Nursing Programs in Oklahoma City, OK
As nursing shortages loom, those looking for a rewarding career with excellent employment prospects in Oklahoma City are flocking to schools with nursing programs. With a variety of program types and levels, there’s definitely no shortage of options in and around Oklahoma City.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City Community College
Oklahoma City, OK - Public 2-Year - occc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma City Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, offering a 70-71 credit hour curriculum leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. With options like the Traditional Pathway, Baccalaureate to ADN Accelerated Nurse Pathway, and Career Ladder Pathway for LPNs and Paramedics, the program caters to diverse student needs. The Career Ladder Pathway features hybrid learning, combining online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, designed for working professionals. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, the program boasts high NCLEX-RN pass rates and graduate employment rates.
- 70-71 credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Associate in Applied Science
- Three track options
- Career Ladder Pathway for LPNs/Paramedics
- Hybrid learning model
- Online theory content
- In-person exams and labs
- Real-world clinical experience
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
Associate - Baccalaureate to Associate Degree Nurse Accelerated Pathway
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma City Community College offers a Baccalaureate to Associate Degree Nurse Accelerated Pathway (BADNAP) for students with a bachelor's degree or higher in another field. This program accelerates the completion of nursing major courses, preparing graduates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. With a minimum of 71-72 credit hours, the program is approved by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. It's designed for those seeking a fast track into nursing, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills in a campus-based setting.
- Accelerated pathway for degree holders
- 71-72 credit hours minimum
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Approved by Oklahoma Board of Nursing
- ACEN accredited
- Includes clinical learning experiences
- Focus on safe, quality nursing care
- Covers medical-surgical nursing
- Includes mental health nursing
Associate - Associate Degree in Career Ladder Pathway
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) offers an accelerated Career Ladder Pathway (CLP) program for LPNs and paramedics aiming to become Registered Nurses (RNs). This hybrid program combines online theory with in-person labs and clinicals, allowing students to balance work and education. Starting in spring 2025, the program delivers theory content online, with hands-on labs on Tuesdays and clinical experiences at local hospitals. Students must pass the NUR1413 Role Transitions course to progress and can earn 15 credit hours for prior learning. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. OCCC's nursing program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate and is accredited by the ACEN and OBN.
- Accelerated hybrid learning
- Online theory content
- In-person labs and exams
- Clinical experience at hospitals
- 70-71 credit hours
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN
- Associate in Applied Science degree
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- ACEN and OBN accredited
- Credit for prior learning
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, OK - Private 4-year - okcu.edu
Bachelor's - Traditional BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma City University's Traditional BSN program is designed for first-year and transfer students aiming to become professional nurses. Located in Oklahoma City, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum over four semesters, blending classroom learning with clinical rotations. Admission requires a 2.75 GPA, English proficiency, and completion of specific science courses. The program emphasizes clinical competence, ethical care, and health promotion across diverse cultures. Scholarships are available, making the program accessible to many students. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue RN licensure, equipped with the skills to excel in various healthcare settings.
- Four-semester completion.
- Onsite Oklahoma City campus.
- 2.75 GPA requirement.
- Clinical rotations included.
- Scholarships available.
- NCLEX-RN preparation.
- Diverse culture focus.
- Ethical care emphasis.
- Science prerequisites required.
- Professional nurse training.
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma City University's Accelerated BSN program is Oklahoma's first and only 12-month accelerated nursing program. Designed for individuals with a non-nursing associate or bachelor's degree, it offers a fast-track to a BSN degree with 56 credit hours over three semesters. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, with clinical experiences in Oklahoma City's top healthcare facilities. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, completion of prerequisite courses, and a bachelor's or associate degree. Scholarships are available based on GPA, making this intensive program accessible to many aspiring nurses.
- 12-month program duration.
- 56 credit hours.
- Campus-based learning.
- NCLEX-RN preparation included.
- Clinical experiences in Oklahoma City.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Bachelor's or associate degree required.
- Scholarships available.
- Intensive full-time study.
- No concurrent employment recommended.
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, OK - Public 4-Year - osuokc.edu
Associate - Nurse Science
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City's Nurse Science program prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing with pathways for both entry-level students and licensed practical nurses or paramedics. The program includes a mix of general education and specialized nursing courses, leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Graduates are ready for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, with pass rates above national averages. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through labs, simulations, and clinical experiences. Costs include tuition, uniforms, equipment, and fees for exams and background checks. Admission requires completion of prerequisite courses and is competitive, with applications accepted twice a year.
- Associate in Applied Science degree.
- Two pathways: Traditional and Career Ladder.
- NCLEX-RN pass rates above average.
- Hands-on labs and clinical experiences.
- Competitive admission process.
- Applications accepted twice yearly.
- Additional costs for uniforms and equipment.
- Prerequisite courses required for admission.
- Daytime classes and labs.
- Evening clinical experiences available.
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
Oklahoma City, OK - Public 4-Year - ouhsc.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center offers a Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for aspiring nurses. This campus-based program requires completion of 61 prerequisite credit hours before enrollment. The nursing curriculum spans 60 semester hours, blending theoretical and clinical content. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes safe, competent, and ethical care across diverse populations. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and completion of specific science courses. The curriculum covers health assessment, pharmacology, and leadership in nursing, preparing students for a rewarding career in healthcare.
- 60 semester hours curriculum.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required.
- 61 prerequisite credit hours.
- Blends theoretical and clinical content.
- Focuses on safe, competent care.
- Diverse population training.
- Health assessment included.
- Pharmacology in nursing covered.
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree seeking a fast-track to a nursing career. This intensive 14-month program combines theoretical and clinical learning, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a focus on diverse patient care, evidence-based practice, and professional development, students gain the skills needed for success in various healthcare settings. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree and specific science courses, with a minimum GPA requirement. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, leadership, and community health, offering a comprehensive foundation for aspiring nurses.
- 14-month intensive program.
- 60 credit hours curriculum.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA needed.
- Science prerequisites required.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Leadership and community health emphasis.
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The LPN to BSN program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to advance their careers with a bachelor's degree in nursing. This hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person clinical rotations in Oklahoma, offering flexibility for working professionals. With a curriculum of 60 credit hours, half earned through advanced standing exams, students can choose between a fast-track nine-month or a part-time two-year plan. Graduates are prepared to sit for the RN licensure exam, equipped with skills in safe, competent, and ethical nursing care across diverse settings. Prerequisites include a 2.5 GPA and completion of specific science courses.
- Hybrid program format.
- 60 credit hours total.
- 30 hours via exams.
- Flexible 9-month or 2-year options.
- Clinical rotations in Oklahoma.
- Online coursework available.
- Prepares for RN licensure.
- 2.5 GPA requirement.
- Science courses prerequisite.
- Active LPN license needed.
Entry Level ADN & BSN Programs in Oklahoma City, OK
Those looking for entry-level nursing programs in Oklahoma City have multiple pathways. An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) are both possibilities with great potential.
LPN to RN Programs
For the licensed practical nurse who is passionate about providing patient care and yearns for additional job responsibilities, an LPN to RN bridge program provides an opportunity to expand on current knowledge to launch a career as a registered nurse. One such program is offered at Oklahoma State University, which includes 75 credit hours of pre-requisites, nursing coursework and hands-on clinical practice hours.
ADN Programs
These 2-year programs offer the quickest route to become an RN, and are available at most community colleges in the area. For example, Oklahoma City Community College provides a traditional ADN program that requires a minimum of 71-72 credit hours. Courses taken include Human Anatomy & Physiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, and more.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
The traditional 4-year bachelor's degree in nursing is arguably the most popular nursing program, as it qualifies RNs for work in many different settings (many healthcare employers are starting to require a BSN degree or higher). Southern Nazarene University (SNU) offers BSN program with no wait-list for entry. Upon completion of the program, SNU graduates have an employment rate of over 90%.
Find out more about Oklahoma Accelerated BSN Programs
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Oklahoma City, OK
The RN to BSN and RN to MSN are "bridge" programs which allow nurses who have already graduated from an ADN or diploma program to complete a bachelor's or master's degree in nursing much more quickly. These programs gives students credits for courses completed in their prior programs, therefore shaving off a significant portion of the traditional curriculum.
RN to BSN Programs
The RN to BSN program is a roughly 2-year pathway to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing. Full-time or part-time study options are typically available for this type of program to accommodate busy working nurses. The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center offers an RN to BSN program that consists of online coursework and optional monthly in-class Saturday sessions. They offer both Fall and Spring start times.
Find out more about Oklahoma RN to BSN Programs.
RN to MSN Programs
For those nurses who know they want to go on to earn an advanced nursing degree, an RN to MSN program is ideal. The University of Central Oklahoma, for example, offers an RN to MSN pathway where students take master's-level courses while completing their bachelor's degree in nursing. Once the BSN portion has been completed, students can complete the MSN coursework in as little as 3 additional semesters.
Find out more about Oklahoma RN to MSN Programs
Edmond, OK
University of Central Oklahoma
- RN to BSN - RN to B.S. in Nursing Track
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN track
- Accredited nursing program
- Multiple nursing pathway options
- Supports professional advancement
- State-approved nursing curriculum
Oklahoma City, OK
Mid-America Christian University
- RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Nursing Degree
- Unencumbered RN License Required
- Associate Degree Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Multiple Career Path Options
- Faith-Integrated Healthcare Education
Oklahoma City University
- RN to BSN - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Complete BSN in 9 months
- No math/science prerequisites
- Face-to-face and online options
- 94 credit hours for RN license
- No nursing exams or clinicals
- Small class sizes
- Special package pricing
- Flexible learning opportunities
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma City, OK
Advanced nursing programs poise RNs for the most prestigious nursing positions and careers. Traditional MSN programs, as well as post-master's certificate programs and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs allow RNs to specialize in an array of nurse practitioner specialties.
MSN Programs
The traditional master's degree pathway typically requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, and offers many specialization tracks. In roughly 2 years of study, students are on their way to an advanced nursing career. The University of Central Oklahoma offers an MSN degree with full or part-time schedule options, as well as evening classes.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
For those who want to specialize in a particular nursing niche and have already earned an MSN degree, the post-master's certificate pathway is a great way to go. These are usually shorter and less expensive than earning another nursing degree. Oklahoma City University offers post-master's advanced practice certificates in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, which require 20 and 22 credit hours, respectively.
Learn more about Oklahoma Post-Graduate Certificate Programs
DNP Programs
Doctoral degree programs are the highest nursing degrees that can be earned. DNP programs focus on high-level clinical practice and teach nurses to shape policy and other key areas of healthcare delivery. The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center offers a DNP that requires 38 credit hours, and can be completed in 28 months of full-time study or 3 years of part-time study.
Find out more about Oklahoma DNP Programs.
Edmond, OK
University of Central Oklahoma
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN program
- Nursing Education track available
- Flexible graduate nursing options
- Advanced leadership preparation
- Accessible graduate education
- Graduate studies through Jackson College
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Community-Based Public Health - Online Learning - Website
- 21-credit specialization.
- Online program format.
- Focus on community health.
- Leadership and management skills.
- Epidemiology and data management.
- Healthcare policy and ethics.
- Financial aid available.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- Graduate Certificate - Advanced Practice Certificate: Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 23 credit hour program
- Advanced practice nursing certificate
- Post-master's level preparation
- Acute care specialization
- Graduate GPA 3.25 required
- Unencumbered RN license needed
- Graduate-level health coursework
- Graduate Certificate - Advanced Practice Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 22 credit hour certificate
- Advanced nursing practice focus
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 3.25 minimum GPA required
- Comprehensive patient care training
- Multiple clinical specialties covered
- Current RN licensure needed
- Advanced clinical skill development
- Graduate Certificate - Advanced Practice Certificate: Psychiatric Mental Health
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 23 total credit hours
- Psychiatric Mental Health focus
- Advanced practice nurse requirement
- Minimum 3.25 GPA
- National certification needed
- Multiple practicum experiences
- Advanced psychopharmacology course
- Graduate-level nursing preparation
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Leadership
Campus Based - Website
- 15 credit hours
- Fall, spring, summer start
- Master's in nursing required
- 3.00 GPA minimum
- Active RN licensure needed
- Focus on leadership skills
- Quality improvement courses
- Healthcare economics included
- MSN to DNP - Advanced Practice DNP: Adult Gerontology Acute Care
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Four-year BSN-DNP program
- Hybrid learning format
- 67 total credit hours
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- No GRE required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- One year nursing experience
- ACLS certification needed
- MSN to DNP - Advanced Practice DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 66 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning formats
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Comprehensive patient care
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- One year nursing experience
- No GRE required
- Professional reference needed
- MSN to DNP - Advanced Practice DNP: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Four-year BSN-DNP program
- Hybrid learning format
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Comprehensive mental health training
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- One year nursing experience
- 68 total credit hours
- No GRE required
- MSN to DNP - DNP Completion
Concentration: Executive Leadership Focus - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 30-32 post-master's credits
- Leadership focus for nurses
- No GRE required
- Graduate GPA 3.25+ needed
- Professional interview component
- Advanced clinical practicum included
- Professional policy development
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
- BSN to MSN - Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
Concentration: cardiology, nephrology, neurology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 40 credit hours total
- 672 clinical practice hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple subspecialty concentrations
- 100% certification pass rate
- 100% employment within 12 months
- Requires BSN degree
- Current RN license needed
- BSN to MSN - Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
Concentration: oncology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 40 credit hours total
- 672 clinical practice hours
- 100% certification pass rate
- Subspecialty oncology focus
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- RN license prerequisite
- Research and statistics courses required
- Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time flexible schedule
- 24-33 credit hours
- 704 clinical hours required
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- Prepares for certification exams
- Master's degree prerequisite
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- RN license mandatory
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time option
- 3-year part-time schedule
- Online and on-campus learning
- Lifespan mental health focus
- Certification exam preparation
- Master's degree prerequisite
- Oklahoma nursing license required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 72 credit hours total
- 1040 clinical hours required
- Part-time and full-time options
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- Aligned with 2025 DNP education standards
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Oklahoma RN license needed
- Prerequisite courses in nursing research
- MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- DNP Practice Doctorate
- 72 credit hours total
- 1,040 clinical hours
- Part-time and full-time options
- Hybrid online/on-campus learning
- Prepares for national certification
- Primary care focus
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 76 semester credit hours
- 1024 clinical/practicum hours
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- Prepares for certification exam
- Full prescriptive authority training
- 3-4 year completion options
- Advanced mental health care focus
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Multiple Specialized Tracks
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
- Interprofessional Collaboration
- Leadership Skill Development
- Patient-Centered Care Approach
- Hybrid Learning Format
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Hybrid Delivery Format
- Advanced Clinical Specialization
- Interprofessional Collaboration Focus
- Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis
