Best
Private Colleges in Kansas City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas City, MO provides foundations in management, marketing, finance, accounting, and organizational behavior. Typical coursework may include business analytics, economics, business law, entrepreneurship, and strategic planning. Students build communication, leadership, and decision-making skills through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or account managers. Kansas City options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and Avila University, which offer business programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas City, Missouri, combines foundational theory with opportunities to explore human behavior and mental health. Typical courses include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, and research methods. UMKC, Rockhurst University, and Avila University are popular local choices. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as behavioral technicians, case managers, human-services assistants, or research coordinators. A bachelor's degree can support entry-level work; becoming a licensed psychologist generally requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas City, Missouri, prepares students to design software, solve problems, and understand computing systems. Typical coursework includes programming fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Popular options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Rockhurst University. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or database administrators. Internships and project-based classes can help students build practical experience and portfolios.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Kansas City, Missouri, can prepare students for roles in schools, clinics, and community agencies. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group counseling, and practicum or internship experiences. Local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Avila University, which offer graduate counseling-related study. Graduates commonly pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or case managers, depending on education and licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Kansas City, Missouri, offers pathways from associate to bachelor's degrees. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and maternal-child, mental health, and community nursing, alongside supervised clinical practice. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Avila University, Rockhurst University, Research College of Nursing, and Metropolitan Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies.

Best Colleges in Kansas City, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 20,223.0, compared with 43,146.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% median 22,923.4 higher.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 79.5% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 79.5%. Schools receive an average of 1,297.0 applicants, while the top 10% average 3,086.0; the median number of male applicants is 173.0 and the median number of female applicants is 575.0.
• The average SAT score is 1,117.67 and the average ACT score is 21.0.
• Schools average 1,211.29 enrolled students, including averages of 63.33 enrolled men and 110.67 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 48.29%, compared with 64.8% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 54.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, eight offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs and financial aid alongside admissions figures, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and the available school settings. In particular, consider how the higher median cost at top 10% schools relates to their higher average graduation rate, and review financial aid availability when assessing affordability.

How much does studying at a college in Kansas City, MO cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Kansas City, MO, is $25,167. Average tuition and fees are listed at $26,718.71, room and board at $10,258.80, and books and supplies at $1,048.20. Since these component averages exceed the reported total, treat them as separate estimates, not amounts to add together. Your actual expenses depend on the school, program, and living arrangements.

At UMKC, Rockhurst University, or Metropolitan Community College, compare each program's cost of attendance before enrolling. Tuition can vary by institution, while commuting from home or sharing housing may help keep expenses manageable. Ask financial-aid offices about scholarships, grants, and payment plans; aid can make earning a degree feel more within reach. Budget for transportation and course materials too. The $25,167 figure is a general studying-cost estimate, not a guaranteed price for completing a degree, and the figures do not state how many years it covers in your case.

How long does it take to finish college in Kansas City, MO?

In Kansas City, MO, plan on about four years of full-time study for a bachelor's degree; an associate degree usually takes about two years, while a master's degree often adds one or two years. At UMKC or Rockhurst University, your timeline depends on your major and credits completed before enrollment. The local graduation figures show that finishing is achievable, though not automatic: the average graduation rate is 48.29%, compared with 64.8% among the top 10% of schools. Average rates are 50.83% for men and 48.71% for women.

With planning, you may finish sooner:

• Transfer eligible college credits, AP or dual-enrollment credits, or military learning after confirming they satisfy your degree requirements.
• Take summer courses or heavier term loads when your schedule and finances allow, and map prerequisites with an academic advisor.
• Ask UMKC or Rockhurst whether your program offers accelerated formats, credit for prior learning, or online courses that fit your pace.

Salary

College graduates in Kansas City, MO, have a median alumni salary of $47,549. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $73,331.60 - an encouraging benchmark as you consider your education and career options.

Whether you study at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, or Avila University, your actual earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career, and experience. These figures offer a useful snapshot of what alumni earn, not a guarantee of an individual salary.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Kansas City?

Beauty is subjective, but Rockhurst University is a lovely choice for a campus visit. Its tree-lined grounds and traditional stone buildings create a peaceful, collegiate feel, while its location keeps you close to Kansas City's neighborhoods and cultural life. If you're choosing a school, visiting in person is the best way to see whether its atmosphere feels right for you.

What is the most selective college in Kansas City?

Kansas City Art Institute is a strong candidate, particularly for students applying to its studio-art programs. Admission involves more than grades: applicants generally need to demonstrate their creative work, so preparing a thoughtful portfolio is important. Acceptance rates can change from year to year, and selectivity depends on the program, so check the institute's current admissions requirements before applying.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Kansas City, MO Ranking in 2026-2027

Rockhurst University offers a Jesuit education in Kansas City, Missouri, with a values-centered approach and programs across liberal arts, business, and health fields. Its 3,338 students experience a campus setting within the city, making internships and cultural opportunities accessible. The reported graduation rate is 75%, acceptance rate 70%, and total study cost $43,366. Median alumni salary is $68,658. For Kansas City residents, Rockhurst combines metropolitan access with a close-knit university environment and a strong Jesuit tradition for student growth.

Calvary University is a Christian university in Kansas City, Missouri, offering faith-integrated learning and preparation for ministry and other vocations. Its enrollment of 247 gives students a small-campus community, while the reported graduation rate is 52% and acceptance rate is 72%. Total study cost is $12,570, and median alumni salary is $31,518. For a Kansas City, Missouri, student seeking an explicitly Christian educational setting, Calvary provides an intimate option than larger universities, with opportunities to connect coursework and faith.

Avila University is a private Catholic university in Kansas City, Missouri, with offerings spanning arts, business, education, and health professions. Its enrollment of 3,382 supports a campus community in the metro area. Avila reports a 52% graduation rate, an 88% acceptance rate, total study cost of $40,200, and median alumni salary of $48,716. A Kansas City, Missouri, student can consider Avila for a university experience shaped by Catholic values, while making use of the region's educational and professional opportunities.

Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) is a specialized college focused on art and design, offering a distinctive studio-centered experience in Kansas City, Missouri. With 813 enrolled students, it provides a smaller creative campus community than many comprehensive universities. The reported graduation rate is 58%, acceptance rate is 55%, total study cost is $43,000, and median alumni salary is $27,458. Students in the Kansas City area find KCAI suitable for visual arts education and a connection to the city's creative scene.

Research College of Nursing is a specialized school in Kansas City, Missouri, focused on preparing students for careers in nursing. Its enrollment is 205, creating a community for learners pursuing a healthcare pathway. The reported total study cost is $20,223, and median alumni salary is $80,342. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data. For students committed to nursing, the college offers a field-specific option within the Kansas City, Missouri, area, near regional healthcare settings.