ARDMORE, OK--Senate Bill 1111 was signed into law Wednesday changing the name of the Ardmore Higher Education Center to the University Center of Southern Oklahoma. Students said they feel the name gives the school more credibility.

"A Name change is going to be great for the higher ed. because it give it more of a university feel than just everyone calling it the a higher ed, like you're going to an actual university now which is great" said student David Mcmurry.

Over the years Murray State College has teamed up with Universities like Oklahoma state, East Central, and Southeastern Oklahoma state to offer more Degree programs in science, art, and business to students through the center.

"The institutions that are partners with now the university center reflect 4 year universities 2 year colleges and it allows us to offer all kinds of classes from all kinds of institutions" said Kirk Rodden Asst. Professor Political Science MSC.

Students said they agree the name change reflects the school's growth and potential.

"It shows how Ardmore's growing so yes I think there doing a good job with changing the name and everything and bringing different universities it gives us a more bigger opportunity" said student Mia Hornbeck.

Representative Pat Ownbey said the name change will attract more students from all over southern Oklahoma and hopes it will help the institute grow even more.

"To reach students not only in Ardmore but all across Southern Oklahoma" said Rep. Pat Ownbey.

Lawmakers tried unsuccessfully to make the higher ed center a 4 year branch campus last year. The bill was vetoed by the Governor, so they said they are especially pleased the name change has now been signed into law.