Colleges of Distinction Names ORU a "Best College,” Highlighting Business, Education,
Engineering, and Nursing
ORU named a “Best College in the U.S.” by Colleges of Distinction, earning specialized recognition for business, education,
engineering, and nursing.
ORU continues record-breaking enrollment, new campus facilities, and expanded student
services.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, November 3, 2025—Oral Roberts University (ORU) has been named a “Best College in the U.S.” by Colleges of Distinction, earning specialized recognition for business, education, engineering, and nursing.
These designations are awarded to institutions whose commitment to engaged, experiential
education sets them apart. Recognitions are based on Colleges of Distinction’s evaluating
criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.
Business College of Distinction
ORU’s Fenimore & Fisher College of Business was named a 2025–2026 Business College
of Distinction, affirming its dedication to preparing students for the demands of
today’s global economy. The College provides students with the opportunity to gain
real-world experience in the Capital Markets Trading Floor and Student Managed Investment
Fund, where they analyze markets and execute trades in real time. The ONEOK Shark
Tank provides a professional boardroom environment for presenting business strategies
to real companies, while the PECE (Partners in Economics, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship)
speaker series fosters industry connections and mentorship. Through initiatives like
these—and notable achievements such as ORU students earning over $30,000 in awards
at the 2025 Oklahoma collegiate Entrepreneur’s Cup—the College equips graduates to
lead with integrity, agility, and global perspective in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Education College of Distinction
The College of Education was honored as a 2025–2026 Education College of Distinction
for its excellence in preparing the next generation of transformative educators. Through
field experience, classroom simulations, and mentoring, ORU’s education students graduate
ready to impact lives with both competence and compassion. Through strong partnerships
with urban and suburban school districts, students gain experience in diverse, multicultural
settings. Innovative initiatives—such as the nationally recognized first-year teacher
mentoring program and opportunities to fast-track graduate credits—equip graduates
with both professional excellence and a Christ-centered calling to teach and lead.
Engineering College of Distinction
The College of Science and Engineering earned the 2025–2026 Engineering College of
Distinction award for preparing career-ready problem solvers who combine creativity,
collaboration, and technical excellence. From rigorous academics to hands-on research
to industry partnerships and innovation, ORU’s engineering programs prepare students
to become innovative, Spirit-empowered problem solvers across diverse scientific and
technical fields. Students work closely with professors engaged in fields such as
bioethics, data science, fluid dynamics, and medicinal chemistry. The College exemplifies
excellence in both technical preparation and holistic development, equipping graduates
to impact industries, communities, and the world.
Nursing College of Distinction
The Anna Vaughn School of Nursing was named a 2025–2026 Nursing College of Distinction,
celebrating its advanced nursing science, technology, and patient care through innovative
education. Built on the “Theory of Nursing for the Whole Person,” the program emphasizes
holistic care—addressing spirit, mind, and body—and equips graduates to excel in diverse
clinical settings. Its curriculum emphasizes immersive, high-tech learning supported
by advanced simulation labs. Students gain hands-on experience through diverse clinical
placements—local, rural, and international—while benefiting from strong peer support,
faculty mentorship, and interprofessional collaboration. With graduate programs that
equip leaders for academia, government, and industry, the School of Nursing prepares
compassionate professionals to bring healing and excellence to communities worldwide.
“ORU has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of
their learning,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction.
“The University’s programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that
prepare students to find their place, purpose, and potential for life after graduation.
ORU stands out for creating an environment where students thrive not just academically,
but as whole people.”
Honoring its student-centered approach to higher education, the University has further
distinguished itself with new construction and improved student services. Over the
last four years, ORU has added several new buildings to campus, including the Peggy
V. Helmerich Media Arts Center, J.D. McKean Library, ORU Welcome Center, and Mike
Carter Athletic Center. Phase II of ORU‘s expansion was launched last year and will
include a new student dining facility and residence halls, which are currently under
construction. The grand opening is scheduled for Summer 2026.
To learn more about ORU’s vibrant community and program offerings, please visit oru.edu/academics.
Nationally Ranked, Globally Recognized
ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma,
with 17 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher
Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional
programs at the bachelor’s level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing,
ministry, and more. In 2024, the Carnegie Foundation recognized ORU with a “Leadership
for Public Purpose” award, a distinction earned by only 25 universities nationwide.
Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from
all 50 states and 174 nations in the last 6 years to be whole leaders for the whole
world.
