Best
Value Colleges in Kansas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas combines management principles with skills for organizational success. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, human resources, operations, and strategic management. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or financial associate. Popular Kansas colleges offering the degree include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Washburn University. Programs may offer internships and concentrations to match career goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas offers undergraduate and graduate options at the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Washburn University. Typical courses include developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, neuroscience, and counseling. Graduates may work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, research assistants, or community outreach coordinators. A master's or doctoral degree is usually required for licensed psychologists and therapists. Many programs offer supervised field experience.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas offers options at the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. Students typically take courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, computer systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Many programs also include mathematics and hands-on projects. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or database administrators. Internships can help students build experience and connect with employers across Kansas.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Kansas combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural practice, assessment, and group counseling with supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in school, clinical mental health, or rehabilitation counseling. Kansas colleges offering programs include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Emporia State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, career counselors, behavioral-health clinicians, or case managers, subject to state licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Kansas combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Programs may lead to associate, bachelor's, or graduate degrees, preparing graduates for licensure and advanced study. Popular options include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Pittsburg State University, Washburn University, and Fort Hays State University. Typical careers include registered nurse, nurse educator, and care coordinator.

Best Colleges in Kansas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $20,832.0, compared with $35,767.6 at schools in the top 10%, a higher median cost among the top-ranked group.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 78.68% at schools in the top 10%. The average acceptance rate is 78.68%.
• Schools receive an average of 3,071.12 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 7,204.8 applicants. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 652.0 and 575.0, respectively.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,055.8 and 21.5, respectively. Schools enroll an average of 3,968.09 students, including averages of 316.72 men and 357.16 women.
• The average graduation rate is 45.56%, compared with 61.7% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rates are 34.0% for men and 52.0% for women.
• There are 24 institutions offering associate's degrees, 32 offering bachelor's degrees, 27 offering master's degrees, and 10 offering doctor's degrees. The ranking includes 33 coeducational schools, with 0 schools for men and 0 for women.
• When comparing colleges, potential students should weigh cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant volume, SAT and ACT scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. In particular, the higher median cost among top-10% schools should be considered alongside their higher average applicant numbers and graduation rate, while students should also compare the gender-specific applicant and graduation figures with their own priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Kansas cost?

For students planning to earn a degree in Kansas, the average reported total cost of studying is $22,940.26. This is a useful starting point when comparing colleges such as the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas State University in Manhattan, and Wichita State University. Your actual bill can vary with your program, campus, and living arrangements, so use the statewide average as a guide rather than a guaranteed price.

For budgeting, reported averages for key costs are:

• Tuition and fees: $22,215.17
• Room and board: $11,382.93
• Books and supplies: $1,131.70

Use $22,940.26 as the overall benchmark rather than adding these separate averages together. It is a study-cost estimate, not a guaranteed price for every Kansas degree. Compare campus charges and housing options, whether you're considering KU in Lawrence, K-State in Manhattan, or Wichita State. A starting figure can make planning feel more manageable and keep a degree goal in focus.

How long does it take to finish college in Kansas?

Most Kansas students should plan on about four years for a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree commonly takes two years of full-time study. At the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, or Wichita State University, your actual timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Some programs, such as engineering or fields requiring clinical training, may take longer.

Opportunities to finish sooner can make the goal feel more manageable. Earning AP or dual-enrollment credits in high school, transferring eligible college credits, taking summer classes, and choosing an accelerated schedule can shorten your path. Meet with an academic adviser early to confirm which credits count toward your specific degree and avoid unnecessary courses.

Graduation rates show that completion is not automatic: Kansas schools average 45.56%, while top 10% schools average 61.7%. Rates are 36.28% for men and 52.44% for women. Rates differ across Kansas college campuses.

Salary

College graduates in Kansas earn a median alumni salary of about $48,604. At schools in the top 10%, the median is about $59,502 - a difference of nearly $10,900 that may feel encouraging as you weigh where to study.

Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career, experience, and location. If you're comparing well-known Kansas options like the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, or Wichita State University, look at the programs that fit your goals as well as potential career paths after graduation.

People also ask

What college in Kansas has the lowest tuition?

Among Kansas's public four-year universities, Fort Hays State University is commonly one of the least expensive choices for in-state students and is often cited as the lowest-tuition option. Your actual bill depends on program, course load, fees, and financial aid, so check the current cost estimate for your situation before deciding.

What are Tier 1 schools in Kansas?

"Tier 1" is an informal label, not one universal ranking. If you mean Carnegie R1 research universities - the highest research-activity category - Kansas has the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. That gives students several strong options, with different campuses, academic programs, and research opportunities to explore.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Kansas Ranking in 2026-2027

Haskell Indian Nations University offers a distinctive college experience in Lawrence, Kansas, with a mission centered on educating American Indian and Alaska Native students. The school enrolls 978 students, and its reported acceptance rate is 90%. Its graduation rate is 18%, while the listed total cost of studying is $0. Median alumni salary is $34,106. For Kansas-based students, it may offer a culturally focused community and an accessible route to higher education in the state, with outcomes worth considering carefully.

The University of Kansas, based in Lawrence, is a large public research university offering broad academic choices and a lively campus environment. Its enrollment is 30,162, the largest among these five schools. The reported graduation rate is 69%, and the acceptance rate is 93%. Total study cost is $29,298, with a median alumni salary of $49,779. For Kansas students, KU keeps study close to home while providing many fields of study; compare affordability, program fit, and personal career goals carefully before choosing.

Kansas State University in Manhattan is a public land-grant institution known for a broad campus community and programs spanning many disciplines. It enrolls 21,213 students, with a 71% graduation rate and an 82% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of studying is $27,590, and median alumni salary is $50,771. For Kansas residents, Manhattan offers an in-state college setting; weigh the price against your intended major, student support, and likely career outcomes when comparing universities across the state and campus life.

Emporia State University is a public university in Emporia, Kansas, offering students a smaller-campus alternative within the state. It enrolls 4,557 students; its acceptance rate is 98%, and its graduation rate is 56%. The listed total cost of studying is $13,855, while median alumni salary is $45,491. For Kansas students seeking a more affordable option, these figures may merit attention. Consider whether its academic offerings, campus atmosphere, and location match your goals before choosing your Kansas college and degree path.

Ottawa University-Ottawa is a private university campus in Ottawa, Kansas, offering a smaller-scale option for students who want to study locally. Its enrollment is 1,000, with an 83% acceptance rate and a 28% graduation rate. The listed total cost of studying is $32,380, and median alumni salary is $54,372, the highest figure among these five schools. Kansas students should balance that cost with program availability, campus fit, and career plans when comparing nearby degree options for a strong personal match.