In an exciting partnership with the George Kaiser Family Foundation, New York University (NYU) is bringing its 16th global location to life—NYU Tulsa—starting January 2025. But this isn’t just another campus. It’s an opportunity for students to step outside the traditional classroom and immerse themselves in Tulsa’s rich culture, history, and evolving economy through hands-on learning and deep community connections.
Why Tulsa?
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a city full of stories—some well-known, others long overlooked. It’s a place where history, resilience, and innovation intersect. From the legacy of Black Wall Street to Indigenous cultural heritage and clean energy advancements, Tulsa offers an environment unlike any other for learning and growth.
"Tulsa is an area full of rich history and culture that has, for a long time, gone unacknowledged."
What Students Can Expect: Learning Beyond the Classroom
NYU Tulsa isn’t about just attending lectures. It’s about living the learning experience. The program offers courses that dive into Indigenous culture, clean energy, and the history of Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District—all designed to give students a deep understanding of the region and encourage real-world engagement.
Experiential Learning and Internships
One of the defining features of NYU Tulsa is experiential learning. Through partnerships with local organizations, students get the chance to work on projects that have a real impact.
- Philbrook Museum of Art: Students contribute to exhibitions and acquisitions.
- Metriarch: A public health think tank where students focus on women’s health initiatives.
- Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice: A nonprofit tackling bigotry and oppression, where students assist in project management and communications.
- City of Tulsa’s Design Studio: Students help catalog the city’s first-ever public art inventory and draft sustainability frameworks for urban planning.
"Being in Tulsa made me reconsider my future... In a city like Tulsa, I’m doing hands-on work. And I feel like I’m making a difference every single day."
Community Engagement: Making an Impact
Beyond coursework and internships, NYU Tulsa is built on collaboration with the local community. Students and faculty work on research projects, public initiatives, and creative endeavors that address local challenges and support Tulsa’s economic and cultural growth.
From public events on Tulsa’s history to initiatives that promote inclusive economic development, NYU Tulsa is more than a university extension—it’s an active partner in shaping the city’s future.
A Visionary Leader for NYU Tulsa
Dr. Lindsey Claire Smith, a lifelong Tulsan and renowned interdisciplinary scholar, has been appointed NYU Tulsa’s inaugural director. With her deep connections to the region and expertise in cultural studies, she’s the perfect leader to guide this initiative.
"A lifelong Tulsan and a leading interdisciplinary scholar with broad and deep relationships across the region, Lindsey Smith is an ideal choice to serve as NYU Tulsa’s inaugural program director."
Excitement in the Tulsa Community
Tulsa is welcoming NYU with open arms. Renee McKenney, President of Tulsa Regional Tourism, sees the arrival of NYU as a game-changer for the city’s reputation and future.
"Anytime that you can be synonymous with a university in New York City, I think there’s just so much there, and the synergy is bringing a whole new young crowd to really discover who we are in Tulsa."
The NYU Tulsa Experience: A Life-Changing Opportunity
NYU Tulsa isn’t just about studying—it’s about engaging, creating, and making a difference. Whether students are exploring the legacy of Black Wall Street, working on sustainability projects, or helping shape public policy, they leave Tulsa with real-world experience and a lasting connection to the city.
Want to Learn More?
Check out these student perspectives and program insights:
NYU Tulsa isn’t just another campus—it’s a movement. Are you ready to be a part of it?