Most
Affordable Colleges in Kansas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas combines coursework in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and data analysis. Programs often include projects, internships, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Graduates may pursue careers as financial analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, sales representatives, or business consultants. Popular Kansas options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, and Washburn University. Compare concentrations, internship access, and costs when choosing a program.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas offers coursework in developmental, social, abnormal, and cognitive psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students explore human behavior while building communication and analytical skills. Popular options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. Graduates with a bachelor's degree commonly pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or human resources assistant. Advanced study can prepare graduates for counseling or clinical psychology careers after completing licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas combines programming fundamentals with practical problem-solving. Students typically take courses in algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, networks, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Fort Hays State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity analysts, or data scientists. Kansas programs may also offer internships and projects that help build skills.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Kansas combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and research with supervised experience. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, or community-service professionals. Kansas institutions offering programs include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Emporia State University. Compare accreditation, practicum options, and licensing requirements when choosing a program.

Nursing

Nursing programs in Kansas combine classroom learning with supervised clinical practice. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health, and community health. Graduates may become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, schools, or public-health agencies; some pursue advanced roles after further education. Popular Kansas choices include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Pittsburg State University, and Washburn University, which offer diverse nursing pathways and clinical learning opportunities statewide.

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%, making the top 10% figure 14,935.6 higher.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, 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 overall, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 7,204.8. The median number of applicants is 652.0 men and 575.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,055.8 on the SAT and 21.5 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,968.09; average enrollment is 316.72 men and 357.16 women.
• The average graduation rate is 45.56%, compared with 61.7% at schools in the top 10%. 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, 26 offering master's degrees, and 10 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 33 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When comparing colleges, consider both the median cost and the availability of financial aid, as well as admissions selectivity, test scores, and enrollment. Graduation rates also merit attention: the overall average is lower than the top 10% average, and the reported median rates differ for men and women. Match degree offerings and school type to your goals, and weigh these factors together rather than relying on cost alone.

How much does studying at a college in Kansas cost?

The average total cost of studying in Kansas is about $22,940.26, a starting point for budgeting. Your bill can differ by school, degree level, residency, and living arrangements, so treat averages as estimates, not guaranteed prices.

• Average tuition and fees: $22,215.17.
• Average room and board cost: $11,382.93.
• Average books and supplies cost: $1,131.70.

At the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas State University in Manhattan, or Wichita State University, compare each program's published cost of attendance before choosing. For an in-state student, tuition may be lower than for an out-of-state student; scholarships, grants, and financial aid can reduce what you pay. Living at home or sharing housing may help manage expenses, although course materials and campus fees can add to your budget. Planning early can make college feel more achievable and leave you more confident as you choose a school and degree path that suits your goals and personal financial circumstances.

How long does it take to finish college in Kansas?

Most students in Kansas 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, time can vary with major, course availability, and work.

Kansas students can finish faster by bringing in Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated course schedule. Meeting with an academic adviser helps map prerequisites and avoid missed courses, making an on-time plan feel manageable.

The average graduation rate reported for Kansas is 45.56%, meaning completion is not automatic; the rate for the top 10% of schools is 61.7%. The reported averages are 36.28% for men and 52.44% for women. These figures offer useful perspective, not a prediction of your own outcome: steady advising, financial planning, and a realistic course load can help you stay on track.

Salary

College graduates in Kansas earn a median alumni salary of about $48,604. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $59,502 - a promising benchmark as you plan for life after college.

Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career path, experience, and location. Whether you study at the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, or Wichita State University, comparing programs and the careers they prepare you for can help you make a confident choice.

• Median alumni salary: about $48,604
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: about $59,502

People also ask

What college in Kansas has the lowest tuition?

For a Kansas public four-year institution, Fort Hays State University is often among the least expensive options for in-state students. If you include two-year colleges, however, a community college may cost less. Tuition depends on residency, program, and academic year, so compare each school's current tuition and fees before deciding.

What college in Kansas has the lowest GPA requirement?

There isn't one statewide answer because admission standards vary by school and program. Many Kansas community colleges have open-admission policies, so they may not set a minimum high-school GPA for general admission. That can make starting college feel more accessible; check the specific college's requirements, especially for selective programs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Kansas Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Kansas is a large public research university in Lawrence, giving Kansas students a broad campus experience and access to the state's cultural and academic life. It enrolls 30,162 students, with a 93% acceptance rate and 69% graduation rate. Reported total study cost is $29,298, while median alumni salary is $49,779. For an in-state student comparing options, KU combines extensive academic offerings with a sizable community; weigh its higher listed cost against campus resources, location, and long-term career goals.

Kansas State University is based in Manhattan, offering an established public-university setting in the state's Flint Hills region. Its 21,213 students form a substantial campus community, and the supplied figures show an 82% acceptance rate and 71% graduation rate. Total study cost is $27,590, with median alumni salary of $50,771. Kansas residents may find this a balanced option for campus life and career preparation; compare program availability, actual residency-based charges, and financial aid before deciding whether K-State fits your plans.

Emporia State University in Emporia offers Kansas students a smaller public-campus environment, with 4,557 enrolled students. Its reported acceptance rate is 98%, and graduation rate is 56%, figures useful for comparing access and completion outcomes. The listed total study cost, $13,855, is the lowest among these five schools; median alumni salary is $45,491. Students seeking a more affordable starting point may consider Emporia, while checking specific majors, aid packages, and likely living expenses to estimate their own overall cost carefully.

Pittsburg State University, located in southeast Kansas, provides a public-university option with 5,800 enrolled students and a compact student body. The source figures list an 89% acceptance rate and a 57% graduation rate. Total study cost is $17,686, and median alumni salary is $49,975. For a Kansas student who wants to remain in-state, Pittsburg can merit consideration for its regional campus setting and scale; compare desired programs, housing costs, and financial aid to judge value for your circumstances.

Wichita State University serves students in Kansas's largest city, offering an urban setting within the state's higher-education landscape. Enrollment is 18,458; the acceptance rate is 94%, and graduation rate is 51%. Its total study cost is $17,714, while median alumni salary is $47,707. Kansas students considering city life alongside college may find Wichita appealing, particularly when exploring opportunities. Compare academic programs, commuting or housing needs, and aid offers, since your costs and career outcomes can differ from these reported figures.