by Doug Schmitt
BusinessSchools.com Staff Writer
September 27, 2006
Located in the heart of the Midwest, Oklahoma has always had an economy with a strong agricultural presence. Today, the city's economy is diversified. In recent years, it experienced a renaissance and today is a hub for Oklahoma's government, entertainment, industry, and technology with an expanding population of 1.3 million. Nicknamed the Action City, Oklahoma offers residents several major attractions and recreational activities to enjoy including a renowned zoo, museums, live music venues, and several picturesque parks.
Employment and Internships
Oklahoma City offers business students a prospering job market, laden with internship and employment opportunities. Oklahoma is host to five Fortune 500 Companies including OGE Energy, AT&T, DEVON Energy, Chesapeake Energy, and COX Enterprises. Additional Oklahoma employers include Globe Life and Accident Insurance, BancFirst, American Fidelity, Farmers Insurance, and State Farm.
According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission the occupational outlook for business and finance in Oklahoma City looks good through 2012. Business operations specialists should see 19.2% new jobs; general & operations managers anticipate 15.45% additional opportunities; human resources managers' expect 19.69% new job opportunities; and financial management opportunities should grow by 15.45%.
Education
Educational opportunities in Oklahoma City are plentiful. One option that students have is Wright Business School Oklahoma City Campus, which offers flexible day and evening classes that help to meet the needs of working students. Certificate programs are offered in Accounting, Information Systems, and Office Management.
The Oklahoma State University (OSU) Oklahoma City, Business Technologies Division offers Associate in Applied Science degrees. Some specialties are Accounting, Business Technologies, Computer Information Systems and Health Care Administration. Additionally, the Oklahoma City University Meinders School of Business offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Account, Business Administration, Economics, Information Technology, Marketing, International Business & Finance, and International Marketing Communications.
Financial Aid
Financial aid options for Oklahoma City business students include scholarships like the President's OKC Scholarship Fund from the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA), contracted by the White House following the Oklahoma City bombing. It awards from $300 to $1,500 yearly, based upon merit. Additionally, OSU Oklahoma City offers students in-house' scholarships, awarded on basis of academics, talent, potential, and other criteria. Award amounts vary on a case-by-case basis.
Also readily available to students are grants and loans, which may come from private sources, institutions, or the government. Examples include Merit Scholarships, Pell Grants, and Federal Stafford & Plus Loans. Many of these can be applied for by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Summary
Oklahoma City offers business students exciting employment opportunities in a burgeoning economy. In addition, it presents an array of recreational activities and educational opportunities that go to show why Oklahoma is a great place to study business.
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