Best Associate's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
Tulsa Community College — Tulsa, OK
Hakia Insight: TCC's multi-campus model across the Tulsa metro funnels graduates directly into ONEOK and American Airlines pipelines, making employer relationships less abstract recruiting and more embedded in regional hiring cycles.
At the associate's level, with multiple campuses across the Tulsa metro area, TCC's computer science program emphasizes real-world applications through hands-on lab work in networking, database management, and software development. Students benefit from strong transfer agreements with Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma, making the AS in Computer Science a natural stepping stone to a four-year degree. The program also maintains connections with local tech employers like ONEOK and Tulsa's growing tech sector, creating direct pathways to internships and entry-level positions. Many graduates report that TCC's flexible scheduling—including evening and online sections—allowed them to work while completing their degree, a critical advantage in a competitive field.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: ONEOK, American Airlines, Williams Companies, Local healthcare IT departments, Regional banking institutions.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Tulsa (private, but common transfer partner)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- Database Administrator Assistant
- Junior Software Developer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Oklahoma City Community College — Oklahoma City, OK
Hakia Insight: OCCC's first-semester immersion in Python, Java, and C++ compresses what most programs stretch across two years, meaning you can test whether you actually enjoy coding before investing time in systems theory.
At the associate's level, if you're looking to code from day one, OCCC's computer science program integrates programming languages—Python, Java, and C++—directly into the first semester rather than treating them as afterthoughts. The college's location in Oklahoma City puts you in proximity to Fortune 500 companies headquartered there, and many instructors maintain active connections with local employers in tech and finance. Graduates consistently land positions at companies like Equifax, OGE Energy, and regional software shops, with a solid 80%+ placement rate within six months. The program's career services team actively works with students on portfolio-building and interview prep, treating job placement as a core part of the curriculum.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Equifax, OGE Energy, Chesapeake Energy, Local government IT departments, Regional healthcare systems.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Central Oklahoma
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Junior Programmer
- Help Desk Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Web Developer
- System Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Location Advantages:
Seminole State College — Seminole, OK
Hakia Insight: Seminole State's smaller cohorts and emphasis on networking and systems administration create unusual depth in infrastructure skills—areas where associate's degree holders often compete directly with bachelor's degree graduates in regional IT departments.
At the associate's level, don't let the smaller footprint fool you—Seminole State's computer science program delivers solid fundamentals in networking, databases, and systems administration with genuine personalized instruction from faculty who know your name. The program maintains active articulation agreements with OSU and OU, ensuring your credits transfer without waste. For students in rural or semi-rural parts of central Oklahoma, the program's accessibility and affordability make it an excellent launching point into IT careers, with many graduates moving into help desk and system administration roles at regional employers. The close-knit cohort model means you'll build a real professional network with your classmates, many of whom stay connected after graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional school districts, Local government, Small-to-medium businesses in central Oklahoma, Healthcare facilities.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Central Oklahoma
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- System Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
Location Advantages:
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City — Oklahoma City, OK
Hakia Insight: OSU-OKC borrows Oklahoma State's curriculum rigor while keeping tuition regional-campus affordable, a structural advantage that shows up when transfer-friendly credits stack toward a bachelor's degree at the main campus.
At the associate's level, OSU-OKC's computer science program carries the weight of Oklahoma State's reputation while remaining accessible and affordable at the regional campus level. You'll study programming, systems, and networking with instructors who engage actively with the local tech community, and your degree is a full OSU credential—no "regional" distinction on the diploma. The campus's location in Oklahoma City gives you proximity to major employers while maintaining smaller class sizes than the Stillwater campus. Many students use the first two years at OSU-OKC to knock out general education and foundational CS courses, then transition to Stillwater for upper-level work, creating a cost-effective pathway to a four-year degree.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Oklahoma State University system, Equifax, OGE Energy, Local school districts, Regional IT service providers.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University (Stillwater campus—internal transfer)
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Programmer
- Junior System Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- Cisco CCENT
Location Advantages:
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College — Miami, OK
Hakia Insight: NEO's focus on immediate field-ready skills—help desk, network administration, troubleshooting—means you're not waiting for graduation to understand what your degree actually does; employers in northeastern Oklahoma hire directly from these roles into IT coordinator positions.
At the associate's level, NEO's computer science program emphasizes practical IT skills you can use immediately in the field: network administration, help desk support, and systems troubleshooting all feature heavily in the coursework. With a student body drawn largely from rural northeastern Oklahoma and the Kansas border, the program understands the real-world constraints of working students and offers flexible scheduling to match. NEO's strong reputation with regional employers means that completing the associate degree often leads directly to job offers before graduation. The program's faculty have industry experience and maintain real connections with local businesses, making internship and job placement a tangible part of the program, not an afterthought.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional school districts, Local government, Small-to-medium businesses in northeastern Oklahoma, Regional hospitals and clinics.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Central Oklahoma
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- System Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
Location Advantages:
Eastern Oklahoma State College — Wilburton, OK
Key Distinction: Eastern Oklahoma State College offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Eastern Oklahoma State College's Wilburton location serves a region with sparse tech education options, making it the practical entry point for students who can't commute to metropolitan campuses.
Eastern Oklahoma State College offers Computer Science programs in Wilburton, OK. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Murray State College — Tishomingo, OK
Hakia Insight: Murray State's small-college mentorship model produces the kind of faculty relationships that generate transfer recommendations and job referrals—social capital that matters more at the associate's level than prestige does.
At the associate's level, murray State College's computer science program shines for students seeking genuine hands-on technical training in a supportive, small-college environment where faculty mentorship is the default, not the exception. The curriculum balances networking fundamentals, database design, and technical support skills with real lab work on actual equipment—not simulations. Located in Tishomingo, the program serves northeastern Oklahoma and southern Kansas well, and graduates frequently land positions in regional businesses, school district IT departments, and small tech shops where the breadth of technical knowledge from a CC associate degree is immediately valuable. The program's strength lies in producing well-rounded technical professionals rather than specialist programmers.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional school districts, Local government, Small-to-medium businesses in northeastern Oklahoma, Healthcare facilities.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- University of Central Oklahoma
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
- System Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
Location Advantages:
Rogers State University — Claremore, OK
Key Distinction: Rogers State University offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rogers State's Claremore footprint positions it as the accessible alternative for students in the northeastern corridor who want associate-level rigor without metropolitan tuition or commute burden.
Rogers State University offers Computer Science programs in Claremore, OK. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Carl Albert State College — Poteau, OK
Key Distinction: Carl Albert State College offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Carl Albert State College's Poteau location fills an educational gap in southeastern Oklahoma, making it the only viable entry-level CS pathway for students in that region without relocation.
Carl Albert State College offers Computer Science programs in Poteau, OK. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Northern Oklahoma College — Tonkawa, OK
Key Distinction: Northern Oklahoma College offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Northern Oklahoma College's Tonkawa location serves the panhandle's rural and small-town students, where community college computer science isn't just education—it's economic mobility infrastructure for an underserved region.
Northern Oklahoma College offers Computer Science programs in Tonkawa, OK. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus — Norman, OK
Key Distinction: Embedded Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (exclusive to CS majors). Accelerated dual degree program (BS + MS in Computer Science, concurrent enrollment)
Hakia Insight: OU's embedded Machine Learning and AI certificate gives CS majors institutional credential differentiation before graduation, and combined with the 4+1 concurrent master's pathway, you can signal specialization to employers while technically still pursuing a bachelor's degree.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at OU is an ABET-accredited program offering a comprehensive curriculum with 14 core computer science courses, 9 mathematics courses, and physics coursework. Students select 3 upper-level electives for specialization, with options in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, software engineering, and computer graphics. The program features an Embedded Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence exclusively for CS majors, requiring 2 required courses and 6 electives. An accelerated dual degree option allows qualified students to earn both BS and MS degrees concurrently, with an optional CS/Computer Engineering pathway. Undergraduate research opportunities are available through mentored research experiences and independent study courses. The program emphasizes ethical computing through coursework in responsible AI/ML and ethics courses.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Science research groups
- AI2ES IDEA Lab
- Telecommunication and Network Research Lab
- Virtual Reality, Interactive Simulation, and Biomedical (VRISB) Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Marmar Moussa — Computational genomics and bioinformatics
- Dr. Mohammed Atiquzzaman — Computer security, cryptography, and networking
- Dr. Amy McGovern — Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Dr. Andrew H. Fagg — Artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and neuroscience
- Dr. David Ebert — Visualization and visual analytics
- Dr. Le Gruenwald — Databases and data mining
- Dr. Deborah Trytten — Computer science education
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to interdisciplinary research across engineering, sciences, and social sciencesRegional recruiting relationships with major tech employersPart of research university ecosystem
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus — Stillwater, OK
Key Distinction: ABET accredited program. 4+1 accelerated program option to complete BS and MS in 5 years
Hakia Insight: OSU's 4+1 program requires only a 3.0 GPA in final two years—a lower barrier than most dual-degree pathways—paired with partnerships at Koch and Paycom that actively hire through this pipeline, creating a five-year credentialing strategy with built-in employment probability.
Oklahoma State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is an ABET-accredited program that develops logical thinking and problem-solving skills through programming languages and applications. Students gain foundational knowledge in programming, mathematical proficiency, data structures, and theoretical foundations, with CS electives covering applied skills such as computing security, video game development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, cloud computing, and mobile app development. The program prepares graduates for diverse career pathways in military, banking and finance, transportation, energy, retail, medical, and software development sectors. The program is available online and features a 4+1 accelerated option to complete both BS and MS degrees in 5 years. Support services include the Software Programming Undergraduate Resource (SPUR) Center for tutoring and the MAC lab with 24/7 access to computers equipped with the latest macOS software. A Cybersecurity Certificate is available beginning 2024-25.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering research groups
- Language and Intelligence Laboratory
- Data Engineering Laboratory
- Interactive Digital Entertainment Laboratory
- Virtual Reality and Information Centric Engineering Laboratory
- Collaborative Learning Laboratory
- Robotic Cognition Laboratory
- Cyber Security Laboratory
- Visual Understanding and Complex Systems Laboratory
- iMac Mobile App Laboratory
- Intelligent Learning for Explainable Acute Decision-Support Laboratory
- Security & Networking (SecNet) Lab
- iLead Lab
- Dr. Jahan's Lab
- Advanced Networks and Telecommunications Security (ANTS) Lab
- Reasoning and Artificial Intelligence (rAIson) Lab
- ZerOne Lab
Industry Partners
- Dell (employer)
- Koch Industries (employer)
- Paycom (employer)
- Walmart (employer)
- Sam's Club (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Facebook (employer)
- Lam Research (employer)
- Cerner (employer)
- Sprint (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Christopher Crick — Computer Science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 during last two years. Application Deadline: April 1 (fall), September 1 (spring).
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Research infrastructure supporting multiple CS specializationsPart of larger engineering and science research ecosystem
University of Tulsa — Tulsa, OK
Key Distinction: Hands-on practical engineering courses in close-knit groups. Research opportunities at all levels with faculty guidance
Hakia Insight: University of Tulsa's research access at all levels combined with co-op partnerships in Tulsa's emerging energy-tech and AI startup clusters (Zarvis, Vast) means you're not choosing between research credentials and industry relevance—the regional ecosystem demands both.
The University of Tulsa's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, offered through the Tandy School of Computer Science, combines multi-disciplinary research with hands-on practical engineering courses in close-knit groups led by faculty committed to excellence. The program provides access to cutting-edge facilities and encourages student engagement in research at all levels, with opportunities to interact with collaborators across UTulsa colleges, external research labs, and institutions. Graduates achieve a 90% job placement rate within six months of graduation, with positions at industry leaders including Google, Amazon, and General Motors, as well as startups and government security firms. The median annual pay for Computer Science graduates is $131K. The curriculum emphasizes design and development, analysis, and management careers, preparing students for roles such as software engineer, robotics engineer, information security analyst, and web developer.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Zarvis AI (startup)
- Vast (startup)
- Energy-tech companies in Tulsa region (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN. Top Employers: Google, Amazon.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0/4.0 with master's degree or 3.5/4.0 with bachelor's degree.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Tulsa's emerging tech startup ecosystemEnergy and aerospace tech industry presenceCo-op opportunities with regional and national employers
Northwestern Oklahoma State University — Alva, OK
Key Distinction: Small-scale, faculty-mentored program emphasizing direct relationships and undergraduate research engagement.
Hakia Insight: Northwestern's Buckles Robotics Lab and partnerships with Oklahoma Louis Stokes Alliance create concrete pathways for underrepresented students into STEM research and graduate funding, advantages often invisible in bachelor's program overviews but decisive in career trajectories.
Northwestern Oklahoma State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a comprehensive program offered through the Mathematics and Computer Science Department. The program prepares students for careers in computer science with flexible options, including a specialized Information Systems track. Students benefit from qualified faculty eager to support their professional development. The department emphasizes building computational skills and critical thinking abilities essential for today's workforce. Graduates are prepared for further education or direct entry into technology careers. The program is housed in Shockley Hall on the Alva campus and offers both major and minor options in Computer Science.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Bill & Billie Buckles Computer Science Robotics Lab
Industry Partners
- Microsoft DreamSpark (partner)
- University of Tulsa (collaborator)
- Oklahoma Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation in STEM (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Tim Maharry — Mathematics and Statistics
- Mark Bagley — Computer Science, Database Management, Network Security, Robotics
- Evan Vaverka — Programming, Game Development, Mobile Application Design
Location Advantages: Affordable living environment; proximity to emerging tech opportunities in the Oklahoma Panhandle region
East Central University — Ada, OK
Key Distinction: East Central's computer science program emphasizes employer-aligned curriculum and hands-on project experience, preparing graduates for immediate technical contribution in regional organizations.
Hakia Insight: East Central's dual BS/BA structure and emphasis on database systems and network administration positions graduates for immediate IT operations roles in Oklahoma's mid-market companies, where these skills command premium salaries relative to the region's cost of living.
At the bachelor's level, east Central University's computer science program delivers a curriculum focused on building strong fundamentals in software development, database systems, and network administration while remaining attuned to the technical skills most in-demand among employers in Oklahoma and the South-Central region. The program structure guides students through progressive skill-building—beginning with programming and data structures, advancing through software engineering and systems courses, and culminating in capstone projects where students solve problems for real clients or organizations. Faculty bring practical experience and maintain active connections with regional employers, ensuring curriculum stays aligned with what companies actually hire for. The program's regional focus doesn't mean provincial; East Central computer science graduates compete effectively for positions across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri, often selected for their readiness and communication skills alongside technical capability. Internship opportunities and cooperative education placements are woven into the program, with many students securing positions before graduation. The university's location in Ada provides access to both regional employers and students to a more connected, tight-knit academic community where faculty know their students and can provide meaningful mentorship and career guidance. Career outcomes reflect strong regional placement in software development, IT operations, and technical support roles at mid-size Oklahoma businesses and government agencies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Regional employer partnerships across Oklahoma and South-Central region
University of Central Oklahoma — Edmond, OK
Key Distinction: UCO's computer science program prioritizes hands-on, project-based learning integrated throughout the curriculum rather than isolated to capstone experiences, combined with direct ties to Oklahoma's regional tech employment market.
Hakia Insight: UCO embeds project-based learning across all four years rather than confining it to a final capstone, meaning students graduate with a portfolio of completed systems—not just coursework—that directly satisfies Oklahoma City tech employers' hiring rubrics.
At the bachelor's level, UCO's computer science program emphasizes a balanced blend of theoretical foundations and applied problem-solving, with particular strength in preparing students for immediate workforce entry or graduate study. The curriculum is structured around core computer science principles—algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering—while offering flexibility through electives in areas like cybersecurity, web development, and systems programming. What distinguishes this program is its commitment to hands-on learning; students engage with real-world projects throughout their coursework rather than relegating practical experience to capstone courses alone. The program maintains active connections with Oklahoma's growing tech sector and regional employers, creating internship and job placement pathways for graduates. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, fostering a culture where classroom concepts directly connect to professional practice. The institution's location in Edmond positions students near Oklahoma City's expanding technology corridor, home to a growing base of tech startups and established firms. Class sizes remain manageable, allowing for meaningful mentorship and individualized attention—a significant advantage for students seeking personalized guidance through their degree. Graduates typically pursue roles in software development, systems administration, IT management, and related fields across both Fortune 500 companies and regional enterprises. The program also supports students interested in advanced study, with a number of graduates successfully transitioning to master's programs at major research universities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Oklahoma City tech corridorRegional employer networks in central Oklahoma
Oklahoma City University — Oklahoma City, OK
Key Distinction: Mandatory internship requirement (CSCI 4581-3). Access to Apple labs and Raspberry Pi systems
Hakia Insight: The mandatory internship requirement (CSCI 4581) combined with access to Apple labs and Raspberry Pi hardware creates a technical credibility gap: OCU graduates enter job interviews with both academic rigor and hands-on certifiable experience, a combination regional Fortune 500 offices explicitly value.
The Oklahoma City University Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a STEM-based program requiring 67-69 credit hours of CS and mathematics coursework, plus general education requirements for a total of 124 credit hours. The curriculum includes 44-46 hours of required Computer Science courses covering programming, data structures, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and operating systems. Students must complete 17-18 hours of mathematics including calculus, statistics, and discrete mathematics, plus 6 hours of CS electives allowing specialization in areas like cybersecurity, mobile development, game programming, or digital forensics. The program features excellent technology access including Apple labs, Raspberry Pi systems, and remote supercomputer access. A mandatory 1-3 credit internship (CSCI 4581-3) provides hands-on industry experience. The program emphasizes both technical programming capabilities and a strong liberal arts foundation, preparing graduates with well-rounded knowledge of computer structures, current CS trends through coursework and internships, and practical skills for immediate workforce entry.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Jeff Maxwell — Computer Science & Mathematics
- Timothy T. Hsieh — Artificial Intelligence & Law, Intellectual Property, Patent Law, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency Law
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 minimum cumulative GPA.
Requirements: 67-69 credit hours for Computer Science major, 44-46 credit hours of Computer Science courses, 17-18 credit hours of Mathematics courses, 6 credit hours of CS electives, General Education requirements, Minimum 124 total credit hours
Location Advantages: Oklahoma City's diversifying tech sector and growing startup ecosystem; direct proximity to Fortune 500 regional offices
Northeastern State University — Tahlequah, OK
Key Distinction: NSU's computer science program prioritizes practical, project-driven learning and regional job placement at an accessible price point, making it ideal for students seeking immediate career readiness over research prestige.
Hakia Insight: Northeastern State's project-driven curriculum at an accessible price point creates an efficiency advantage for students who need to work part-time: the early real-world environment means they're job-market-ready by year three, not four.
At the bachelor's level, northeastern State's computer science program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning through project-based courses and early exposure to real-world development environments. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied skills, offering concentrations in software engineering, web development, and data management that align closely with regional job markets. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct faculty mentorship, creating an environment where undergraduates can contribute meaningfully to departmental projects and research initiatives. The program maintains strong connections with Oklahoma's growing tech sector, facilitating internships and job placements through partnerships with local companies and remote-friendly employers. Graduates report solid placement rates in mid-tier tech roles, systems administration, and software development positions across the Great Plains region. The program's accessibility and affordable tuition make it an attractive option for students seeking a no-frills, outcomes-focused computer science education without the prestige markup of larger flagship universities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to growing tech sector in Tulsa and Oklahoma City
Cameron University — Lawton, OK
Key Distinction: Cameron's program excels at preparing technically sound graduates for careers in government and defense IT through a teaching-centered approach and regional industry connections, not research output.
Hakia Insight: Cameron's proximity to Fort Sill and deliberate focus on government IT contracting creates a specialized pipeline: graduates enter a high-security-clearance job market where demand often exceeds supply, offering both faster placement and premium compensation trajectories.
At the bachelor's level, cameron University's computer science program delivers a teaching-focused, student-centered education that emphasizes foundational computer science principles and their application across diverse domains. With origins in a teaching institution, the program maintains low faculty-to-student ratios and encourages collaborative learning, making it particularly well-suited for students who thrive with direct access to instructors and personalized guidance. The curriculum covers core CS topics alongside practical skills in programming, databases, and software development, with flexibility to pursue electives in areas like web technologies, cybersecurity fundamentals, and mobile applications. Cameron's location in Lawton provides unique internship and employment connections within the federal defense and aerospace sector—a significant economic driver in the region—giving computer science students distinctive pathways into government contracting and systems work. Many graduates transition into IT support, business systems roles, and entry-level software positions at regional employers, with the program's affordability and practical focus attracting students prioritizing job readiness and career stability over research opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Fort Sill (U.S. Army Installation) (government)
Location Advantages: Access to Fort Sill and federal defense IT employmentRegional government contracting opportunities
Southern Nazarene University — Bethany, OK
Key Distinction: Southern Nazarene University offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Without publicly available specialization data or employer outcome metrics, Southern Nazarene's regional positioning and private-institution affordability suggest a value play for students prioritizing accessible tuition over research prestige.
Southern Nazarene University offers Computer Science programs in Bethany, OK. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus — Stillwater, OK
Key Distinction: Flexible thesis vs. non-thesis track options for career-focused or research-focused paths. Graduate teaching and research assistantships available with tuition support and stipends
Hakia Insight: OSU's non-thesis option paired with tuition-covering graduate assistantships means working professionals can advance credentials without thesis overhead while receiving stipends—a rare combination that effectively subsidizes career advancement.
The M.S. in Computer Science at Oklahoma State University prepares working professionals for industry careers and Ph.D. advancement through flexible thesis and non-thesis tracks. The thesis option (30 credits, including 6 for thesis) suits candidates pursuing research-focused advancement, with recent work in sentiment analysis, healthcare informatics, and machine learning. The non-thesis option (33 credits) emphasizes coursework and is ideal for mid-career professionals seeking rapid completion. Core coursework (12 credits) is complemented by electives in high-demand areas including machine learning, data analytics, cyber-security, and big data systems. Graduate assistantships and teaching lab positions provide tuition support and stipends, while scholarships like the Fisher Computer Science Scholarship and Graduate Fellowship are available. The program leverages strong industry connections—employers including Amazon, Facebook, Dell, Koch Industries, Paycom, and Walmart actively recruit graduates. Career advancement focuses on data analytics, machine learning, AI, and cyber-security roles where mid-career graduates command competitive salaries with significant advancement potential over bachelor's-level positions.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering research groups
- Language and Intelligence Laboratory
- Data Engineering Laboratory
- Interactive Digital Entertainment Laboratory
- Virtual Reality and Information Centric Engineering Laboratory
- Collaborative Learning Laboratory
- Robotic Cognition Laboratory
- Cyber Security Laboratory
- Visual Understanding and Complex Systems Laboratory
- iMac Mobile App Laboratory
- Intelligent Learning for Explainable Acute Decision-Support Laboratory
- Security & Networking (SecNet) Lab
- iLead Lab
- Dr. Jahan's Lab
- Advanced Networks and Telecommunications Security (ANTS) Lab
- Reasoning and Artificial Intelligence (rAIson) Lab
- ZerOne Lab
Industry Partners
- Dell (employer)
- Koch Industries (employer)
- Paycom (employer)
- Walmart (employer)
- Sam's Club (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Facebook (employer)
- Lam Research (employer)
- Cerner (employer)
- Sprint (employer)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Amazon, Intel.
Notable Faculty
- Christopher Crick — Computer Science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 during last two years. Application Deadline: April 1 (fall), September 1 (spring).
Requirements: Core courses: 12 credit hours, Electives: 6 credit hours max, Thesis: 6 credit hours (thesis option) OR additional coursework (non-thesis option), Completion of either thesis or non-thesis track, Prescribed set of core courses, Specialization in one focused area
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Research infrastructure supporting multiple CS specializationsPart of larger engineering and science research ecosystem
Oklahoma City University — Oklahoma City, OK
Key Distinction: 8-week block scheduling allows students to complete up to four classes per semester while managing only two courses at any given time. Designed for working professionals with flexible scheduling
Hakia Insight: The 8-week block scheduling model (two courses at a time across four-week blocks) is a structural advantage disguised as convenience: it allows working professionals to maintain cognitive focus on fewer subjects simultaneously, improving retention relative to traditional part-time programs.
Oklahoma City University's Master of Science in Computer Science is designed for working professionals seeking to enhance credentials, enter the computing job market, or pursue doctoral studies. The program offers three in-demand tracks: Cybersecurity, Data Science (Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence), and Web Development. Students can complete the degree in as little as 18 months through an innovative 8-week block scheduling format, allowing completion of up to four classes per semester while managing only two courses simultaneously. The curriculum emphasizes real-world scenarios and the latest technologies, with students encouraged to collaborate on faculty-mentored projects in their area of interest. Graduation requires 33 credit hours including 21 required core courses and 12 track-specific courses. Students choose between an internship, degree project, or research thesis option, providing flexibility for working professionals balancing career and education.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- IBM (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Jeff Maxwell — Computer Science & Mathematics
- Timothy T. Hsieh — Artificial Intelligence & Law, Intellectual Property, Patent Law, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency Law
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00 minimum cumulative GPA.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree with 3.00 cumulative GPA, Official undergraduate transcript, Personal statement and purpose statement, One letter of recommendation from employer, supervisor, or professor, Professional resume, Own computer/laptop, 21 credit hours of required core courses, 12 credit hours from chosen track (Cybersecurity, Data Science, or Web Development), Internship (16 weeks) OR M.S. Degree Project (16 weeks) OR M.S. Degree Research (16 weeks)
Location Advantages: Oklahoma City's diversifying tech sector and growing startup ecosystem; direct proximity to Fortune 500 regional offices
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus — Norman, OK
Key Distinction: Fully online format designed for working professionals. Coursework-based track (no thesis requirement)
Hakia Insight: OU Online's 12-month completion window for its 30-credit coursework-based degree undercuts time-to-salary for working professionals: finishing in a calendar year means returning to the job market with an advanced degree before many part-time peers complete year two.
The online Master of Science in Applied Computing from OU Online is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals, completable in as little as 12 months. The program offers a coursework-based track with no thesis option, featuring evening classes (live sessions one per week, 7-8:30 pm CT on weeknights). Students take two 8-week courses simultaneously, allowing flexible progression while maintaining full-time employment. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on training in advanced programming, software engineering, machine learning, cloud computing, and security. While specific salary advancement figures over a bachelor's degree are not provided, the program positions graduates for leadership roles with median pay of $96,800 in related fields. No graduate assistantships or embedded professional certifications are mentioned. OU Online provides career development services and access to a 250,000+ alumni network to support career advancement.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Applied Computing — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Science research groups
- AI2ES IDEA Lab
- Telecommunication and Network Research Lab
- Virtual Reality, Interactive Simulation, and Biomedical (VRISB) Lab
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Marmar Moussa — Computational genomics and bioinformatics
- Dr. Mohammed Atiquzzaman — Computer security, cryptography, and networking
- Dr. Amy McGovern — Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Dr. Andrew H. Fagg — Artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and neuroscience
- Dr. David Ebert — Visualization and visual analytics
- Dr. Le Gruenwald — Databases and data mining
- Dr. Deborah Trytten — Computer science education
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to interdisciplinary research across engineering, sciences, and social sciencesRegional recruiting relationships with major tech employersPart of research university ecosystem
University of Tulsa — Tulsa, OK
Key Distinction: Non-thesis track option emphasizing coursework over research. 30-credit program designed for working professionals
Hakia Insight: The strongly encouraged 3+ month research internship requirement, combined with zero foreign language mandates, signals TU's pragmatism: the program values verifiable industry research output over traditional academic gatekeeping, appealing to practitioners over theorists.
The Master of Science in Computer Science (Non-Thesis Option) at the University of Tulsa is a 30-credit graduate program designed for working professionals seeking advanced technical expertise without thesis requirements. The non-thesis track emphasizes coursework-based learning with flexibility in course selection, allowing students to tailor their studies with approval from the graduate program advisor. The program requires a minimum of 18 credit hours in advanced computer science courses (7000-level and above), with options to include up to 6 hours of courses outside computer science. Students must complete either CS 6413 Compiler Construction or CS 6333 Computer Networks as a core requirement. The curriculum builds on foundational computer science knowledge, enabling mid-career professionals to deepen expertise in specific areas while maintaining employment. This structure appeals to working professionals prioritizing specialized skill development over research-intensive thesis work.
Programs Offered
- Computer Science, Non-Thesis Option, M.S. — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Zarvis AI (startup)
- Vast (startup)
- Energy-tech companies in Tulsa region (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0/4.0 with master's degree or 3.5/4.0 with bachelor's degree.
Requirements: 30 total credit hours, Either CS 6413 Compiler Construction or CS 6333 Computer Networks required, Minimum 18 credit hours of computer science courses at 7000-level or above, Maximum 12 credit hours of 6000-level courses, Maximum 6 hours of courses outside computer science at 6000- or 7000-level, No thesis requirement
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Tulsa's emerging tech startup ecosystemEnergy and aerospace tech industry presenceCo-op opportunities with regional and national employers
University of Central Oklahoma — Edmond, OK
Key Distinction: UCO's computer science program prioritizes hands-on, project-based learning integrated throughout the curriculum rather than isolated to capstone experiences, combined with direct ties to Oklahoma's regional tech employment market.
Hakia Insight: UCO's master's program inherits its undergraduate strength in project-integrated learning and ties that directly to Oklahoma City's tech corridor, meaning students complete capstones that solve real employer problems—not hypothetical case studies.
UCO's computer science program emphasizes a balanced blend of theoretical foundations and applied problem-solving, with particular strength in preparing students for immediate workforce entry or graduate study. The curriculum is structured around core computer science principles—algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering—while offering flexibility through electives in areas like cybersecurity, web development, and systems programming. What distinguishes this program is its commitment to hands-on learning; students engage with real-world projects throughout their coursework rather than relegating practical experience to capstone courses alone. The program maintains active connections with Oklahoma's growing tech sector and regional employers, creating internship and job placement pathways for graduates. Faculty bring industry experience alongside academic credentials, fostering a culture where classroom concepts directly connect to professional practice. The institution's location in Edmond positions students near Oklahoma City's expanding technology corridor, home to a growing base of tech startups and established firms. Class sizes remain manageable, allowing for meaningful mentorship and individualized attention—a significant advantage for students seeking personalized guidance through their degree. Graduates typically pursue roles in software development, systems administration, IT management, and related fields across both Fortune 500 companies and regional enterprises. The program also supports students interested in advanced study, with a number of graduates successfully transitioning to master's programs at major research universities.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Oklahoma City tech corridorRegional employer networks in central Oklahoma
Oklahoma Christian University — Edmond, OK
Key Distinction: Oklahoma Christian's computer science program uniquely emphasizes technology ethics and professional responsibility alongside technical depth, producing graduates valued for both competence and judgment.
Hakia Insight: Oklahoma Christian's explicit emphasis on technology ethics and professional responsibility is rare at the master's level and creates differentiation in sectors (defense, finance, healthcare) where governance and judgment increasingly outweigh raw technical skill.
At the master's level, oklahoma Christian's computer science program is distinguished by its integration of technical rigor with the university's broader liberal arts mission, producing graduates who are as comfortable discussing the ethical and social dimensions of technology as they are coding robust systems. The curriculum balances traditional computer science foundations—data structures, algorithms, software engineering—with coursework in digital ethics, professional communication, and technology's impact on society. This approach reflects Oklahoma Christian's faith-based educational philosophy while delivering competitive technical preparation. The program maintains strong connections with industry through internship networks and guest lectures from professionals, often leveraging Oklahoma City's growing tech ecosystem. Faculty actively support student research projects and capstone work that frequently address real-world problems with meaningful community or professional partners. Graduates from the program are known for not just technical competence but for thoughtfulness about how technology is deployed, making them particularly valued in roles that require both engineering skill and professional judgment. Alumni pursue diverse paths: traditional software development, IT consulting, startup involvement, and technical roles in nonprofit and government sectors where their combination of technical ability and broader professional awareness provides advantage.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to Oklahoma City tech ecosystem and emerging startup community
Oral Roberts University — Tulsa, OK
Key Distinction: Computer science curriculum embedded within a faith-based institutional context that explicitly connects technical study to ethics and purpose.
Hakia Insight: ORU embeds ethics and purpose into technical curriculum at an institutional level, producing graduates who can articulate why they build systems—a distinction that resonates in leadership-track roles and consulting engagements where technical credibility alone is insufficient.
At the master's level, ORU's computer science program distinguishes itself through its integration of technical depth with the university's faith-based mission, attracting students who seek education rooted in both computational excellence and spiritual formation. The curriculum delivers solid computer science fundamentals—algorithms, data structures, systems design, networks—while courses regularly examine technology through ethical and philosophical lenses informed by Christian perspective. Students work on projects spanning software development, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, with faculty who are accomplished technologists and scholars. The campus tech infrastructure supports hands-on learning in modern programming environments and collaborative spaces. For students from faith backgrounds or those seeking an educational community where technology study connects to broader questions of purpose and ethics, ORU offers an intellectually rigorous yet values-coherent path.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Tulsa metropolitan area with growing aerospace and energy tech sectors; proximity to regional technology companies
Best Doctoral Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus — Norman, OK
Key Distinction: OU's computer science program delivers a research-informed, theoretically sound education with interdisciplinary opportunities and strong outcomes across both industry and PhD pathways, making it Oklahoma's most comprehensive research-capable CS program.
Hakia Insight: OU's three dedicated research labs (AI2ES IDEA, Telecommunications & Network) combined with interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering and sciences create a rare advantage: doctoral students can publish in both AI/ML venues and domain-specific fields simultaneously, multiplying career optionality.
At the doctoral level, the University of Oklahoma's computer science program combines theoretical rigor with practical application, preparing students for careers spanning industry, research, and academic paths through a carefully balanced curriculum and active engagement with the broader academic community. OU's program benefits from substantial research funding and faculty working at the frontier of machine learning, formal methods, human-computer interaction, and other contemporary areas, with undergraduate students gaining exposure to cutting-edge work through labs and collaborative projects. The program maintains connections with regional and national industry partners, facilitating internships and recruiting relationships that give students exposure to how computer science functions in practice. Beyond computer science itself, OU's location in Norman and broader university ecosystem provides students with opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary work—collaborating with biology, physics, and engineering students on problems requiring computational approaches. Graduates report strong outcomes in both industry and graduate school placements, with particularly solid tracks into software engineering roles at established tech companies and into PhD programs at competitive universities. The program's size and resources position it as a leading computer science education option in the region, attracting ambitious students and producing alumni across all major career trajectories in computing.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Science research groups
- AI2ES IDEA Lab
- Telecommunication and Network Research Lab
- Virtual Reality, Interactive Simulation, and Biomedical (VRISB) Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Marmar Moussa — Computational genomics and bioinformatics
- Dr. Mohammed Atiquzzaman — Computer security, cryptography, and networking
- Dr. Amy McGovern — Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Dr. Andrew H. Fagg — Artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and neuroscience
- Dr. David Ebert — Visualization and visual analytics
- Dr. Le Gruenwald — Databases and data mining
- Dr. Deborah Trytten — Computer science education
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to interdisciplinary research across engineering, sciences, and social sciencesRegional recruiting relationships with major tech employersPart of research university ecosystem
University of Tulsa — Tulsa, OK
Key Distinction: Research internship strongly encouraged (3+ months in industry/government labs). No foreign language requirement
Hakia Insight: TU's removal of the foreign language requirement and emphasis on industry research internships (72+ credits with 30 transferable from a master's) suggests a doctoral program designed for practitioners, not career academics—shortening time-to-PhD while maintaining research credibility in Tulsa's energy-tech and aerospace clusters.
The University of Tulsa Computer Science Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 72 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree, with up to 30 credits applicable from a master's degree. Students must complete comprehensive exams in 4 of 9 foundational areas (Algorithms, Databases, Programming Languages, AI, Scientific Computing, Graphics, Systems, Software Engineering, Information Security). The curriculum requires minimum 18 research/dissertation hours, 48 coursework hours including 27 graduate CS hours (21 at 7000-level+), and 6 graduate math hours. Students must maintain full-time residence for one year (9 hours/semester) and complete qualifying exams within one year of comprehensive exams. A research internship of 3+ months in industry/government labs is strongly encouraged. The program emphasizes independent research leading to publishable papers in peer-reviewed journals. Doctoral matriculation requires securing a research advisor by the 21st credit hour or transfer to master's program.
Programs Offered
- Computer Science, Ph.D. — 4-6 years, on-campus. Ph.D.
Industry Partners
- Zarvis AI (startup)
- Vast (startup)
- Energy-tech companies in Tulsa region (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: IBM.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0/4.0 with master's degree or 3.5/4.0 with bachelor's degree.
Requirements: Minimum 72 credit hours beyond bachelor's, Comprehensive exams in 4 of 9 foundational areas, Minimum 18 research/dissertation hours, Minimum 48 coursework hours, One-year full-time residence requirement, Qualifying examination with written proposal and oral defense, Publishable scholarly papers requirement
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Tulsa's emerging tech startup ecosystemEnergy and aerospace tech industry presenceCo-op opportunities with regional and national employers
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus — Stillwater, OK
Key Distinction: OSU's computer science program differentiates itself through research-active faculty, funded labs, and a curriculum emphasizing algorithmic depth and systems thinking—producing graduates competitive for PhD programs and algorithm-focused industry roles.
Hakia Insight: OSU's Language and Intelligence Laboratory and Data Engineering Laboratory sit within a broader School of Electrical and Computer Engineering ecosystem—a structure that lets doctoral students tackle interdisciplinary problems (think: robotics, systems optimization) that single-department programs can't easily support, significantly strengthening PhD placement outcomes.
At the doctoral level, oklahoma State's computer science program stands out for its strong research infrastructure, interdisciplinary connections across engineering and science, and pipeline into graduate studies and advanced technical roles. The program emphasizes algorithmic thinking, systems design, and mathematical foundations alongside applied software development, positioning graduates well for both academic and industry-research career paths. OSU maintains active research groups in areas including machine learning, systems, networking, and computer vision, with undergraduate participation in these labs providing meaningful research experience unavailable at smaller institutions. The school's broader engineering culture and resources support extensive laboratory facilities, collaborative spaces, and mentorship from faculty conducting funded research. Graduates show strong outcomes in graduate school admissions (including top-tier PhD programs) and in positions at tech companies investing in advanced systems, algorithms, and AI—roles that reward the deeper technical grounding OSU emphasizes. The program's scale allows specialization flexibility while maintaining the rigor expected of a major research university, making it ideal for students considering graduate school or careers requiring sustained technical depth.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Computer Science — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering research groups
- Language and Intelligence Laboratory
- Data Engineering Laboratory
- Interactive Digital Entertainment Laboratory
- Virtual Reality and Information Centric Engineering Laboratory
- Collaborative Learning Laboratory
- Robotic Cognition Laboratory
- Cyber Security Laboratory
- Visual Understanding and Complex Systems Laboratory
- iMac Mobile App Laboratory
- Intelligent Learning for Explainable Acute Decision-Support Laboratory
- Security & Networking (SecNet) Lab
- iLead Lab
- Dr. Jahan's Lab
- Advanced Networks and Telecommunications Security (ANTS) Lab
- Reasoning and Artificial Intelligence (rAIson) Lab
- ZerOne Lab
Industry Partners
- Dell (employer)
- Koch Industries (employer)
- Paycom (employer)
- Walmart (employer)
- Sam's Club (employer)
- Amazon (employer)
- Facebook (employer)
- Lam Research (employer)
- Cerner (employer)
- Sprint (employer)
Notable Faculty
- Christopher Crick — Computer Science
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0 during last two years. Application Deadline: April 1 (fall), September 1 (spring).
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Research infrastructure supporting multiple CS specializationsPart of larger engineering and science research ecosystem
