University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center | Norman

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), located in Oklahoma City, is a premier academic health center dedicated to education, research, and patient care. It serves as a hub for Oklahoma’s health professions education and houses multiple colleges, research institutes, and clinical facilities.

History and Development

OUHSC was established in 1971 to consolidate the University of Oklahoma’s health-related programs into a single campus. It evolved from earlier programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health disciplines. Over the decades, the center has expanded its facilities and research capabilities, becoming a leader in medical education, biomedical research, and community health initiatives.

Campus Layout

The Health Sciences Center spans multiple city blocks in Oklahoma City, integrating academic buildings, research laboratories, clinical facilities, and administrative offices:

Academic Colleges: Houses the College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, College of Public Health, College of Allied Health, and the College of Dentistry.

Research Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories focused on biomedical research, molecular biology, genetics, cancer research, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine.

Clinical Facilities: Teaching hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty centers where students gain practical experience while providing patient care.

Student and Community Services: Libraries, simulation centers, lecture halls, and student support facilities are integrated to support learning and community engagement.

Key Buildings and Institutes

OU Medical Center: A teaching hospital providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services.

Stephenson Cancer Center: Advanced oncology research and treatment facility affiliated with OUHSC.

Peggy and Charles Stephenson Foundation Biomedical Research Building: Focuses on translational research bridging laboratory discoveries to clinical applications.

Collaboration Centers: Multiple institutes foster interdisciplinary research among medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health disciplines.

Education and Research

Professional Programs: OUHSC trains thousands of students annually across all health professions, emphasizing hands-on learning, interprofessional education, and clinical practice.

Research Excellence: Focus areas include cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, neuroscience, regenerative medicine, and health disparities.

Community Engagement: The center partners with hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations to improve health outcomes statewide.

Visiting Information

Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, encompassing several city blocks along major streets.

Accessibility: Pedestrian pathways, ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities ensure full accessibility for patients, students, and visitors.

Parking and Transportation: Multiple on-campus parking garages and lots are available for visitors, patients, and staff, along with shuttle services.

Public Events: The campus hosts lectures, health fairs, public seminars, and community outreach programs.

Significance

OUHSC is a cornerstone of healthcare education and research in Oklahoma. By combining world-class academic programs, cutting-edge research facilities, and clinical services, it prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals while advancing medical knowledge and improving public health across the state. Its urban campus design integrates learning, research, and patient care into a cohesive and accessible environment, serving as both a professional training center and a vital resource for the community.