The University of Tulsa (TU), which grew out of Henry Kendall College, dates back to before Oklahoma became a state.

Nowadays it is a leading private research institution, with a focus on liberal arts, sciences and engineering disciplines.

Overall, 84 per cent of students receive some financial assistance, and more than 90 per cent of all first year students continue onto their second year.
The university offers many community engagement programmes to foster relationships between students and locals and address community issues. A unique agreement allows TU to manage the Gilcrease Museum in the city, which contains a huge collection of American Western art and The Bob Dylan Archive.

Like many old institutions, the university has its unique traditions, including bell-ringing when students complete their final exam and a homecoming bonfire.