Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a land of variations and transitions. Nestled in the "Heartland" of the United States, Oklahoma provides endless opportunities for growth and progress, both for the state itself, and for anyone taking advantage of the impressive educational institutes that are available.

Life in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is located in the south Central region of the United States. The climate and landscape of Oklahoma vary greatly depending on regions. Eastern Oklahoma is mostly wooded mountains, while the west is mostly dry plains. Not just the landscape, but also the population spread, economics, and weather, can be very different from one location to the next.

The climate is varied, but it generally features long, hot summers and short, cold winters. The population is 3,579,212, with the highest populations being in metropolitan areas. Oklahoma features excellent rail and highway travel options.

The mountains, lakes, and streams provide the biggest attraction to Oklahoma residents and tourists. Fishing, swimming, and camping at the many lakeside parks that have developed in the area are some of the most popular activities. Rodeos, horse shows, and historic sites and festivals provide a link to Oklahoma's intriguing "Wild West" past. The roots of Oklahoma lie in the diversity of the many immigrants from all over the world that helped to form the state. The history of ranches, cowboys, and Native American traditions form the image of Oklahoma as we know it today.

Graduate Studies in Oklahoma

Oklahoma features 29 public and 25 private universities, meaning you will have many, many options for your graduate education. The higher education system is just as diverse and varied as the rest of the state. The institutions of this state are ever-growing and improving, and continue to be ranked as some of the best-value educational institutes in the United States. There are many graduate programs offered, including civil engineering, information technology, business, and education.

Many colleges and universities are located in or near urban areas, meaning students should have no problem taking part in their local city activities. Oklahoma cities are less congested than many other American cities, so students are never at a lack of things to do, yet won’t feel overcrowded.

Oklahoma is home to renowned technology and research institutions. Graduate students are trained to be at the top of their field and prepared to join the global community. Among some of the honors of Oklahoma institutions are a 20th place ranking for rural medicine in the nation, and a "top 100" ranking among national doctoral universities.

International Graduate Students

Oklahoma was built on a foundation of immigration and diversity, and boasts a culture that thrives on the diversity provided by all of its residents. Students are recognized for their friendliness, and international students should have no trouble finding their place at any of the many universities or colleges. Oklahoma students are known for being active in campus activities, and with the many activities geared toward international students, there should never be a problem with finding your place on campus. International students benefit not only from the nationally ranked graduate programs, but also from the quality of living offered in this friendly, exciting state.

Financing Your Graduate Education

Official state of Oklahoma website:
www.ok.gov
Information on the state of Oklahoma: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
Oklahoma
Oklahoma Higher Education: www.okhighered.org

Most international students will not be able to receive financial aid from the United States government. However, there are still many options available for international students at the graduate level. Interested students can apply for teaching fellowships, grants, and scholarships through their individual colleges. Education in the United States is generally seen to be more expensive than in other areas of the world, but with the sterling reputation of the US higher education system and the numerous help available, international graduate students will be investing in their future while also benefiting by learning about the world around them.

Why Oklahoma?

If the friendly atmosphere and diversity of people alone of Oklahoma don't draw you in, perhaps the many cultural and historic attractions of Oklahoma will catch your interest. Oklahoma embraces its place in American history in annual festivals, such as the Pioneer Days Celebration and Rodeo annual celebration and the Red Earth Festival that celebrates the still-thriving Native American culture.

Other attractions, such as art and history museums, are prominent both in the large and small cities throughout the state. Residents of Oklahoma have long been interested in music, and concerts given at centers like the Theatre Tulsa are some of the best in the country. If a night on the town interests you, nearby thriving cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City have many attractions to keep you entertained, including shopping and dining in Oklahoma City's Bricktown District.

There are so many reasons that Oklahoma has and continues to play a prominent role in American history and culture. Residents and students alike can take advantage of the growth and innovation occurring in Oklahoma, all the while enjoying the natural beauty and history. Take some time off the beaten path, and come experience all that Oklahoma has to offer!