Star Power: OSU earns prestigious 5 Star Rating in 2024 QS Stars Rankings

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Media Contact: Hailey Rose Viars | Communications Specialist | 405-744-5496 | hviars@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University has received a 5 Star rating in the latest QS Stars university ratings. 

This distinction places OSU among an elite group of institutions recognized for excellence across a range of categories, including teaching, research, employability and internationalization. 

The rating system, administered by global higher education analyst QS Quacquarelli Symonds, provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating university performance and global standing. Institutions earning a 5 Star designation demonstrate a strong international reputation, cutting-edge research activity, high-impact teaching, and a commitment to student success. 

“I am pleased that QS Stars recognized OSU’s excellence across the board, reflecting the university’s commitment to its land-grant mission and service to the state of Oklahoma and the world,” said Dr. Jeanette Mendez, OSU provost and senior vice president. “These ratings affirm the strength of our academic environment, research impact and global engagement.” 

A Closer Look at the 5 Star Ratings 

Teaching (5 Stars) 

OSU earned a 5 Star rating for teaching, reflecting a supportive and effective learning environment. QS evaluated faculty-to-student ratios, student satisfaction and retention rates, and the effectiveness of the university’s learning management system. 

Additionally, OSU’s comprehensive campus resources — including athletic facilities, medical services, libraries and student organizations — contributed to this recognition. The rating highlights OSU’s ability to deliver quality instruction and maintain strong student engagement. 

Employability (5 Stars) 

The 5 Star employability rating recognizes OSU’s success in preparing students for the workforce. QS assessed employer reputation, graduate employment rates, career services, internship and apprenticeship opportunities, and alumni impact. OSU’s strong connections with industry and commitment to career readiness ensure that graduates are well-positioned to succeed in their fields. 

Research (5 Stars) 

As a comprehensive R1 research institution, OSU’s faculty and students are making important contributions across various disciplines. The university earned a 5 Star rating for research based on metrics including quality and impact of published work, research funding and academic reputation. Notably, OSU has secured $70.9 million in new grant funding for fiscal year 2024, nearly matching the previous year’s total and underscoring its growing research capacity. 

“OSU researchers tackle diverse challenges, from agriculture to neuroscience,” said Dr. Kenneth Sewell, vice president for research. “This rating validates the impact of our scholarship on both Oklahoma and the global community.” 

Internationalization (5 Stars) 

OSU’s global engagement earned a 5 Star rating, reflecting the university’s diverse international student and faculty population, as well as its expanding network of global partnerships. Hosting students from over 100 countries and all 50 U.S. states, OSU fosters a rich multicultural environment. The creation of OSU-Mexico in 2023 has further enhanced international academic exchanges, recruitment and study abroad programs. 

“Our global focus enriches the educational experience for all students,” said Dr. Randy Kluver, associate provost and dean of OSU Global. “This recognition highlights OSU’s growing international presence.” 

Facilities (5 Stars) 

QS acknowledged OSU’s state-of-the-art campus infrastructure and cutting-edge laboratories, which support advanced learning and research. The university’s facilities, including student support and health services, were rated among the best. 

Inclusiveness (5 Stars) 

OSU’s 5 Star rating for inclusiveness reflects its efforts to foster a welcoming campus community. The university’s programs support underrepresented populations and promote equitable access to education, creating an environment where all students can thrive. 

Specialist Criteria: Veterinary Science (5 Stars) 

In addition to the mandatory categories, OSU received a 5 Star rating in the veterinary science specialist category. The College of Veterinary Medicine holds full accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education and maintains international partnerships and accreditations for its diagnostic laboratories. 

OSU also earned a 5 Star rating in innovation. The 2024 QS Stars ratings offer a clear and comprehensive validation of OSU’s commitment to excellence in education, research and global engagement. 

“This recognition reaffirms OSU’s position as a world-class institution making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and communities worldwide,” Mendez said. “It’s a proud moment for our university and a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff and students.” 

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