Best Online Colleges in Oklahoma

Situated near Oklahoma City, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) offers convenient and cost-effective education, standing out as one of the top online colleges in the state. Among its offerings is an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program tailored for practicing Registered Nurses (RNs) seeking to advance their careers.

Applicants to this program must possess an active license and an associate degree from an accredited nursing program. The curriculum consists of 124 credits, encompassing 21-22 pre-professional credits, 30 professional credits, and three elective credits. Coursework covers a range of topics including contemporary nursing leadership, advanced physical assessment, issues and concepts in professional nursing, and bridging nursing paradigms. SWOSU facilitates the transfer of up to 31 credits for eligible students.

Utilizing the Canvas learning management system, SWOSU delivers its online courses, which typically adopt an asynchronous format, providing flexibility for students to manage their studies alongside other commitments. Assignments include essays, exams, and projects, complemented by discussion posts that foster interaction among distance learners.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU), situated in Alva near the Kansas border, is a public institution committed to fostering community engagement, affordability, and access to higher education. With a diverse student body representing over 40 states and 20 countries, NWOSU offers both on-campus and online degree programs.

One of the online offerings at NWOSU is the Bachelor of Business Administration program, comprising 121 credits. This includes 45 general education credits, 46 foundation and business credits, 21 business minor credits, and nine elective credits. Online courses at NWOSU adhere to traditional 16-week semesters divided into two eight-week sessions. Typically, students enroll in four courses per semester.

NWOSU employs the Blackboard learning management system to facilitate distance learning. While most classes follow an asynchronous format, allowing students to engage with course materials at their convenience, some courses may require synchronous attendance for live online sessions. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, NWOSU ensures quality education for its students.

Established in 1890 in Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) offers a comprehensive array of over 195 undergraduate and graduate programs, catering to approximately 16,000 students. UCO is dedicated to meeting diverse learning needs by providing fully online coursework as well as hybrid options.

One of UCO’s online offerings is the Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, which provides a comprehensive view of national and global marketplaces. This 124-credit degree program comprises 42-44 university core credits, up to nine business support credits, 66 marketing major requirement credits, and elective credits. Coursework covers topics such as integrated marketing communication, geographic information systems, and the legal environment of business.

Students enrolled in online programs at UCO access their coursework through the D2L learning management system. Classes typically adopt an asynchronous format, granting students the flexibility to complete assignments at their own pace. UCO offers support services for online learners, including assistance from academic counselors and the IT department. Additionally, students have access to online tutoring resources and can engage with professors during designated digital office hours.

Situated in Tulsa, the second-largest city in Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University (ORU) stands as a private evangelical Christian college. Alongside traditional campus-based education, ORU offers students opportunities for community engagement, cultural enrichment, internships, and recreational activities. Additionally, ORU provides high-quality online programs to cater to the diverse needs of its student body.

ORU’s online platform offers a variety of degree options spanning multiple fields, including more than 10 programs related to religion. For instance, the Bachelor of Science in Global Ministry and the Marketplace examines ministry through a business lens. This 120-credit degree program comprises 44 general education credits, 30 major credits, 18-19 cognate credits, 18 minor credits, and up to 10 elective credits.

Through the D2L learning management system, distance learners at ORU access their coursework. The asynchronous learning format enables students to complete assignments at their own pace, although certain courses may require online attendance at specific times. ORU extends support services to online students, including access to a writing center, math learning resource center, and librarian research assistance.

Situated in Stillwater, Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers a diverse educational environment, welcoming students from over 100 countries. OSU prioritizes accessibility, allowing many students to pursue their degrees remotely without the need to commute to campus.

One such program offered entirely online is the Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies with a focus on pre-law. This 120-credit degree program comprises 40 general education credits, 13 departmental credits, 40 major-specific credits, and 27 elective credits. Coursework delves into various topics including American Indian sovereignty, philosophy of law, U.S. Constitution: civil rights and civil liberties, and elements of persuasion. Additionally, the program includes a culminating capstone course.

OSU utilizes the Brightspace online learning management system to deliver course materials. Classes typically adhere to an asynchronous format, providing students the flexibility to learn at their own pace. However, some courses may require real-time digital attendance. Distance learners at OSU have access to additional support services, including scheduling appointments with the writing center and the math learning success center for extra assistance.

Situated in Durant, Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU) offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that can be completed entirely online. For example, students have the option to pursue master’s degrees in fields such as business, education, Native American leadership, or sports administration, each offering various specializations.

For undergraduates, there are 10 bachelor’s degree programs available, including six offered through the John Massey School of Business. One such program is the 124-credit Bachelor of Arts in General Business, consisting of 43 core business credits, 44 general business credits, and elective courses. The curriculum covers areas such as management and organizational behavior, marketing for new ventures, and small business management. Notably, the business school at SOSU holds programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Courses at SOSU are typically delivered in a flexible asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace. Additionally, SOSU offers various resources to support distance learners, including online tutoring sessions, access to digital databases, and assistance from librarians for research support.

Established in 1890, the University of Oklahoma (OU) boasts a long-standing tradition of academic excellence spanning over a century. OU’s Norman campus holds the highest research classification from the Carnegie Foundation, with 10 programs nationally ranked for their quality. Through OU’s Extended Campus, students have access to a diverse range of online undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and professional training opportunities.

One of the programs offered through the Extended Campus is the Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership, featuring accelerated coursework designed to accommodate working students. While the program can be completed in 18 months with full-time attendance, most students typically earn their degree within 2-3 years. This 120-credit program comprises 60 general education hours, 40 upper-division hours, and elective courses. Key courses include mathematics in liberal studies, ethics in leadership, and conflict resolution, culminating in an intensive capstone course.

Utilizing the Canvas online learning management system, distance courses at OU follow an eight-week format. Students typically enroll in two courses per eight-week session and four courses each semester. OU also facilitates the transfer of credits for students from accredited institutions, providing a seamless pathway for continuing education.

Situated in Tahlequah, Northeastern State University (NSU) stands as the fourth-largest public university in Oklahoma, dedicated to providing diverse, accessible, and affordable education. NSU’s commitment to affordability is underscored by its fourth-place ranking in the state for tuition costs.

NSU’s distance learning programs offer degrees in unique fields, such as the Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology, which prepares graduates for roles as school librarians. This 33-credit program includes three professional education credits, 22 core credits, six enrichment credits, and a two-credit capstone course. Accredited by the American Association of School Librarians, NSU ensures the quality of its programs.

Through partnerships with the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Southern Regional Education Board, NSU facilitates seamless transitions for transfer students from accredited institutions. Additionally, NSU’s participation in NC-SARA enables out-of-state students to enroll in online courses. With regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, NSU maintains rigorous academic standards across its programs.

Based in Ada, East Central University (ECU) prioritizes cultural awareness throughout its programs and aims to cater to the diverse learning needs of its students. ECU stands out as one of the top online colleges in Oklahoma, boasting a student body representing over 25 states and 30 countries.

Distance learners at ECU have the opportunity to pursue esteemed programs like the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, designed to prepare graduates for careers in health and wellness. This 124-credit degree program comprises 44 general education credits, 57 kinesiology major credits, and 23 elective credits. ECU accommodates up to 94 transfer credits, allowing students to graduate in a timeframe ranging from 2 to 4 years. Coursework covers areas such as care and prevention of athletic injuries, research, and evaluation of kinesiology, and biomechanics, and includes a practicum field experience.

ECU utilizes the Moodle learning management system to deliver coursework to online students, with classes following an eight-week format. Typically, students enroll in two classes each session and four courses per semester. Additionally, online students have access to digital databases, support from librarians, and technology assistance to facilitate their learning experience.

Located in Edmond, Oklahoma Christian University (OC) provides a faith-based postsecondary education emphasizing hands-on instruction. With an average class size maintaining a low 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, OC ensures personalized attention for its students. Additionally, OC prioritizes affordability, offering tuition rates nearly $12,000 below the national average.

One of OC’s programs is the competency-based, fully online RN-to-BSN program tailored for practicing nurses. This program operates on a flat fee basis for four months, granting students unlimited access to coursework. The curriculum comprises nine competencies, including evidence-based practice, servant leadership, population health, and role expansion. To earn 28 nursing credits, students must complete 50 sub-competencies along with three credits of Bible coursework.

OC’s student success center provides a range of services including testing, tutoring, and study skill development to support student success. Academic counselors collaborate closely with students to ensure their progress and achievement. Distance learners can also rely on IT support for technical assistance. OC holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and programmatic accreditation from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Oklahoma

How Much Do Online Colleges Cost in Oklahoma?

The cost of online colleges in Oklahoma can vary depending on several factors, including:-

• Institution type: Public colleges are generally cheaper than private colleges.
• Residency status: In-state students typically pay lower tuition than out-of-state students.
• Program type: Graduate programs often cost more than undergraduate programs.
• Specific program: Programs in STEM fields may have higher tuition than programs in the humanities.

Below is a general idea of the cost range for online colleges in Oklahoma:-

• Public community colleges: These are typically the most affordable option, with average tuition costs around $3,349 per year for in-state students [Learn.org].
• Public four-year universities: The average cost for online bachelor’s degrees at public universities can be around $6,680 per year for in-state students [Learn.org].
• Private colleges: Tuition can vary widely at private colleges, but expect to pay more than public institutions.

Remember, tuition is just one factor to consider when calculating the total cost of attending college online. You may also need to factor in:

• Fees: Many colleges charge additional fees on top of tuition, such as technology fees and course fees.
• Books and supplies: You will likely need to purchase textbooks and other course materials.
• Living expenses: If you are not living on campus, you will need to factor in the cost of housing, food, and transportation.

By carefully considering all of these factors, you can get a better estimate of the total cost of attending an online college in Oklahoma.

There are 102 colleges and universities in the state, according to NCES data. This includes a tribal college (College of the Muscogee Nation) and a historically Black college (Langston University).