Best
Public Colleges in Oklahoma in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Oklahoma combines practical management skills with knowledge of regional industries such as energy, healthcare, aerospace, and agriculture. Programs typically cover accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, operations, human resources, and data analysis. Students can pursue the degree at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Northeastern State University. Graduates commonly work as management trainees, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, or operations analysts.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Oklahoma can combine classroom learning with research and practical experience. Courses typically include developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, statistics, laboratory research methods, and counseling principles. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or community support worker; clinical practice generally requires graduate education and licensure. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Oklahoma combines programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, cybersecurity, and software engineering with math and project work. Students often build practical experience through internships and team projects. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Graduates commonly pursue software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity analyst, web developer, or data analyst roles across technology, business, government, and healthcare sectors statewide and beyond.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Oklahoma combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice with supervised fieldwork. Students may explore school, clinical mental health, or rehabilitation counseling. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Northeastern State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as school counselors, licensed professional counselors, behavioral health counselors, case managers, or community support specialists, subject to required licensure.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Oklahoma combines classroom learning with supervised clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternal-newborn care, and mental health nursing. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Oral Roberts University. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or public health agencies after licensure.

Best Colleges in Oklahoma Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,167.5, compared with 21,495.9 at schools in the top 10%. The top 10% therefore have a higher median cost.
• An average of 98.4% of students receive financial aid, compared with 74.38% at top 10% schools. The overall average acceptance rate is 74.38%.
• Schools receive an average of 7,900.38 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 24,898.1 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 839.5, compared with 1,095.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,041.33 for the SAT and 21.38 for the ACT.
• Schools average 7,158.67 enrolled students, including an average of 801.0 men and 1,054.38 women.
• The average graduation rate is 35.12%, compared with 53.6% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 28.0% for men and 33.0% for women.
• There are 10 institutions offering associate's degrees, 18 offering bachelor's degrees, 13 offering master's degrees, and 5 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 18 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, consider how cost and financial aid fit your budget, and weigh admissions figures, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates against your academic goals. The differences between overall averages and top 10% schools may also help you decide which factors matter most to you.

How much does studying at a college in Oklahoma cost?

The average reported total cost of studying for a degree in Oklahoma is $14,095.06. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed price: what you pay depends on your college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. Oklahoma students can compare options such as the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and Tulsa Community College, checking each school's current cost of attendance.

• Average tuition and fees: $7,361.44.
• Average room and board: $10,512.93.
• Average books and supplies: $1,171.67.

Because these category averages do not align with the reported total, don't add them to estimate your bill. Ask schools about scholarships, grants, transfer credits, and resident tuition eligibility, which may lower your costs. Living at home or starting at a community college and transferring can also help. Compare budgets at your preferred Oklahoma colleges to find an affordable route toward your degree with confidence.

How long does it take to finish college in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years; an associate degree at a community college usually takes about two. At the University of Oklahoma in Norman or Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, the timeline depends on your major, course availability, work, and whether you attend full or part time. Some programs, such as engineering or nursing, may take longer because of prerequisites or clinical requirements.

How many students finish? The supplied average graduation rate for the schools is 35.12%, while the average for the top 10% of schools is 53.6%. The averages are 33.18% for men and 36.18% for women. These figures show completion is not automatic, but planning and support can help you stay on track.

You may be able to finish sooner by bringing in AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits, transferring coursework, taking summer classes, choosing an accelerated or online schedule, and meeting an adviser to map courses.

Salary

College graduates in Oklahoma have a median alumni salary of about $48,712. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $58,054 - a difference of roughly $9,343. These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you compare programs at popular Oklahoma schools such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa.

Your own earnings can vary based on your field, degree level, experience, and location. Exploring career outcomes for the specific program you're considering can help you feel more confident about the opportunities ahead.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Oklahoma?

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is often regarded as Oklahoma's most prestigious college, thanks to its flagship status, research activity, and broad name recognition. It offers strong options in fields such as meteorology, engineering, and law. Oklahoma State University is also highly respected, so your best fit may depend on your major and preferred campus experience.

Which city in Oklahoma has the best public schools?

Edmond is often a leading choice for public schools in Oklahoma, with Edmond Public Schools serving families across the city. Still, "best" depends on what matters to you, such as a particular program, school size, or student support. Check school boundaries and current performance information for the specific neighborhood you're considering, since they can vary.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Public Colleges Ranking in Oklahoma Ranking in 2026-2027

Oklahoma State University is a large public university and, with 27,839 enrolled students, offers a setting for earning a degree in Oklahoma. Its 68% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate provide useful context as you compare admission and completion outcomes. Estimated total study costs are $20,937, while median alumni salary is $48,052. For an Oklahoma resident weighing a campus community against expenses and earnings, these figures offer a starting point for exploring whether this university fits your plans and budget.

University of Central Oklahoma is a public institution in Oklahoma with 12,554 enrolled students, offering a mid-sized option for students. Its 37% graduation rate, 78% acceptance rate, $18,466 total study cost, and $46,212 median alumni salary help frame the choice. Students comparing Oklahoma colleges may find its enrollment scale and costs worth considering alongside their subject and support needs. These figures do not guarantee outcomes, but they provide a basis for planning an in-state education and weighing affordability against prospects.

University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center is an Oklahoma institution focused on health sciences, making it a distinctive option for students pursuing related degrees. It enrolls 3,680 students. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data, so applicants should seek current figures directly when comparing admission likelihood and completion. Total study cost is $23,328, and median alumni salary is $53,762. For Oklahoma students, these numbers offer a cost-and-earnings reference, while program fit and financial aid deserve close attention.

Northeastern State University is a public Oklahoma university with 6,741 enrolled students, offering a compact setting for undergraduate study. Its 35% graduation rate and 100% acceptance rate give applicants useful points for evaluating access and completion, though admission does not determine individual success. The listed total study cost is $16,400, and median alumni salary is $44,185. For students staying in Oklahoma, this combination may merit attention when balancing affordability, academic support, and longer-term career expectations as they choose a degree.

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is a small Oklahoma institution with 1,027 enrolled students, which may appeal to learners seeking a less populous college environment. Its 44% graduation rate and 66% acceptance rate help describe student outcomes and admissions selectivity. Total study cost is $17,820, while median alumni salary is $35,673. For prospective students pursuing a degree in Oklahoma, these figures support a practical comparison of affordability and post-college earnings, alongside campus culture, available programs, and academic goals.