Most
Popular Colleges in Kansas City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Kansas City, MO offers preparation in management, finance, marketing, and organizational leadership. Students typically take courses in accounting, economics, business law, human resources, operations, data analysis, and strategic management. Programs often combine classroom learning with internships and team projects. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or account executive. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and Avila University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Kansas City, Missouri, typically covers developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, cognition, and social behavior. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior through coursework and research projects. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and Avila University. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, or community support worker. Clinical psychologist and counselor positions generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Kansas City, Missouri, combines programming fundamentals with opportunities to connect classroom learning to local technology employers. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students can explore computer science degrees at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and Avila University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or IT consultants, while building skills in problem-solving and teamwork.

Counseling

Studying a counseling degree in Kansas City, Missouri, can prepare you to support people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City and Avila University, both offering graduate counseling-related study. Graduates may pursue work as mental health or substance-use counselors, school counselors, or community agency providers, depending on their degree, licensure, and state requirements.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Kansas City, Missouri, combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical care. Students build skills in patient communication, safety, and evidence-based practice. Popular local options include the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Research College of Nursing, and Metropolitan Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or community health settings locally.

Best Colleges in Kansas City, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 35,425.0, compared with 43,183.0 at schools in the top 10% - 7,758.0 higher among those top-ranked schools.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 78.43% at top-10% schools, a difference of 21.57 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 78.43%. Schools receive an average of 1,995.43 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 4,859.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 250.0 for men and 873.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,169.5 on the SAT and 22.25 on the ACT.
• Schools average 3,810.67 enrolled students, including averages of 126.71 enrolled men and 214.29 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 56.14%, compared with 64.8% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 52.0% for men and 55.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and four offer doctor's degrees.
• Six schools are coeducational; there are zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid together, since the higher-cost top-10% schools have a lower average share of students receiving aid. Also consider acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, degree offerings, enrollment, and graduation rates - including the differences between overall, top-10%, and gender-specific figures - to find a school that fits your academic goals and circumstances.

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

The average total cost of studying in Kansas City, MO, is $30,032.67. That figure offers a starting point as you compare programs and plan how to pay for a degree. Average tuition and fees are $28,699.33, while average room and board is $11,669 and books and supplies average $1,085.40. These are separate averages, so use them as guideposts rather than assuming every college's bill will match.

Kansas City gives you options to explore, including the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), Rockhurst University, and the Kansas City Art Institute. Cost can vary with your major, housing choice, course load, and financial aid. If you live at home, commute, or qualify for grants and scholarships, your out-of-pocket expenses may be lower. Compare each school's cost-of-attendance estimate and aid package before deciding. With a clear budget and a good fit, pursuing a degree close to home can feel both exciting and manageable.

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

At colleges and universities in Kansas City, MO, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree generally takes two. UMKC, Rockhurst University, and Avila University offer local options; your timeline depends on major, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study full time. Part-time study can extend the schedule, while helping you balance classes with work or family.

Graduation rates show that students finish, though not all: the average rate is 56.14%, compared with 64.8% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 51.0% for men and 57.0% for women. Use these figures as a starting point when asking colleges about advising, credit completion, and on-time graduation.

• Take summer or accelerated courses to earn credits sooner.
• Ask whether prior learning or transfer credits can count toward your degree.
• Meet an adviser to map prerequisites and register strategically; a plan can make graduation achievable.

Salary

Graduates in Kansas City, MO have a median alumni salary of about $47,549. At schools in the top 10% nationally, the median is about $57,424, offering an encouraging benchmark as you consider where and what to study.

Options such as the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and the Kansas City Art Institute serve students in the area. These figures are broad benchmarks, not salary guarantees for graduates of any one school: your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and degree.

• Median alumni salary: $47,549
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: $57,424.20

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Kansas City?

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is generally the largest university located in Kansas City, Missouri, with enrollment of roughly 16,000 students in recent years. Its size means students can find a broad range of programs and campus activities while still enjoying an urban setting. Enrollment changes from year to year.

What is the richest university in Kansas City?

There isn't a clear, reliable answer without defining "richest" - for example, by endowment, total assets, or annual budget - and comparing institutions on the same basis. UMKC is a major local university, but its large enrollment alone doesn't establish that it has the most wealth. For a prospective student, financial aid and program costs may be more useful comparisons.

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

Rockhurst University offers Kansas City students a private-university setting with a campus community of 3,338 enrolled students. Its 75% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 70% acceptance rate suggests a moderately selective admissions process. Reported total study cost is $43,366, and median alumni salary is $68,658, also the strongest salary figure in this group. For a prospective student in Kansas City, MO, Rockhurst combines a strong completion record with higher listed costs and alumni earnings.

University of Missouri-Kansas City is a large university option for students who want to study in the heart of the Kansas City, MO, area. It enrolls 14,886 students, the largest population in this comparison, with a 55% graduation rate and 72% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $30,650, below Rockhurst's and Avila's figures, while median alumni salary is $49,935. Its size and reported cost may appeal to students seeking a broad campus environment and multiple educational pathways in Missouri.

Avila University gives prospective students in Kansas City, MO, a smaller university environment, enrolling 3,382 students. Its 88% acceptance rate is the highest among the five institutions, while its graduation rate is 52%. The reported total cost of studying is $40,200, and median alumni salary is $48,716. Students comparing local options can weigh Avila's relatively accessible admissions alongside its cost and outcomes. As a university, it offers a campus-based alternative for local learners who prefer a more compact student population.

Concorde Career College-Kansas City is a career-focused school for students seeking practical training in the Kansas City, MO, area. It enrolls 198 students, making it the smallest institution in this group. Its graduation rate is 53%, and its acceptance rate is 96%, the highest listed. Total study cost is not available in the supplied data, so applicants should verify current expenses directly with the college. Median alumni salary is $36,507, useful context when comparing local study options and potential outcomes.

Calvary University is a small university choice for students considering degree study in Kansas City, MO. Its enrollment is 247, the second-smallest figure among these colleges, and its 52% graduation rate matches Avila's. The acceptance rate is 72%, while the listed total study cost, $12,570, is the lowest available in this group. Median alumni salary is $31,518. Students can compare this compact campus option with larger local institutions, considering affordability alongside completion rates and post-graduation earnings when making their decision.