In a recent meeting of the Oklahoma State Legislature, the focus was sharply on the critical role of higher education in the state's economic future. Key discussions highlighted that 87% of degrees awarded last academic year were in fields aligned with Oklahoma's 100 critical occupations, underscoring the importance of targeted education in meeting workforce demands.

College affordability emerged as a top priority, with public universities in Oklahoma boasting tuition and mandatory fees that are over 25% lower than their national and regional peers. This commitment to affordability is crucial as data shows that 93% of Oklahomans and 60% of non-residents who graduate from state universities choose to stay and work in Oklahoma within a year of graduation.

The meeting also revealed that Oklahoma's public colleges and universities provide a significant return on investment, averaging nearly $870,000 per graduate over a lifetime. However, the need for post-secondary education is growing, with projections indicating that by 2031, 72% of jobs will require such education. Currently, over half of the top 100 critical occupations in Oklahoma demand education beyond high school, with many requiring at least an associate's degree.

Despite these positive trends, Oklahoma ranks 7th lowest in the nation for educational attainment, with only 28.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 30.6%. This educational gap poses challenges for business expansion and recruitment in the state.

The discussions also touched on the competitive landscape, with state leaders noting that while Oklahoma is working to promote its educational strengths, neighboring states are aggressively marketing their own advantages. The economic benefits of higher education are clear, as bachelor's degree holders in Oklahoma earn nearly $20,000 more annually than those with only a high school diploma.

As Oklahoma continues to navigate these challenges, the emphasis on enhancing educational attainment and ensuring affordability remains critical for the state's economic growth and competitiveness.