As a state committed to strengthening its healthcare workforce, Oklahoma is actively encouraging students to pursue registered nursing (RN) degrees to address the ongoing nursing shortage. With nursing job growth projected at 12% by 2030, Oklahoma has expanded educational pathways to help meet this demand. The state promotes the pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, emphasizing that advanced degrees not only support career advancement but also boost earning potential within Oklahoma's evolving healthcare sector.

Jump to:

For RN bridge programs visit:

Cities in Oklahoma

Best RN Programs in Oklahoma

Selecting the best nursing school in Oklahoma can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Oklahoma by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 45 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

1601 S Opdyke St, Sallisaw, OK 74955

Score: 97.77

Sallisaw, known for its majestic green hills, is home to a renowned Carl Albert State College campus. CASC has been educating nurses since 1981, and its ADN program can be completed in 2 years (4 semesters) of full-time study. The curriculum includes courses such as Human Physiology, Health-Illness Nursing, and others.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (918) 775-6977
2.

2805 NE Lincoln Road, Idabel, OK 74745

Score: 95.61

Eastern Oklahoma State College, located in Idabel, boasts an affordable and accessible ADN program. Students can complete the program in just 2 years of full-time attendance. The program emphasizes a strong student-teacher relationship to help promote the development of critical thinking skills, communication, and other important nursing traits.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (580) 286-9431
3.

2201 Silver Lake Rd, Bartlesville, OK 74006

Score: 94.83

A unique blend of Christian faith and whole-patient philosophy is what makes graduates from the nursing programs at Oklahoma Wesleyan University - Bartlesville stand out at the top of their class. The school offers unique simulation labs as well as nursing mission trips to provide students with the knowledge and skills to become well-rounded nurses.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (918) 335-6276
4.

1301 W Main St, Wilburton, OK 74578

Score: 94.37

Eastern Oklahoma State College is located in the small town of Wilburton, Oklahoma, where a popular ADN program pathway is located. Patient-centered nursing education, with courses in nursing theory and clinical practice in community settings, prepare students for successful entry-level nursing employment.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (918) 465-2361
5.

7777 S May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73159

Score: 93.97

Oklahoma City Community College is ready to fulfill the demand for nurses by offering multiple program pathways. OCCC's traditional ADN program preps students for immediate entry-level nursing positions, or upon completion, students can transfer their credits to a bachelor's degree program. OCCC's curriculum includes courses in Human Anatomy & Physiology, Mental Health Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (405) 682-1611
6.

1802 E. College Ave, McAlester, OK 74501

Score: 93.74

The McAlester campus of Eastern Oklahoma State University offers an ACEN-accredited ADN program. The curriculum consists of coursework that aims to prepare students to provide and manage quality nursing care for patients. An emphasis on holistic nursing care and patient advocacy set this program apart from the rest.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (918) 302-3607
7.

4502 East 41st Street, Tulsa, OK 74135

Score: 93.20

The University of Oklahoma - Tulsa is a favorite with students for its excellent nursing program offerings. Those enrolled in OU-Tulsa Schusterman Center's BSN program can complete their coursework in just 2 years of full-time study. The goal of the program is to train nurses who provide safe, ethical, and competent care to patients from diverse populations.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (918) 660-3000
8.

1100 E 14th St, Ada, OK 74820

Score: 92.97

East Central University's main campus in Ada is home to a high-quality BSN program that can be taken in person or online. The comprehensive curriculum includes coursework in Child-Adult Nursing, Pharmacology, Community Health Nursing, and much more. Program grads have high pass rates on the NCLEX-RN and are welcome additions at healthcare facilities throughout Oklahoma.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (580) 332-8000
9.

100 N University Dr, Edmond, OK 73034

Score: 92.80

Since 1972, the University of Central Oklahoma has prepared professional nursing candidates through its excellent degree offerings. UCO's traditional BSN allows students to complete their education via a 4-year or 5-year plan of study. Evidence-based nursing concepts are taught incorporating nursing theory and clinical application. Small class sizes facilitate interaction between students and faculty.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (405) 974-5000
10.

2901 Mt. Washington, Ardmore, OK 73401

Score: 92.20

Murray State College's Ardmore campus is home to an associate's degree pathway in registered nursing. Students complete 70 credit hours of coursework over four regular semesters and one summer semester. Graduates of the program are prepared to deliver evidence-based care in a variety of settings.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associates of Applied Science
  • Phone: (580) 387-7000
11.

7777 S Lewis Ave, Tulsa, OK 74171

Score: 91.94

Oral Roberts University is home to the Anna Vaughn College of Nursing and an exceptional BSN program, which has proven to be one of the state's top nursing programs. Located in Tulsa, this faith-based program provides a broad nursing foundation for immediate practice or eventual graduate studies. The curriculum includes courses in Community Health Nursing, Lifelong Wellness, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (918) 495-6198
12.

1100 North Stonewall Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73126

Score: 91.65

Experienced faculty who teach proven theoretical and practical methods can be found in all of the nursing degree programs offered at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - Oklahoma City. With a traditional BSN offering, as well as an accelerated BSN and an LPN to BSN, students can choose the route that works for them. Graduates from these renowned programs can expect immediate placement within the field.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN
  • Phone: (405) 271-2428
13.

401 South Dewey Ave, Bartlesville, OK 74003

Score: 90.46

Bartlesville’s Rogers State University offers both a BSN and an RN bridge program for current LPNs and paramedics to cross over into registered nursing. Traditional classroom courses, distance learning, and online options are all available as part of these program. Enrolled students also have access to scientific labs and clinical rotations at area healthcare facilities.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (918) 338-8000
14.

500 W University St, Shawnee, OK 74804

Score: 90.36

Shawnee’s Oklahoma Baptist University offers a BSN program that incorporates arts, sciences, and a Christian worldview. Students take nursing common core classes, flex core classes, specialty nursing courses, and more as part of the curriculum. Upon graduating, students go on to become RNs in hospitals and other care facilities, or they can continue their education at the graduate level.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN
  • Phone: (405) 585-4450
15.

800 S Tucker Dr, Tulsa, OK 74104

Score: 90.05

The University of Tulsa boasts a pre-licensure BSN program built on cutting-edge, evidence-based practice. The highly personalized learning environment allows students to begin clinical experiences in the spring semester of their sophomore year, giving students more hands-on experience than most nursing programs. The program's mission is to educate students to deftly handle entry-level nursing careers, emphasizing clinical service, research, and health education.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (918) 631-2619
16.

1405 N 4th Street, PMB 2736, Durant, OK 74701

Score: 89.65

ECU @ Southeastern Nursing in Durant offers a BSN program pathway for aspiring RNs. The prelicensure program is designed to be completed in 5 semesters, and students can also opt for online study. The curriculum focuses on patient-centered care, communication, collaboration, safety, and much more.Graduates of the program are prepared to deliver highly skilled care in both urban and rural environments

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (580) 745-3180
17.

6420 SE 15th Street, Midwest City, OK 73110

Score: 89.08

Located east of Oklahoma City in the town of Midwest City, you will find the nursing department on the sprawling 120-acre campus of Rose State College - Midwest City. Its 63-credit Associate in Science nursing degree program leaves students poised for further baccalaureate nursing education, or employment in entry-level positions. Over the course of the 2-year program, students take courses in Medical Terminology, Nutrition, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (405) 733-7673
18.

2501 N Blackwelder Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73106

Score: 88.54

Oklahoma City University's Kramer School of Nursing offers a traditional BSN program with flexibility in mind; students can choose a pace and graduation date that fits their needs. OCU also offers an Accelerated BSN and a Transfer BS to accommodate students at all levels.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (405) 208-5900
19.

900 N Portland Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73107

Score: 88.27

Oklahoma City’s Oklahoma State University offers an associate in applied science degree in nursing that is both board-approved and accredited. This competitive program consists of 72-credit hours of classroom lectures, laboratory instruction, and supervised clinical experiences. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain official licensure as an RN.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (405) 945-3210
20.

100 S University Ave, Enid, OK 73702

Score: 87.41

Northern Oklahoma College's Enid campus is located at the eastern edge of the Great Plains. NOC's rigorous ADN program utilizes innovative methods of instruction, all while teaching students how to treat patients with care and compassion. Graduates of this 2-year program are well-prepared for successful nursing careers.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (580) 242-6300

Oklahoma Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you’re thinking about starting a career in nursing, you may be wondering where to begin. The degree you need as a registered nurse will depend on your current qualifications and long-term goals. Many aspiring nurses begin with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These options provide an affordable and relatively quick route into the profession. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between these options and other nursing pathways available to you.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

If you’re looking to enter the nursing field quickly, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is an excellent choice, typically taking just two years to complete. Another option is the RN diploma, often offered through specialized nursing schools or hospitals, and usually taking 1-2 years to finish. The key difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that the ADN includes general education courses in addition to nursing fundamentals, whereas the RN diploma focuses primarily on nursing skills. For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), the LPN to RN bridge program is a great pathway, allowing them to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Oklahoma include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
  • Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely online; primarily on-campus

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Oklahoma.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

For those seeking a more comprehensive entry into nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often the preferred option. This four-year degree equips students with essential nursing knowledge and skills, preparing them for a career as a registered nurse while also providing a strong foundation for future graduate studies, such as pursuing a nurse practitioner role. Additionally, bridge programs like the RN to BSN and accelerated BSN offer qualified candidates a quicker, more flexible path to earning their BSN.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Oklahoma typically include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

Oklahoma RN to BSN are a great choice for working nurses who want to quickly earn their BSN. If you have an associate degree in nursing and an active RN license, you can complete your BSN in as little as two years through these programs.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and are looking to switch to a nursing career, an Oklahoma ABSN program could be an excellent option. These accelerated programs allow you to leverage your previous education and earn a BSN in as little as one to two years.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

For those seeking to advance their nursing careers, pursuing a graduate degree can be a great next step. Graduate nursing programs include options like a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Typically, these programs require applicants to have a BSN or MSN, an active RN license in good standing, and meet specific admission requirements for each pathway.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Oklahoma:

Getting an RN License in Oklahoma

To practice as a professional nurse in Oklahoma, you must obtain licensure. This process begins by passing the NCLEX-RN exam, after which you will submit an application along with the required fee to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing. Once licensed, you’ll need to maintain your license by completing any necessary continuing education to stay in compliance with state requirements.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Oklahoma

  • Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
  • Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Application to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing
  • Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

RN program accreditation is a key consideration when selecting an RN program. If a program is not accredited, it means the state board has not approved its curriculum, which will prevent graduates from obtaining licensure. In the U.S., the primary organizations responsible for accrediting nursing programs are the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Continued List of All RN Programs in Oklahoma

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Muskogee, OK 07403 | Phone: (918) 684-5427
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.18
22.
Woodward, OK 73801 | Phone: (580) 718-5600
Programs: BSN
86.83
23.
Stillwater, OK 74078 | Phone: (580) 628-6679
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.84
24.
Enid, OK 73701 | Phone: (580) 233-3101
Programs: BSN
85.66
25.
Weatherford, OK 73096 | Phone: (580) 774-3261
Programs: BSN
85.28
26.
Claremore, OK 74017 | Phone: (918) 343-7631
Programs: BSN
84.69
27.
Okmulgee, OK 74447 | Phone: (918) 293-5337
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.96
28.
Tishomingo, OK 73460 | Phone: (580) 387-7000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.72
29.
Oklahoma City, OK 73013 | Phone: (800) 877-5010
Programs: BSN
81.56
30.
Miami, OK 74354 | Phone: (918) 542-8441
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.92
31.
Tulsa, OK 74119 | Phone: (918) 595-7188
Programs: Associate in Nursing
78.22
32.
Lawton, OK 73505 | Phone: (580) 477-7830
Programs: Associate in Nursing
74.06
33.
Tonkawa, OK 74653 | Phone: (580) 628-6679
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.25
34.
Altus, OK 73521 | Phone: (580) 477-7830
Programs: Associate in Nursing
72.40
35.
Elk City, OK 73644 | Phone: (580) 477-7830
Programs: Associate in Nursing
71.78
36.
Seminole, OK 74868 | Phone: (405) 382-9205
Programs: Associate in Nursing
70.96
37.
Langston, OK 73050 | Phone: (405) 466-3411
Programs: BSN
70.54
38.
Bethany, OK 73008 | Phone: (405) 491-6610
Programs: BSN
69.58
39.
Tulsa, OK 74106 | Phone: (918) 594-8070
Programs: BSN
67.85
40.
Alva, OK 73717 | Phone: (580) 327-1700
Programs: BSN
67.09
41.
El Reno, OK 73036 | Phone: (405) 422-1262
Programs: Associate in Nursing
64.84
42.
Ardmore, OK 73401 | Phone: (877) 466-2231
Programs: BSN
-
43.
Oklahoma City, OK 73106-1493 | Phone: (405) 208-5000
Programs: BSN
-
44.
Lawton, OK 73505 | Phone: (580) 591-8014
Programs: BSN
-
45.
Ardmore, OK 73401 | Phone: (580) 223-1441
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.