The current president of SWOSU is Dr. John Hays, and the student body president is Greg Franklin of Midwest City, Oklahoma. Southwestern Oklahoma State University provides access to higher education for all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, age, gender, disability status or religion.

The mission of Southwestern Oklahoma State University is to provide educational opportunities in higher education that meet the needs of the state and region; contribute to the educational, economic, and cultural environment; and support scholarly activity.

SWOSU is one of the 7 state regional universities in Oklahoma. The University's academic organization includes: the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal College, College of Associate and Applied Programs, College of Professional and Graduate Studies. Southwestern Oklahoma State University provides courses, services, and programs in remedial education for individuals who require such assistance in order to function effectively at the collegiate level.

Southwestern Oklahoma State University maintains a rich tradition that includes strong academic programs. Academic emphasis in Southwestern Oklahoma Community College are Arts & Sciences, Behavioral Sciences & Education, Professional and Graduates Studies, Business & Technology, Pharmacy, Associate and Applied Programs Degree programs: Associate in Science Computer Science Criminal Justice General Business General Studies General Studies with Emphasis on American Indian Studies Pre-Nursing. Associate in Applied Science: Medical Laboratory Technician, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant and Radiologic Technology.

In addition Southwestern Oklahoma State University offers Distance Education. It provides students with the highest quality media-based courses available. Southwestern Oklahoma State University provides transfer programs which include liberal arts, sciences, and pre-professional subjects. Moreover, Distance Education offers some programs of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree online.

Financial aid for students is readily accessible at this college. Since 1949 college has been full accreditation by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.