Most
Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2026

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas offers a comprehensive education covering courses like finance, marketing, management, and accounting. Graduates often pursue careers as business analysts, managers, or marketing specialists. Popular colleges offering this degree include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. These programs equip students with practical skills and knowledge to succeed in various industries within the regional and national business environments.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Kansas typically involves courses such as developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, and research methods. Graduates often pursue careers as counselors, social workers, human resource specialists, or psychologists. Popular colleges offering psychology degrees in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. These institutions provide strong academic programs and opportunities for hands-on experience, preparing students for various professional roles in mental health and human services.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas involves courses like algorithms, data structures, software development, and artificial intelligence. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, or database administrators. Popular colleges offering computer science programs in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. These institutions provide hands-on learning and opportunities for internships, preparing students for a competitive tech industry.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Kansas involves courses such as human development, ethics, counseling theories, and group therapy techniques. Graduates often pursue careers as mental health counselors, school counselors, or rehabilitation specialists. Popular colleges offering counseling degrees in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University. These programs prepare students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge to support individuals facing personal, social, and psychological challenges in various professional settings.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Kansas typically includes courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care. Graduates often pursue jobs as registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or clinical nurse specialists. Popular colleges offering nursing degrees in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, and Kansas State University. These programs prepare students for licensure exams and provide clinical experience, ensuring they are ready for diverse healthcare settings across the state and beyond.

Best Colleges in Kansas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying at these Kansas colleges is $29,800, while schools in the top 10% have a higher median cost of $34,028.80.
• Financial aid is widely available, with an average of 100% of students receiving some form of aid; however, only 82.07% of students at the top 10% schools receive financial aid.
• The average acceptance rate across these colleges is 82.07%, indicating a relatively accessible admission process.
• The average number of applicants per school is 4,063.2, but this number increases significantly to 11,517 for the top 10% schools, showing higher demand at more prestigious institutions.
• The median number of male applicants is 842, compared to 592 female applicants, suggesting a somewhat higher male interest in these colleges.
• Standardized test scores average 1084 for the SAT and 22 for the ACT among applicants.
• These institutions enroll an average of 6,485.82 students, with 460.4 men and 516.33 women enrolled on average, indicating a slightly higher female enrollment.
• The overall average graduation rate is 48.65%, whereas schools in the top 10% significantly outperform with a graduation rate of 66.6%.
• Median graduation rate also differs by gender, with 47.0% for men and 55.0% for women, reflecting higher graduation success for female students.
• Regarding degree offerings, 10 institutions provide associate's degrees, 15 offer bachelor's degrees, 13 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees.
• All 17 institutions are coeducational, with no single-gender schools present in the data.

Potential students should consider the balance between cost and graduation rates when selecting a college. While the top 10% schools have higher median costs, they also show notably better graduation outcomes. The availability of financial aid is excellent overall, but students should verify how this aid is distributed among different institutions. Additionally, factors like school demand, as indicated by the number of applicants, and the types of degrees offered may influence the decision depending on the student's academic and career goals. Lastly, considering gender-based graduation rates might offer insights into the campus environment and support systems in place for different student groups.

How much does studying at a college in Kansas cost?

For students pursuing a degree in Kansas, the average total cost of completing a program is approximately $24,957, making it a fairly accessible option compared to many other states. This figure includes several key expenses that you'll want to plan for:

• Tuition and fees average around $23,233, which covers your core academic costs at institutions such as the University of Kansas or Kansas State University.
• Room and board typically cost about $11,070, offering comfortable living options whether you choose on-campus dorms or off-campus housing.
• Books and supplies average $1,232, ensuring you have the materials needed to succeed in your coursework.

These numbers highlight the value of studying in Kansas, where well-regarded universities provide quality education with costs that are reasonable for many families. If you're considering your options, knowing these details can help you budget confidently and take the next exciting step toward your future.

How long does it take to finish college in Kansas?

In Kansas, the typical time to finish a college degree is about four years for a bachelor's program, which aligns with many traditional universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University. However, students have multiple paths to potentially shorten this duration and graduate sooner.

Here are some options to accelerate your degree completion:

• Taking summer or winter courses to earn extra credits
• Enrolling in online or hybrid classes offered by schools like Wichita State University
• Using Advanced Placement (AP) credits or dual enrollment from high school
• Participating in accelerated degree programs or combined bachelor's and master's tracks

Actual graduation rates reveal encouraging trends: about 48.65% of students earn their degree in the usual timeframe, with top schools seeing rates as high as 66.6%. Women generally graduate at higher rates (around 56.0%) compared to men (42.76%), suggesting strong support and motivation existing within the student community. These figures show many students successfully reach their goal of a Kansas degree, often with support tailored to diverse learning styles and schedules.

Salary

Graduates from colleges and universities in Kansas can expect a solid return on their educational investment. The median salary for alumni is around $45,388.50, which reflects a healthy earning potential soon after completing a degree.

For those attending the top 10% of schools in Kansas, like the University of Kansas or Kansas State University, the outlook is even brighter with a median salary of about $50,288.50. This highlights how attending a prestigious or highly ranked institution can boost your earnings considerably.

Here are some key points to consider about earning potential after graduation in Kansas:

• Attending a respected university in the state often leads to salaries well above the state median.
• Fields of study with strong demand in Kansas, such as engineering, business, and healthcare, generally offer higher starting salaries.
• The local economy supports a range of industries providing graduates with diverse employment opportunities.

People also ask

What college in Kansas has the lowest tuition?

The college in Kansas with the lowest tuition is Allen County Community College. This affordable option allows students to pursue higher education without overwhelming financial strain, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maximize value while minimizing costs. It's a great stepping stone toward your academic goals!

What college in Kansas has the lowest GPA requirement?

Highland Community College in Kansas has one of the lowest GPA requirements, welcoming students with diverse academic backgrounds. This inclusive approach enables many learners to start or continue their education in a supportive environment, opening doors to personal and professional growth without the pressure of high GPA thresholds.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges in Kansas Ranking in 2025-2026

Emporia State University in Kansas enrolls 4,557 students and offers a solid 54% graduation rate. With a high acceptance rate of 98%, it provides accessible education at a total cost of $13,855. Graduates earn a median salary of $44,153, making it a practical choice for Kansas residents seeking affordable and reputable programs in teaching, business, and liberal arts.

Butler Community College serves 6,552 students with a more affordable cost of $4,890 for studying in Kansas. Though its graduation rate is 30%, it remains a popular option for local students aiming for community college credentials. Median alumni salary is $34,651. Acceptance rate data is not available, but Butler offers practical pathways to career readiness and transfer opportunities.

Pittsburg State University, enrolling 5,774 students, boasts a 58% graduation rate. The total cost of study is $17,472, with an acceptance rate of 88%. Its graduates earn a median salary of $45,942, suitable for Kansas students looking for technical and health sciences programs balancing cost and potential earnings.

Fort Hays State University is Kansas's largest with 12,843 students, a 48% graduation rate, and a 92% acceptance rate. The total studying cost is $15,615. Alumni median salary sits at $46,394, appealing to students seeking diverse online and on-campus degree options at moderate costs within Kansas.

Kansas State University enrolls 20,295 students with an impressive 70% graduation rate and a 79% acceptance rate. It represents a higher-cost option at $26,838 total, but median alumni earnings are also the highest at $47,890. This university suits Kansas applicants aiming for strong academic reputation and career prospects in STEM and agriculture.