44 Interesting Facts about Oregon State University

Oregon State University (OSU) is a public research university located in Corvallis, Oregon. Established in 1868, it is the state’s largest university and a major contributor to Oregon’s economic, social, and environmental well-being. OSU offers more than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs across 11 colleges and schools.

OSU is recognized as a top-tier research institution, with over $450 million in annual research funding. The university is home to a number of world-class research centers and institutes, including the Linus Pauling Institute, the Hatfield Marine Science Center, and the Northwest National Marine Renewable Energy Center.

In addition to its strong research programs, OSU is also known for its commitment to sustainability. The university has been recognized as a top green campus by the Princeton Review and has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including a comprehensive recycling program, a bike-sharing program, and the use of renewable energy sources.

OSU is also known for its vibrant student life, with over 400 student organizations and a wide range of recreational and cultural opportunities. The university’s athletic teams, known as the Oregon State Beavers, compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference and have won numerous national championships in baseball, wrestling, and other sports.

Oregon State University

Oregon State University

To know more about Oregon State University, let’s take a look at these 44 interesting facts about Oregon State University.

  1. Oregon State University (OSU) was founded in 1868 and is the largest university in Oregon.
  2. OSU is a public research university located in Corvallis, Oregon.
  3. The university offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs across 11 colleges and schools.
  4. OSU has been ranked as a top-tier research institution and has received over $450 million in annual research funding.
  5. The university is home to several world-class research centers and institutes, including the Linus Pauling Institute, the Hatfield Marine Science Center, and the Northwest National Marine Renewable Energy Center.
  6. OSU has a strong commitment to sustainability and has been recognized as a top green campus by the Princeton Review.
  7. The university has implemented several sustainability initiatives, including a comprehensive recycling program, a bike-sharing program, and the use of renewable energy sources.
  8. The OSU campus covers 420 acres and is home to several historic buildings and landmarks.
  9. The university’s mascot is Benny the Beaver, and its colors are orange and black.
  10. OSU is a member of the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference, and its athletic teams are known as the Oregon State Beavers.
  11. The university has won numerous national championships in baseball, wrestling, and other sports.
  12. OSU is home to the oldest continuous student-led tradition in the nation, the annual homecoming bonfire.
  13. The university has a large and diverse student body, with over 30,000 students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.
  14. OSU has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with numerous programs and initiatives focused on promoting equity and social justice.
  15. The university has a robust online learning program, offering over 50 online and hybrid degree programs.
  16. OSU is a leader in marine science research and education, with its Hatfield Marine Science Center located in Newport, Oregon.
  17. The university is also a leader in renewable energy research and education, with its Northwest National Marine Renewable Energy Center focused on developing wave and tidal energy technologies.
  18. OSU has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, with numerous programs and initiatives focused on serving the needs of the local community and the state of Oregon.
  19. The university has a long history of excellence in agriculture and natural resources education and research, with several renowned programs in this area.
  20. OSU is home to the Center for Genome Research and Biocomputing, which conducts cutting-edge research in genomics and bioinformatics.
  21. The university has a strong commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation, with numerous programs and initiatives designed to support the development of new businesses and technologies.
  22. OSU is home to the Austin Entrepreneurship Program, which provides resources and support for student entrepreneurs.
  23. The university has a robust internship and co-op program, with opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study.
  24. OSU has a large and active alumni network, with over 200,000 living alumni worldwide.
  25. The OSU Foundation is a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support the university’s programs and initiatives.
  26. The foundation has raised over $1 billion in its history and provides scholarships, research funding, and other forms of support to students and faculty.
  27. OSU has a strong commitment to student success and offers numerous resources and support services, including tutoring, career counseling, and academic advising.
  28. The university has a comprehensive orientation program for new students, designed to help them transition to college life and succeed academically.
  29. OSU’s Hatfield Marine Science Center is the only marine laboratory in the Pacific Northwest that is dedicated exclusively to research and education.
  30. Oregon State University is home to the largest collection of manga (Japanese comics) in North America, with over 30,000 volumes.
  31. The school’s research efforts have led to the creation of many successful companies, including Nike and HP.
  32. In 2020, OSU launched the nation’s first-ever online bachelor’s degree program in sustainability.
  33. The university is home to the OSU Solar Vehicle Team, which designs and builds solar-powered cars for competition.
  34. Oregon State University has produced 25 Fulbright Scholars since 2000.
  35. The school’s Valley Library is the largest library in the state of Oregon.
  36. OSU’s marching band, the OSU Marching Band, is the largest and most visible student organization on campus.
  37. In 2020, OSU was ranked #3 in the nation among “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
  38. The school’s mascot is Benny the Beaver, and its colors are orange and black.
  39. OSU is a member of the Pac-12 Conference and fields 18 varsity sports teams.
  40. The university’s College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top engineering programs in the country.
  41. Oregon State University has a long history of sustainability and environmental initiatives, including being the first university in the world to divest from fossil fuels.
  42. The school’s International Living-Learning Center is the largest of its kind in the U.S., housing over 1,200 students.
  43. OSU is home to the Center for Genome Research and Biocomputing, which conducts cutting-edge research in genetics and genomics.
  44. The university’s Honors College offers a challenging and interdisciplinary curriculum to high-achieving students.

Oregon State University is a dynamic and innovative institution that has a strong commitment to research, sustainability, and student success. With a wide range of academic programs, cutting-edge research centers, and a vibrant student community, OSU offers a unique and exciting educational experience. From its renowned engineering and marine science programs to its commitment to sustainability and diversity, Oregon State University has established itself as a leader in higher education. With a beautiful campus, a rich history, and a bright future, OSU is an excellent choice for students seeking a top-notch education in a welcoming and supportive environment.