Weatherford, OK – Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has earned a place among Oklahoma’s best college values, ranking No. 2 among public universities in Niche’s 2027 Best Value Colleges rankings. SWOSU ranks fourth among all colleges on the statewide list and leads the six universities in the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO).

The recognition places SWOSU among the state’s top choices in a ranking that weighs the cost of college against students’ financial outcomes. Niche considers what students pay after grants and scholarships, whether they complete their degrees, the debt they take on and their earnings after graduation. Its analysis uses federal data along with student and alumni feedback.

SWOSU helps put a degree within reach through scholarships that can support students throughout their undergraduate education. Eligible Oklahoma freshmen can receive Academic Achievement Awards ranging from $1,500 to $6,350 per year. The awards are renewable for up to eight semesters for students who meet the requirements, providing support beyond the first year of college. Oklahoma freshmen fully admitted by the March 1 priority deadline are automatically considered for freshman scholarship awards.

Across the university, faculty help students build experience through research, fieldwork and projects that connect classroom learning with their career interests. Students can prepare to enter a profession, continue into graduate study or return for another degree as their goals develop. Many graduate programs are available online, allowing working professionals to continue their education while maintaining their jobs and family responsibilities.

The Niche ranking recognizes value through both college costs and life after graduation. SWOSU’s scholarships, academic programs and opportunities for practical experience support those same priorities: helping students afford their education and preparing them to put it to work.

SWOSU’s placement gives prospective students and families another resource as they compare college options. Along with reviewing the ranking, families can use the university’s tuition, scholarship and financial aid information to better understand their own costs and plan for a SWOSU education.

The complete 2027 Best Value Colleges in Oklahoma rankings and an explanation of Niche’s methodology are available at niche.com/colleges/search/best-value-colleges/s/oklahoma. Information about SWOSU scholarships and financial aid is available at swosu.edu/paying-for-swosu.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves more than 5,000 students and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.

For more information about Southwestern Oklahoma State University, visit www.swosu.edu.

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