OU vs Bowling Green: What's the difference?

Hey guys! I'm considering OU (University of Oklahoma) and Bowling Green State University for my college applications. Can someone break down the major differences between the two, like campus life, academics, and opportunities for internships? Thanks for your help!

Hello! It's great that you're considering both the University of Oklahoma (OU) and Bowling Green State University (BGSU) for your college applications. Here's a breakdown of some key differences between the two in terms of campus life, academics, and internship opportunities.

Campus Life:

OU: Located in Norman, Oklahoma, OU's campus has a distinct southern and college-town atmosphere. The university has a strong sports culture, particularly in football, and students often participate in events, tailgates, and activities surrounding athletics. Greek life is also quite popular, with about 25% of the student population involved in fraternities or sororities. OU's campus is sizable, and students will experience a variety of campus events, clubs, and organizations to get involved in.

BGSU: Situated in Bowling Green, Ohio, BGSU offers a more small-town feel with easy access to larger cities like Toledo or Detroit. While they also have a sports culture, it's not as dominant as at OU. BGSU has a more relaxed, community-based campus life, offering plenty of activities, clubs, and service opportunities. Greek life is less prominent here, with about 10-15% of the student population involved.

Academics:

OU: The University of Oklahoma is more research-focused, with nationally recognized programs such as meteorology, petroleum engineering, and entrepreneurship. OU offers over 170 undergraduate majors across its 15 colleges. Some of its strongest programs include engineering, business, and health sciences.

BGSU: Bowling Green State University offers over 200 undergraduate majors and is more teaching-focused. BGSU has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and has well-regarded programs in education, psychology, and business administration. Compared to OU, BGSU tends to have smaller class sizes, providing students with a more personalized learning experience.

Internship Opportunities:

OU: Students can find internship opportunities through the dedicated Internships & Cooperative Education office. Local companies, such as Frontier Electronic Systems and Devon Energy, often partner with the university for internships. Due to its proximity to OKC and Tulsa, there are additional opportunities for students to network and secure internships in various industries in these metropolitan areas.

BGSU: Students can access internship opportunities through the Career Center, which assists with resources and support. BGSU's location in Ohio makes it convenient for students looking to explore internships in the nearby cities of Toledo, Detroit, and Columbus. Additionally, there are regional and national companies that partner with BGSU for internships and co-op programs.

Both institutions have their unique qualities, so your choice should be based on your specific preferences, such as geographic location, size, and available academic programs. Campus visits or virtual tours might help you get a better sense of each school's environment. Good luck with your applications!