Oakland City University

Oakland City University is a private Christian university located in Oakland City, Indiana. Affiliated with the General Association of General Baptists, it was founded in 1885 and is the only General Baptist–affiliated university in the United States. The institution offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through schools of arts and sciences, education, business, adult and extended learning, and religious studies. Oakland City University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains a small-campus environment that emphasizes faith-based education, leadership development, and service. Students are typically drawn to its Christian foundation, close-knit community, and career-oriented academic programs.

Oakland City University was founded in 1885 when the Educational Board of the General Baptists secured a charter from the State of Indiana to establish a college in Oakland City. Although chartered in 1885, the first building was completed in 1891, the same year classes began under the name Oakland City College. In its early decades, the institution expanded its liberal arts and theological offerings and added facilities to serve a growing rural student population. Enrollment fluctuated during the Great Depression but rebounded after World War II with the support of returning veterans. Accreditation milestones in the late twentieth century strengthened academic programs, and in 1995 Oakland City College officially became Oakland City University. Today, Oakland City University in southwestern Indiana continues to offer undergraduate and graduate programs while maintaining its historic affiliation with the General Baptist tradition.