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Oklahoma offers new nurses a great start at a profitable career in an affordable state. See our roundup of the best Oklahoma nursing schools and programs.
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Why become a nurse in Oklahoma? The state offers both a low cost of living and competitive median annual nursing salaries. Becoming a nurse in Oklahoma also includes financial incentives, such as hospitals offering retention bonuses and loan forgiveness to nurses working in prime need areas or Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA).
This guide outlines how to become a nurse in Oklahoma, salary data, and licensing requirements.
Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in Oklahoma.
The Best Nursing Schools in Oklahoma
Nurses in Oklahoma must complete at least an associate in nursing degree (ADN), with employers often preferring graduates with a minimum of a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN). The degree you choose can determine your career and salary prospects. The best nursing schools in Oklahoma prepare students to succeed and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Oklahoma, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Oklahoma City University's Kramer School of Nursing offers some of the best nursing programs in Oklahoma. Learners can complete the school's accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) in 16 months. OKCU offers programs for learners with and without an RN license. Students practice patient care in the state-of-the-art Meinders Simulation Center.
Program(s): BSN; master of science in nursing; doctor of nursing practice; Ph.D in nursing; post-master's certificate
Campus: Oklahoma City
Type: Private
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Undergraduate Tuition: $28,094 per year
Graduate Tuition: $590 per credit
Admission Requirements: Varies by program
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,900 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,094
Out-of-state
$28,094
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,620
Out-of-state
$10,620
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,687
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Oklahoma Baptist University
Shawnee, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Oklahoma Baptist University runs one of the best nursing schools in Oklahoma. OBU offers a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and an LPN-to-BSN option for nurses who want to advance in their careers. The curriculum includes classes like pharmacology and foundations of professional nursing practice.
Program(s): BSN, LPN-to-BSN
Campus: Shawnee
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $29,330 per year
Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.0 high school GPA or class rank in the upper half; ACT of at least 20, SAT of at least 1030, or CLT of at least 66 (for regular admission)
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years for traditional BSN
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,110 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,584
Out-of-state
$26,584
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$9,900
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
1,868
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Oklahoma Christian University
Edmond, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Oklahoma Christian University's pre-licensure bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program prepares students to become licensed RNs. One of the top nursing programs in Oklahoma, the 126-credit program emphasizes critical thinking, Christian principles, and positive patient outcomes.
Learners take classes like leadership and management in nursing and community health nursing. Enrollees complete clinical experiences and a nursing capstone.
Program: BSN
Campus: Edmond
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $24,550 per year
Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA; prerequisites complete or in progress; 58.7% Test of Essential Academic Skills score
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $53,360 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,450
Out-of-state
$23,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,250
Out-of-state
$11,250
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
2,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Southern Nazarene University
Bethany, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Southern Nazarene University offers a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. One of the best nursing programs in Oklahoma, the program prepares learners to work as RNs. Students can complete the degree in four years. Enrollees must complete clinical rotations in regional healthcare facilities.
Program: BSN
Campus: Bethany
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $27,000 per year
Admission Requirements: High school transcript; SAT or ACT scores; Test of Essential Academic Skills scores; minimum 2.75 GPA to progress beyond pre-nursing courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,670 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,570
Out-of-state
$24,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,772
Out-of-state
$20,772
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,239
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Redlands Community College
El Reno, OK
2 years
Online + Campus
Redlands Community College ranks among the top nursing schools in Oklahoma that offers an associate degree in nursing (ADN). The four-semester program emphasizes professional behavior and clinical decision-making.
Learners study physiology and microbiology. They also complete a nursing capstone. Enrollees get practice providing patient care in the school's simulation lab.
Program: ADN
Campus: El Reno
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $155 per credit for in-state learners; $240 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or college transcripts; grade of "C" or higher in general chemistry; Test of Essential Academic Skills score of 65% or higher; minimum 2.5 GPA; background check
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 54.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,670 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,645
Out-of-state
$7,211
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,900
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Tulsa Community College
Tulsa, OK
2 years
Online + Campus
Tulsa Community College offers one of the best competitive nursing programs in Oklahoma. The associate of applied science (AAS) program offers two tracks. Students can choose a traditional nursing track or a career mobility track for LPNs and paramedics who want to become RNs.
The curriculum covers pharmacology and medical safety, pediatric nursing, and adult health. Learners complete multiple clinical experiences.
Program: AAS in nursing
Campus: Tulsa
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $113 per credit for in-state learners; $338 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: A current copy of an approved certification for the traditional track and a copy of an Oklahoma LPN license or National Paramedic Registration for the career mobility track; a "C" or better in all prerequisites
Minimum Time Commitment: 3-4 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $60,690 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,701
Out-of-state
$8,101
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
16,407
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Eastern Oklahoma State College
Wilburton, OK
2 years
Online + Campus
Eastern Oklahoma State College offers an associate of applied science (AAS) in nursing. One of the best nursing programs in Oklahoma, the program prepares students to work as RNs. The two-year program also offers a track for licensed practical nurses or EMT paramedics. The curriculum includes classes like family nursing and current issues in nursing.
Program: AAS in nursing
Campus: Wilburton
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $115 per credit for in-state learners; $236 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA; minimum ACT score of 19; science prerequisites; current EMT, CNA, or LPN/paramedic license or certification; background screening
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,010 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,298
Out-of-state
$6,915
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
52%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,468
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College
Miami, OK
2 years
Campus
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College offers one of the top nursing programs in Oklahoma. The associate of applied science (AAS) in nursing offers a traditional nursing track and a fast-track nursing program for qualified paramedics and licensed practical nurses.
Students can also pursue a pre-bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program that prepares them for a BSN at a four-year school.
Program: AAS in nursing
Campus: Miami
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $99 per credit for in-state learners; $305 per credit for out-of-state tuition
Admission Requirements: ACT scores; Test of Essential Academic Skills scores; high school or GED transcript; evidence of current applicable license (for fast-track program only); minimum 2.5 GPA in all required classes; minimum 2.33 overall GPA; complete required prerequisite biological science courses with a "C" or better
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $51,210 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$9,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
48%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,826
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Oklahoma State University Oklahoma City offers a nurse science associate of applied science (AAS) program. One of the best nursing programs in Oklahoma, the program offers a traditional pathway and a transition pathway for licensed practical nurses and paramedics. Students take classes like complex nursing concepts and introduction to pharmacology.
Program: Nurse science AAS
Campus: Oklahoma City
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $128 per credit for in-state learners; $371 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Acceptance to Oklahoma State University Oklahoma City; prerequisites with a grade of "C" or better; pre-admission nursing entrance exam scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 2 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.5% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,630
Out-of-state
$9,468
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,351
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Oklahoma Nursing Schools and Programs
Rogers State University
Claremore, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Rogers State University runs one of the best nursing schools in Oklahoma. Degree-seekers can pursue a traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), an online RN-to-BSN, or a bridge to traditional BSN-entry program. About 95% of students in the traditional BSN program land RN jobs before graduating.
Program: BSN; RN-to-BSN
Campus: Claremore
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $157 per credit for in-state learners; $435 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: High school or GED diploma; ACT scores; official college transcripts (if available)
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 81.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,220 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,560
Out-of-state
$12,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,980
Out-of-state
$13,470
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,585
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Featured Online MSN Programs
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Oklahoma
Accredited nursing programs in Oklahoma offer ADN and BSN degrees, but not diplomas. The degree a nurse chooses varies based on their specific career goals, budget, educational background, and time commitment.
Associate degrees require a minimum of two years and bachelor's degrees require about four years. Online nursing programs in Oklahoma, unlike on-campus degrees, often include no set class times and shortened semesters that let degree-seekers graduate faster. However, students still must complete clinical placements at local hospitals and clinics.
The duration of a program also influences the cost. Financial aid options for nursing students vary between schools, withgrants and scholarships being more plentiful at specific nursing schools in Oklahoma.
Degrees prepare students to become registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). A school's NCLEX pass rate and acceptance rate often reflect how well a nursing program prepares students for the field.
Why Become a Nurse in Oklahoma
Becoming a nurse in Oklahoma offers excellent job opportunities. Employers in Oklahoma are projected to add RN jobs faster than national rates. RN positions could grow by 9.1%, compared to the national average of 7%, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Oklahoma also remains one of 39 states in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Bordering states, including Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Colorado, and Missouri, also participate in the NLC. Licensed nurses working in an NLC state, such as Oklahoma, qualify for multi-state licenses, which permit them to work in another compact state without having to complete any additional licensing requirements.
Similar to other U.S. states, Oklahoma has been experiencing a shortage of nurses. Because of the need for healthcare workers in Oklahoma, nurses can find incentives. OU Health, the University of Oklahoma's network of hospitals and clinics, offers retention bonuses to recognize nurses who have been under stress due to COVID-19. These bonuses, as well as other incentives, particularly help since Oklahoma does not have nurse-to-patient ratio mandates. Nurses can also waive benefits under the OU Health Travel at Home innovation and earn a higher hourly wage.
The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers loan repayment assistance to nurses working in areas affected by the opioid epidemic.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Oklahoma
Salaries for RNs and nurse practitioners (NPs) in Oklahoma fall below the national average. RNs make an average annual salary of $66,600 in Oklahoma, compared to the national average of $80,010, according to the BLS. NPs earn an average salary of $112,750 in Oklahoma, while nationally, NPs earn an average of $114,510. However, Oklahoma has one of the lowest costs of living in the United States. Oklahoma's cost-of-living index came in at 88.2%, the third lowest in the country behind Kansas and Mississippi.
Statewide employment growth may exceed national averages. Employers could add RN positions at a rate of 9.1% in Oklahoma, while nationally, jobs are expected to grow by only 7%. NPs should see a job increase of 19.4%, compared to 45% nationally.
Where you work in Oklahoma as a nurse influences your pay. Oklahoma City pays RNs the most. Lawton, Tulsa, and Enid also pay RNs top salaries, as the table below indicates.
Nurses need to complete at least an ADN to work in Oklahoma. Approved nursing programs in Oklahoma must include a minimum of two years and 64 credits. That said, Oklahoma's licensing requirements vary for different types of nurses.
RN Requirements
At the minimum, RNs in Oklahoma need to complete an ADN degree. Much like in other states, many nursing students in Oklahoma pursue BSN degrees before taking the NCLEX exam. Nurses can apply for licensure by examination or through endorsement if they have a current license in another state. As an NLC state, Oklahoma allows nurses to apply for multi-state licenses.
Applicants for Oklahoma licensure need to be at least 18 years old. They also must have graduated from an Oklahoma Board of Nursing-approved program. Candidates need clinical experience in pediatrics, maternal-newborn health, adult medicine, or psychiatric mental health nursing. RNs also need to undergo a criminal background check before they can begin working.
APRN Requirements
APRNs in Oklahoma, just like in other states, need an MSN or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree to work as a certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist, or NP. Nursing programs in Oklahoma must hold accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, or the Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation.
APRNs often choose a specialty and obtain certifications to work with specific patient populations, such as adult-gerontology, pediatrics, women's health, or psychiatric and mental health.
Becoming an APRN in Oklahoma requires a valid RN license. The job requires supervising RNs at private practices, hospitals, and outpatient care facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Oklahoma
Is Oklahoma a nurse compact state?
Yes. Compact states allow nurses to hold multi-state licenses, which permit them to work in other states that participate in the NLC. Some 39 states take part in the NLC. When applying for licensure in Oklahoma, nurses request a multi-state license.
What is the starting salary for nurses in Oklahoma?
Nurses just entering the industry can expect to earn an entry-level salary. The bottom 25th percentile of RNs in Oklahoma earns $56,190 a year, or $27.01 an hour, according to the BLS. The top 90th percentile of RNs earn $85,160 a year.
What are the top hospitals for nurses in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is home to private and public hospitals. Some of the best facilities with high-performing adult procedures include OU Health, University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Integris Southwest Medical Center, and St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa.
How long is RN school in Oklahoma?
Nursing students should expect to spend a minimum of two years studying full time to earn an ADN degree —the quickest pathway to becoming a nurse. Otherwise, RNs earn a BSN degree, which takes at least four years. Paramedics and current LPNs can enroll in a fast-track degree to become an RN.
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