Most
Affordable Colleges in Oklahoma in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Oklahoma combines foundational coursework with practical experience. Students typically take accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and organizational behavior, alongside analytics and entrepreneurship. Graduates may pursue roles such as human resources specialist, marketing coordinator, operations manager, financial analyst, or business consultant. Popular Oklahoma options include the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Oklahoma can combine learning with research and community experience. Typical courses include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and social psychology. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Graduates commonly pursue roles in human services, case management, behavioral support, recruitment, or market research; becoming a licensed psychologist generally requires graduate education, supervised practice, and state licensure.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Oklahoma combines foundational theory with hands-on technical practice. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT project managers. Internships and projects build technical experience for careers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Oklahoma prepares students to support people facing emotional, educational, family, and career challenges. Typical coursework covers counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and fieldwork. Programs are offered at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, Northeastern State University, and Oral Roberts University. Graduates work as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or case managers, depending on degree, licensure, and experience.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Oklahoma combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and public health, or continue toward advanced practice. Popular Oklahoma options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, the University of Tulsa, and additional colleges statewide.

Best Colleges in Oklahoma Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $17,110, compared with $31,565 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $14,455.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 74.76% at top 10% schools. The average acceptance rate is also 74.76%.
• Schools receive an average of 4,806.12 applicants, while top 10% schools average 13,470.2. The median number of applicants is 780 for men and 941 for women.
• The average SAT score is 1,064.62 and the average ACT score is 21.87.
• Schools have an average of 5,113.23 enrolled students, including averages of 468.18 men and 598.82 women.
• The average graduation rate is 40.07%, compared with 65.9% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 32% for men and 40.5% for women.
• Among the institutions, 19 offer associate's degrees, 30 offer bachelor's degrees, 23 offer master's degrees, and 10 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 29 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, academic measures, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The differences in cost and graduation rates between the overall group and top 10% schools make it especially important to weigh affordability against the outcomes that matter to you.

How much does studying at a college in Oklahoma cost?

An Oklahoma student can expect an average total study cost of about $18,862.70, making that a useful starting point for planning a degree. The reported averages also show where expenses can land, though these category figures are separate benchmarks and should not be added together.

• Tuition and fees average $15,830.13.
• Room and board average $10,470.04.
• Books and supplies average $1,281.88.

Oklahoma options include the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. Your bill will vary by campus, program, housing, and financial aid eligibility. Check each college's cost-of-attendance estimate and ask about resident tuition, scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Living at home or sharing housing may lower expenses, and used or rented books can help, too. With these figures as a starting point, you can compare choices and build a budget that makes earning an Oklahoma degree feel more manageable.

How long does it take to finish college in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of study, while an associate degree usually takes around two. At the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, or the University of Tulsa, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, transfer credits, and study pace. Part-time study, work, or family responsibilities may extend it, and that's a route to your goal.

Students may finish faster by bringing in AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask Oklahoma colleges how credits apply before enrolling, and map required courses with an advisor to avoid delays.

The figures report an average graduation rate of 40.07%; for the top 10% of schools, it is 65.9%. Rates average 37.57% for men and 42.61% for women. These numbers show completion varies, so compare services and degree plans, then choose a route that feels achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Oklahoma, you can expect median alumni earnings of about $47,325. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $56,023 - a promising benchmark as you plan for life and work after college.

Oklahoma students can pursue degrees at schools such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa. Your actual earnings will depend on factors like your field of study, experience, and career path, so these figures are useful guideposts rather than a guarantee.

People also ask

What college in Oklahoma has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one reliable answer without specifying residency, academic year, and whether you mean tuition alone or total cost. Oklahoma community colleges are generally among the lower-cost options for in-state students. Compare current tuition and mandatory fees directly with the colleges you're considering, since rates and extra charges can change the result.

What college in Oklahoma has the lowest GPA requirement?

Some Oklahoma community colleges use open admission and do not set a minimum high-school GPA for general admission, so there may be a tie rather than one college with the lowest requirement. Oklahoma City Community College is one option to check; confirm its current admissions rules, since particular programs may have separate academic requirements.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Oklahoma Ranking in 2026-2027

Oklahoma State University is a public land-grant university in Stillwater, offering a broad range of undergraduate pathways and a lively campus setting. With 27,839 enrolled students, it is the largest option in this group. Its 68% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate provide useful context for planning. Estimated total study cost is $20,937, while median alumni salary is $48,052. For Oklahoma residents, compare aid and living expenses in Stillwater before deciding whether this well-known institution fits your goals and budget.

University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center is a health-focused campus in Oklahoma City, with programs centered on healthcare and biomedical learning. Its enrollment is 3,680, making it a smaller choice than Oklahoma State. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data, so ask the school directly about admission expectations and completion outcomes. Total study cost is $23,328, and median alumni salary is $53,762. Oklahoma residents considering health careers should check clinical training options, aid, and commuting costs before applying.

University of Central Oklahoma is a public university in Edmond, near Oklahoma City, with varied degree options and an established campus community. It enrolls 12,554 students, offering a mid-sized setting for Oklahoma students seeking choice without the scale of the state's largest campus. The reported graduation rate is 37%, and acceptance rate is 78%. Estimated total study cost is $18,466; median alumni salary is $46,212. Compare program offerings, financial aid, and commuting or housing costs to judge fit for you.

Northeastern State University is a public university based in Tahlequah, with additional Oklahoma locations and a longstanding role in the state's higher education landscape. With 6,741 students, it offers a smaller campus community than the largest Oklahoma institutions. Its reported graduation rate is 35%, and acceptance rate is 100%. Total study cost is $16,400; median alumni salary is $44,185. For prospective students, investigate major availability, financial aid, housing, and travel to Tahlequah when comparing this accessible option with nearby alternatives.

Northwestern Oklahoma State University is a public regional university in Alva, serving students seeking a smaller-scale college experience in northwestern Oklahoma. Its enrollment of 2,079 is the lowest among these five schools, which may appeal if you prefer a close-knit setting. The reported graduation rate is 30%, while the acceptance rate is 65%. Estimated total study cost is $11,142, and median alumni salary is $42,064. Compare programs, aid, and Alva living costs to see whether the lower cost suits your plans well.