SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) has been named as a College of Distinction in seven categories for 2020-21. Colleges of Distinction is a nationally recognized and prestigious designation for universities whose undergraduate experiences are grounded in a philosophy of well-rounded, individualized engagement. Colleges of Distinction are schools that have excelled at equipping graduating students to enter the workforce with solid, well-developed critical thinking skills as well as the ability to adapt in an ever-changing society.
OBU was honored with seven badges for 2020-21, including College of Distinction, College of Distinction-Oklahoma, College of Distinction-Christian, Business College of Distinction, Education College of Distinction, Nursing College of Distinction, and Career Development College of Distinction.
For 20 years, the Colleges of Distinction website and guidebook has recognized and honored schools throughout the U.S. for their excellence in undergraduate-focused higher education. The member institutions of the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their focus on the undergraduate experience by engaging students, hiring exceptional instructors, creating a vibrant community and preparing students for success outside of school.
Colleges of Distinction goes beyond the traditional ranking model to assess colleges based on more than historical prestige, selectivity, athletic prowess and size of endowment. They instead focus on institutions that successfully deliver the four distinctions they believe are the fundamental elements of an effective undergraduate education: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities and successful outcomes. Schools are then recognized as Colleges of Distinction after an extensive process of interviews and research to ensure that the school is in line with the Colleges of Distinction mission.
The Colleges of Distinction’s field of study badges are true marks of honor in the world of higher education, representing programs that invest in student engagement within fields that demand innovative, critical thinking. This recognition acknowledges OBU’s commitment to prepare its students to take on the post-graduate world through an education that reaches beyond the basics.
The Education College of Distinction recognition demonstrates that the University develops future educators who are knowledgeable and efficient mentors who provide empathetic support and utilize novel teaching methods. OBU’s teacher education program includes degrees in early childhood education, elementary education, English education, health and physical education, mathematics education, music education, science education, social sciences education and special education.
The Nursing College of Distinction award recognizes the excellence demonstrated in OBU’s College of Nursing, which trains its nursing students to take calculated action, even in high-pressure situations. OBU nursing students are challenged to remain curious and compassionate throughout their rigorous practice. Programs of study in nursing include a Bachelor of Science in nursing, an LPN to BSN program and a Master of Science in nursing.
The Business College of Distinction recognizes OBU’s Paul Dickson College of Business as a leader in teaching students sound business practices in a globalized economy, effective communication skills and apt problem-solving strategies. OBU’s programs in accounting, computer science, finance, international business, management, marketing and social entrepreneurship keep their future leaders adaptable as they grow alongside their industry.
The University’s career development office’s ability to help students find jobs after they graduate is what led to OBU’s recognition as a Career Development College of Distinction. Schools awarded the Career Development badge have shown that they are well equipped to help their students graduate with confidence. Offering such resources as undergraduate and graduate assistance, IMB career assistance, free career assessment and resume assistance, OBU provides support to their students throughout every stage of career exploration, development and application.
For more information about OBU, visit www.okbu.edu.
