5 Cheapest Online Colleges in Oklahoma

5 Cheapest Online Colleges in Oklahoma
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The cheapest accredited colleges and universities in Oklahoma offer the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as traditional on-campus programs.
  • It is important that the online college you choose still aligns with your objectives, schedule preferences, and learning goals.
  • An online college in Oklahoma can be affordable and offers flexibility in scheduling, which makes it a perfect option for busy working professionals.

Cheapest Online Colleges in Oklahoma in 2025

  1. University of Oklahoma
    +1
  2. University of Central Oklahoma
    –1
  3. Oklahoma Baptist University
    +1
  4. East Central University
    –1
  5. Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

The University of Oklahoma moves up 1 position the number 1 spot in our 2025 ranking of the most affordable online colleges in Oklahoma.

The University of Oklahoma has made several improvements making them an appealing choice for students looking for an affordable option for higher education. The school has a generous transfer credit policy that allows students to transfer up to 90 credit hours. This can allow students to complete a degree in as little as 12 months, depending on their prior coursework.

Online education offers convenience and flexibility to students, especially working professionals. However, accreditation issues and the quality of education are the biggest challenges. On top of that, finding affordable online learning options requires a lot of research.

We have researched and put together the cheapest online colleges in Oklahoma that are reputable schools you can attend.

Two women sitting beside each other while studying and using their laptops

Top 5 Cheapest Online Colleges in Oklahoma

When looking for the top affordable online colleges, remember that every institution has unique programs and resources. So, it’s best to explore your options thoroughly.

To simplify the process, our rankings include key factors like acceptance rates, accreditation statuses, and aid options. Going through these will help you land a college that best suits your needs and pockets. Here’s a breakdown of the cheapest online colleges in Oklahoma:

  1. #1

    University of Oklahoma

    Norman , OK
    #1 Best Grad Schools in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Oklahoma 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    32K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Oklahoma

    Cost of Degree: $9,595
    Expenses: $20,891
    Starting Salary: $61,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 74%
    • Acceptance rate: 73%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • In-state tuition: $5,070 for up to 21 CH
    • Out-of-state tuition: $22,140 for up to 21 CH
    • Focus areas: Business Management, Marketing, Engineering, Communication, Journalism, Social Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Liberal Arts & Sciences, and General Studies.

    What Do We Love About the University of Oklahoma?

    Since its founding in 1890, the University of Oklahoma has a long legacy of academic excellence and innovation. Offering 600+ courses with 50+ accredited degree programs, the institution reaches 9,253 learners globally. These flexible online programs are taught by experts in the field.

    At the University of Oklahoma, distance courses employ the Canvas online learning management system and follow an eight-week format. This lets students complete two courses per session and four courses each semester.

    • The University of Oklahoma is great for students who: Wish to continue their education for a long time since the University of Oklahoma accepts transfer students from accredited institutions.
    • The University of Oklahoma might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a hassle-free admission process. Here, students must make appointments with the admissions office for information regarding application documents and degree prerequisites.
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Central Oklahoma

    Edmond , OK
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #3 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    15K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Oklahoma

    Cost of Degree: $8,522
    Expenses: $18,646
    Starting Salary: $44,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University of Central Oklahoma  

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 13%
    • Acceptance rate: 81%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)  
    • In-state tuition: $242.80 per credit hour
    • Out-of-state tuition: $362.90 per credit hour
    • Focus areas: Business, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, Fine Arts, and Social Sciences.  

    What Do We Love About the University of Central Oklahoma?

    Founded in 1890 in Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma offers a variety of online degrees to meet student needs. Here, students can become part of a healthy virtual community and develop connections with peers and professors.

    The best part? UCO offers fully online courses as well as hybrid options to cater to different individual preferences. For instance, their 124-credit Business Administration program is designed to equip them with adequate field knowledge to excel. Plus, it offers networking opportunities for both online and in-person students.

    • The University of Central Oklahoma is great for students who: Prefer a diversity of program offerings to serve their individual preferences.
    • The University of Central Oklahoma might not be the best fit for those who: Want a smooth learning experience since the 13% graduation rate indicates that the graduation journey is challenging at UCO.

    University of Central Oklahoma’s Online Degrees

    BBA in General Business
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Human Resources Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Applied Liberal Arts
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. Woman typing in a laptop
  4. #3

    Oklahoma Baptist University

    Shawnee , OK
    #5 Best Private Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Oklahoma 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Oklahoma Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $34,050
    Expenses: $14,850
    Starting Salary: $45,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Oklahoma Baptist University  

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 43%
    • Acceptance rate: 51%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • In-state tuition: $32,880
    • Out-of-state tuition: $32,880
    • Focus areas: Physical Therapy, Political Science, Religious Studies, Registered Nursing, and Biblical & Theological Studies.

    What Do We Love About Oklahoma Baptist University? 

    Founded in 1910, Oklahoma Baptist University is an accredited Christian Liberal Arts University, reaching many online learners around the globe. The institute offers the best online programs in health and wellness, STEM, and business.

    • Oklahoma Baptist University is great for students who: Prefer continuous education from the same institute as OBU offers various undergraduate programs and master’s degrees to facilitate online learning.
    • Oklahoma Baptist University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer broad viewpoints. With a deep emphasis on a Christian worldview, OBU might not align with everyone’s preferences.
    Compare school
  5. #4

    East Central University

    Ada , OK
    #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1019/19

    Career Outlook for degree at East Central University

    Cost of Degree: $8,032
    Expenses: $13,408
    Starting Salary: $42,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of East Central University 

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 20%
    • Acceptance rate: 70%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • In-state tuition: $4,240.00 per semester
    • Out-of-state tuition: $9,050.00 per semester
    • Focus areas: Business & Economics, Accounting & Finance, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Computer Sciences, Law, Performing Arts, and Chemistry.  

    What Do We Love About East Central University? 

    Founded in 1909, East Central University is among the best online universities in Oklahoma. Students can enjoy access to digital databases, library resources, and dedicated technology support services for online learning.

    Distance learners at ECU may enroll in programs like Bachelor of Sciences in Kinesiology. The cherry on top is that students transfer up to 94 credits, allowing them to complete their degrees in 2-4 years.

    • East Central University is great for students who: Prefer online networking since ECU consists of a student body representing over 25 states and 30 countries.
    • East Central University might not be the best fit for those who: Want additional concessions, as ECU does not offer many scholarships in the Counseling graduate program.

    East Central University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Criminal Justice Policy
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services Counseling
    Degree Concentrations
    • Aging
    • Counseling
    • Rehabilitation
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Kinesiology
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    6. Students sitting in a table together while using their laptops for studying
  6. #5

    Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City

    Oklahoma City , OK

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Graduation

    13%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City

    Cost of Degree: $3,779
    Starting Salary: $39,300

    Overview of Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 46%
    • Acceptance rate: 71%
    • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • In-state tuition: $4,621.50 per semester
    • Out-of-state tuition: $12,381.75 per semester 
    • Focus areas: Aerospace & Aviation, Agriculture & Animal Science, Education, Health & Medicine, Architecture & Engineering, Social Sciences, and Law.  

    What Do We Love About Oklahoma State University?  

    Oklahoma State University attracts distance learners throughout the US, allowing them to choose among various online programs. Offering 10 online bachelor’s programs and 25 online master’s programs, OSU has something for everyone. While studying in a completely virtual setting, you can still get the traditional classroom vibe here.

    In addition, you can opt for general courses and some specialized ones to enhance your learning experience. Even better, you can decide what you study by choosing your preferred electives, minors, or concentrations.

    • Oklahoma State University is great for students who: Wish to seek additional help with remote studies. At Oklahoma State University, distance learners can reach out to writing and math support centers for extra help.  
    • Oklahoma State University might not be the best fit for those who: Want a more relaxed learning environment. At OSU, you might be required to log in for digital attendance at specific times.
    Compare school

Related Questions

Do online credits cost more or less in Oklahoma?

Typically, online credits in Oklahoma are pricier than attending on-campus classes. For instance, at Oklahoma State University, you have to pay an additional fee for online courses, unlike the traditional ones. These can include an outreach fee, usually around $90 to $100 per credit.

Will any online colleges in Oklahoma accept a GED?

Yes. Fortunately, most online colleges in Oklahoma will readily accept a GED certificate. While most affordable colleges mandate the submission of transcripts along with your application, a GED certificate will be accepted in place of it. Plus, these colleges may also require SAT or ACT scores.

What can you do with an online degree in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma offers plenty of learning opportunities with an online bachelor’s or master’s degree in hand. For instance, engineering and computer information system graduates have relatively strong job prospects. Most of them can potentially secure jobs within one year of degree completion.

Conclusion

While picking an affordable online college may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be! In addition to affordable tuition fees, Oklahoma colleges offer different financial aid options to further ease the learning journey of talented students.

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