Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University Summary

Northeastern State University (NSU) is located in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, with branches in Broken Arrow and Muskogee. NSU is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of Oklahoma as well as one of the oldest institutions of higher learning west of the Mississippi River. Although the “Redmen” name was not deemed to be hostile or abusive towards Native Americans by the NCAA, restrictions connected to the use of American Indian nicknames could have affected future NSU athletic competitions, had NSU not taken the initiative to comply before the Redmen name became an issue. Favorite hangouts and restaurants of NSU students include the Iguana Cafe, El Zarape, Sam & Campus Organizations such as RHA (Residence Halls Association), NAB (Northeastern Activities Board), and NSGA (Northeastern Student Government Association) provide alternate activities, usually free of charge for students to enjoy on campus. Sororities Fraternities American Idol 4 winner and country music superstar Carrie Underwood graduated from NSU magna cum laude with a degree in mass communications with a concentration in journalism and was selected as Miss NSU runner-up in 2004.

Summary content courtesy of Wikipedia.

Northeastern State University History

Northeastern State University was founded in 1846 as the Cherokee National Female Seminary. It became a normal school in 1909 and received university status in 1941. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. It has a “three-fold mission of teaching, research, and public service.” It is classed as a Master’s College and University I by the Carnegie Institute.

Northeastern State University Academics

Northeastern State University has academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. There are 6 colleges: the College of Business & Technology, the College of Education, the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Optometry, the College of Science & Health Professions, and the Graduate College.

Bachelor’s degrees are offered in a variety of fields within the various academic colleges. Degrees at the bachelor’s level can be received in such areas as accounting, art, biology, criminal justice, education, environmental science, general studies, history, mathematics, Native American studies, nursing, optometry, social work, special education, and theatre.

Graduate degree programs are offered in 18 areas, some with particular concentrations. These include master’s level programs in American studies, communication arts, English, business administration, education, counseling psychology, accounting and financial analysis, library media and information technology, and criminal justice. There are no academic doctoral degrees; the Doctor of Optometry is offered through the College of Optometry. Certificates are available in library media, reading, school counseling, and “visually impaired.” No master’s programs are offered in the physical sciences, health professions other than counseling, or in the humanities (except for the 3 listed above).

Northeastern State University Unique Programs

Northeastern State University has an undergraduate Honors Program. Students who seek admission to the Honors Program need to meet the following requirements: ACT of 30 and GPA of 3.5, or ACT of 28 and GPA of 3.8. Once admitted to the Honors Program, students will have priority enrollment, receive academic scholarships, take special Hones course, participate in special cultural events or field trips, and receive faculty mentorship.

Distance learning programs are offered in some undergraduate and graduate programs through on-line and videoconferencing technologies. The university is also a member of the Online College of Oklahoma and the Southern Educational Regional Board’s Electronic Campus.

There are other campuses in Broken Arrow and Muskogee.

First year students take part in “Rookie Bridge Camp,” which is a two-day overnight program run by students to help with the transition to college.

Northeastern State University Financial Aid

Tuition at Northeastern State University is $109.00 per credit hour per semester for the 2005-2006 academic year for in-state, undergraduate students attending full-time. Students applying from out of state, nursing students, and graduate students have higher costs.

Financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans. Students with certain GPAs and ACT scores will receive 4 year academic scholarships. Some students with good academic standing and financial need can also receive a partial tuition fee waiver. Work-study programs are also available, as is on-campus employment for students who do not meet the need level for work-study. Students who seek financial aid will need to fill out the Federal Student Financial Aid Form, available on-line.

Graduate students may also receive financial aid in the form of teaching or research assistantships, including a stipend and a waiver of some or all of the tuition and other fees. Graduate students should consult with their individual department about what sort of assistantships or fellowships are available and about the details of the application process.

Native American students should contact their tribal higher education office for more information about scholarships or grants available to Native Americans.

Northeastern State University Students

Student life at Northeastern State University includes opportunities in a diverse range of activities and organizations. There are fraternities, sororities, academic groups, and other organizations, including religious groups, the Social Dance Society, the Kindred Spirits Gospel Choir, the Chess Club, and the Fashion Association. On campus, students can listen to jazz, visit an art gallery, take part in intramural sports, or write for the on-line student magazine.

Northeastern State University Local Community

Northeastern State University is located in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, which has a population of approximately 14,000. It is the historic capital of the Cherokee nation. The surrounding environment is rural and hilly. Annual events include a balloon festival and the Cherokee National Holiday. The nearby Illinois River and Lake Tenkiller both offer outdoor recreational activities.