Most
Popular Colleges in Kansas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas provides grounding in how organizations operate and grow. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Students often build communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or business consultant. Popular Kansas options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Washburn University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognition, and social behavior. Students can explore counseling, neuroscience, and applied learning through electives and internships. Popular options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Washburn University. Bachelor's graduates commonly pursue roles as research assistants, case managers, behavioral health technicians, or human resources assistants. Independent clinical practice typically requires graduate education and appropriate state licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and gain internship experience with employers. Popular options include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Pittsburg State University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or web developers, working in technology, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and government.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Kansas can prepare you to support individuals, families, and groups across schools, clinics, and community settings. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and practicum or internship experience. Kansas universities offering counseling-related degrees include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Emporia State University. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, career counselor, or substance-use counselor.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Kansas combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, long-term care facilities, public health, or outpatient care; some advance into specialties or leadership. Popular Kansas options include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Washburn University, and Pittsburg State University.

Best Colleges in Kansas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 31,500.0, compared with 36,082.8 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 4,582.8.
• 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% 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 4,523.52, including averages of 316.72 men and 357.16 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.6%, compared with 66.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 36.5% for men and 54.0% for women.
• There are 16 institutions offering associate's degrees, 25 offering bachelor's degrees, 22 offering master's degrees, and 10 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 25 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant volumes, and test scores relate to your preferences. Also weigh enrollment figures and graduation rates, including the reported differences by gender and between all schools and the top 10%, alongside the degree levels offered.

How much does studying at a college in Kansas cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Kansas is $27,180.36. This is a starting point for planning, but it is not necessarily a full-degree bill: your cost depends on how long you study, your program, campus, and housing choices. Average expense figures include:

• Tuition and fees: $26,256.76.
• Room and board: $11,665.52.
• Books and supplies: $1,211.56.

These category figures are best treated as separate reference points, not added to the reported total. Kansas students can compare options such as the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas State University in Manhattan, and Wichita State University, while considering commute and living arrangements. Staying with family, sharing an apartment, or choosing campus housing can change what you spend. Ask each college for a program-specific cost estimate and check what tuition includes, since fees and course materials may vary. With a clear budget and comparison shopping, you can make a start toward a degree.

How long does it take to finish college in Kansas?

In Kansas, a full-time bachelor's degree usually takes four years; an associate degree typically takes two years. At the University of Kansas, Kansas State, or Wichita State, the timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you study year-round or part-time.

Across Kansas, the average graduation rate is 47.6%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 66.2%. Rates are 38.75% for men and 55.08% for women. Completion varies, so a manageable course load and advising can help you stay on track.

To finish sooner, Kansas students can:

• Earn credits through AP, IB, or dual-enrollment classes in high school, then confirm KU, K-State, or Wichita State accepts them.
• Take summer courses or heavier loads when your program permits, while checking prerequisites so required classes do not delay graduation.
• Transfer approved credits, use prior-learning assessments where available, and consider accelerated or online formats; ask an adviser about workload and aid eligibility.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Kansas earn a median alumni salary of about $47,476. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $55,414 - a promising benchmark as you plan your next steps after college.

Whether you're considering the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, or Wichita State University, these figures offer a broad picture of alumni earnings in the state. Your own salary can vary depending on your field, experience, and role, but earning a degree in Kansas can be a positive step toward building your career close to home.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Kansas?

The University of Kansas (KU) is generally the state's largest university by student enrollment. Its main campus in Lawrence is especially lively, with a broad mix of academic programs, student organizations, and Jayhawks traditions. Enrollment figures can vary by year and depending on whether branch and medical campuses are counted.

What is the most popular school in Kansas?

"Popular" has no single official measure, but KU is a strong answer if you mean a school with wide public recognition and a large student community. For a prospective student, popularity is only one factor: campus atmosphere, program strength, cost, and distance from home may matter much more to your experience.

What is the most famous university in Kansas?

The University of Kansas is probably the state's best-known university nationally, particularly because of its storied men's basketball program and the Jayhawks' long-standing rivalry with Kansas State. KU's Lawrence campus also gives students a classic college-town setting, with local businesses and campus life closely connected.

What is the hardest university to get into in Kansas?

There isn't a reliable single answer without specifying the year, degree level, and admissions measure. Acceptance rates can change, and competitive programs may be much harder to enter than their universities overall. Among large public universities, KU may be a more selective option than some peers, but compare current program-specific requirements before deciding.

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

Friends University in Wichita offers a Kansas setting for students seeking a close-knit private university experience. Its enrollment is 1,577, with a 55% acceptance rate and 43% graduation rate. Total study cost is $33,552, while median alumni salary is $47,244. Students can weigh these figures when planning a degree in Kansas. The university is affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a Wichita environment that connects campus life with opportunities.

Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina gives students a smaller-campus option for earning a degree in Kansas. It enrolls 1,071 students, and reports a 72% acceptance rate and 49% graduation rate. Total cost of study is $33,730; median alumni salary is $42,881. Its Salina location offers a community-oriented setting, while its academic programs span professional and liberal-arts fields. Prospective students can compare costs and outcomes with their goals, financial plans, and preferred campus atmosphere before choosing where to study in Kansas.

Newman University in Wichita enrolls 2,939 students, offering Kansas degree seekers a mid-sized campus option. Its acceptance rate is 74%, graduation rate is 53%, total study cost is $35,500, and median alumni salary is $48,869. The university is a Catholic institution with a welcoming community and programs across several fields. Kansas students can use these figures to compare cost, graduation outcomes, and alumni earnings, while considering whether Newman's Wichita campus and academic offerings suit their degree goals and campus preferences.

MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe provides students with a Kansas option at a private Christian university. It enrolls 1,431 students, with a 79% acceptance rate and 54% graduation rate. Total cost of study is $36,174, and median alumni salary is $62,905. As a Nazarene institution, it offers a faith-informed campus community and academic programs suited to graduate study goals. For students choosing where to earn a degree in Kansas, comparing this cost and alumni outcome with priorities can help clarify fit.

Kansas State University in Manhattan is a large public university for students seeking a broad college experience in Kansas. Its enrollment is 21,213, with an 82% acceptance rate and a 71% graduation rate. Total cost of study is $27,590, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $50,771. The university is known for its extensive academic choices, research activity, and spirited campus life. Kansas students can compare program-specific expenses and outcomes with their degree plans and budget.