Online Degrees in Oklahoma (OK)

There is no denying the impact of higher education on the state's well-being. According to the findings released by Regional Economic Models, Inc., every state-funded dollar spent on higher education pumps $5.15 back into Oklahoma's economy. This contributes, directly and indirectly, to nearly 23 percent of the economy, a benefit shared by all residents.

Reach Higher, Oklahoma's degree completion program, provides an opportunity for students who find themselves veering off the higher educational path. Associate and bachelor's programs afford busy adults the chance to create a flexible schedule suited to their individual needs, offering classes at night and online. Degrees in Oklahoma at these two levels have grown 27.4 percent from the 2000-2001 time periods to the 2008-2009 time periods.

Oklahoma online degrees put higher educational goals within reach by offering flexible, affordable programs that fit anyone's schedule. The benefits of a college degree are clear--better job security, higher pay and greater career fulfillment. According to 2009 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, an employee with a high school diploma earns a median weekly wage of $626 per week, while a graduate with a bachelor's degree earns $1,025 per week, or almost 40 percent more per week.

Online degree programs in Oklahoma are not only for individuals participating in Reach Higher. Distance learning offers the advantage of a quality education in a flexible format and is available from many colleges in Oklahoma as well as national online schools that operate in the state. Students who are not interested in the typical four-year campus experience can turn to online education to help accomplish their goals.

In many ways, virtual learning functions similarly to traditional learning--students are required to prepare for class with assigned readings; submit homework and projects by certain deadlines; and take tests to evaluate knowledge of the subject matter. The main difference lies in the medium of delivery.

Needless to say, the Internet is the greatest resource in distance education. Professors conduct lectures through webinars and set up homework assignments through various portals. Some even create tests and surveys online to gauge student comprehension. Students may be able to play with interactive maps and graphs, helping create a fun learning environment.

Most institutions with online degree programs in Oklahoma will set up virtual discussion forums for students to connect with other students as well as professors. Peers can choose to accomplish group work through these channels or meet up via third-party video messengers like Skype. Students who live in nearby areas also have the opportunity to network and meet up in real life.

Online degrees are offered on all levels, from associate to doctoral. Depending on your area of interest, you can enter the workforce in as little as two years. Individuals interested in a quick path to a health care career can complete a medical billing and coding associate degree online, helping gain the skills and knowledge needed to contend for a position as a medical records and health information technician. Between 2008 and 2018, the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission estimates this occupation will grow over 19 percent.

Students who are inclined towards computers and IT-related fields may appreciate more technologically savvy studies. A four-year online network administration degree can help a graduate land a job as a network systems and data communications analyst. An upswing in demand for technical networking analysts has this position growing nearly 50 percent in volume by 2018.

Professionals with some working experience can greatly benefit from enrolling in an online master's degree program. A master's can help boost an entry-level resume or pave way for a more senior employee to move into a managerial position. Because of the flexibility of online programs, professionals can continue to work while participating in class according to his or her schedule.

Much of the future success of the Sooner State will depend on the preparation of its next generation of graduates. Whether students decide to go for traditional or online degrees in Oklahoma, programs like GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) are helping young students better adjust to the academic and extracurricular demands of higher education.

Oklahoma's higher learning institutes are continuing to partner up with communities to create useful presentations and lectures on the importance of entrepreneurship, leadership and globalization. Schools are also developing relationships with businesses to put together internship programs that help undergraduates get a feel for the real-world requirements and demands of certain occupations and industries. Oklahoma online degree programs work in concert with these goals, raising the state's status to prominence.

Sources:
Economic Development, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
The State of Higher Education in Oklahoma, March 2011 (PDF)
Long-Term Employment Projections 2008-2018, Oklahoma Employment Security Commission