Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC), established in 1926 as Altus Junior College, is the oldest original municipal two-year college in Oklahoma. Located in Altus, Oklahoma, WOSC is dedicated to providing exemplary educational opportunities that meet the needs of individuals and the community in an increasingly global society. The college offers a range of associate degrees and certificate programs designed to help students achieve their individual potential, enrich their lives, and become responsible and productive members of society.
Key Strategic Focus
WOSC focuses on delivering comprehensive educational programs that cater to both academic transfer and career-oriented students. The college offers 22 major programs through online and on-site education, with nine programs available through distance learning. Key areas of specialization include Registered Nursing, Liberal Arts & Sciences, and General Business Administration & Management. The institution primarily serves the counties of Jackson, Greer, Harmon, Kiowa, and Tillman, emphasizing accessibility and community engagement.
Financials and Funding
As of the end of the 2022 fiscal year, WOSC's endowment was valued at approximately $6.81 million, reflecting a 3.83% decline from the previous year. The college's total salary expenditure for 2022 was $15.4 million, with instructional salaries accounting for $1.41 million. The Western Oklahoma State College Foundation, established in 1974, has been instrumental in supporting the college's financial health, providing over $4 million in institutional support and scholarships to students.
Pipeline Development
WOSC offers a variety of associate degree and certificate programs across multiple disciplines. In 2022, the college awarded 281 degrees, with the most popular concentrations being Registered Nursing (90 degrees), Liberal Arts & Sciences (57 degrees), and General Business Administration & Management (25 degrees). The college continues to develop and expand its program offerings to meet the evolving needs of its student population and the regional workforce.
Technological Platform and Innovation
WOSC integrates various technological platforms to enhance educational delivery and administrative operations. The college utilizes Moodle as its learning management system, providing a robust platform for online and hybrid courses. Additionally, WOSC employs technologies such as Google Font API, prettyPhoto, Ubuntu, Amazon Web Services, Bootstrap, Semantic UI, and Apache to support its web presence and internal systems.
Leadership Team
The leadership team at WOSC comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the college's mission. Key members include:
- Chief Financial Officer: A. H.
- Vice President for Student Affairs: L. K.
- Vice President for Academic and Student Support Services: L. G.
These leaders play pivotal roles in overseeing the college's financial health, student services, and academic programs.
Competitor Profile
WOSC operates within a competitive landscape of community colleges in Oklahoma and neighboring states. Notable competitors include:
- Redlands Community College: Located in El Reno, OK, offering a range of associate degrees and certificates.
- Murray State College: Based in Tishomingo, OK, providing diverse programs in arts, sciences, and applied sciences.
- Southwestern Oklahoma State University: A four-year institution in Weatherford, OK, offering bachelor's and master's degrees.
These institutions offer similar programs and serve overlapping student demographics, contributing to a dynamic educational environment in the region.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
The Western Oklahoma State College Foundation has been a critical partner for WOSC since its establishment in 1974. The foundation promotes and fosters the college's educational and cultural interests through endowments, loans, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance. Executive Secretary Larry Duffy has provided instrumental leadership, enabling the foundation's total assets to reach more than $7 million and providing over $4 million in institutional support and scholarships to WOSC and its students.
Operational Insights
WOSC's strategic considerations include maintaining affordability, with in-state tuition set at $5,250 and out-of-state tuition at $9,422 for the 2023-2024 academic year. The college's student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1, which is higher than the state community college average of 18:1, indicating a commitment to providing accessible education while managing resources effectively. Additionally, WOSC offers online education opportunities, with nine programs available through distance learning, catering to the needs of non-traditional students and those seeking flexible learning options.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, WOSC aims to expand its program offerings, particularly in high-demand fields such as healthcare, business, and technology. The college is also focused on enhancing its online education platforms to reach a broader student base. Strengthening partnerships with local industries and community organizations remains a priority to ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet regional workforce needs.
Contact Information
- Website: www.wosc.edu
For more information, visit the official website or contact the college directly.
