Northern Oklahoma College
Out-of-state tuition
$11,848
In-state $5,083
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
3,138
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
40.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 43.4%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) is a prominent community college located in the heart of Oklahoma, United States. Established in 1899, the college has a long-standing tradition of providing quality education and fostering student success. NOC emphasizes a student-centered approach, offering a range of academic programs that cater to diverse interests and career aspirations. The college is known for its strong emphasis on the arts and sciences, alongside vocational training, which prepares students for both transfer to four-year universities and immediate entry into the workforce.
The college's campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that enhance the learning experience. NOC also prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment. In addition to academics, NOC boasts a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations and events that promote leadership and community involvement. The college's commitment to education, coupled with its rich history and strong community ties, makes Northern Oklahoma College an excellent choice for students seeking to further their education and achieve their career goals.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Northern Oklahoma College
Over the years, Northern Oklahoma College has experienced significant changes in tuition rates, student enrollment, and graduation rates, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition increased from $3,019 to $5,061, representing a 67.5% rise. This increase in tuition burdens students and families, which may impact enrollment numbers as prospective students weigh the cost against the value of the education provided.
Student enrollment has seen a notable decline, dropping from 4,909 in 2014 to just 2,997 in 2022, before slightly rebounding to 3,271 in 2023. This 39.9% decrease in enrollment suggests challenges in attracting and retaining students, potentially linked to rising tuition costs and changing demographics in the region.
In contrast, graduation rates have demonstrated a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has increased from 12.8% in 2013 to 28.8% in 2023. This nearly 130% increase indicates improvements in academic support and student services that may enhance student persistence and success. Additionally, the retention rate saw a rise from about 52.2% in 2013 to 65.1% in 2023, suggesting that the college has made strides in keeping students enrolled from year to year.
Overall, while tuition has escalated, adversely affecting enrollment, the college's efforts to improve graduation and retention rates reflect a commitment to student success. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, Northern Oklahoma College must strike a balance between affordability and the quality of education to maintain its appeal to prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Wichita, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Diana Watkins (President)
- Phone
- 5806286200
- Address
- 1220 E Grand Ave, Tonkawa, OK 74653
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at Northern Oklahoma College
The data from Northern Oklahoma College for 2023 reveals interesting trends in graduation rates across various programs. Notably, the Health Sciences related programs, including Registered Nursing and Health Services, exhibit substantial graduation numbers, with 64 and 5 graduates respectively. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has emphasized the critical role of the healthcare workforce.
On the other hand, the fields related to Computer and Information Sciences show a meager number of graduates, with only 2 earning an associate degree. This is concerning given the growing reliance on technology and the urgent need for skilled professionals in this sector. The stark contrast in graduation rates between healthcare and technology suggests potential areas for curriculum development and recruitment efforts to attract more students into technology-focused programs.
Additionally, the data indicates a complete absence of international students graduating in any program, which could point to barriers faced by this demographic in pursuing higher education at the institution. Addressing these barriers may enhance the diversity of the student body and enrich the educational experience for all students.
Overall, the predominance of graduates in health-related programs reflects current job market trends and societal needs, while the underrepresentation in technology fields highlights an opportunity for Northern Oklahoma College to expand its outreach and support for students in these critical areas.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $36,369 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |
| Management Information Systems, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $65,229 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Health Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | |
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Military Applied Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Students
3,138 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 67.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,047
- First-year undergraduates 591
- Transfers and others 1,500
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,138)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Northern Oklahoma College in 2023
The student demographics at Northern Oklahoma College for the year 2023 reveal a diverse student body with varying proportions of different categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 632, with a noteworthy gender distribution of 42.1% male and 57.9% female students, indicating a higher enrollment of female students in this category. In contrast, the undergraduate juniors, totaling 1,146 students, exhibit an even more pronounced gender imbalance, with only 34.4% male and 65.6% female students, reflecting a trend that might be observed across many educational institutions where female students are increasingly outnumbering their male counterparts.
The undergraduate transfer students, comprising 127 individuals, also show a similar gender distribution, with 40.2% male and 59.8% female students. This consistency across categories suggests a broader cultural shift in higher education, where female enrollment appears to be on the rise, potentially influenced by societal changes and educational policies encouraging female participation in various fields.
Overall, the total enrollment across all categories amounts to 1,366 students, with a combined gender ratio that mirrors the individual categories. Such demographic insights are crucial for understanding the shifting landscape of higher education and can inform future recruitment strategies, support services, and academic programming to cater to the needs of a diverse student population. Furthermore, as colleges and universities continue to adapt to these trends, it will be interesting to monitor how these dynamics evolve in the coming years, particularly in light of ongoing discussions around gender equity in education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Northern Oklahoma College
The age composition of students at Northern Oklahoma College reveals interesting insights about the demographic makeup of its student body in 2023. Notably, the majority of the students fall within the younger age brackets, with a significant representation of individuals under 18 and those aged 18-19. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that a large proportion of college students are typically recent high school graduates or those transitioning directly from secondary education.
The data shows that in the 18-19 age category, there are 583 male students and 831 female students, highlighting a strong female presence in this age group. This trend continues in the 20-21 age range, where female students again outnumber male students. Such patterns may reflect broader societal trends regarding educational attainment, where women have been increasingly pursuing higher education in recent years.
As the age categories progress, the number of students gradually decreases, particularly for those aged 25 and above. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including the challenges of balancing education with work and personal responsibilities, which tend to increase with age. Additionally, the lack of graduate students in these age groups suggests that Northern Oklahoma College primarily serves a traditional undergraduate population, rather than non-traditional or adult learners.
Overall, the demographic data presents a youthful and predominantly female student body, which could influence the academic environment and support services at Northern Oklahoma College. Understanding these demographics is crucial for shaping institutional policies and programs that cater to the needs of the student population effectively.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
46 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northern Oklahoma College
The data from Northern Oklahoma College reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates varied, demonstrating both peaks and troughs. For instance, the highest percentage was recorded in 2016, with 2.02%, indicating a notable interest in the institution during that period. Conversely, the lowest percentage occurred in 2017, with just 0.42%, suggesting potential factors that may have deterred international students from enrolling, such as geopolitical issues or changes in immigration policies.
Interestingly, while the total number of undergraduate students increased gradually from 2004 until around 2015, the number of international students saw more volatility. The peak of 94 international students in 2016 was followed by a sharp decline in 2017. This pattern raises questions about the factors influencing these trends, such as the university's international outreach efforts, the global higher education landscape, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international mobility.
The recent figures for 2022 and 2023 indicate a recovery, with 1.23% and 1.22% of the undergraduate population being international students, respectively. This could reflect a resurgence in international interest in U.S. higher education as global travel restrictions ease. Overall, Northern Oklahoma College's international student enrollment data underscores the dynamic nature of global education and the importance of adapting to ever-changing circumstances to attract a diverse student body.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$19,748
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,848
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,083
- Room and board
- $7,900
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$44.2M
Expenses$39.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 78 | - |
| Wrestling | 35 | 20 |
| Basketball | 29 | 23 |
| Soccer | 25 | 20 |
| Softball | - | 41 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 65 | - |
| Basketball | 30 | 22 |
| Soccer | 31 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 75 | - |
| Basketball | 33 | 26 |
| Soccer | 24 | 21 |
| Softball | - | 40 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 40.4 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 71.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 83.4 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 101.9 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 177.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 178.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of KansasLawrence · 193.2 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 220.0 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of North TexasDenton · 239.7 mi
U.S. News #208
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding Northern Oklahoma College:
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong research initiatives.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a ranking of 124, this university is recognized for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life, providing diverse opportunities for both study and extracurricular involvement.
-
University of Tulsa - Ranked 195, the University of Tulsa is a private university that emphasizes research and offers various programs in arts, sciences, and engineering.
-
University of Kansas - This institution ranks 151 and is known for its strong programs in health, engineering, and business, along with a vibrant campus culture.
-
Texas Christian University - With a ranking of 98, TCU is a private university that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its commitment to student development and community engagement.
These institutions provide a diverse range of academic opportunities and are known for their commitment to excellence in education.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Northern Oklahoma College
The crime statistics at Northern Oklahoma College reveal a fluctuating trend over the past decade. In 2013, the campus recorded a crime rate of 1.72 per 1,000 students, which peaked at 2.07 in 2022. This spike in 2022 could be attributed to various factors, including heightened awareness and reporting of crimes, as well as potential increases in criminal activities.
Observing the breakdown of specific offenses, it is notable that firearm-related arrests have consistently remained low, with no recorded incidents on campus in several years. Conversely, drug and alcohol-related arrests, including DUI offenses, show more variability. For instance, the data indicates a concerning increase in drug arrests in 2020, with a rate of 1.67, suggesting that substance abuse remains a challenge for the student community.
The overall decline in crime rates from 2016 to 2018 is promising, particularly with the low rate of 0.47 in 2018. However, the resurgence in 2022 raises questions about the safety measures implemented on campus and the effectiveness of outreach programs aimed at preventing crime.
Moreover, the data highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure student safety. It is essential for the institution to strengthen its campus safety protocols and cultivate a culture of awareness among students regarding crime reporting and prevention.
Overall, while some years showcase improvements, the recent increase in crime rates should prompt a review of the policies and practices currently in place to ensure a secure learning environment for all students.
For more information on crime rate calculations, visit: Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Northern Oklahoma College include Paul Wight (Professional wrestler and actor, Big Show), Ruth Muskrat (Cherokee poet, educator and Indian rights activist) and D.L. Lang (American poet).
-
Paul Wight 1972–
Professional wrestler and actor, Big Show
-
Ruth Muskrat 1897–1982
Cherokee poet, educator and Indian rights activist
-
D.L. Lang 1983–
American poet
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.