find your perfect postgrad program
Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

Studying a Postgrad Program in Oklahoma

Postgrad Study in OklahomaOklahoma is the 20th largest state in terms of size in America, covering 181,035 km2 (69,898 square miles). With an estimated population of 3,911,338, Oklahoma is ranked 28th in terms of population in the USA. Oklahoma is bordered to the east by Missouri and Arkansas, to the north by Kansas, northwest by Colorado, to the west by New Mexico, and to the south and southwest by Texas.

The largest cities in Oklahoma include Oklahoma City (the state capital), Broken Arrow, Edmond, Still water, Lawton, Tulsa, Norman, Moore, Enid, and Midwest City. Oklahoma State is home to several public and private institutions offering postgraduate courses.

Oklahoma is located at an ecological crossroads experiencing a number of different ecosystems. The ecosystems and terrain ranges from extensive arid plains to mountains and subtropical forests. It covers an amazing 10 different ecological zones, more than any other US state by per square mile.

Where Can You Study A Postgrad Program In Oklahoma?

The state of Oklahoma has an extensive public university system with over 20 campuses throughout Oklahoma. There are also numerous private institutions. As with the rest of America, private institutions are in general much more expensive compared to their public counterparts. Here is a rundown of some of your postgraduate study options in Oklahoma:

University of Oklahoma (OU) This is a public institution founded in 1890. The OU is located in suburban Norman, Oklahoma. OU enrollment exceeds 30,000 students and there are over 2,800 full-time faculty members. OU has 21 colleges. The masters degree program at the University of Oklahoma requires at the minimum two semesters of graduate work, typically requiring the equivalent of between 30 and 36 semester hours of coursework.

Oklahoma State University Established in 1890, the Oklahoma State University is located in Oklahoma City’s Uptown district. The public OSU offers programs and courses leading to bachelor degrees, master degrees as well as doctorate levels degrees in different areas of study. This became the first major university in the US to offer an executive PhD in business. OSU has approximately 3,000 students, which includes about 1,200 graduate students. OSU offers 20 graduate degrees and 70 undergraduate majors.

The University of Tulsa This is a non-profit private institution of higher learning located in the city of Tulsa. Besides undergraduate courses, TU offers programs leading to master degrees and doctorate degrees in a variety of study areas. Founded in 1894, The University of Tulsa has a city setting covering 209 acres. Oklahoma City, the state capital is approximately 100 miles away. The total undergraduate enrolment at The University of Tulsa stands at 3,478 and the university offers over 60 undergraduate majors.

Oral Roberts University Established in 1963, this non-profit private institution of higher education in Tulsa offers courses leading to master and doctorate degrees. The setting is urban in the City of Tulsa covering 323 acres. Oral Roberts University was founded by Oral Roberts the Evangelist, and undergraduate enrolment currently stands at over 3,000 students.

University of Central Oklahoma This is a non-profit public institution of higher education in the town of Edmond. It was founded in 1890 and has a very selective admission policy based with an admission rate range of between 70% and 80% making it a rather selective institution. UCO offers the only Forensic Science masters degree in Oklahoma. The undergraduate enrolment in 2016/17 was 15,067 students.

Tuition Fees & Living Costs in Oklahoma

One feature that leads to the popularity of studying in Oklahoma is its affordability. Despite being among the leading states in terms of per capita income percentage growth, the state’s average per capita income is the 7th lowest across the US at $21,000. This is good news for students coming from abroad to study in Oklahoma as it means that university tuition costs are relatively lower than many other US locations such New England.

Tuition fees are particularly reasonable for in-state students, the University of Oklahoma, for example, offers in-state tuition fees at $8,065 whereas their out-of-state fees for 2015-16 were $21,451. Meanwhile the University of Central Oklahoma’s tuition fees for in-state students are $6,096 with their 2016-17 out-of-state fees increasing to $14,972. The private University of Tulsa is a pricier option with its 2016-17 tuition fees standing at $38,796. Postgrad tuition fees at Oral Roberts University for 2016-17 are $25,678 for all students.

The majority of universities in North America offer accommodation to graduate level international students. It is not any different in Oklahoma – and opting for the university accommodation can make it much easier to budget for your year ahead. This is also a good way to immediately immerse yourself in US student life, meet new people and make new friends.

Living costs in Oklahoma are reasonable when compared to the US as a whole. Tulsa city has, for example, consistently been rated as top among most affordable cities in the US to rent or live. Frequently, Oklahoma City rounds up the list of Top 10 cities in terms of affordability, which is great if you are planning on living and studying here.

Applications & Admissions In Oklahoma

For overseas students who wish to take up a postgraduate program in Oklahoma, it is necessary to submit a non-immigrant visa application. The most widely used is the student visa F-1 visa, which entitles you to take your course at any US-accredited university or college. To apply for a graduate program in Oklahoma student visa, the student has to fill out a specific application form which can be accessed from the US Embassy website. Then you will need to send the necessary documentation like a proof of university acceptance, evidence of financial standing and academic qualifications. You will also need to ascertain your availability to attend a visa interview in your home country at the US Embassy. If you are from a non-English speaking country you will also have to provide proof of English language proficiency.

Interesting Oklahoma Alumni

Prominent Oklahoma graduates include celebrities, athletes, politicians, business people, and many more. One example is Olivia Munn, TV presenter, model, comedian and author. She is a leading alumnus from the University of Oklahoma and started her professional career in TV journalism prior to becoming an actress.

Student Case Study

One former student says she chose University of Oklahoma’s PhD in Philosophy as “it offers invaluable teaching experience and is a leading global research institution.”

What Can You Do In Oklahoma When You’re Not Studying?

Oklahoma has an amazing range of fun things for a student to engage in. Whether it is unique attractions or visit to the treasure-filled American Banjo Museum, Oklahoma has it all. You can opt for funky and fun, outdoor recreation, festivals or simply shopping, whatever you fancy you will be kept busy by what’s on offer in Oklahoma City. Lake Murray State Park is the largest and oldest state park in Oklahoma and cannot be missed. The Tucker Tower, recently renovated offers spectacular views of the park and lake, and is also a nature centre. Pay a visit to the Muskogee War Memorial Park and explore the USS Batfish, a Second World War legend. Unheard and seen while stalking prey, it claimed over 14 kills that included a record-breaking three submarines. If you want to simply relax, the place to go is the clear, beautiful, Broken Bow Lake on the Mountain Fork River for rowing and serene moments.

Related Articles

American Study Destinations

American Universities

Tuition Fees For Postgrad Programs In America

USA Applications & Admissions

Apply For A Postgrad Solutions Study Bursary