Oklahoma universities top list for most American Indian baccalaureate graduates

Northeastern State University, Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma had the most American Indian students who earned bachelor's degrees in 2008-09, the report shows. State universities made up six of the top 12 schools, and 12 of the top 100. Other high-ranking universities were Southeastern Oklahoma State University, East Central University and the University of Central Oklahoma.

Oklahoma schools consistently top the list, officials said. Representatives from several top-ranking universities said their universities have strong American Indian programs, services and student groups that attract students. Oklahoma also has a large American Indian population from which to draw, officials said.

About 11 percent (406,492 people) of Oklahoma's population was identified as American Indian or Alaska Native in 2008, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.