Highlights

Oakwood University, which began as an industrial school, was founded by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1896 to educate African-Americans in the South. The school was erected on 380 acres purchased during the previous year for 6,700 dollars. Additional property secured in 1918 nearly tripled its land holding. The school underwent several name changes over its history:

1896  Oakwood Industrial School
1904  Oakwood Manual Training School
1917  Oakwood Junior College
1943  Oakwood College
2008  Oakwood University
Several principals served the school until it achieved Junior College status and elected its first president, James I. Beardsley, in 1917.

In 1943, Oakwood received its first accreditation as a junior college, having already begun the process of achieving senior college status. Fifteen years later, in 1958, it was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. The most recent reaffirmation of accreditation was voted in June, 2001. In addition, continuing accreditation by the Adventist Accrediting Association was granted in April, 2001. Student enrollment and graduation statistics have grown significantly since Oakwood's inception. When the school first opened in 1896, there were 16 students. By 1917, there were more than 100 students. Enrollment peaked at 200 in 1927. Enrollment first topped 1000 during the 1974- 75 academic year. Enrollment for Fall 2006 was 1771.

University Attributes

Diversity is integral to the Oakwood University legacy. It is one of the University's greatest assets in its mission and role in the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church. Men and women from various countries, ethnic groups, racial backgrounds, and educational disciplines bring a wide range of cultural, professional and personal experience to the University community. Each person makes a contribution and helps to drive the model of Education, Excellence, Eternity. To use this diversity strength to best advantage, all faculty, staff and students will contribute to insuring that persons of all backgrounds and physical conditions are valued, respected, and affirmed.

The principles of Christian inclusion and diversity require that all employees of the University act with fairness, impartiality, and with the spirit of Christ. This opportunity is extended to all constituencies of the University--faculty, staff, students, vendors/suppliers, and community partners. Each person is challenged to strive to reach the highest possible levels in Christian diversity through integrity, courtesy, dignity, and respect.

Degrees Available

• Bachelors

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Experience Required

no

Oakwood University's Mission Statement

Oakwood University, a historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher learning, provides quality Christian education that emphasizes academic excellence; promotes harmonious development of mind, body, and spirit; and prepares leaders in service for God and humanity.