Most
Affordable Colleges in Kansas City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas City, Missouri, combines management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and business analytics with practical projects and internships. Students learn to lead teams, interpret financial information, and develop organizational strategies. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and Avila University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations analyst, or financial analyst, with opportunities across the region's diverse industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas City, Missouri, offers foundations in human behavior, mental processes, and research. Typical courses include developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, and research methods. Students may study at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, or Avila University. Graduates commonly pursue roles in human services, case management, behavioral health support, and market research. A bachelor's degree can also prepare students for graduate study leading to counseling, clinical, or organizational psychology careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas City, Missouri combines programming, mathematics, and practical problem-solving. Typical courses include data structures, algorithms, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often build projects and gain experience through internships or research. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or web developers. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Avila University, both offering computer science study in the city.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Kansas City combines psychology, helping skills, and supervised experience. Students typically take counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and diagnosis, followed by a practicum or internship. Popular options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Avila University, both offering relevant graduate study. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, community mental health counselors, or career counselors, depending on degree and licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Kansas City, Missouri, offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Programs typically cover anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical practice. Students build patient-care, communication, and decision-making skills through labs and placements. Local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Research College of Nursing, and Metropolitan Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, school nurses, or nurse educators.

Best Colleges in Kansas City, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 25,436.5, compared with 43,109.8 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 17,673.3.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 75.5% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.5%. Schools receive an average of 2,278.0 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 5,080.5 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 567.0, compared with 1,093.0 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,169.5 and the average ACT score is 22.25.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,309.57; the averages for enrolled men and women are 145.67 and 224.83, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 48.57%, compared with 64.8% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 54.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 4 offer associate's degrees, 8 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 4 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 7 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost alongside financial aid, and compare acceptance rates and applicant numbers with their own preferences. They should also consider the reported SAT and ACT averages, enrollment figures, graduation rates, degree offerings, and whether a school's coeducational setting suits them. The higher costs and graduation rates reported for top-10% schools make it useful to compare those measures together rather than relying on a single statistic.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Kansas City, MO, is $25,852.38. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed price: your degree's cost will vary by institution, program, course load, and whether you live on or off campus.

The supplied averages include:

• Tuition and fees: $25,133.62
• Room and board: $10,740.17
• Books and supplies: $1,004.50

For a local comparison, consider the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) and Rockhurst University, then check each school's current published cost breakdown for your major and residency status. Because the listed categories exceed the reported total, don't combine them as one bill; they may reflect different calculation scopes. Ask financial aid offices about grants, scholarships, and payment plans, and compare commuting with campus housing. If you plan ahead, you can build a realistic budget and pursue a Kansas City degree with greater confidence.

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

Most full-time students in Kansas City, MO, need about four years for a bachelor's degree, two years for an associate degree, and one to two years for a master's after a bachelor's. At UMKC, Rockhurst University, or Metropolitan Community College, your timeline depends on your program, course load, transfer credits, and whether you study year-round. Part-time study can take longer, while a focused plan keeps graduation achievable.

Graduation rates offer a snapshot: the average is 48.57%, compared with 64.8% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 54.83% for men and 49.14% for women. These figures show finishing is not automatic, so seek advising and support early; they do not predict your outcome.

To finish sooner, consider these options:

• Use AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits where accepted to skip introductory classes.
• Transfer eligible credits and meet an adviser early to avoid repeating coursework.
• Take summer or online classes, or choose an accelerated program if available.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Kansas City, MO, alumni earn a median salary of about $48,716. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is approximately $73,332, showing the stronger earning potential some graduates may reach.

If you're considering the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, or Kansas City Art Institute, your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path. These figures offer a useful starting point as you compare programs and imagine building your future in Kansas City.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Kansas City?

Costs depend on the school, residency, and whether you live at home. As a rough guide, tuition and required fees at a public four-year college may run around $10,000-$15,000 a year for a Missouri resident; community college is usually less. Housing, books, transportation, and food add to the total, so living at home can make a big difference. Check each school's current cost estimate and financial-aid options.

What college in Kansas City has the lowest tuition?

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) is a good place to start if you're looking for lower tuition, particularly if you qualify for its in-district rate. Community colleges typically cost less per credit than four-year colleges, and MCC offers a practical way to complete general education courses before transferring. Rates can change and depend on residency, so compare MCC's current tuition with nearby options such as Kansas City Kansas Community College.

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

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a local option for students seeking a degree while staying close to the city's employers and cultural amenities. It enrolls 14,886 students, with a 72% acceptance rate and a 55% graduation rate. Estimated total study cost is $30,650, and median alumni salary is $49,935. These figures can help Kansas City applicants compare affordability and outcomes as they explore campus programs and student life in the metropolitan area and beyond.

Calvary University is a Christian university in Kansas City, Missouri, offering students a faith-centered setting for undergraduate and graduate study. Its enrollment is 247, with a 72% acceptance rate and a 52% graduation rate. The reported total cost of studying is $12,570, while median alumni salary is $31,518. For a prospective student already in Kansas City, its local location may make commuting and community involvement practical considerations. Compare program offerings, financial aid, and campus support directly before deciding whether it fits.

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is a Kansas City-based institution focused on theological education and ministry preparation. It reports a 96% acceptance rate and 48% graduation rate; enrollment figures are unavailable. The listed total study cost is $10,410, and median alumni salary is $47,549. Students in Kansas City, Missouri, may value studying locally while pursuing faith-based goals. Before applying, prospective students should review degree requirements, campus resources, and career pathways to determine how well the seminary's programs align with their plans.

City Vision University offers an online-oriented option for students interested in combining higher education with service-focused studies. The source data lists 296 students and a total study cost of $6,400; acceptance rate and median alumni salary are unavailable. Its reported graduation rate is 0%, a figure applicants should investigate carefully by asking how the rate is defined and which cohorts it covers. For Kansas City, Missouri, residents, online study may offer flexibility, but confirm program availability, accreditation, and student support services.

Research College of Nursing is a Kansas City institution centered on nursing education, making it a locally relevant choice for students pursuing healthcare careers. It enrolls 205 students; published acceptance and graduation rates are unavailable. The listed total cost of studying is $20,223, and median alumni salary is $80,342. Kansas City, Missouri, applicants can weigh these cost and earnings figures alongside clinical learning opportunities, degree prerequisites, financial aid, and licensure preparation. Contact the college to clarify outcomes and program details.