Oral Roberts University Online Degrees

If you’ve been searching for an accredited, flexible, and faith-centered university that fits your busy schedule, Oral Roberts University’s online degree programs might be the answer to your prayers—literally. Whether you’re a working professional, a stay-at-home parent, or someone finally ready to finish what you started, ORU’s online degrees allow you to pursue your education without compromising your faith, family, or future.

With a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs—from business and education to theology and health sciences—ORU offers more than just convenience. They provide a holistic learning experience rooted in Christian values, innovation, and global relevance. In this article, we’ll walk you through what makes Oral Roberts University online degrees worth considering, what programs are available, and how to get started from anywhere in the world.

What Online Degrees Are Offered at Oral Roberts University?

Oral Roberts University provides a diverse array of online degree programs, catering to both undergraduate and graduate students. With over 34 online degrees, including 24 bachelor’s programs, 8 master’s programs, and undergraduate certificates, ORU ensures flexibility for students worldwide. Popular undergraduate majors include:

• Bachelor of Science in Financial Management: Graduates earn a median salary of approximately $66,100, making it ORU’s highest-earning online degree.

• Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration: A sought-after program with an estimated graduate salary of $65,100.

• Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Studies: Focused on developing Spirit-empowered leaders.

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Emphasizes a purpose-driven approach to business.

• Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies: Integrates faith and theology for ministry-focused careers.

Graduate offerings include master’s degrees in Business Administration, Education, and Theological Studies, with 45 master’s graduates in theology alone in 2023. ORU also offers unique certificates, such as English Language Learning and Spirit-Empowered Living, enhancing accessibility for non-traditional learners. All programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring academic rigor and legitimacy.

How Much Do Online Degrees at Oral Roberts University Cost?

Tuition costs are a critical consideration for prospective students. At ORU, the average full-time tuition for out-of-state undergraduates is $30,300 annually, with part-time students paying $1,260 per credit hour. Graduate students face an average tuition of $11,670 per year. The total average cost for an online bachelor’s degree is approximately $28,327, though financial aid significantly reduces this for many students. About 72% of ORU freshmen receive scholarships or grants, with an average award of $17,721. The net price for federal loan recipients is around $21,953, making ORU a competitive option. Notably, ORU’s student loan default rate is 5.4%, well below the national average of 10.1%, indicating strong post-graduation financial stability.

What Is the Admission Process for ORU Online Programs?

ORU’s admission process is straightforward and accessible, with an acceptance rate of 85%, higher than the average four-year university. Key requirements include:

• A minimum high school GPA of 2.6.

• Submission of high school transcripts.

• Completion of ORU’s online application (no application fee).

• Optional personal interviews to strengthen applications.

Unlike many institutions, ORU does not require SAT or ACT scores, increasing accessibility for diverse applicants. International students can apply through the university’s official website, and the rolling admission deadline offers flexibility for enrollment.

Are ORU Online Degrees Accredited?

Accreditation is a hallmark of quality education, and ORU excels in this area. The university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a recognized authority by the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, ORU boasts specialized accreditations for programs in nursing, business (Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs), education (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation), engineering, music, social work, and theology. These accreditations ensure that ORU’s online degrees meet rigorous academic and professional standards, making them respected by employers worldwide.

How Flexible Are ORU Online Programs?

Flexibility is a cornerstone of ORU’s online offerings. Designed for busy students, all online courses are recorded and archived, allowing asynchronous access to lectures. This structure accommodates working professionals, parents, and international students across time zones. Between 17% and 30% of ORU students study exclusively online, with 903 students enrolled in at least one online course in 2020-2021. Virtual courses are taught by the same award-winning faculty as on-campus classes, ensuring consistent quality. ORU’s virtual degree programs also include interactive elements, such as real-time professor engagement and student collaboration, fostering a sense of community despite the distance.

What Is the Reputation of Oral Roberts University?

Founded in 1963 by evangelist Oral Roberts, ORU is a private Christian university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, renowned for its commitment to “whole person” education—integrating mind, body, and spirit. With a total enrollment of approximately 5,000 students, ORU ranks #76 in Regional Universities West and #62 in Top Performers on Social Mobility in the 2025 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings.

Its online bachelor’s programs rank #184 out of 350, reflecting strong performance across academic metrics. ORU’s 97.05% career placement rate for 2016-17 online bachelor’s graduates underscores its focus on successful student outcomes. However, some student reviews highlight concerns about campus facilities and strict policies, though many praise the supportive faculty and vibrant spiritual community.

How Do ORU Online Degrees Compare to Other Online Schools?

ORU stands out for its faith-based, holistic approach, but how does it compare to other leading online schools? Here’s a listicle of 10 top online institutions, including ORU, to provide context:

1. Oral Roberts University: Offers 34 online degrees with a focus on Christian values, flexible scheduling, and strong career outcomes (97.05% placement rate).

2. University of Florida: Known for its affordable online bachelor’s programs and high academic rankings.

3. Arizona State University: A leader in online education with over 200 degree programs and robust student support.

4. Penn State World Campus: Offers diverse programs with a reputation for academic excellence and employer recognition.

5. Southern New Hampshire University: Popular for its low tuition rates and extensive online offerings.

6. Liberty University: Another faith-based institution with over 450 online programs and a strong Christian focus.

7. Western Governors University: Emphasizes competency-based education, ideal for self-paced learners.

8. University of Maryland Global Campus: Known for affordability and programs tailored for military students.

9. Purdue University Global: Offers career-focused degrees with flexible formats for working adults.

10. Grand Canyon University: A Christian university with a wide range of online degrees and competitive tuition.

ORU’s unique integration of faith, affordability, and flexibility makes it a compelling choice, particularly for students seeking a Christ-centered education.

What Are the Benefits of Earning an Online Degree from ORU?

ORU’s online degrees offer numerous advantages:

• Faith-Based Curriculum: Courses integrate a Christian worldview, with mandatory credits in Spirit-Empowered Living and Biblical Studies.

• Career Success: High-earning degrees like Financial Management and Healthcare Administration prepare graduates for lucrative careers.

• Global Accessibility: Students from over 100 nations can earn degrees entirely online, supported by secure login systems and academic integrity measures like randomized exam questions.

• Personalized Support: Faculty provide individualized attention, with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio and 51.2% of classes having fewer than 20 students.

• Holistic Development: ORU’s “whole person” philosophy fosters spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth, setting graduates apart in their fields.

Student Experiences and Outcomes

Student feedback on ORU’s online programs highlights both strengths and challenges. Many appreciate the engaging, challenging courses and the supportive faculty, who share a Christian worldview. The sense of community, despite the virtual format, is frequently praised. However, some students note drawbacks, such as high tuition costs (though mitigated by financial aid) and strict campus policies, which may extend to online learners through honor codes. Graduates report strong career outcomes, with 84% of alumni recommending ORU and an average early-career salary of $42,161, comparable to the national average.

Final Thoughts

Oral Roberts University’s online degrees offer a transformative educational experience, blending academic rigor, spiritual growth, and career preparation. With flexible, accredited programs, affordable tuition options, and a commitment to developing “whole person” leaders, ORU is an excellent choice for students worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s in Financial Management, a master’s in Theological Studies, or a certificate in Spirit-Empowered Living, ORU equips you to impact the world. Compare ORU with other top online schools to find the perfect fit for your educational journey, and take the first step toward a brighter future today.