Online Nursing Schools in Oklahoma: Inside Programs

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

If you’re interested in a fast way to get your foot in the door of the nursing field, becoming a CNA is a good place to start. CNA programs, which may be completed in a few months, focus on the knowledge and skills professionals need to support patients. Some of the topics programs cover include how to assist with medical procedures, clean patient rooms and bed linens, and help people with basic grooming tasks.

Example: Moore Norman Technology Center

• Cost: $485
• Length: 3 months
• Mode: On campus

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

When you finish an LPN certificate or diploma program, you’re able to provide basic care that patients need under the supervision of a registered nurse. This work includes taking vital signs and helping patients with basic daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. You learn how to work effectively with patients and how to be a productive member of any healthcare team.

Example: Francis Tuttle Technology Center

• Cost: $4,389
• Length: 10 months
• Mode: On campus

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An ADN offers a quick path to NCLEX-RN eligibility for students with little or no previous college experience. Nursing associate degree programs typically require two years of full-time or three years of part-time study. These degrees are usually offered by community colleges, though some state colleges and universities also offer ADN programs.

Example: Tulsa Community College

• Cost: $116.55 per credit in-state; $341.55 per credit out-of-state
• Length: 24 months
• Mode: On campus

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Traditional BSN programs are for students with little or no previous college coursework seeking both NCLEX-RN eligibility and a bachelor’s degree. These programs are usually structured with four-year curriculums that combine two years of lower-division general education and two years of upper-division nursing theory and clinical courses, giving students a well-rounded education and a variety of skills they can take with them into the workplace.

Example: University of Oklahoma

• Cost: $190.20 per credit in-state; $610.75 per credit out-of-state
• Length: 48 months
• Mode: Hybrid

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Accelerated bachelor’s of nursing programs allow non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders to apply previously earned, lower-division coursework to their BSN requirements. This can significantly reduce program time and cost for prospective nurses. Most accelerated BSN students complete all degree requirements in 18 months or less of full-time study. Accelerated BSNs also qualify to take the NCLEX-RN.

Example: University of Tulsa

• Cost: $625 per credit
• Length: 18 months
• Mode: Online

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Earning an MSN is practically a requirement for anyone interested in moving into an advanced nursing practice or nursing administration leadership position. Admission normally requires both a current RN license and a BSN. There are usually several RN specializations available to choose from, with some programs offered 100% online. Completion times vary from 18 months to two years or longer.

Example: University of Central Oklahoma

• Cost: $15,000
• Length: 16 months
• Mode: Hybrid

DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs

Nursing doctoral degree programs are for nurses determined to reach the top of the profession. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree prepares students for senior leadership roles in healthcare administration and advanced nursing practice. A PhD in nursing is for those seeking top positions in post-secondary education and advanced research.

Example: Oral Roberts University

• Cost: $640 per credit
• Length: 32 months
• Mode: Hybrid

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Nursing post-graduate certificates provide current graduate degree holders with the opportunity to specialize without having to complete another degree. Specializations include nursing education, nursing and healthcare leadership, and any of several advanced nurse practitioner areas. Completion times vary by specialization and study pace, but most require approximately one to two years. Fully online programs are sometimes available.

Example: University of Tulsa

• Cost: $614 per credit
• Length: 12 months
• Mode: Hybrid

LPN to RN and LPN to BSN

LPN to RN and LPN to BSN programs are for current LPNs and, in some cases, other healthcare professionals like EMTs, interested in advancing their careers to become RNs. LPN to RN programs are usually offered by community colleges and require three semesters of coursework, with graduates awarded ADN degrees. RN to BSN programs take three years or more and are usually available from four-year schools.

Example: University of Oklahoma

• Cost: $190.20 per credit in-state; $610.75 per credit out-of-state
• Length: 9 months
• Mode: Hybrid

RN to BSN

Current RNs looking to expand their careers often opt for RN to BSN programs. Completion times are one year of full-time or two years of part-time study. Some RN to BSN programs in Oklahoma are delivered 100% online. In other cases, they may be in a hybrid format that combines online and on-campus activities.

Example: Oklahoma State University

• Cost: $489 per credit in-state; $530 per credit out-of-state
• Length: 12 months
• Mode: Online

RN to MSN

RN to MSN programs are for current RNs without BSNs who want to advance into administration and other leadership roles. RN to MSN programs feature specialization options and are often offered fully online.

Applicants usually need non-nursing bachelor’s degrees and ADNs. Program lengths vary from two to three years or longer, depending on study pace, specializations, and clinical hour requirements.

Example: Northeastern State University

• Cost: $235 per credit
• Length: 24 months
• Mode: Online

BSN to DNP

A BSN to DNP bridge program can prepare registered nurses to advance in their careers in several ways. For example, if you want to become a family nurse practitioner, you will be rigorously trained in how to provide this high level of care. These programs may combine clinical activities with online coursework to give you the advanced skills and knowledge you need to pursue this type of nursing.

Example: Northwestern Oklahoma State University

• Cost: $420 per credit in-state; $674 per credit out-of-state
• Length: 36 months
• Mode: Hybrid

Direct-Entry MSN

Direct-entry MSN programs are designed for those who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline. These programs, which take about two to three years to complete, allow students to begin their nursing training as they earn a master’s degree. By the end of the program, you will have an advanced degree and be qualified to sit for the Oklahoma nursing licensing examination.

Example: Herzing University

• Cost: $790 per credit
• Length: 24 months
• Mode: Online