Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center's nursing program produces graduates earning about $70,600 right after graduation—solid money that stays remarkably flat over the first four career years. While this beats Oklahoma's median nursing salary slightly, it trails the national average by over $4,000 and ranks in just the 27th percentile nationally, meaning nearly three-quarters of nursing programs nationwide produce higher-earning graduates.

The debt picture offers some consolation, with graduates borrowing a manageable $26,900—right in line with both state and national medians for nursing programs. This creates a reasonable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, meaning graduates can expect to earn about $2.60 for every dollar borrowed in their first year. However, other Oklahoma nursing programs significantly outperform OU's, with five schools producing graduates earning $74,000 to $80,800 annually.

For parents considering this program, the reality is straightforward: you'll pay health sciences center tuition for below-average nursing outcomes. While the debt load won't crush your child and the starting salary provides a decent living, several other Oklahoma nursing programs deliver substantially better earning potential. Unless OU's specific research opportunities or urban hospital connections align with your child's goals, the in-state alternatives offer better returns on the same four-year investment.