Resources for Parents & Families - The University of Tulsa
Parents & Families

Resources for Parents & Families

TU student and family in Bayless Plaza

Having a child or family member go off to college can be difficult. TU faculty and staff are here to help make the process as easy as possible for both you and your student. Use the following quick links to access offices you may need during your student’s journey, and scroll down for helpful tips and frequently asked questions that can help parents, families and students transition to their new life at TU.

Academics

TU embraces involved parents and families. Learn more about degree programs, academic support, tutoring, technology assistance and other programs designed to help your student succeed at TU.

Living on Campus

TU Housing offers a variety of options to meet the needs and lifestyles of all students. Our campus isn't just buildings and beautiful landscaping – it's home away from home.

Thriving at TU

The college experience is more than classes and homework. It’s a journey of self-discovery. TU students are encouraged to explore hobbies, enjoy new cultural experiences and embrace opportunities to learn about themselves and others.

Health & Wellness

TU strives to ensure a healthy and nurturing environment. Students are cared for academically, socially and physically from the moment they step onto campus. Learn more about physical and mental health resources, campus recreation opportunities and TU's emergency food pantry for students.

Staying Safe

From proactive campus patrols to crime prevention programs, student safety is our top concern.

Financial Resources

A TU degree is a valuable investment and we are committed to helping your family determine the best way to pay for your student’s education.

Tips for Parents & Families

Expect change

Your student will change between their first year of college and the time that they graduate. This change may occur quickly over a couple of months, or slowly over their entire college career. This change is natural, inevitable, and can be difficult for a parent to understand. You can’t stop change. You may not be able to understand it, but you can accept it, which will benefit you and your student in the long run. Be patient.

It take time to adjust

The first few days of college tend to be very busy with meeting people, joining organizations and adjusting to their new surroundings. This transition may be difficult and some students may have moments where they long for the comforts of home. Don’t be surprised if this is the case. However, most students adapt to their new environment, and get use to their new surroundings given time.

Write (even if they don’t write back)

First-year students are generally excited to experience independence during the first few weeks of the school semester. Families should not misinterpret this independence – news from home is still welcomed. You should write your student often and don’t expect them to respond to each and every letter, email or message. Don’t lose sight of the value of receiving mail from home.

Ask questions (but not too many)

First-year students are generally eager – but insecure – to establish their independence, and may be hesitant to share information about their new life. However, students desire the security of knowing that their family is still interested.

Parental inquiry can be counterproductive if done in a “I have a right to know” manner. Honest inquiries, communication and discussion will enhance the parent-student relationship.

Be supportive

Don’t smother.
Be supportive during difficult times.
Visit – but not too often and no surprise visits.
Be supportive and understanding.

(Adapted from National Orientation Director’s Association)

Parents & Families FAQs

  • Who do I contact with billing questions?

    The Office of the Bursar provides answers to a wide range of questions including costs, payment policies, and taxes. One example is the medical insurance provided to all new students, from which students may choose to opt out.

  • What is the physical/mailing address for the residence halls?

    The University of Tulsa
    Lottie Jane Hall, Rm #
    2808 E. 6th St.
    Tulsa, OK 74104

    The University of Tulsa
    John Mabee Hall, Rm #
    2807 E. 5th Place
    Tulsa, OK 74104

    The University of Tulsa
    Fisher Hall, Rm #
    2831 E. 8th St.
    Tulsa, OK 74104

    The University of Tulsa
    Fisher West Suites, Rm #
    2821 E. 8th St.
    Tulsa, OK 74104

    The University of Tulsa
    Hardesty Hall, Rm #
    3105 E. 5th Place
    Tulsa, OK 74104

  • Do graduate assistants teach courses?

    Full-time faculty members teach the majority of classes. However, basic writing courses are taught mostly by graduate students. Only in rare instances will graduate assistants teach courses other than basic writing courses.

  • What is the ratio of students to faculty?

    The student to faculty ratio is 9:1.

  • What is the average class size?

    The average class size is 13 at TU.

  • Do you have merit scholarships?

    Yes, The University of Tulsa recognizes students on the basis of academic merit, leadership, and the performing arts. Visit the financial aid website to view available scholarships.

  • What is the City of Tulsa like?

    The City of Tulsa is a unique blend of urban and suburban setting. It is richly diverse in culture and entertainment, and a leader in cultural attractions. Tulsa boasts several museums, and The Tulsa Performing Arts Center is home to Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera and the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. If you enjoy the outdoors, make sure to visit Green Country’s beautiful lakes, parks, golf courses and amusement parks. For those who love shopping, Tulsa is home to many unique stores, antique shops and malls. Visit the Explore Tulsa page to learn more about what our city has to offer.

  • What is there to do on campus?

    TU offers more than 160 student organizations encompassing a broad range of interests, including honor societies, sororities, fraternities, pre-professional organizations, multicultural organizations, service organizations, honor societies, specialty interest groups and more. TU also boasts a large intramural sports program as well as other recreational sporting activities held throughout the year. In addition to all of this, TU’s Student Association hosts several concerts, guest speakers and festivals each year.

    Throughout the year, TU offers a wide variety of stage productions, art exhibits, lectures and performances by the TU Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Band and the TU Choral.

    TU is also home to 17 NCAA-Division I sports programs.

    • Men: Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Soccer, Tennis
    • Women: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Rowing, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball
  • What is done to help provide a safe campus environment?

    The university seeks to provide a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. The Campus Security office strives to achieve this mission through a community-friendly approach that enhances safety through the visibility of security personnel, preventive patrols, 24-hour accessibility, positive conflict resolution, crime prevention and awareness programs.

    Campus Security employs a full-time force of security officers and works closely with the Tulsa Police Department and other law enforcement agencies as necessary. Officers conduct foot and vehicular patrols of the campus and residence hall areas 24 hours a day.

    Potential criminal actions and other emergencies on campus can be reported by any student, faculty member or employee of the university by dialing campus extension x5555 anytime of the day. From off campus, Campus Security can be contacted at 918-631-5555.

    TU utilizes a Blue Light Telephone System to increase safety and prevent crime by enabling people to reach Campus Security quickly from multiple locations around campus. The Blue Light phones are located conveniently and strategically throughout campus. To learn more about campus security, visit www.utulsa.edu/security.