The Northern Oklahoma College Nursing program is a 2-year Associate of Applied Science Registered Nurse program. Graduates are prepared to practice as safe, effective registered nurses after passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Graduates are encouraged to progress to an RN-BSN program and continue with their education in nursing.
The first NOC nurses graduated from the Tonkawa campus in 1973. The program expanded to Enid in 1994 and Stillwater in 2002. The nursing program is delivered by interactive television (ITV) and onsite live instruction. Approximately 100 students are in attendance yearly.
Role of the Associate Degree RN
RNs with an associate degree are prepared to function at the bedside within acute care settings, extended care facilities, or community-based settings as collaborative members of the health care team.
Possible practice areas include: medical, surgical, intensive care unit (ICU), emergency department (ED), psychiatric (mental health), maternity (OB), pediatrics (children’s), OR (surgery), outpatient surgery, clinics, offices, neonatal (nursery), skilled nursing, parish, long term care, prison or home health.
Job Prospects
- RNs are needed in all areas of healthcare and all areas of the country and state.
- RNs are listed as one of the 10 best healthcare jobs of 2023 and the only role with an associate degree (respiratory therapy is #15) (https://www.advisory.com/daily-briefing/2023/01/12/best-jobs).
- The average starting salary for new graduate associate degree RNs is $56,180 per year (https://www.nursingprocess.org/adn-salary/).
- RNs enjoy job security and mobility – the role is stressful, challenging, and difficult but rewarding.
Advanced Education Opportunities
NOC nursing graduates are well prepared to advance their education.
- RN-BSN programs offer online classes for working RNs – many employers have tuition reimbursement so you can work and earn the next degree. NOC has relationships with several universities with special programs for NOC graduates.
- Graduate education is needed for advanced practice roles: nurse practitioner (CNP), nurse anesthesist (CRNA), nurse midwife (CNM), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), and administrative and education roles. Some graduate program admit associate degree RNs directly.
Campus Locations
One program. 3 locations: Tonkawa, Enid, Stillwater.
Telephone: 580.628.6679 Fax: 580.628-6674 Email: nursing@noc.edu
- Tonkawa Campus: Nursing Division; Renfro Center; 1409 E Grand, Box 310; Tonkawa, OK 74653
- Enid Campus: Nursing Division; Zollars Hall; 100 S University Ave, Box 2300; Enid, OK 73702
- Stillwater Campus: Nursing Division; NOC Classroom Building, 615 N. Monroe; Stillwater, OK 74075
Have Questions? Want More Information?
Attend an Application Orientation with the nursing division to answer questions and provide guidance. Please use the sign-up genius link below to register for a session!
Admission standards can be found by clicking Application Information.