062 students across diverse programs. The rural campus in Langston, Oklahoma, provides a focused academic environment steeped in history and tradition, where students develop intellectually while building lasting connections with peers and mentors. Langston University's mission emphasizes academic excellence, character development, leadership cultivation, and service to the global community, preparing graduates who make meaningful contributions to society. As a land-grant institution, Langston maintains strong programs in agriculture and extension services while expanding into nursing, healthcare, business, and other fields addressing contemporary workforce needs. The university's intimate size enables personalized attention and mentorship that supports student success, particularly for first-generation college students and those who may benefit from additional guidance. Langston's rich heritage and nurturing environment create a transformative educational experience that has shaped leaders for over a century.

Langston University welcomes students who seek a transformative educational experience within a supportive, historically significant environment. With an acceptance rate of approximately 55%, the university evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic preparation, personal qualities, and potential for success in its distinctive setting. First-year applicants should have completed a college-preparatory curriculum and demonstrate readiness for college-level work through their high school record and standardized test scores. The application process involves submitting the Langston University application along with official high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and any additional required materials. Transfer students receive evaluation of prior coursework, with credits generally transferring toward Langston degree requirements when appropriate equivalencies exist. The university actively recruits students from across Oklahoma, neighboring states, and increasingly from national and international locations, seeking diverse perspectives that enrich the campus community. First-generation college students receive particular attention and support through dedicated programs designed to ensure their success. Campus visits provide prospective students opportunities to experience Langston's unique atmosphere and engage with current students, faculty, and staff. Preview days, scholarship competitions, and overnight programs help students make informed decisions about their college choice. Scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership, athletic ability, and artistic talent.

Langston University delivers quality education through its schools and colleges spanning Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Behavioral Sciences, Nursing and Health Professions, and the Graduate School. Agricultural programs honor the university's land-grant heritage while incorporating contemporary approaches to sustainable farming, food science, and environmental stewardship. The nursing program has emerged as a flagship offering, addressing critical healthcare workforce shortages in Oklahoma while preparing graduates for successful careers in diverse healthcare settings. Business programs provide solid foundations in accounting, management, and entrepreneurship, with special emphasis on developing leaders who will create economic opportunities in underserved communities. Teacher education programs continue Langston's historical commitment to preparing educators who will serve in classrooms across Oklahoma and beyond. The university has expanded STEM offerings to include rehabilitation sciences and physical therapy education at the graduate level, with the Doctor of Physical Therapy program drawing students from across the region. Research opportunities engage students in faculty-mentored projects that provide valuable experience and strengthen graduate school applications. The university's general education curriculum develops critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills while instilling appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultural heritage. Small class sizes ensure meaningful student-faculty interaction and personalized mentorship.

Key Highlights

• Public research university with state support
• Rural campus with natural surroundings and tight-knit community
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at Langston University reflects the university's rich heritage and commitment to developing the whole person through academics, leadership, and service. The Lions athletic program competes in NCAA Division II as a member of the Red River Athletic Conference, with football, basketball, track and field, and other sports generating school spirit and community pride. Greek life holds particular significance at Langston, with historically black fraternities and sororities including Divine Nine organizations providing leadership development, social connections, and service opportunities that extend far beyond graduation. Student organizations span academic interests, cultural identities, professional development, and special interests, with the Student Government Association providing student voice in institutional decision-making. The campus community gathers for homecoming celebrations, convocations, and cultural events that reinforce Langston's traditions and values. Residence halls create living-learning communities where students develop friendships and support networks that persist throughout their lives. The university emphasizes character development and servant leadership through programming, mentorship, and service opportunities that connect students with communities in need. Chapel services, cultural celebrations, and heritage events reinforce the university's historical mission and inspire students to carry forward its legacy. Alumni maintain strong connections, returning for homecoming and other events while supporting current students through mentorship and philanthropy.

Location & Surroundings

Langston, Oklahoma, provides a unique setting where students can focus on their education while experiencing the heritage of Oklahoma's historically black communities. Located in central Oklahoma approximately 45 miles northeast of Oklahoma City and 30 miles north of Oklahoma City's suburbs, the small town of Langston centers on the university that bears its name. The rural setting removes many urban distractions while creating a tight-knit community where students, faculty, and residents form meaningful connections. The surrounding prairie landscape offers natural beauty and recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. While Langston itself is small, the proximity to Oklahoma City provides access to big-city amenities including shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions during weekend visits. The Oklahoma City metropolitan area also offers extensive internship and employment opportunities for students in various programs, particularly in healthcare, business, and government sectors. Guthrie, the former territorial capital located nearby, features historic architecture and cultural attractions that provide interesting diversions. The university operates satellite locations in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, extending its reach to urban students who may not be able to relocate to the main campus. This multi-campus approach broadens educational access while maintaining Langston's traditional campus as the heart of the institution.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Langston University provides affordable access to quality education, fulfilling its land-grant mission of serving students from all economic backgrounds. Tuition and fees rank among the most affordable in Oklahoma's public university system, with additional scholarship support reducing costs for many students. As a historically black university, Langston offers targeted scholarships that recognize academic excellence while addressing historic barriers to educational access. Federal and state financial aid programs supplement institutional awards, with the Financial Aid Office providing guidance through the application process. Living costs in Langston remain very affordable, with on-campus housing and dining plans offering reasonable rates that help stretch student budgets. Career outcomes for Langston graduates demonstrate the university's effectiveness in preparing students for professional success. Nursing graduates enter a profession with robust demand and competitive salaries, while physical therapy program graduates command strong compensation in an undersupplied field. Education graduates fill teaching positions throughout Oklahoma and neighboring states, continuing Langston's historical contribution to developing educators. Business graduates pursue careers in accounting, management, and entrepreneurship, with many returning to underserved communities to create economic opportunities. The Career Services office connects students with employers through career fairs, internship placements, and job search assistance. Alumni networks provide valuable connections that help graduates establish themselves in their chosen fields.