Choosing where to study your MBA can be a tough decision. But if you want to balance affordability with access to top US programs and career opportunities, Oklahoma could be the ideal location.
This proved true for Ethan Segall and Laura Aab, who chose the University of Oklahoma's Michael F. Price College of Business (OU) for their MBAs. Since graduating, Ethan has carved out a career with the Boston Consulting Group, while Laura landed an analyst role at JP Morgan Chase & Co.
BusinessBecause caught up with Ethan and Laura, who gave five reasons why they chose an MBA in Oklahoma.
1. A safe and vibrant culture
OU’s postgraduate campus is located in downtown Oklahoma City, in the heart of the innovation district.
Ethan (right), who studied his undergrad degree at OU as well as his MBA, believes this is the perfect setting for postgraduate study.
“It gives you a really cool experience in getting the metropolitan feel,” he says.
Laura equally enjoyed the vibrant and buzzing nature of city life in Oklahoma, which also had a safe, friendly atmosphere.
“You are living in a big city alongside working professionals, and there are lots of restaurants and things to do like basketball games,” she says. “But I was still able to live on my own and feel totally safe getting to know the city on my own.”
2. Affordable living
Oklahoma state has the second lowest cost of living in the whole USA—a major benefit for MBA candidates. OU has bought into this selling point by making their MBA programs very affordable.
MBA programs in Oklahoma are much more affordable; OU’s Full Time MBA costs $54,000 for non-Oklahoma residents.
“The MBA itself is really affordable and a great value for the price,” Ethan reflects. “The cost of living is also really low, so if you are looking for a place that is cost efficient, then Oklahoma is perfect.”
Value for the price was also at the top of Laura’s list when considering the OU MBA program.
“Once I started looking into the program and interviewed for it, it started occurring to me how good of a value proposition it was,” she explains.
3. A launchpad for global study
The chance to travel beyond the US is an important component of OU’s MBA program.
At OU, every MBA student is invited to the Global Business Experience, which whisks them away on a two-week trip to Asia. On the trip, they can expand their network and understanding of global business by visiting local companies. Students are also exposed to cultural experiences including cooking and language classes.
The trip proved a highlight for Laura (right), who visited Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia.
“I think what makes OU unique is that this trip is already built into the program—it wasn’t something that you had to pay extra to do,” she says.
OU also offers funding for students to travel during the summer, helping them take on summer programs and internships in other cities.
4. Exciting MBA jobs
Along with traditional industries for MBAs such as finance and consulting, Oklahoma is home to several thriving sectors including aviation, energy, and biotech.
At OU, the Center for Graduate Student Success helps students connect with local opportunities through career fairs, company visits, and one-to-one coaching. The service also offers professional development classes teaching skills like résumé writing and interviewing.
“They try to make sure that you are in a career that you really want to be in, and they leverage their networks to get you careers that you are really happy with,” says Laura.
Graduates from the OU MBA find work with companies like Boeing, Accenture, Devon Energy, Exxon Mobil, and AT&T.
5. High quality MBA programs
OU’s MBA is ranked in the top 100 by US News, and boasts impressive statistics including graduate starting salaries of $77,000 and an employment rate of 92.3% within three months of graduation.
“It was a really well-rounded experience,” says Ethan. “The coursework was a good mix of technical and non-technical skills, which gave me the toolkit I needed to excel."
The OU program exposes students to a wide array of different industries, Laura adds, with regular in-class talks from alumni making for great networking opportunities.
“What really set my experience apart is that the staff and faculty were really invested in me and my success,” she says.
University of Oklahoma - Price College of Business
Percy
Verified
28/11/2023
On Campus
an Unregrettable choice of university
The University of Oklahoma has been a great experience for me. The professors are all very knowledgeable and willing to help where needed. The campus is also very beautiful and there are plenty of activities going on all the time. The student body is also really friendly and I have made a lot of new friends here. Overall, I'm really glad I chose OU and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great college experience.
Student
Verified
9/11/2022
On Campus
It is a life changing experience for me.
I am enrolled in a Ph.D. program that is research-intensive. I get continuous guidance from my supervisors that help me to conduct my research skillfully. I will gladly recommend students to study here.
Student
Verified
20/10/2022
Online
Good institution
Good institution for in class courses. Online classes are pretty hard because the instructors are most of the time not available. The student has to do everything on their own without any assistance.
Student
Verified
11/06/2022
Blended
Best school ever
This has been the best experience. of my life! Freshman year completely changed my life in so many ways! Through club’s organizations and social events the university of Oklahoma became my home. I loved being there
Student
Verified
25/04/2019
Amazing Univeristy
OU is an amazing university. Love the athletic department so much. They have so much hype and love for their athletes and students typically maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’m engineering student and OU has one of the best teachers and facilities I had so far. I know their engineering program is prestigious but I don’t know much about the other departments. Beautiful campus and amazing social events. Diversity is enormous. LOVE IT SIMPLY.
Molly
Verified
19/12/2023
On Campus
Getting the best at OU
I am a current student at the University of Oklahoma and I must say, I am extremely impressed with the quality of education and resources available here. The professors are knowledgeable and truly care about their students' success. The campus is beautiful and there are always events and activities happening. The community at OU is welcoming and diverse, making it a great place to grow and learn. I highly recommend this university to anyone looking for a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience. Boomer Sooner
Student
Verified
28/11/2023
On Campus
Everybody is really helpful over here
The university has beautiful buildings and scenic fields with benches for enjoying the weather. There are a lot of nice students, so it's a pleasant experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes and gained valuable knowledge from the professors. It was a pleasure to work with my professors during my first year, as communication was easy and they consistently made themselves available during office hours, accommodating any scheduling conflicts. I had a smooth academic transition into college thanks to the great faculty.
Sara
Verified
9/01/2023
On Campus
Oklahoma
I would say it is the best university in town. The education, knowledge, curriculum, extra curriculum activities, modern laboratories, big grounds, and spacious classrooms. I would say everyone who can should study here.
Quincy
Verified
30/06/2024
On Campus
well maintained facilities
The OU campus is truly breathtaking with its vast green spaces and modern facilities. These facilities are contemporary and meticulously maintained, housing state-of-the-art science labs, a vast digital resource library, and cozy study areas perfect for late-night cram sessions. As someone from Oklahoma, attending this university has been a dream come true and has provided me with the most fulfilling years of my life. My freshman year was incredibly enjoyable, filled with fantastic friends and daily adventures. The friendships I've established here are lifelong, and I feel immense gratitude for my time at OU.
Charlie
Verified
30/06/2024
On Campus
a home far from home
Attending the University of Oklahoma brought back nostalgic memories for me. My sister graduated from this university in May 2019, and while she had spoken highly of it, she hadn't quite captured how much I would come to adore this school. It has become a home away from home, with its welcoming atmosphere, kind professors, stunning campus, and impressive football team that resonates with my high school football experiences. I am grateful for the chance to study at the University of Oklahoma and receive an exceptional education.
Lauren
Verified
5/07/2024
On Campus
psychology major
Honestly, I was not expecting to enjoy the University of Oklahoma (OU), but I ended up falling in love with it. Your college experience at OU largely depends on what you invest in it. While it was sometimes challenging to build friendships and step out of my comfort zone, the university offers numerous clubs and opportunities to engage with new people. As a psychology major at the University of Oklahoma, I firmly believe that the professors and the quality of education surpass those of any other university psychology program. This enables students to connect with professionals globally and fosters personal growth. In terms of academics, I find that professors are highly accessible to students, and there are abundant resources available to support academic achievement.
Catherine
Verified
6/07/2024
Blended
great support
The campus offers a wide range of dining choices and excellent accommodation. It is reasonably affordable and offers support in locating scholarships and financial advisors to help students manage their finances. My overall experience has been far more positive than I anticipated, and I am completely satisfied with my decision to enroll at OU.
Student
Verified
21/07/2024
On Campus
Beautiful campus scene
The University of Oklahoma has such a large and diverse population that you can't help but find your place here. There are many colleges, courses, and professors to choose from. I grew to love the environment, social life and community. The school has an amazing and breathtaking campus with many clubs and ways to get connected.
Rachel
Verified
21/07/2024
On Campus
architecture program
I have been able to explore a wide variety of academic subjects during my studies. The university's dedicated faculty members have been crucial in fostering my intellectual development and providing guidance. I have always felt supported by the staff and my professors, especially in the field of architecture. My experience so far has been a positive journey.
Student
Verified
24/07/2024
On Campus
passion for literature
The University of Oklahoma created a fantastic educational setting that blends a passion for classical works with modern research. As a student at the university, I observed a diverse array of opportunities available not only to myself but also to other postgraduate students. I appreciate the variety of campus events and the vibrant nightlife.
