| Scope and method of the study. Institutional data is a significant resource available to administrators who can use it in the decision making process. The challenge facing many universities is effectively utilizing and interpreting the data to promote an increased understanding of its meaning. The purpose of this study was to analyze the institutional data gathered on students at Langston University---Tulsa over a 6-year period. The data set consisted of 5,115 cases containing the variables of (a) academic year, (b) age, (c) credit hours, (d) marital status, (e) county of residence, (f) gender, (g) grade classification, (h) major, (i) race, (j) semester enrollment status, and (k) zip code. The analysis of data included completing frequency distributions and cross tabulations of the data that revealed pertinent student profile information.; Findings and conclusions. The enrollments at Langston University---Tulsa campus showed much volatility during the 6-year period. Langston University is the only historically Black institution in the state of Oklahoma. However, approximately two-thirds of the students attending the Langston University---Tulsa campus were White. Blacks made up the second largest group in population consisting of over one-fifth of the student body. The racial make-up of Langston University---Tulsa has more Blacks and less Whites than the overall composition of the state of Oklahoma and the city of Tulsa. Most of the students are adult learners attending part-time. Although they are enrolled in majors similar to other institutions, many traditionally male-dominated fields have large female enrollments. Because of the large female and minority enrollments, conclusions related to several growth opportunities available to the urban university because it is a place for diversity, a place for academic change, and a place for a unique mission. Recommendations included programing and promotional activities that can be based on the findings to enhance the university's historical and urban missions. |
