Western Oklahoma State College, established as Altus Junior College in 1926, is the oldest continuing two year college in Oklahoma. An emphasis in academic transfer and more than 59 areas of study and technical education programs enables students to earn their Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or Associate in Applied Science degree. The Associate in Science and the Associate in Arts degrees are designed for successful transfer to senior institutions while the Associate in Applied Science degree prepares students for immediate employment.

Western is constantly building and improving the facilities. The newest facilities include the 48-room student residential housing facility, the Maffry Aviation Center, the W.C. Burris Student Success Center, the Wellness Center, and the Leaning Resources and Telecommunications Center. Western also features a 1,600-seat capacity gym, an NCAA six-lane indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, racquetball courts, rodeo arena, baseball field and the Herschal H. Crow Fine Arts Center.

Western Oklahoma State College awards scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, athletics and fine arts. Western students can participate in over 25 student organizations or intercollegiate sports.