Best
Colleges in Oklahoma in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Oklahoma prepares students to manage organizations across industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and planning. Programs offer internships and concentrations such as entrepreneurship or human resources. Graduates pursue careers as business analysts, marketing coordinators, operations managers, human resources specialists, or entrepreneurs. Popular Oklahoma colleges offering this degree include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Oklahoma combines coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology with research methods, statistics, and neuroscience. Students explore human behavior through internships and community experiences. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Graduates with bachelor's degrees pursue roles in social services, human resources, case management, behavioral health support, or research assistance, while clinical practice requires advanced education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Oklahoma offers preparation in programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students gain practical experience through projects, internships, and research at schools such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Tulsa, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, web developers, or data analysts. Oklahoma's technology and energy sectors offer varied opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Oklahoma can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities. Typical courses cover counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and trauma-informed care. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Northeastern State University. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, or case managers, though clinical practice requires graduate training and appropriate licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Oklahoma prepares students to provide safe patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Programs include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical practice. Graduates may qualify for registered nurse roles after meeting licensure requirements; opportunities include licensed practical nurse work, depending on the credential earned. Popular options include the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa.

Best Colleges in Oklahoma Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 17,110.0, compared with 31,565.0 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 14,455.0.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 74.76% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.76%. Schools receive an average of 4,806.12 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 13,470.2 applicants. The median number of applicants is 780.0 men and 941.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,064.62 on the SAT and 21.87 on the ACT.
• Schools average 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% for top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 32.0% for men and 40.5% for women.
• There are 19 institutions offering associate's degrees, 30 offering bachelor's degrees, 25 offering master's degrees, and 12 offering doctor's degrees.
• The ranking includes 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, enrollment, and available degree levels. Also consider how test scores and graduation rates fit your priorities, noting that top 10% schools have higher median costs and average graduation rates than the overall figures provided.

How much does studying at a college in Oklahoma cost?

The available estimate puts the average total cost of studying in Oklahoma at $18,862.70. This is a starting point for budgeting for a degree, though your expenses vary by college, program, housing, and financial aid.

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

These reported category averages do not add up to the total-cost estimate, so treat them as separate planning benchmarks rather than a combined bill.

At institutions such as the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, costs can differ by program and student circumstances. Compare each college's cost of attendance and ask about grants, scholarships, and resident tuition rates. Living with family, sharing housing, or using used textbooks may help lower expenses; early aid applications can make budgeting feel more manageable. Ask colleges about payment plans, too.

How long does it take to finish college in Oklahoma?

Most students in Oklahoma should plan on four years for a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree commonly takes two. Programs in nursing, engineering, or education may require clinical, lab, or student-teaching time. At the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and the University of Tulsa, timelines depend on credits completed each term and major.

You may finish sooner if you bring prior learning credits or take summer classes. Ask admissions about AP or dual-enrollment credit, transfer evaluations, online courses, and accelerated or degree-completion pathways. Taking heavier course loads can shorten the calendar, but check financial aid, prerequisites, and workload before committing.

Oklahoma's average graduation rate is 40.07%; it is 65.9% among the top 10% of schools. The average graduation rate for men is 37.57%, compared with 42.61% for women. Planning supports and a realistic schedule can help you feel confident and keep moving toward a degree.

Salary

After graduating from college in Oklahoma, you can expect median alumni earnings of about $47,325. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a higher median salary of about $56,023 - a promising sign of the earning potential a degree can offer.

Oklahoma students can choose from well-known institutions such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Tulsa. Your actual salary will depend on factors such as your major, chosen career, experience, and where you work, so researching outcomes for your intended field can help you plan with confidence.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Oklahoma?

By student enrollment, the University of Oklahoma in Norman and Oklahoma State University in Stillwater are generally among the state's largest. Tulsa Community College is also one of the biggest, especially when counting students across its campuses. Exact rankings can change depending on the year and whether a source counts one campus or an entire university system.

How many colleges are there in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma has roughly 46 colleges and universities, though the exact total depends on what is counted - for example, whether community colleges, private schools, tribal colleges, and separate campuses are included. For students comparing options, the state offers a broad mix of public universities, community colleges, and other institutions across urban and rural areas.

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

Located in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University offers an in-state option for students seeking a large public campus and broad academic choices. With 27,839 enrolled students, it provides a sizable college community. Its 68% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate offer useful context as you compare admissions and completion. Total study cost is $20,937, while median alumni salary is $48,052. For Oklahoma-based applicants, Stillwater keeps college within the state, with familiar regional ties and an accessible setting for career connections.

In Tulsa, the University of Tulsa gives Oklahoma students a smaller-campus alternative in the state's second-largest city. Its 3,914 enrolled students suggest a more compact community than many large universities. The school reports a 72% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate; total study cost is $48,340, and median alumni salary is $55,923. As a private university with programs across fields including engineering, business, and law, it may suit students seeking city access, specialized study, and valuable local professional connections.

The University of Central Oklahoma, based in Edmond near Oklahoma City, offers an in-state public-university option with access to the metro area. Its 12,554 enrolled students create a mid-sized campus community. The reported 78% acceptance rate may be helpful when gauging admission, while its 37% graduation rate is worth weighing alongside academic support and completion goals. Total study cost is $18,466, and median alumni salary is $46,212. For Oklahoma residents, Edmond's location can connect students with metro-area internships and employers.

Oklahoma Baptist University is a private Christian university in Shawnee, giving Oklahoma students a close-knit, faith-centered college option outside the state's largest cities. Its enrollment of 1,569 points to a comparatively small campus. The reported 49% acceptance rate and 52% graduation rate provide admissions and completion context. Total study cost is $31,700, and median alumni salary is $42,571. Prospective students should consider how its Baptist identity, community setting, and academic programs align with their goals and college experience in Oklahoma.

The University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City is a specialized choice for students pursuing health-related education in their home state. Its 3,680 enrolled students reflect a focused campus community. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data, so applicants should contact the university for current program-specific figures. Total study cost is $23,328, and median alumni salary is $53,762. Its health-sciences emphasis and Oklahoma City location can appeal to clinicians and researchers seeking training close to home.