Nursing in Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s nursing programs are largely centered in its two largest cities, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. While about 98 programs exist across 70 cities, students outside metro areas often face limited local options. Rural regions typically lack nursing schools, making access challenging if you do not live near a community college or university offering nursing degrees. Most LPN and ADN programs are found in public community colleges, offering affordable tuition between $4,800 and $15,000. BSN programs, especially at private universities, can cost $15,000 to over $35,000.

The state’s NCLEX pass rates indicate a mixed picture. On average, students achieve an 85.7% pass rate, which remains stable. Higher pass rates tend to come from public or non-profit schools with stronger clinical support. Some smaller or for-profit programs show lower scores.

Nursing jobs in Oklahoma vary by location and specialty. The state employs over 32,000 registered nurses, with average RN salaries around $82,110. Salaries are higher in urban centers like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, especially for nurse practitioners and CRNAs, but rural nurses often earn less. Oklahoma’s slightly below-average cost of living helps keep wages competitive, but rising housing costs in cities can affect affordability.

Note that Oklahoma does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact. This means if you want to work in a neighboring state, you will generally need to obtain a separate nursing license rather than using your Oklahoma license alone.

This page helps you explore Oklahoma nursing programs by type, shows detailed NCLEX pass rate trends, and lists scholarships. This information is vital for finding the right program in a state where access, costs, and job demand vary greatly depending on where you live and which school you choose.