Top Nursing Schools & BSN Programs in Oklahoma (2026)

Compare tuition, NCLEX pass rates, and outcomes for Oklahoma's top-ranked BSN programs side by side.

By Hannah Pierce, BSNReviewed by TopNursing.org TeamUpdated May 29, 202625+ min read
Top Nursing Schools in Oklahoma | 2026 BSN Rankings

Points of interest…

  • Oklahoma public BSN programs often cost under $15,000 net price, while private schools charge substantially more, with similar graduate earnings.
  • Oklahoma City University offers an accelerated BSN that can be completed in as few as 12 months for career changers.
  • Registered nurses in Oklahoma earned a median annual wage of $76,180 in 2023, outpacing many other fields.
  • NCLEX pass rates are the most direct indicator of program quality and vary widely across Oklahoma nursing schools.

Oklahoma hospitals and clinics increasingly hire BSN-prepared nurses, and the state’s nursing schools answer that demand with two distinct profiles: public universities charging under $11,000 for in-state tuition and private programs exceeding $35,000. The 29 schools and 44 program listings ranked on this site span accelerated online degrees, traditional campus BSNs, and RN-to-BSN bridges, giving you real choice beyond a single price tag.

Despite the wide cost spread, post-graduation earnings for Oklahoma BSN holders often converge across sectors. The practical tension you face is whether a lower net price or a specialized format, like an accelerated track, matters more for your timeline and budget.

2026 Best BSN Programs in Oklahoma, Rankings Overview

Our 2026 ranking of top nursing schools in Oklahoma spotlights programs that balance affordability, clinical training quality, and graduate outcomes. Each school card below highlights key metrics like net price, institution-wide graduation rate, and delivery format, campus, online, or hybrid, so you can quickly weigh your options. The order reflects a composite view of value and student success, not a single test score or cost figure.

Factors considered
  • Affordability and net price
  • Institution-wide graduation rate
  • Program delivery flexibility
  • Clinical and hands-on training
  • Graduate earnings potential
Data sources
RankSchoolLocationNet priceBest for
#1
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, OK~$23,000/yr (est.)Students pursuing hospital scholarship partnerships

Oklahoma City University’s Kramer School of Nursing stands out for its accelerated 12-month BSN and a generous scholarship-employment program with SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital. The traditional campus BSN takes just four semesters, blending clinical rotations and NCLEX-RN preparation with an above-average pass rate. Students benefit from small class sizes, a 2.75 GPA threshold, and a focus on ethical, culturally competent care.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional BSN) — On-Campus
  • Four-semester completion on the Oklahoma City campus
  • Blends classroom learning with hands-on clinical rotations
  • Requires a 2.75 GPA and specific science prerequisites
  • Prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN and RN licensure
  • Scholarships available to reduce tuition burden
  • Emphasizes ethical care and diverse cultural competence
  • Small class sizes with faculty mentorship
  • Above-average NCLEX pass rate among graduates
  • 12-month intensive program for career changers
  • 56 credit hours completed in face-to-face, 8-week blocks
  • Requires prior bachelor’s or associate degree and 3.0 GPA
  • Full-time study with clinical experiences in Oklahoma City
  • Direct transfer of previous credits reduces repeat coursework
  • NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the curriculum
  • Background checks and drug screenings are mandatory
  • Designed for students who can commit without outside employment

The University of Tulsa delivers a highly structured ABSN online program for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field. With a 94.88% average NCLEX pass rate, the curriculum packs 60 core nursing credits into less than 24 months, using the Roy Adaptation Model and research-based practices. Five annual start dates, $625-per-credit tuition, and priority admission to the MSN program make it an efficient path for motivated second-degree seekers.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated BSN) — Online
  • Online program with integrated hands-on clinical placements
  • Less than 24 months to complete 60 core nursing credits
  • Five start times per year offer enrollment flexibility
  • High NCLEX pass rate (94.88%) reflects strong preparation
  • Priority admission to the university’s MSN program
  • Curriculum founded on the Roy Adaptation Model and research
  • Competitive $625 per credit hour with textbooks included
  • One-on-one academic support and compassionate faculty

Oklahoma State University’s campus BSN in Stillwater combines 600 clinical hours with simulation and virtual reality training, placing students in both urban and rural healthcare settings. The program requires a secondary application, reflecting its competitive, hands-on ethos, and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Graduates leave prepared for the NCLEX and a variety of nursing roles, from acute care to community health.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus
  • Campus-based BSN with 600 clinical hours required
  • Simulation and virtual reality integrated into coursework
  • Dual exposure to urban and rural clinical environments
  • Competitive admission process includes a secondary application
  • CCNE-accredited curriculum meets high national standards
  • Prepares students for NCLEX-RN and immediate employment
  • Small group learning in state-of-the-art simulation labs
  • Strong graduate earnings advantage among Oklahoma programs

Northern Oklahoma College offers an affordable A.A.S. in Nursing that blends online and on-campus learning, making it accessible for working students. The program emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge for RN licensure, with financial aid options to keep costs low. Its hybrid format and emphasis on real-world healthcare challenges suit those looking for a fast, flexible entry into nursing.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing – Registered Nurse — Hybrid
  • Hybrid learning format combines online and campus sessions
  • Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and state licensure
  • Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available
  • Curriculum focuses on practical, real-world healthcare skills
  • Small program size fosters individualized instruction
  • Pathway to a nursing career in as little as two years
  • Supportive faculty with strong clinical facility ties
  • Ideal for students balancing work and family commitments

Southern Nazarene University’s four-year, liberal-arts BSN integrates a Christian worldview with rigorous clinical preparation across multiple specialty areas. Accredited by CCNE, the program requires a 2.75 GPA and includes global health perspectives, small class sizes, and faculty mentors. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and for serving diverse patient populations with compassion.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus
  • Four-year campus program grounded in liberal arts education
  • CCNE-accredited curriculum with Christian ethical framework
  • Clinical rotations span multiple specialties and settings
  • Requires 2.75 GPA, TEAS exam, and science prerequisites
  • Small class sizes and credentialed faculty mentors
  • Global health perspectives and holistic care emphasis
  • 124–127 credit hours with transfer-friendly policies
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN with strong graduate support

Redlands Community College’s ACEN-accredited ADN program in El Reno focuses on holistic nursing care and clinical decision-making. Campus-based and approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and for direct employment or transfer to a BSN. Admission requires TEAS scores, a background check, and official transcripts.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) — On-Campus
  • Campus-based program accredited by ACEN
  • Approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing for NCLEX-RN eligibility
  • Holistic care model with critical thinking and safety emphasis
  • Prepares immediate entry into the RN workforce
  • Offers transfer pathways to RN-to-BSN programs
  • Requires ATI TEAS scores and OSBI background check
  • Professional communication and clinical decision-making training
  • Supportive faculty with low student-to-instructor ratios

Connors State College provides an ACEN-accredited ADN program with small class sizes and hands-on clinical experiences at partner facilities. The curriculum progresses from simple to complex concepts, preparing students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN. Fall and spring admissions, a career ladder for LPNs, and strong faculty support make it a practical choice for many Oklahoma students.

Associate Degree in Nursing — On-Campus
  • ACEN-accredited program with small, intimate class sizes
  • Hands-on clinical experiences in excellent facility partnerships
  • Fall and spring admissions offer flexible entry points
  • LPN Career Ladder option for licensed practical nurses
  • Standardized exam benchmarking builds NCLEX readiness
  • Curriculum scaffolds from simple to complex nursing concepts
  • Individualized instruction and strong faculty support
  • Affordable in-state tuition with financial aid available

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology offers a career-focused AAS in Nursing with traditional and LPN-to-RN tracks on its Okmulgee campus. ACEN accreditation, state-of-the-art facilities, and eligibility for the Nurse Licensure Compact position graduates for multi-state practice. Hands-on training and financial aid options make this an accessible, practical route to the RN credential.

Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing — On-Campus
  • ACEN-accredited program with hands-on clinical training
  • Two tracks: Traditional and LPN-to-RN Transition
  • Approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN and Nurse Licensure Compact states
  • State-of-the-art simulation and lab facilities on campus
  • Financial aid and scholarships available for eligible students
  • Practical training emphasis with faculty mentorship
  • Graduates report strong debt-to-earnings ratio
  • Campus-based accelerated pathway for current LPNs
  • Builds on LPN licensure to earn the RN credential
  • ACEN-accredited and Oklahoma Board of Nursing approved
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN and multi-state practice under NLC
  • Financial aid and scholarship options available
  • Hands-on training with experienced nursing faculty
  • Streamlined curriculum recognizes prior LPN coursework
  • State-of-the-art clinical simulation facilities

Oral Roberts University’s residential BSN program integrates Whole Person Education, physical, psychosocial, and spiritual care, into its CCNE-accredited curriculum. High-tech simulation labs, international clinical opportunities, and a spirit-empowered nursing approach distinguish the program. With an acceptance rate near 99%, ORU provides access to a faith-based nursing education in Tulsa, supported by scholarships and faculty mentorship.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus
  • CCNE-accredited residential BSN program
  • Whole Person Education integrates mind, body, and spirit
  • High-tech simulation labs and diverse clinical placements
  • Local, rural, and international clinical rotation options
  • Near-99% acceptance rate offers broad access
  • Scholarships and financial aid help manage tuition costs
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN with strong faculty mentorship
  • Spirit-empowered nursing approach for service-driven careers

Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s traditional BSN track emphasizes extensive clinical hours and a low student-faculty ratio on the Weatherford campus. A 2.50 GPA retention threshold is slightly lower than many peers, making the program accessible while maintaining rigor. The curriculum prioritizes hands-on learning, preparing graduates for the NCLEX and a wide range of nursing careers.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional Track) — On-Campus
  • Campus-based program with more clinical hours than typical
  • Low student-faculty ratio ensures personalized guidance
  • 2.50 GPA retention requirement offers accessible rigor
  • Comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Accepts incoming freshmen and transfer students
  • Background check and drug screening required for clinicals
  • Affordable net price compared to private alternatives
  • Graduates report solid earnings and manageable debt levels

Oklahoma BSN Tuition & Cost Comparison

Comparing the cost of nursing education across Oklahoma programs can help you identify the most affordable path. The table below lists in-state and out-of-state tuition, net price, and median graduate debt for 15 nursing schools in the state, from community colleges to universities.

SchoolDegreeIn-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNet PriceMedian Graduate Debt
Oklahoma City Community CollegeAssociate$4,059$9,810$4,739$10,388
Northern Oklahoma CollegeAssociate$5,083$11,848$5,625$11,000
Redlands Community CollegeAssociate$5,385$7,951$5,964$6,750
Tulsa Community CollegeAssociate$3,792$9,720$6,288$12,223
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma CityAssociate$3,779$9,564$7,081$14,250
Western Oklahoma State CollegeAssociate$5,390$9,758$7,267$9,500
East Central UniversityBachelor$8,032$17,842$8,683$17,671
Northwestern Oklahoma State UniversityBachelor$5,970$11,664$10,104$17,355
Connors State CollegeAssociate$3,792$7,530$10,199$11,500
Oklahoma State University Institute of TechnologyAssociate$5,774$11,384$10,999$11,334
Langston UniversityBachelor$6,863$14,616$11,504$26,000
Northeastern State UniversityBachelor$7,810$17,290$12,710$17,367
Murray State CollegeAssociate$7,230$11,430$12,844$13,387
Southwestern Oklahoma State UniversityBachelor$8,469$8,499$14,459$15,954
Carl Albert State CollegeAssociate$4,230$8,708$14,607$9,362

Questions to Ask Yourself

Each priority leads to a different set of Oklahoma nursing programs, and mixing them may force a compromise in quality or affordability.

Online programs in Oklahoma offer flexibility for working nurses, but on-campus tracks provide direct access to simulation labs and faculty advising, which can strengthen clinical readiness.

Accelerated BSN programs in Oklahoma condense your education into 12 to 18 months of intensive study, ideal for quick entry, while traditional tracks allow more time for hands-on practice and part-time jobs.

NCLEX Pass Rates & Graduate Outcomes at Oklahoma Nursing Schools

NCLEX pass rates are the single most transparent indicator of a nursing program’s quality, they directly measure how well graduates are prepared to enter practice. In Oklahoma, these rates vary meaningfully between schools, and pairing them with long-term earnings data paints a clearer picture of which programs deliver on their promises.

The NCLEX Benchmark: Why First-Time Pass Rates Matter

A strong first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate signals that a program’s curriculum, clinical training, and student support are aligned with entry-level nursing standards. Nationally, first-time BSN pass rates held around 91% in 2024, while Oklahoma’s statewide average sat at 88%. When a school consistently performs above these marks, it suggests a robust educational foundation. Conversely, programs that slump below the state average may face accreditation scrutiny, state boards of nursing track these numbers closely, and prolonged weakness can trigger program reviews or probation. The 2025 NCLEX data showed a national overall pass rate (including repeat test-takers) of just 69.1%, underscoring that failing on the first attempt remains a real risk.

Standout Oklahoma BSN Programs for NCLEX Performance

Among Oklahoma BSN programs with published 2024 NCLEX results, two schools posted notably high first-time pass rates: Rogers State University at 94% and Northwestern Oklahoma State University at 95%. Both figures handily exceeded the state and national averages, pointing to rigorous instructional models and effective clinical placements. While comprehensive school-by-school NCLEX data for all Oklahoma BSN programs is not aggregated in a single public source each year, the Oklahoma Board of Nursing releases annual reports that allow prospective students to verify the most recent rates for any program. A high pass rate like those seen at Rogers State and Northwestern should carry significant weight in a decision, because it directly reflects a program’s ability to deliver on its primary objective: licensure readiness.

Looking Past the Exam: Earnings and Career Trajectories

NCLEX success opens the door to practice, but economic outcomes after graduation matter just as much. Program-specific employment rates and poverty-level metrics are not yet publicly available for most Oklahoma BSN programs. However, institution-wide median earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education offer a useful proxy for the financial trajectory of graduates. Among Oklahoma nursing schools, the University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center shows median earnings of $63,126 ten years after entry, with a comparatively low median debt of $20,654. Other programs with strong earnings figures include the University of Tulsa ($61,408) and Oklahoma State University ($57,413). These numbers aren’t nursing-specific, they cover all federal aid recipients at the institution, but they suggest that graduates from these schools often land well-paying roles. Southern Nazarene University ($54,951) and Oklahoma City University ($54,655) also show solid returns, while Oklahoma Christian University ($49,203) and the University of Central Oklahoma ($48,351) fall on the lower end of the range. Even so, earnings at all ten schools reported here place graduates comfortably above typical income thresholds, and when paired with manageable debt loads, the return on investment can be compelling.

What a Weak NCLEX Rate Signals, and How to Investigate

A program whose first-time pass rate slips below the state benchmark for multiple years may be struggling with outdated curriculum, insufficient clinical hours, or inadequate remediation. Before committing to a school, ask admissions staff for the last three years of NCLEX performance data. A single down year could be an anomaly; a pattern warrants caution. Also check whether the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), accredited schools are held to outcomes standards that include acceptable pass rates. Visiting campus and speaking with current students about preparation resources, such as NCLEX review courses or simulation access, can provide texture that numbers alone cannot capture.

Accelerated vs. Traditional vs. RN-to-BSN: Choosing Your Pathway

At Oklahoma City University, you can complete an Accelerated BSN in as few as 12 months if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. Nursing schools in Oklahoma offer three distinct BSN pathways, each designed for a different starting point and schedule. Matching your background to the right track saves time and tuition while keeping you on pace for licensure.

Accelerated BSN: A Fast Track for Career Shifters

Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs compress nursing coursework into an intensive, full-time schedule for students who have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. You bypass general education requirements and dive straight into clinical and science content.

  • Typical length: 12 to 21 months, depending on the program.
  • Credits required: Roughly 56 to 60 credits of upper-level nursing courses.
  • Delivery: In-person or hybrid, with clinical rotations completed at local healthcare facilities.
  • Oklahoma examples: Oklahoma City University offers a 12-month, 56-credit ABSN. The University of Tulsa runs an online ABSN that takes 21 months to finish 60 credits. Marian University's Oklahoma City site delivers a 16-month hybrid ABSN.

Because of the pace, working while enrolled is rarely feasible, and admission is competitive. You will need strong grades in science prerequisites and often an interview.

Traditional BSN: The Comprehensive Four-Year Path

A traditional BSN is the direct-entry route for students coming out of high school or transferring from another major without a prior degree. It builds from foundational sciences to advanced clinical practice over about four academic years.

  • Typical length: Four years total, with the nursing major typically spanning the last two to three years after prerequisites.
  • Credits required: 120 to 124 total credits, including 50–60 prerequisite credits in subjects like anatomy, microbiology, and statistics.
  • Delivery: Almost entirely in-person, with on-campus labs and hospital-based clinicals.
  • Oklahoma example: The University of Central Oklahoma’s traditional BSN sequence covers roughly 30 months of nursing coursework once prerequisites are met.

This path suits students who want the full college experience, need a more gradual introduction to healthcare, or are not yet licensed. It provides the broadest clinical exposure and is the most common route for first-time nursing students.

RN-to-BSN: Advancing from an ADN or Diploma

For registered nurses who already hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a hospital diploma, an RN-to-BSN program builds on your existing licensure and experience. Most coursework can be completed online while you continue working.

  • Typical length: 12 to 24 months of part-time study.
  • Credits required: About 30 to 35 credits, focused on leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice rather than repeat clinical skills.
  • Delivery: Predominantly online, with some programs offering accelerated terms.
  • Oklahoma availability: Multiple public and private universities in Oklahoma offer RN-to-BSN pathways with rolling start dates.

This track is ideal for nurses looking to meet employer preferences or pursue graduate study without leaving the workforce. Because you already hold an RN license, clinical requirements are often integrated into your current job.

Selecting the right pathway depends on your prior education, your availability for full-time study, and how quickly you want to enter practice. If speed is essential and you have a bachelor’s degree, an ABSN may be the shortest route. If you are just starting out, the traditional BSN offers a complete foundation. And if you are already a working RN, the online RN-to-BSN advances your credentials with minimal disruption.

Admissions & Prerequisites at Oklahoma Nursing Schools

Gathering accurate admissions information is the first step toward a successful nursing school application. Oklahoma programs set their own criteria, so verifying details directly is essential. This guide walks you through the most reliable ways to research prerequisites, entrance exams, and clinical partnerships.

Check Program Websites First

School websites are the most up-to-date source for GPA minimums, required prerequisite courses, and application deadlines. Admissions pages typically list:

  • Minimum cumulative GPA: Often between 2.5 and 3.0, though some schools look at science GPA separately.
  • Prerequisite courses: Common requirements include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, and statistics. Many schools publish a checklist or suggested timeline for transfer students.
  • Application windows: Nursing programs often admit once or twice per year, and deadlines are strict.

Since requirements can change from year to year, always confirm the current cycle's criteria rather than relying on older print materials.

Confirm Entrance Exam Requirements

Most BSN programs in Oklahoma require a standardized entrance exam, typically the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or the HESI Admission Assessment. Schools set their own minimum scores and may weigh certain sections more heavily. Check individual program pages for:

  • Which exam is accepted (some accept either, some require one).
  • Minimum overall score and any sub-score thresholds.
  • Retake policies and recommended preparation resources.

If exam information isn't clearly listed, email the admissions office. Never assume that a passing score from another school will transfer or meet the cutoff at your target program.

Investigate Clinical Placement Partnerships

Clinical rotations are a core component of any BSN, and knowing where a school places students can help you gauge the quality of hands-on training. Major health systems in Oklahoma that frequently partner with nursing schools include OU Health, Saint Francis Health System, INTEGRIS Health, and Mercy. While final placements depend on availability and instructor assignments, understanding a school's primary affiliations gives insight into the clinical environments you might experience. To find specifics:

  • Check the nursing program's brochure or accreditation reports, which sometimes list affiliated hospitals.
  • Contact the school's nursing department or clinical placement office directly. Ask about the geographic range of clinical sites and whether students rotate through multiple facilities.
  • For schools with a strong presence in Tulsa or Oklahoma City, clinical sites may include both academic medical centers and community hospitals.

Use Official Nursing Resources

The Oklahoma Board of Nursing maintains a current list of approved nursing education programs, along with links to each school's website. While the board's site doesn't publish detailed admissions criteria, it can confirm a program's accreditation status and provide initial contact information. The Oklahoma Nurses Association also offers career resources and may highlight pathways into nursing, though it does not maintain a database of prerequisites.

Verify with Direct Inquiries

Even after reviewing websites and brochures, some details may remain unclear, especially for applicants with non-traditional backgrounds or out-of-state transcripts. A quick phone call or email to the nursing admissions office can clarify:

  • How to satisfy prerequisites if you have AP, CLEP, or military credits.
  • Whether courses taken at community colleges transfer seamlessly.
  • Additional requirements like drug screening, background checks, or immunizations before clinicals.

National data sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics provide general nursing employment projections but do not track program-level admissions requirements. Combining website research with direct school contact ensures you have the most accurate and actionable plan for application season.

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Oklahoma

Earning your RN license in Oklahoma follows a clear four-step process. Once licensed, you join a Nurse Licensure Compact state, letting you practice across dozens of other states without added credentials.

Step-by-step RN licensure in Oklahoma: graduate from an approved nursing program, apply to the Board, pass the NCLEX-RN, and receive a compact license for multi-state practice.

Oklahoma Nursing Workforce: Salary and Job Outlook

BLS occupational data sets a broad baseline for what RNs earn, but the actual early-career paychecks of BSN graduates from Oklahoma nursing schools tell a more personal story. Government wage surveys capture all registered nurses regardless of degree, while earnings data tracked by the U.S. Department of Education shows how graduates of specific programs fare once they enter the workforce. Together, these two lenses help aspiring nurses weigh salary potential against the cost and time of earning a bachelor's degree.

Oklahoma RN Salaries by Metro Area

Registered nurses in Oklahoma earned a statewide median annual wage of $81,160 as of 20241, landing below the national median for the profession. Pay varies meaningfully by location, with the Tulsa metro area offering the highest median at $82,130, followed closely by Oklahoma City at $80,460. Non-metro regions see modestly lower figures: Northeast Oklahoma nonmetro at $80,240, Northwest at $77,300, Southeast at $76,960, and Southwest at $72,970. While these numbers might appear modest compared to coastal states, Oklahoma's cost of living index remains well below the national average, meaning an RN's salary here often buys a comfortable middle-class lifestyle, especially when paired with a partner's income.

Job Growth and Demand for BSN-Prepared Nurses

Oklahoma projects 4.8% growth for RN positions from 2022 to 2032, translating to roughly 2,240 annual openings.2 That pace trails the national projected growth rate of 6%, but demand is not uniform. Ambulatory health care services (up 8.9%) and nursing and residential care facilities (up 10%) are the fastest-growing settings, while hospital-based roles expand more slowly (3.2%). State workforce reports consistently highlight shortages in rural counties, where BSN-prepared nurses often step into leadership and public health roles that ADN graduates rarely fill. Completing a BSN, especially from an in-state public program, positions you to capture those higher-need, higher-impact jobs.

Early-Career Earnings: What BSN Graduates Report

The U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard tracks median earnings of former students a decade after they first enroll, offering a real-world earnings proxy. Among top Oklahoma nursing schools, graduates of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the Norman campus report median earnings of $63,126. University of Tulsa alumni report $61,408, while Oklahoma Wesleyan University shows $59,841 and Oklahoma State University graduates earn $57,413. These figures reflect all majors, not just nursing, but they suggest that BSN completers from these institutions often exceed the state's overall RN median relatively early in their careers. Program-level nursing earnings remain unpublished for most schools, but topnursing.org updates this data as it becomes available, helping you compare outcomes beyond just base wage statistics.

Did You Know?

Oklahoma's public BSN programs typically have net prices under $15,000, while private schools cost significantly more, yet graduate earnings and employment rates often overlap, meaning you can save tens of thousands without sacrificing career outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma Nursing Schools

Choosing the right nursing program in Oklahoma comes down to understanding the options, costs, and outcomes. Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about BSN programs, admissions, and licensure in the Sooner State.

What are the best nursing schools in Oklahoma?
The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Central Oklahoma are consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the state, thanks to their accredited BSN programs, strong clinical partnerships, and high NCLEX pass rates. Other respected options include Northeastern State University and Southwestern Oklahoma State University, each offering distinct program strengths.
How much does a BSN program cost in Oklahoma?
In-state tuition at Oklahoma public universities typically ranges from $5,000 to $11,000 per year for a BSN, before financial aid. Private institutions and out-of-state rates can push costs significantly higher. Overall program expenses depend on credit hours, lab fees, and clinical requirements, so students should compare net price after scholarships and grants.
What are the NCLEX pass rates for Oklahoma nursing schools?
Most Oklahoma BSN programs report first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates above 85%, with several exceeding 90% in recent years. Statewide averages generally align with or slightly trail national figures. For instance, the University of Oklahoma has posted first-time pass rates near 95%, reflecting rigorous preparation. Always check current program-specific data through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.
How long does it take to get a BSN in Oklahoma?
A traditional BSN takes four years of full-time study. Accelerated BSN tracks for those with a prior bachelor's degree compress coursework into 12 to 18 months. RN-to-BSN completion programs can be finished in as little as 12 to 24 months, often with flexible online options. Part-time pathways extend these timelines.
Are there online BSN programs in Oklahoma?
Fully online prelicensure BSN programs are uncommon because clinical training requires in-person placements, but many Oklahoma schools offer hybrid or online RN-to-BSN and some general education courses online. For example, Oklahoma State University's RN-to-BSN is available entirely online. Always confirm accreditation and clinical placement support for any online nursing program.
Does Oklahoma participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact?
Yes, Oklahoma is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows registered nurses with a multistate license from Oklahoma to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses, and it simplifies the process for nurses moving to Oklahoma. It's a major advantage for those considering travel nursing or relocation.
What GPA do I need to get into an Oklahoma nursing program?
Admission requirements vary, but most BSN programs set minimum overall GPAs between 2.5 and 3.0. However, competitive applicants often present GPAs of 3.5 or higher, especially in prerequisite science courses. Some schools use holistic review considering healthcare experience, test scores, or essays, so check each program's specific criteria for the best chance.

Complete List of BSN Programs in Oklahoma by City

Beyond the top-ranked programs, Oklahoma offers many other nursing schools worth considering. This directory organizes additional options by region, including campuses in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and smaller communities, with a mix of traditional, accelerated, and online formats.

Oklahoma City Metro

Oklahoma Christian University
Offers a traditional campus BSN grounded in Christian principles and an online BSN designed for working professionals with flexible 7-week terms and local clinicals.
  • Nursing (B.S.N., Pre-Licensure)
  • Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Edmond, OK · On-Campus, Online
University of Central Oklahoma
Accredited by CCNE, UCO provides traditional campus, fast-track hybrid, and online RN-to-BSN paths emphasizing hands-on learning, leadership, and compassionate care.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Fast Track
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Online RN to B.S. Track
Edmond, OK · Hybrid, On-Campus, Online
Oklahoma City Community College
Offers multiple associate degree pathways: Traditional, Accelerated Baccalaureate to ADN, and Career Ladder for LPNs/Paramedics, with high NCLEX pass rates.
  • Associate Degree Nursing Program
  • Baccalaureate to Associate Degree Nurse Accelerated Pathway
  • Associate Degree in Career Ladder Pathway
Oklahoma City, OK · On-Campus
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
OU Health Sciences Center provides a traditional campus BSN, a 14-month accelerated BSN, and a hybrid LPN-to-BSN, with a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
  • Accelerated BSN
  • LPN to BSN
Oklahoma City, OK · Hybrid, On-Campus
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City
Offers an Associate in Applied Science in Nurse Science with traditional and career ladder pathways, featuring hands-on labs and clinicals, and above-average NCLEX pass rates.
  • Nurse Science
Oklahoma City, OK · On-Campus
Oklahoma Baptist University
Campus-based BSN offering traditional and second-degree tracks, preparing students for licensure in 49 states.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Shawnee, OK · On-Campus

Northeastern Oklahoma

Tulsa Community College
ACEN-accredited associate degree with Traditional and Career Mobility (LPN/Paramedic to RN) tracks, focusing on patient-centered care and evidence-based practice.
  • Nursing (RN)
  • Nursing (RN) - Career Mobility Track (LPN/Paramedic to RN)
Tulsa, OK · On-Campus
Rogers State University
ACEN-accredited traditional BSN with small class sizes, state-of-the-art labs, and a 95% pre-graduation employment rate.
  • BSN (Traditional Nursing)
Claremore, OK · On-Campus
Northeastern State University
Online RN-to-BSN program with 7-week classes, flexibility for working RNs, and a focus on leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Tahlequah, OK · Online

Southern Oklahoma

East Central University
Eight-semester pre-licensure BSN on a supportive campus, emphasizing hands-on learning and preparation for diverse nursing roles.
  • Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing
Ada, OK · On-Campus
Seminole State College
ACEN-accredited campus-based ADN requiring 70 credit hours and 484+ clinical hours, with strong NCLEX performance.
  • Nursing Associate in Applied Science
Seminole, OK · On-Campus
Murray State College
Campus-based ADN program with multiple southern Oklahoma locations, providing accessible nursing career preparation.
  • Associate of Science in Nursing ADN
Tishomingo, OK · On-Campus
Carl Albert State College
Affordable ADN program at Poteau and Sallisaw campuses, focused on evidence-based care, simulation, and therapeutic communication.
  • Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Poteau, OK · On-Campus

Western Oklahoma

Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Offers three BSN tracks including traditional campus, LPN-to-BSN, and a fully online RN-to-BSN, with emphasis on patient care and evidence-based practice.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN-to-BSN)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
Alva, OK · On-Campus, Online
Western Oklahoma State College
Offers a five-semester ADN with classroom and clinical learning across Altus, Lawton, and Elk City, plus a hybrid LPN-to-RN track.
  • Associate Degree in Nursing
  • LPN-to-RN
Altus, OK · Hybrid, On-Campus

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