Oklahoma, "where the corn grows high 'neath the smiling sky," has a lower college attainment rate than its six bordering states. Only 8.6% of Oklahomans ages 18-24 hold bachelor's degrees. Online colleges in Oklahoma make earning a degree more accessible and often more affordable.
The Sooner State also offers flexible courses through the Reach Higher Flex Finish and Direct Complete programs to boost adult degree-completion efforts.
Explore the top online colleges in Oklahoma and discover in-demand careers, as well as scholarships for tuition assistance.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Colleges in Oklahoma
Price Check
Oklahoma's public four-year colleges charge in-state students about $1,200 less than the national average. Only 15 states offer cheaper tuition than Oklahoma.
7 Fast-Growing Careers in Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) forecasts a 4.8% growth across all occupations from 2022-2032, which translates to an average of 213,330 job openings per year. By enrolling in online colleges in Oklahoma, you can enhance your marketability in a promising job market.
Certain industries stand to fare better than others. OESC estimates employment for nurse practitioners (NPs) to grow by over 38% from 2022-2032. An NP needs a master of science in nursing and experience as a registered nurse. An associate degree can open the door to working as an occupational therapy assistant, a career expected to grow by over 20%.
| Job | Projected Growth (2022-2032) | Annual Mean Wage in Oklahoma (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 38.6% | $127,120 |
| Information Security Analysts | 28.7% | $92,390 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 26.1% | $115,760 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 21.2% | $67,690 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 20.6% | $61,000 |
| Financial Examiners | 18.8% | $95,300 |
| Film and Video Editor | 14.8% | $48,770 |
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Oklahoma's Job Market
When making your decision, consider your interests and the demand for certain careers. You can boost your return on investment by considering these majors.
Healthcare Administration
Oklahoma employs 6,220 medical and health services managers as of 2024. In Oklahoma, these professionals can find employment if they hold bachelor's degrees. Healthcare administration majors with master's degrees can pursue top-earning careers. These degrees incorporate financial management, patient care, human resources, and healthcare laws and policy.Nursing
Like the rest of the country, Oklahoma faces a nursing shortage. Nurse practitioners, a career projected to surge in demand, hold master of science in nursing degrees and RN licensure. Nurse practitioners can specialize in adult-gerontology, family nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric-mental health, and women's health, among other areas.
Cost of Living in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers a cost of living 16% below the national average, according to Payscale. Oklahomans pay 29% less for housing and 9% less for groceries than the national average. That said, cities in Oklahoma offer varying costs of living and salaries.
Living on campus in any state adds to your college expenses. Online colleges in Oklahoma offer the advantage of avoiding transportation costs, such as gas and parking.
| Cost of Living Category | Average Cost Per Month |
|---|---|
| Housing | $773 |
| Food | $341 |
| Transportation | $895 |
| Medical Care | $222 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Oklahoma
Oklahomans can get help to pay for tuition, books, and room and board through scholarships. Schools and independent organizations award scholarships based on academic record, career, and military service.
George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship
This non-renewable scholarship awards future public servants $1,000 each year. Each applicant must be enrolled in a public service major and demonstrate an exceptional academic record for consideration.
Lottery Funds Scholarships
Funded by the Oklahoma Education Lottery Trust Fund, this scholarship helps future educators earn teaching credentials. The scholarship provides reimbursement for up to nine credits. You need a minimum 2.5 GPA, Oklahoma residency, and current enrollment in a CareerTech program to qualify. Award amounts vary.
Oklahoma State Regents' Academic Scholars
This scholarship covers tuition costs for up to eight semesters. Qualifying for the scholarship requires ACT or SAT scores in the 99th percentile. You can also qualify as a National Merit Scholar, National Merit Finalist, or U.S. Presidential Scholar. Depending on your college, you may receive an award of $3,000-$6,500.
Reach Higher Finish Line Scholarship
Oklahoma's adult learners can receive this scholarship through spring 2025. The Finish Line Scholarship awards up to $5,000 over five semesters. Each candidate must have current enrollment in an approved program and be within 45 credits of graduating.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Oklahoma
Oklahoma does not offer a traditional reciprocity agreement. Instead, the state participates in the Southern Regional Education Board's Academic Common Market, allowing students from other Southern states to pay in-state tuition. Fifteen states participate, though there may be some restrictions based on major.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Oklahoma
Do online credits cost more or less in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma's online tuition is more affordable than national averages, much like on-campus tuition. Oklahoma's four-year institutions charged $8,519 for in-state tuition and fees in the 2022-2023 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). In-state tuition falls below the national average of about $9,750.
What is the most affordable college in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City offers some of the lowest tuition in Oklahoma. According to the NCES, the average annual net price was $6,926 during the 2023-2024 academic year. Oklahoma Panhandle State University also offers competitive tuition and fees, with an average annual net price of $7,326 in 2023-2024.
What is the best online college degree to get in Oklahoma?
The best degree for one student doesn't interest the next. Your degree should appeal to your career choice and lead to a secure and well-paying position. The top-paying degrees in Oklahoma include engineering, business, physical and related sciences, and science and engineering.
How long do you have to live in Oklahoma to get in-state tuition?
You need to live in Oklahoma for 12 consecutive months to become a legal resident in the state. Oklahoma's residency uses a "matter of intent" policy, requiring you to intend to reside in the state beyond college for legal residency.
What is the best online school in Oklahoma?
The "best" online school in Oklahoma depends on your personal and professional goals. Oklahoma State University offers online certificates and associate bachelor's degrees in majors like accounting, healthcare management, police science, and surveying technology. The University of Oklahoma's online programs offer self-paced learning. The school accepts up to 90 transfer credits, enabling online learners to graduate faster than normal.
