News Summary
A recent report from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education highlights troubling trends regarding non-resident graduates from public universities in Oklahoma. Only 33.5% of out-of-state graduates with bachelor’s degrees remain employed in the state after five years, compared to 80.3% of in-state graduates. The findings raise concerns about the effectiveness of current educational investments in retaining talent. Furthermore, the rising enrollment of non-resident students at the University of Oklahoma contrasts with a higher focus on in-state talent at Oklahoma State University, posing questions about workforce sustainability and taxpayer funding.
Oklahoma City, OK – A recent report from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education reveals concerning trends regarding out-of-state graduates from Oklahoma public universities. Specifically, only 33.5% of non-resident graduates with bachelor’s degrees remain employed in Oklahoma five years after graduation, while a significant 70% depart to pursue employment opportunities in other states. In stark contrast, 80.3% of graduates who were residents of Oklahoma remain in the state, presenting challenges related to taxpayer funding of higher education. These statistics spark important conversations about the effectiveness of current educational investment strategies in fostering long-term economic growth and workforce stability.
The University of Oklahoma (OU) has witnessed a notable increase in non-resident freshmen enrollment, with 47.6% of its freshmen coming from out of state in the fall of 2025, compared to 47.8% in 2024. This strategic decision to attract non-resident students not only boosts university revenue—due to higher tuition rates—but also highlights a potential disconnect between state investments in education and the retention of graduates within Oklahoma’s workforce. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State University (OSU) demonstrates a different approach, achieving a higher percentage of in-state freshmen at 61.38% in fall 2025, emphasizing the retention of local talent.
State Senator Randy Grellner’s concerns about this trend spotlight the implications for Oklahoma taxpayers, suggesting that investments in education may inadvertently subsidize workforce development for neighboring states. The utilization of taxpayer funds for education raises critical questions regarding the long-term impact of higher education policies on Oklahoma’s economy and workforce sustainability.
Out-of-State Graduate Retention Rates
According to the latest data, only 33.5% of out-of-state graduates with bachelor’s degrees stay in Oklahoma for employment five years post-graduation. This figure is troubling considering the resources dedicated to their education by both state and local entities. Such a low retention rate compels stakeholders to reassess the return on investment for taxpayers.
In-State Graduate Employment Success
In stark contrast to their out-of-state peers, 80.3% of graduates who are Oklahoma residents secure employment within the state after five years. This significantly higher retention rate suggests that in-state graduates are more likely to stay within their communities and contribute to the local economy post-graduation.
Trends in Freshman Enrollment at OU
The University of Oklahoma has strategically increased its non-resident freshmen enrollment to 47.6% for the fall 2025 semester. This rise indicates the university’s focus on enhancing fiscal stability through increased tuition revenue from out-of-state students. However, the corresponding decline in long-term retention of these students poses questions about sustainable growth and community engagement.
Oklahoma State University’s Focus on In-State Students
Conversely, Oklahoma State University boasts a higher percentage of in-state freshmen at 61.38% in fall 2025. This emphasis on enrolling local talent is indicative of a student recruitment strategy geared towards strengthening the state’s workforce and ensuring that future graduates remain engaged with Oklahoma’s economy.
Implications for Higher Education Funding
The findings from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education highlight the necessity for reevaluating higher education funding models and recruitment strategies. It is crucial that investments align with Oklahoma’s long-term economic objectives and workforce requirements, ensuring robust growth and stability for future graduates.
Conclusion
The statistics surrounding graduate retention are a call to action for Oklahoma’s educational institutions and policymakers to strategically reevaluate recruitment goals and funding strategies. By prioritizing the retention of both out-of-state and in-state graduates, universities can not only enhance their impact on the local economy but also ensure a return on investment for taxpayers. Continued dialogue and innovative strategies are essential to strengthen Oklahoma’s higher education landscape and create pathways for all graduates to thrive within the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What percentage of out-of-state graduates remain employed in Oklahoma five years after graduation?
Only 33.5% of non-resident graduates with bachelor’s degrees remain employed in Oklahoma five years after graduation.
How does this compare to in-state graduates?
In contrast, 80.3% of Oklahoma resident graduates with bachelor’s degrees are employed in the state five years post-graduation.
What is the current trend in non-resident freshmen enrollment at the University of Oklahoma?
The University of Oklahoma has seen an increase in non-resident freshmen enrollment, with 47.6% of freshmen in fall 2025 being from out of state, up from 47.8% in 2024.
How does this compare to Oklahoma State University’s in-state enrollment?
Oklahoma State University has a higher percentage of in-state freshmen, with 61.38% of freshmen in fall 2025 being from Oklahoma.
What concerns have been raised regarding this trend?
State Senator Randy Grellner expressed concern that Oklahoma taxpayers are subsidizing workforce development in other states, highlighting a disconnect between the state’s investment in higher education and the retention of graduates within the state’s economy.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Out-of-State Graduate Employment in Oklahoma | 33.5% employed in Oklahoma five years post-graduation; nearly 70% leave for employment elsewhere. |
| In-State Graduate Employment in Oklahoma | 80.3% employed in Oklahoma five years post-graduation. |
| University of Oklahoma Non-Resident Freshmen Enrollment | 47.6% of freshmen in fall 2025 from out of state, up from 47.8% in 2024. |
| Oklahoma State University In-State Freshmen Enrollment | 61.38% of freshmen in fall 2025 from Oklahoma. |
| State Senator’s Concern | Randy Grellner expressed concern that Oklahoma taxpayers are subsidizing workforce development in other states. |
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