University Of Oklahoma Online Masters Degrees

Choosing the right graduate program can be overwhelming, especially if you’re balancing a career, family, or other responsibilities. That’s why the University of Oklahoma’s online master’s degrees have become a popular choice for professionals seeking flexibility without compromising on quality. Whether you’re advancing in your current field or pivoting to a new one, OU offers a range of fully accredited online programs designed for real-world impact.

From fields like business, education, and criminal justice to cutting-edge areas such as data science and cybersecurity, OU’s online master’s degrees combine academic excellence with convenience. You can study from anywhere, access experienced faculty, and complete your degree on a schedule that works for you. In this article, we’ll explore the programs offered, admission requirements, tuition, and what makes OU Online stand out in today’s competitive education landscape.

Online Master’s Degrees at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma offers a robust selection of over 30 online master’s degree programs, catering to a variety of fields such as business, education, engineering, social work, and more. These programs are 100% online, with a mix of asynchronous and synchronous instruction, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. OU Online is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring that your degree carries the same prestige as an on-campus program. Taught by the same expert faculty who lead OU’s traditional courses, these programs are designed to meet workforce demands in high-growth industries. For example, the online Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics equips students with advanced skills in data visualization and mining, preparing them for roles in IT, healthcare, banking, and more. Similarly, the Master of Social Work focuses on advanced integrative practices, ideal for those pursuing careers in social services.

Admissions requirements typically include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA (often 3.0, though some programs accept 2.5 with conditions), official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. Some programs may require letters of recommendation or GRE/GMAT scores. Tuition ranges from approximately $380 to $700 per credit hour, with total costs for a 30–33 credit program typically falling between $11,000 and $21,000, depending on the degree and residency status. Financial aid, including FAFSA and scholarships, is available to eligible students, and OU’s generous transfer credit policy can help reduce costs and completion time.

Best Online Master’s Programs

When considering online master’s programs, the University of Oklahoma stands out, but it’s worth comparing it to other top institutions to find the best fit. Here’s a list of 10 notable online master’s programs, including OU, known for their quality, flexibility, and career impact:

1. University of Oklahoma – Offers over 30 online master’s degrees, including Data Science and Analytics, Social Work, and Sustainable Architecture, with flexible schedules and HLC accreditation.

2. Oklahoma State University – Features programs like the MS in Aviation and Space, with a focus on flexibility and industry-relevant curricula, also accredited by HLC.

3. University of Southern California – Known for its online Master of Social Work and Master of Business Administration, USC provides robust student support and networking opportunities.

4. Arizona State University – Offers a wide range of online master’s programs, such as Education and Engineering, with a strong emphasis on innovation and accessibility.

5. University of Florida – Provides programs like the online Master of Education and Master of Science in Pharmacy, known for affordability and academic rigor.

6. Purdue University – Renowned for its online Master of Science in Engineering and MBA, Purdue emphasizes practical, industry-aligned education.

7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Offers highly ranked programs like the online Master of Computer Science, with a focus on cutting-edge technology.

8. Northeastern State University – Provides Oklahoma-based online Master of Education programs, specializing in areas like Early Childhood Education and Instructional Leadership.

9. Southeastern Oklahoma State University – Features accelerated online MBA programs with unique concentrations like Native American Leadership, ideal for career-focused professionals.

10. University of Central Oklahoma – Offers flexible online master’s degrees, such as the Master of Education in Library Media Education, designed for working adults.

These programs are selected for their accreditation, faculty expertise, and alignment with career demands, making them strong contenders alongside OU’s offerings.

Online Master’s Degree Programs in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is home to several universities offering high-quality online master’s programs, with OU leading the pack. In addition to OU, institutions like Oklahoma State University (OSU), Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU), and the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) provide diverse options. OSU’s online MS in Aviation and Space is ideal for those in aerospace, while SOSU’s accelerated MBA programs offer concentrations like Aerospace Logistics. UCO’s Connected Campus provides degrees like the Master of Education in Library Media Education, tailored for flexibility. These programs are particularly appealing to Oklahoma residents due to in-state tuition rates and alignment with local industries such as energy, healthcare, and education. OU’s programs, however, stand out for their extensive range, covering fields from criminal justice to museum studies, and their national recognition, as evidenced by rankings like No. 21 in Best Online Master’s in Business Programs for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report.

OU Online Degree Programs

OU Online’s master’s degree portfolio is designed to meet the needs of diverse learners. Key programs include:

• Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics: A 24-month program focusing on data visualization, mining, and analytics, preparing graduates for roles in data-driven industries.

• Master of Social Work: Develops advanced integrative practitioners for careers in social services, with a curriculum emphasizing critical skills and leadership.

• Master of Science in Sustainable Architecture: Focuses on modern design and construction methods, ideal for professionals in architecture and urban planning.

• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Digital Strategy: Combines strategic planning and digital media skills, perfect for media and marketing professionals.

• Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Enhances leadership abilities for roles in law enforcement and justice administration.

These programs are built with input from industry experts, ensuring relevance in today’s job market. OU’s online format allows students to study asynchronously, with occasional live classes, and provides access to a 250,000-strong alumni network for career development.

Online Graduate Degrees

OU’s online graduate degrees are part of a broader landscape of online education, offering flexibility for those who cannot attend traditional on-campus programs. Unlike some hybrid programs that require occasional in-person attendance, OU’s master’s degrees are fully online, except for specific programs like nursing, which may include supervised internships or clinical rotations. Other universities, such as Purdue and USC, also offer fully online graduate degrees in fields like engineering and social work, but OU’s programs are particularly noted for their affordability and alignment with Oklahoma’s key industries, such as energy and Native American studies. The online Master of Legal Studies and Master of Arts in Global Affairs are unique offerings that cater to professionals seeking interdisciplinary expertise.

Online Master’s in Education

For educators, OU Online offers several Master of Education (M.Ed.) programs, including specializations in Educational Leadership and Curriculum Supervision. These programs are designed for teachers and administrators seeking to advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments. Compared to other Oklahoma institutions, such as Northeastern State University’s M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education or SOSU’s M.Ed. in Educational Technology, OU’s programs stand out for their integration of asynchronous and synchronous learning, ensuring flexibility without sacrificing interaction. Nationally, schools like the University of Florida and Arizona State University also offer strong online M.Ed. programs, but OU’s focus on practical, Oklahoma-relevant curricula, such as Native American education, gives it a unique edge.

Online Master’s in Business Administration

OU’s online MBA, offered through the Price College of Business, is highly ranked, earning the No. 55 spot in U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Online MBA Programs. This program emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, and industry-relevant skills, making it ideal for professionals aiming for executive roles. Compared to SOSU’s accelerated MBA with concentrations like Native American Leadership or OSU’s online MBA with a focus on energy management, OU’s program offers broader applicability across industries. Nationally, USC and Purdue also provide top-tier online MBAs, but OU’s program is noted for its affordability and veteran-friendly features, ranking No. 21 for veterans.

Admission Requirements for OU Online Master’s Programs

Admission to OU’s online master’s programs typically requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0 (though some programs accept 2.5 with conditions), official transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. Certain programs, like the MS in Data Science and Analytics, may require specific undergraduate coursework or GRE/GMAT scores. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, unless they hail from an OU-exempted English-speaking country. The admissions process operates on a rolling basis, with responses typically provided within two weeks of submitting a completed application. For health sciences or law programs, additional requirements may apply, and applicants should consult specific program pages for details.

Tuition and Financial Aid for OU Online Master’s Programs

Tuition for OU’s online master’s programs varies by degree but generally ranges from $380 to $700 per credit hour, with total costs between $11,000 and $21,000 for a 30–33 credit program. In-state students may benefit from lower rates, and OU’s transfer credit policy can further reduce costs. Financial aid options include FAFSA, scholarships, and graduate assistantships (for eligible programs). Compared to other Oklahoma schools like East Central University, where tuition can be as low as $20,000 for a master’s degree, OU’s costs are moderate but justified by its national rankings and alumni network. Students can contact OU’s Financial Aid office at onlineaid@ou.edu for personalized assistance.

Career Outcomes with an OU Online Master’s Degree

Graduates of OU’s online master’s programs are well-positioned for career advancement in high-demand fields. For example, the MS in Data Science and Analytics prepares graduates for roles like data scientist or analyst, with applications in IT, healthcare, and finance. The Master of Social Work equips students for leadership roles in social services, while the MS in Criminal Justice opens doors to advanced positions in law enforcement. OU’s 250,000-strong alumni network provides valuable connections, and the university’s career development platform, OU Connection, offers mentoring and job placement support. Compared to other institutions, OU’s focus on industry-aligned curricula and practical skills ensures graduates are ready to make an immediate impact.

Conclusion

The University of Oklahoma’s online master’s degrees offer a powerful blend of flexibility, quality, and career relevance, making them an excellent choice for professionals seeking to elevate their expertise. With over 30 programs, HLC accreditation, and a focus on in-demand fields like data science, social work, and education, OU Online stands out as a leader in online education. By comparing OU to other top schools like USC, Purdue, and OSU, it’s clear that OU’s programs offer unique advantages, particularly for those tied to Oklahoma’s industries. Whether you’re aiming to advance in your current role or pivot to a new career, OU’s online master’s degrees provide the tools, support, and prestige to help you succeed. Take the next step today and explore how OU Online can transform your future.