The University of Oklahoma - Norman

The department is fantastic and very personal. The University itself though is so large that it really becomes about the numbers. Its also not very geared towards "out of state" students - which really causes problems at the undergrad level. There is a noticeable difference between the National Merit Scholars and the non-National Merit Scholars. Typically the majority of your out of state students are National Merit Scholars (the free ride covered the high tuition bill) and the rest are from Oklahoma. The only problem with this is that public school system quality in OK varies greatly based on regions. Sometimes makes for a very challenging teaching experience since their are so few in the "average" category and so many in the above average and below average categories.

The Masters of Science in Construction Administration at the University of Oklahoma is a small, growing, quality program. The program is oriented towards part-time students who are currently working construction professionals. Three quarters of the students are employed full time. All courses begin after 4:30 pm. Guess lectures and adjunct professors are highly respected in the construction industry. Field work is realistic. Cost estimation and construction scheduling are emphasized. Team projects are part of every course.

My reason for choosing the University of Oklahoma was due to proven success in my area by those who have graduated and gone on to teach at other universities. My experience thus far at the University of Oklahoma has been positive. I did not realize when I decided on OU that I would be part of a school that is growing, in size and reputation, due in large part to the leadership of President Boren. I feel as though I have been provided with ample opportunity by my professors to grow and learn about my subject and myself. I truly believe I have developed as a person more than I ever thought I would during my doctoral studies. It should also be mentioned that the people in this state are some of the nicest and most outgoing people you could ever imagine meeting. My wife and I never thought we would make so many close friends in our time here, but it has been a large part of my success in my program. The university grounds, facilities, student groups and student pride are all top-quality. The city of Norman is rather short on the "things to do" list, not from a partying standpoint, but from a "married couple" view. That being said, there really is not much time in the day, after schoolwork, to go out very often. Athletics here are fantastic, and I have become a major sports fan in the past three years. What better way to learn about collegiate athletics than to watch some of the best athletes and coaches in the country? Complaints would seem petty in relation to the positives, so I will not take the time to type them. It is definitely great to be a Sooner!