Colleges in Oklahoma
Why go to College in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma boasts spectacular diversity in its natural and higher education landscapes. Ranked the fifth most affordable college state by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Oklahoma offers prospective students a number of first-rate schools, including renowned public research universities and community colleges. Students who love flat, open countryside will also appreciate the state's pastoral beauty, with many opportunities to explore Oklahoma's agricultural heritage. These facts, coupled with the state's low cost of living, make it a great location for you to start your educational journey.
What Options are Available for Colleges in Oklahoma?
On-Campus
Students who want to pursue a traditional college program will have plenty of options in Oklahoma, from large public universities to intimate private colleges. Students who live and take classes on campus are fully immersed in college life. From technologically enhanced classrooms and libraries to full-service gyms and dining halls, you'll find the facilities and personal support you need to succeed. This hands-on academic culture enables you to build long-lasting friendships as you and your peers learn and grow together through student activities, clubs, and sports. You can also build professional relationships by attending career development and networking events all over campus.
Online Programs
Online schools in Oklahoma provide both affordability and flexibility. You'll be able to create a school schedule that fits into your own busy life, while also saving money where it counts. Online students typically deal with factors that prevent them from having a traditional college experience such as working full-time, raising a family, or living far away from campus. However, since online students don't have to pay for transportation, parking, room and board, and other miscellaneous expenses, they can reduce the overall cost of receiving an education.
Because online colleges in Oklahoma lack the structure of a traditional program, online students typically need to be self-motivated and independent. This is especially important if online students lack access to resources that are only available on campus. However, the State Regent for Higher Education has promised to provide additional support to online students, reflecting how much distance learning is being prioritized by the state. Government attention and an expanding library of resources make it a fantastic time for those who want to enroll in online colleges in Oklahoma.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs combine the face-to-face interactions of traditional learning with the flexibility of distance education. Many online colleges in Oklahoma follow this model, requiring students to take some courses or complete certain requirements in-person. This enables students to make connections with peers, teachers, and other professionals in their field.
Scientific, technical, and practice-oriented fields often take advantage of a hybrid format so that students can complete lab work, practicums, and related coursework. These hands-on classes allow students to conduct research and apply what they know without losing any of the advantages of a traditional college experience.'
Popular Degree Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma's vast and varied landscapes make it a fantastic place for those who want to pursue careers in food science, transportation development, meteorology, and climate change. The state is also a valuable source of oil and natural gas, which leads to a high demand for engineers and those with the business acumen to manage large resource-based corporations.
Petroleum Engineering These professionals work with oil and natural gas, from finding and extracting these resources to developing efficient ways to produce and distribute them. Many large petroleum companies, including Gulfport Engineering and Continental Resources, are based or have established branches in Oklahoma, making the state a great place for those in this field.
Business Management and Administration With so many commercial opportunities in Oklahoma in the areas of agriculture and natural resources, it's no surprise that business programs flourish in Oklahoma. This field emphasizes the study of finance, accounting, and human resources and teaches students how to maintain business growth at a national and global scale.
What are the Best Online Colleges in Oklahoma?
Below is a list of the best online colleges in Oklahoma. The list provides information about a school's academic programs, requirements, and overall cost while also delving into the academic and professional resources they offer to distance learners. Picking the right school is important because it reflects a significant investment of your time, energy, and money. In addition to perusing this guide, be sure to check a school's website or contact the admissions office to voice your questions and concerns. These representatives may even be able to guide you towards program options or financial aid you didn't know existed.
Top 10 Online Colleges in Oklahoma for 2019
Admissions Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
58%
Online Enrollment
8%
Retention Rate
80%
Default Rate
10%
Among online colleges in Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University is known for delivering distance learners the same whole person education its on-campus students receive in Tulsa. Whole person education blends rigorous academics, community involvement, and spiritual growth with a Christ-centered worldview. ORU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs online, including degrees in biblical literature, business administration, and Christian caregiving and counseling. Students may also pursue English language learning and special education certificates.
Applicants should submit SAT or ACT scores, high school and/or college transcripts, and a personal statement. All online students pay the same low tuition rate, regardless of state residency, and many programs award individual scholarships.
Visit SiteSponsored
What are the Best Online Community Colleges in Oklahoma?
Whether due to cost or other reasons, many students find that jumping directly into a four-year university is not the right choice for them. Below you'll find a list of the best online community colleges in Oklahoma. Unlike four-year universities that offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, community colleges are two-year programs that award associate degrees and certificates. These schools are ideal for those who want to pursue work in fields in like dental hygiene, electrical repair, or commercial driving because they prioritize practical skill acquisition. Community colleges also enable students to complete general education requirements before transferring into a bachelor's program.
Top 7 Online Community Colleges in Oklahoma for 2019
Graduation Rate
67%
Online Enrollment
37%
Retention Rate
73%
Default Rate
3.3%
Based in Tulsa, TCommunity Care College offers a diverse selection of career-centered programs. In addition to on-campus degrees, the online community college in Oklahoma offers fully online options. eLearning programs include accounting, medical billing and coding, paralegal studies, and early childhood education. Students interested in healthcare administration or medical assistance can choose from online or on-campus courses. Most of the school's online programs lead to a diploma or associate degree. Some programs, like the early childhood education program, also confer a credential.
Online students can enjoy access to the college's career services office, which helps with resume writing, job search techniques, interviewing, and salary negotiation. In addition to learning career skills through in-class discussions and assignments, students can also seek hands-on instruction from faculty.
Visit SiteSponsored
Education Trends in Oklahoma
Compared to the average U.S. state, Oklahoma spends more per full-time student and devotes a higher percentage of tax revenue to higher education. However, Oklahoma is below the national average in terms of adults over 25 with post-secondary degrees, with the biggest discrepancy at the graduate level. Nevertheless, through the efforts of businesses, government, and individual residents, job prospects and overall economic growth is healthy throughout the state.
| Oklahoma | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary Education Spending per Full-Time Student | $7,524 | $6,954 |
| Percent of Tax Revenue Allocated to Higher Education | 8.0% | 5.8% |
| Percentage of adults over 25 with associate degree | 7.2% | 8.1% |
| Percentage of adults over 25 with bachelor's degree | 16.1% | 18.5% |
| Percentage of adults over 25 with graduate degree or higher | 8.0% | 11.2% |
| Source: SHEEO and U.S. Census | ||
Paying for College in Oklahoma
Though the cost of living and the tuition rates in Oklahoma are lower than other parts of the U.S., the price of a college degree should still factor into your application decisions. When looking at online colleges in Oklahoma, you should weigh the benefits of enrolling against the cost of attendance, paying close attention to the financial resources and professional development opportunities offered. By planning ahead, you can minimize costs, while still attending the school that suits your needs and goals.
Tuition Prices
As previously mentioned, Oklahoma is fifth in the nation for college affordability and the numbers below reflect this fact. While public two-year programs cost slightly more than average, Oklahoma's four-year tuition rate is roughly $1,600 below the national average, though this number excludes certain expenses such as rent, fuel, books, and other school materials.
Financial Aid
While tuition prices in Oklahoma are very reasonable, you'll still want to thoroughly explore funding options. To that end, you should be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , which allows you to apply for several forms of state and federal financial aid. Four types of financial aid exist: grants, scholarships, work-study awards, and loans. The first three are the most desirable since they don't need to be paid back. Loans are often easy to obtain, but you should use them only as a last resort, particularly if the loans are from private lenders that charge higher interest rates.
Cost for Online Programs in Oklahoma
Regardless of whether you plan to enroll in traditional or online schools in Oklahoma, you should still fill out the FAFSA. Financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans can usually be applied to either type of program. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer incentives for online students in the form of reduced or flat-rate tuition and exclusive scholarships. For example, the Academic Common Market enables residents of the participating 16 states to attend online colleges in Oklahoma at the same price as residents. And when you consider the money saved from reduced transportation, child care, and other living costs, distance education becomes an even more viable option for many prospective students.
Cost of Living by Region
When looking at where to attend college, many students flock to major cities like San Francisco, New York, and Chicago because of popular culture and promises of economic mobility. While this trend is understandable, you should also factor in cost of living (particularly rent) and how it might negatively impact your financial situation after graduation. Oklahoma offers affordable alternatives to major metropolitan areas in other states. Even in its big cities, housing prices are low compared to elsewhere, and you'll find no shortage of nightlife and professional opportunities.
Scholarships for Oklahoma College Students
Can all Scholarships be Used for Online Programs?
Most forms of financial aid, including scholarships and grants, can be applied to online schools in Oklahoma. In fact, you can find many awards specifically created to help distance learners. However, certain scholarships may have criteria, such as residency requirements, that preclude online learners. Be sure to conduct your research carefully, and if you have any questions, you should feel free to contact the scholarship organization or your school's financial aid office.
Employment Outlook in Oklahoma
Oklahoma's unemployment rate is slightly higher than the national average, and its annual mean wage is lower. However, certain facts point to continued growth across the state. The first is the presence of high-value industries, like oil and gas production and agriculture, that take advantage of the state's plentiful natural resources. Additionally, the State Regents for Higher Education reports that 85% of residents who graduate with a bachelor's live and work in the state, boosting its economy and using their talents to strengthen their local communities.
| Oklahoma | United States | |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment Rate, May 2017 | 4.5% | 4.3% |
| Annual Mean Wage, May 2016 | $42,760 | $49,630 |
| Source: BLS and BLS | ||
Top Employers and Industries in Oklahoma
Top Industries in Oklahoma
Office Administration: These professionals ensure the success of their business or organization by managing employees and maintaining information and budgets. They also work in teams to design, implement, and assess projects.
Sales and Service: Whether in a clothing store, restaurant, or hotel, these professionals oversee the profitable exchange of goods and services through excellent customer service and efficient utilization of company resources.
Production: Working with Oklahoma's vast natural resources, these professionals make and distribute commercial and industrial products, from shampoo to plane engines. This line of work entails engineering know-how and the ability to operate complex machinery.
Source: BLS
Top Employers in Oklahoma
St. Francis Heart Hospital: 7,000 employees
St. John Health System: 7,000 employees
American Airlines Inc.: 6,000 employees
Source: CareerInfoNet
Accreditation for Colleges in Oklahoma
Accreditation in the U.S. is a way of ensuring that colleges maintain a certain level of academic quality. Schools can receive either national or regional accreditation. Of the two, regional accreditation is generally considered more desirable since national accreditation tends to apply to vocational and technical schools. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Education (ED), the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversees a number of regional accreditation agencies that evaluate schools across the country. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is responsible for the regional accreditation process in Oklahoma.
Distance learning programs also need to be accredited to confer valid degrees. When applying for online schools in Oklahoma, you should make sure the school is recognized by the ED, CHEA, and HLC. Accreditation will ensure your degree is recognized, that the credits you earn are transferable, and that you qualify for financial aid. Professional accreditation is another way of maintaining academic quality. For example, engineering programs are certified by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, which adds an extra layer of quality control.
Resources for Students in Oklahoma
Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education: : This resource contains information, including the latest news, on the state of higher education in Oklahoma. You will also find links to college planning tools, financial aid programs, and career development opportunities.
Reach Higher Oklahoma : A site specifically for working professionals who have at least 18 hours of college experience, RHO provides degree completion assistance, including scholarships that cover tuition and/or related expenses through Project Finish Line.
Oklahoma College Start : A resource for all types of students, OCS provides a plethora of educational resources and programs including tools for the college application process and information on financial aid and career development.
Oklahoma Gear Up : OGU caters to middle and high school students, providing them with test preparation, financial assistance (including a generous scholarship), and college admission resources. There are also tools that enable educators and families to better assist their students.
Oklahoma College Assistance Program : This site provides educational resources for students, families, and community members relating to college preparedness and financial literacy. OCAP also offers programs that help students manage and repay loans.
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber : This site is specifically for those who want to work and live in the Oklahoma City area. It provides information about internships, career fairs, and professional development opportunities.