USAO the only Oklahoma university to receive ACTA “A” rating
In 2019, the American Council of Trustees and Alumni has once again awarded the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma an “A” grade for the quality of its required core curriculum, better known to students as the interdisciplinary studies program.
In the 11th edition of ACTA’s What Will They Learn survey, USAO figures as one of only 22 universities nationwide, and the only in Oklahoma, to receive such a rating out of over 1,100 public and private four-year institutions studied.
The survey determines the rigor of the general education program based on seven subjects identified as critically important to a 21st century education: composition, literature, foreign language, U.S. government or history, economics, mathematics and natural science. Such a curriculum helps develop the skills in communication, critical analysis and intercultural fluency that employers increasingly demand while also instilling the principles of engaged citizenship and a passion for lifelong learning.
“USAO operates under a single mission: we are the sole public liberal arts institution in Oklahoma’s higher education system,” said John Feaver. “The challenging and rewarding undergraduate experience we provide students prepares them to be adaptable and successful in today’s ever-changing world. In everything we do, we strive to embody the distinct, interdisciplinary vision that differentiates USAO from other universities.”
Launched in 1995 and based out of Washington D.C., the American Council of Trustees and Alumni is the only national organization to work with alumni, donors, trustees and education leaders to support liberal arts education, uphold high academic standards, safeguard the free exchange of ideas and ensure that the next generation receives a philosophically rich college education at an affordable price. They produce annual reports on academic freedom, excellence and accountability.