Community colleges are the backbone of Oklahoma’s higher education system, offering affordable, high-quality education while fueling our state’s workforce and economy. As we look to the future, it is more important than ever to recognize the impact of these institutions and the opportunities they create for students, employers, and communities alike.

At Redlands Community College, we are proud to be a leader in these efforts, providing innovative programs, strong student support, and high-quality education that directly benefits our region.

Expanding Workforce Opportunities

Oklahoma’s community colleges are leading the way in preparing students for high-demand fields. Programs in LPN to RN transitions, artificial intelligence, drone technology, data science, surgical technology, and cybersecurity have been added to meet workforce needs. Redlands Community College is actively expanding its own workforce programs to align with industry needs, ensuring that our students graduate with the skills and credentials employers demand.

Our partnerships with local businesses, healthcare providers, and government agencies allow us to tailor our programs to the real-world job market. These collaborations make Redlands not only an educational institution but a workforce pipeline for Oklahoma.

Preparing the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

With 55.4% of all students enrolled in healthcare-related degrees attending two-year colleges, community colleges play a crucial role in addressing Oklahoma’s healthcare workforce shortages. At Redlands, we take this responsibility seriously by providing a dedicated nursing program that places graduates directly into essential healthcare roles across the state. Our students gain hands-on experience through clinical partnerships, ensuring they are prepared to serve their communities from day one.

Strong Employment Outcomes

Earning an associate degree is a proven pathway to stable employment. Graduates of Oklahoma’s community colleges have higher post-graduation employment rates than those with bachelor’s degrees, with 91.2% of associate degree holders employed one year after graduation, compared to 85% of bachelor’s degree recipients.

At Redlands, we take pride in the fact that our graduates not only find jobs quickly but also stay in Oklahoma, contributing to the economic growth of our local communities. Whether in healthcare, business, agriculture, or STEM fields, Redlands alumni are making an impact.

The Largest Provider of Higher Education in Oklahoma

Two-year colleges educate more students by headcount than regional and research institutions combined. With 76,167 students enrolled at community colleges, compared to 54,240 at regional universities and 65,135 at research institutions, these colleges serve as a critical access point for higher education.

We serve a diverse student population at Redlands, from first-generation college students to working adults and high school students enrolled in concurrent courses. In fact, 77% of Oklahoma’s high school students taking concurrent classes are doing so through community colleges, helping them get a head start on their degrees while saving thousands of dollars in tuition.

Affordability and Economic Impact

One of the most compelling reasons to invest in community colleges is affordability. Tuition costs are, on average, 55% lower than research universities and 31% lower than regional universities. This affordability translates into real economic benefits, both for students and communities:

  • Graduates with an associate degree earn, on average, $9,600 more annually than those without a degree.
  • Communities with two-year colleges see a return of $7.30 for every dollar invested in their local institutions.

For many students at Redlands Community College, this affordability makes the difference between being able to attend college or not. We provide a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost, ensuring that students can focus on learning without the burden of excessive student debt.

A Smarter Path to a Bachelor's Degree

Oklahoma’s community colleges also outperform national averages in student transfer rates, with 42% of students transferring successfully to four-year institutions. At Redlands, our seamless transfer agreements with universities across the state ensure that students can transition smoothly to complete their bachelor's degrees without losing credits or momentum.

Investing in the Future

As graduation rates at Oklahoma’s community colleges have increased by 68% over the past decade, it is clear that these institutions are more than just an affordable option, they are a smart investment in our state's workforce, economy, and future leaders.

At Redlands Community College, we are committed to providing our students with the education, skills, and experiences they need to thrive. We invite local businesses, community leaders, and prospective students to partner with us as we continue to shape the future of Oklahoma’s workforce.

The success of Oklahoma’s community colleges is a success for all of us. As we continue to support and expand access to these vital institutions, we strengthen our communities, empower students, and drive economic growth. Whether through state funding, local partnerships, or student enrollment, investing in Redlands Community College and our state’s community colleges means investing in a brighter future for Oklahoma.