Best Online Colleges in Oklahoma
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.
Top Online Colleges in Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK- 4 year
- Campus + Online
One of the best colleges in Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus administers 279 online programs in Norman. Students can pursue five bachelor's programs and 19 master's programs online in various fields. Virtual schools draw students with flexible learning in mind.
The school ranks among the best schools in the nation for top-ranked academics. Transfer credits allow students to complete a bachelor’s in less than four years. Enrollees can complete master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Some graduate programs require field experience in the community.
Learners often attend the school for affordable education. Admission requires school transcripts. The degrees at University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus have regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus at a Glance:
Number of Programs: 279
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 5
Total Online Associate Programs: N/A
Number of Master’s Programs Available Online: 19
Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known
Cost of Undergraduate Tuition for State Residents: $4,788
- In-State$4,788
- Out-of-state$20,169
- In-State$6,583
- Out-of-state$21,242
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled28,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus offers online degrees that do not compromise quality. The public institution enrolls learners in 59 online programs. Enrollees receive a rigorous education in the school's bachelor’s and graduate programs. Online programs attract students for various reasons, including flexible learning and affordability.
Online learners at the school enjoy scheduling flexibility and affordable tuition. Working professionals can transfer credits to finish degrees faster. The institution has a test-optional policy for easier admission. The school’s applicants can expect a 70% admission rate. The college has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Institution Status: Public
Total Virtual Learners: 10,182
Online Degrees Available: 59
Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 10
Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known
Cost of Tuition for Undergraduates: $5,366 a year in-state; $20,877 a year out-of-state
Admission Rate: 70%
- In-State$5,366
- Out-of-state$20,877
- In-State$5,531
- Out-of-state$21,034
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled24,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Oral Roberts University
- Tulsa, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top institution in Tulsa, the private Oral Roberts University offers 13 online bachelor's programs. The institution's distance learning courses currently educate 622 students.
An online program's virtual classroom environment lets remote learners complete their coursework from anywhere. Programs work closely with students to meet any in-person requirements, such as an internship or clinical practicum, in the degree seekers' local area. Schools often make student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring available to online learners. The institution's experiential learning opportunities prepare graduates for the workforce.
Students can earn their online degree affordably at the school. Online learners meeting eligibility criteria qualify for financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships, at the accredited institution.
- In-State$28,998
- Out-of-state$28,998
- In-State$12,960
- Out-of-state$12,960
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled4,160
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma Baptist University
- Shawnee, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Shawnee, Oklahoma Baptist University ranks among the top schools and features online and in-person undergraduate and graduate programs. The accredited college currently enrolls 245 students in its online programs. While the total number of online bachelor's programs is not known, the total online master's programs offered by the school is seven.
Programs in healthcare, STEM, and business are just some of the many different options available at the online school. Distance learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom space. By collaborating with faculty mentors and academic advisors, students create a course of study tailored to their needs. Tutoring services, financial aid counseling, and career services are available to support online degree-seekers.
Enrollees generally need to complete 120 credits for a bachelor's program or 30 credits for a master's program. Financial aid, such as scholarships or federal aid, are usually available to online learners.
- In-State$26,584
- Out-of-state$26,584
- In-State$9,900
- Out-of-state$9,900
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled1,868
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Nazarene University
- Bethany, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Bethany, Southern Nazarene University offers on-campus programs and 91 online programs. Busy students can choose from numerous online degrees. Enrollees receive a rigorous education from top-ranked programs. Learners can finish a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Working professionals can earn master’s degrees in various fields. Students develop practical skills during community field experience in some graduate programs.
The school offers affordable education. Prospective applicants submit school transcripts for admission. Southern Nazarene University's regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission ensures rigorous academics.
Southern Nazarene University Fast Facts:
Number of Programs: 91
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 9
Number of AA/AS Degrees Available Online: 1
MA/MS Degrees Available Online: 5
Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known
Average Cost of Undergraduate Tuition: $24,570
- In-State$24,570
- Out-of-state$24,570
- In-State$20,772
- Out-of-state$20,772
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,239
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
- Bartlesville, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Oklahoma Wesleyan University is a private institution. Learners complete undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Distance learners choose from a catalog of 63 online degrees. Enrollees receive a rigorous education in the liberal arts and professional studies. The majors cover a variety of fields.
The curriculum blends theoretical learning and practical experience such as internships and practicums. Online students complete on-campus requirements for some programs. Most online programs require no residencies. Students acquire practical skills applicable to the real world. The college provides services such as online tutoring in various subjects. Prospective applicants can expect a 58% admission rate. The school’s affordable tuition and financial aid options help degree-seekers pay for their education. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent, regional accrediting agency.
- In-State$26,496
- Out-of-state$26,496
- In-State$9,540
- Out-of-state$9,540
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled1,021
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma Christian University
- Edmond, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Edmond, Oklahoma Christian University enrolls students in 90 programs. The private institution delivers programs both on campus and online. The online programs' flexible format and 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio benefit degree-seekers. Busy students and working professionals find many top-ranking programs designed for their needs at the school.
Remote classroom spaces let distance learners interact with teachers and peers. Degree candidates gain foundational knowledge and skills in their chosen discipline. Students also bolster their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The online school's academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling all support distance learners. Enrollees graduate with an accredited degree.
Oklahoma Christian University Statistics:
Number of Associate Degrees Available Online: N/A
Number of Available Online Master's Programs: 12
Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known
Rate of Acceptance: 67%
- In-State$23,450
- Out-of-state$23,450
- In-State$11,250
- Out-of-state$11,250
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled2,064
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- Durant, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its main campus in Durant, Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers online and on-campus degrees as a public institution. Students across the country can enroll in online programs at the school. Remote programs in top fields like business, STEM, and healthcare help the college meet the needs of graduates with diverse career goals.
Many of the school's undergraduate and graduate programs enroll distance learners. General education classes impart foundational knowledge to undergraduate degree-seekers. Enrollees also complete their major's more advanced courses. Graduate learners develop advanced skills through online classes and seminars.
Reaching out to the school can help prospective students learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, enrollees can work with the accredited institution.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University Fast Facts:
Total Virtual Learners: 4,047
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Per-Credit Tuition: $278
Grants Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$6,240
- Out-of-state$14,880
- In-State$4,716
- Out-of-state$10,872
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled5,049
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment80%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- Weatherford, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top online institution, the public Southwestern Oklahoma State University is located in Weatherford. Distance learners can enroll in seven online bachelor's programs at the accredited online school. The institution's distance learning courses currently enroll 2,614 students.
Online programs often have remote learners complete their coursework in a virtual classroom environment. Internships, practicums, and other in-person requirements for many programs can be completed locally. Academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring are some examples of student services that schools provide exclusively for online learners. The institution's experiential learning opportunities prepare graduates to transition into the workforce.
The school students can earn their online degree at an affordable tuition rate. Online students at the accredited institution qualify for many types of financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships.
- In-State$6,150
- Out-of-state$13,050
- In-State$6,084
- Out-of-state$12,564
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled4,961
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
- Alva, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Ranking among the best online schools, Northwestern Oklahoma State University is a public institution located in Alva. The accredited school's undergraduate and graduate programs teach 1,218 learners remotely. The institution's academic offerings include three online bachelor's programs and seven online master's programs.
Healthcare, STEM, and business are some of the popular majors the school offers for its online programs, meeting the needs of students pursuing diverse careers. The remote programs use virtual learning environments to engage participants. Often, distance learners meet in-person requirements locally. The school offers student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring for online enrollees.
Bachelor's degree-seekers generally take four years to graduate. Earning a degree in less time is possible for those who transfer credits from previous college experience. Some programs also feature accelerated options.
- In-State$6,593
- Out-of-state$13,710
- In-State$4,775
- Out-of-state$9,635
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled1,970
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Northeastern State University
- Tahlequah, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students can pursue liberal arts and professional studies degrees at Northeastern State University, a nonprofit school in Tahlequah. Learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees online while they juggle work and other obligations.
A 120-credit bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete. Graduate students typically complete a master’s degree in about two years. Nontraditional learners use live and recorded classes to complete their degree. Online learners earn degrees through a mix of classroom lectures and practical experience such as internships or practicums. Faculty require online degree candidates to submit class assignments on schedule.
Students can begin their education with certificates or associate degrees. The school’s students benefit from online support services such as tutoring and career advising. At Northeastern State University, students pay affordable online tuition. The college awards an average total aid of $7,420. The school admits 100% of applicants.
The school holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$5,913
- Out-of-state$14,313
- In-State$4,500
- Out-of-state$9,999
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate100%
- Students Enrolled7,517
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Cameron University
- Lawton, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cameron University is a nonprofit school that offers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees from a distance while they work.
Online learners traditionally complete a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years. Graduate students complete a master's degree in about 24 months. Working professionals can view live and recorded classes. Programs include classroom lectures and practical experience such as internships. Students complete assignments within a set timeframe.
The school's programs include certificates or associate degrees for new students. Enrollees can use online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Nontraditional learners pay affordable online tuition. The college awards an average total aid of $7,371.
Cameron University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$4,740
- Out-of-state$14,160
- In-State$3,564
- Out-of-state$10,278
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,142
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Mid-America Christian University
- Oklahoma City, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A top-ranked school in Oklahoma City, Mid-America Christian University offers undergraduate and graduate programs on its campus and online. The school serves 1,127 students through online programs. Online degree-seekers can choose from the private institution's 12 bachelor's and five master's programs.
Degree candidates can explore programs in diverse fields, such as healthcare, business, and STEM. To earn a degree online, distance learners complete their work in a remote classroom space. Students make personalized study plans with help from academic advisors and faculty mentors. Tutoring services, financial aid counseling, and career services at the school support online degree-seekers in their educational pursuits.
Most bachelor's programs require at least 120 credits, while master's programs require a minimum of 30 credits. Remote learners often meet the criteria for scholarships, federal financial aid, and other forms of financial aid.
- In-State$17,568
- Out-of-state$17,568
- In-State$11,124
- Out-of-state$11,124
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,768
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Rogers State University
- Claremore, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at Rogers State University, a nonprofit school. Learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees from a distance while they work.
The school offers 120-credit bachelor’s degrees that students complete in four years. Graduate students complete a master’s degree in about two years. Degree candidates view live and recorded classes. Distance learners may complete programs that blend classroom instruction and practical experience such as internships or practicums. Online learners complete assignments within a set timeframe.
Students can begin their education with certificates or associate degrees. Online learners enjoy online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Students pay affordable online tuition. The college awards an average total aid of $6,173.
Rogers State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent, regional accrediting agency.
- In-State$4,560
- Out-of-state$12,900
- In-State$4,980
- Out-of-state$13,470
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,585
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
- Oklahoma City, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online students at University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center earn the same high-quality degrees as on-campus students. The public school enrolls degree-seekers in 10 online programs. The institution's online degrees rank among the nation’s best. The school enrolls students in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Distance learners enjoy benefits such as recorded courses and at-your-pace learning.
Degree-seekers can transfer credits to finish degrees faster. Applicants need not submit test scores. University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center Statistics:
Status of School: Public
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 1,351
Available Online Programs: 10
Bachelor’s Degrees Available Online: 3
Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known
Undergraduate Tuition In State: $4,788 a year; Undergraduate Tuition Out Of State: $20,169 a year
- In-State$4,788
- Out-of-state$20,169
- In-State$5,119
- Out-of-state$19,778
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,187
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Price Check
Oklahoma’s public four-year colleges charge in-state students about $1,300 less than the national average. Only 12 states offer cheaper tuition than Oklahoma.
10 Fast-Growing Careers in Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission forecasts a 10.4% increase in all occupations from 2020-2030, which translates to an average of 215,380 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. Projections Central estimates employment for nurse practitioners (NPs) to grow by over 47% from 2020-2030. 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 nearly 42%.
| Job | Projected Growth | Annual Mean Wage in Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 47.4% | $124,330 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 41.6% | $62,150 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 41.5% | $66,400 |
| Information Security Analysts | 38.6% | $101,740 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 33.2% | $113,940 |
| Financial Examiners | 27.8% | $86,140 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technicians | 23.5% | $61,200 |
| Film and Video Editor | 22.7% | $54,260 |
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 20% | $56,430 |
| Interpreters and Translators | 17.2% | $44,680 |
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.
Criminal Justice
Criminal justice majors study the legal systems and reasons for crime. Career paths for graduates include law enforcement, corrections, and the legal sector. Oklahoma boasts a workforce of about 4,450 legal support workers. From 2020-2030, that sector — which includes paralegals and legal assistants — is projected to increase by 17.9%.Communication
A communications degree positions Oklahomans to compete for in-demand creative careers. Around 7,470 people are employed in Oklahoma’s media and communication industry, with an expected 8.1% growth from 2020-2030.Healthcare Administration
Oklahoma employs 8,350 medical and healthcare 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 $8,290 for in-state tuition and fees in the 2021-2022 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In-state tuition falls below the national average of about $9,600.
What is the most affordable college in Oklahoma?
Langston University offers some of the lowest tuition in Oklahoma. Undergraduates studying on campus pay $7,000 annually for tuition and fees, while on-campus graduate students pay an average of $7,100 each year. The University of Oklahoma also offers competitive tuition and fees. Oklahoma residents in the 2023-2024 school year at OU paid $2,535 per semester in tuition.
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.
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