2025 Best UUÖ±²¥s in Kansas
An affordable online degree in Kansas offers flexible and accessible opportunities. Online colleges in Kansas can provide relatively convenient options for earning a bachelor's degree, which has helped many graduates secure higher-paying jobs and less chance of unemployment. Popular fields of study include business, education, healthcare, and technology, reflecting the evolving job market.
Key Takeaways:
- All of our affordable schools in Kansas have tuition costs below $13,000.
- Schools with the high Salary Scores all have median earnings above $48,000
- Our highly rated schools by students have retention rates between 49% and 86%.
While OnlineU lists traditionally use ranking formats, we adopt a distinct approach for state-specific colleges. Our methodology emphasizes affordability, earnings potential, popularity, and alumni reviews without official ranks. Colleges must meet institutional accreditation and have fully online programs per the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
At a Glance:
Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

Pittsburg State University
- Online Enrollment: 985

Emporia State University
- Online Enrollment: 2,200
Emporia State University offers dynamic, accelerated online programs designed to prepare you for the unique challenges of today’s society. With over 22 years of experience in online education, ESU delivers high-impact learning environments through 100% online programs in business, technology, and education. Our business programs are AACSB-accredited, providing exceptional value for your MBA or Master of Accountancy. Additionally, tech and education programs support professional growth with specialized paths. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report in 2023 as a "Best Online MBA Program," we are committed to your success and development as a global citizen.
Best by Salary Score
Online universities in Kansas have Salary Scores beginning at A-, with median earnings in the top 20% on a national scale. These scores, derived from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard, reflect early career salaries four years after graduation.
University of Kansas
Why We Like Them:
KU produces graduates with median earnings at $66,684, which places them in the top 20% nationally for highest earning potential post-graduation. This strong earning potential is complemented by an 85% retention rate, a clear sign that you will likely continue your studies at KU after your first year. Additionally, KU has a substantial online enrollment with 2,593 online students. Lastly, we want to mention that KU's 94% recommendation rate highlights the positive experiences and satisfaction of its graduates. KU offers over 80 online undergraduate, graduate, and noncredit programs, ensuring you have a broad range of levels and disciplines to choose from.
What Students Say:
"Professors are not concerned with grades and are not out to fail students, but are more concerned with teaching... assessing needs. Admin staff are knowledgeable and put [your] career goals first… big name school, with personalization... any person looking to bring out their best should seriously consider."
Abram Brunson, Graduated 2014
Best by Affordability
Our list of affordable schools in Kansas offer annual tuition below $12,800, with the lowest at at annual rate at $7,283. We manually research and verify tuition rates to ensure you have access to the most up-to-date information available.
Fort Hays State University
Why We Like Them:
FHSU is a Kansas university with an affordable tuition of $7,283, making it an economical option for pursuing higher education in the state. Furthermore, the school supports its students financially, as evidenced by 96% of students receiving financial aid. Additionally, FHSU's online enrollment is significant, with 3,775 students participating in online programs, placing it in the top 11% compared to other institutions nationally. The university offers a diverse range of 200+ online programs that span from online associate degrees to online doctorates. All programs here are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), so you know you're getting a quality education.
What Students Say:
"Great online programs with dedicated instructors. Graduate level courses are not easy, demanding but manageable. Unfortunately, my adviser changed a few times but they were all helpful and reachable. It is definitely a cost effective school with a good ROI."
Ashley Golden, Graduated 2018
Southwestern College - KS
Why We Like Them:
SC in Kansas is a regionally accredited nonprofit institution that has been around for over 130 years, and its tuition rate for online programs is $7,800. Online classes are six weeks and SC designated Academic Success Coaches to distance learners to help them navigate their academic journey. SC's impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, in the top 12% nationally, allows for personalized academic support. SC hosts dozens of bachelor's and master's degrees as well as online certificates and one online doctoral degree in education. Another compelling reason is its strong financial support system, with an average financial aid package of $26,047, placing it in the top 12% of schools.
MidAmerica Nazarene University
Why We Like Them:
MNU is a Christian, evangelical university that offers a tuition of $11,940, making it a great financial option if you are budget-conscious. This is complemented by an average financial aid package of $22,757, positioning MNU in the top 17% for financial aid offerings, which further alleviates the cost burden. Although the retention and graduation rates are moderate, the median earnings for graduates are encouraging at $63,439, placing them in the top 31% for earning potential. MNU has five online certificates as well as three online associate degrees, three online bachelor's programs, and seven online master's degrees.
What Students Say:
"I enjoyed my time at MNU. The tuition was doable, the schedule was accommodating, and the teachers were great. While it is a faith-based school, they do not push their beliefs on you..."
Anonymous, Graduated 2016
Central Christian College of Kansas
Why We Like Them:
CCCK has an annual tuition rate of $12,750, and significant financial aid, with an average award of $17,158. CCCK's online programs offer flexible and transfer-friendly options, particularly suited for working professionals. The college provides a diverse selection of online degree programs. These include associate degrees in the arts as well as criminal justice; bachelor's degrees in business administration, criminal justice, health and human services, healthcare administration, organizational leadership, and psychology; as well as a master's in strategic leadership. This broad array of programs allows you to find a pathway suited to your career ambitions.
Highest Rated by Students
We selected Kansas colleges and universities with high student satisfaction based on alumni reviews, requiring at least 20 reviews. Schools with the best student reviews score as high as 4.09 out of 5.
Kansas State University
Why We Like Them:
K-State has earned an overall review rating of 4.09 out of 5 from its students, which reflects satisfaction and the high quality of its offerings. Moreover, the university achieves an extraordinary recommendation rate of 98%, suggesting that nearly all students find the experience enriching enough to recommend to others. Coupled with a retention rate of 86%, placing it in the top 13% of universities, K-State demonstrates its capacity to keep students engaged and committed. K-State offers over 150 online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines, ensuring that you have a wide range of choices.
What Students Say:
"Kansas State University embodies the concept of 'family' through its high priority for all types of students, a variety of inclusive groups to identify with, and a sense of purple pride and connection that you will feel for a lifetime. K-State welcomes all with open arms and ensures student success and well-being."
Chloe Nelson, Graduated 2017
Wichita State University
Why We Like Them:
Wichita State has a solid overall review rating of 3.78 out of 5, indicating high student satisfaction. Complementing this, the university also boasts an impressive online enrollment of 3,537 students, placing it among the top 22% of institutions with the most popular online schools. This broad online engagement further validates its robust remote learning infrastructure. Wichita State offers an array of fully online programs that include undergraduate and graduate degrees across several disciplines, such as psychology and business administration. The curriculum is tailored to support students who often balance full-time employment and family commitments, demonstrating a commitment to accommodating diverse student needs.
What Students Say:
"If you want a quality education at an affordable price then look here. Wichita State has recently received national attention and is trying to put its best foot forward. The school is in the midst of multiple campus upgrades, with donors giving over $17 million for renovations specific to libraries, the school of business, and scholarship programs."
Bridget Johnson, Graduated 2014
Honorable Mention
Each of our Honorable Mentions is highlighted for its distinctive qualities. These attributes include high remote enrollment at popular online schools and the benefit of small class sizes, among other unique features.
Emporia State University
Why We Like Them:
Emporia has a substantial online enrollment of 2,520 students, placing it in the top 30% for popular online schools on a national scale, highlighting its extensive and effective virtual infrastructure. Moreover, an impressive 95% of students at ESU receive financial aid, demonstrating a strong commitment to making higher education accessible. These factors are complemented by a recommendation rate of 88% and an overall review rating of 3.71 out of 5, suggesting high levels of student satisfaction as well. ESU offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs online, all administered through the Canvas learning management system.
What Students Say:
"I'm a recent graduate of the online master's of accountancy program... I received a job offer from one of the Big 4 accounting firms as a result of my enrollment at ESU... I paid less than $11,000 for the entire degree and I have the same salary and job as people who spent 3x plus on their degrees. There is no doubt I would not be working for a Big 4 firm had it not been for my degree from ESU."
Anonymous, Graduated 2021
Pittsburg State University
Why We Like Them:
PSU boasts over a thousands online students currently enrolled in degrees, indicating a strong virtual learning community. Additionally, PSU has an impressive recommendation rate of 85%, evidencing that a considerable majority of students are satisfied with their educational experience here. A student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 ensures personalized attention, which is crucial for effective learning. For online programs, PSU offers six online master's programs in business administration with different specialties, such as accounting, marketing, international business, HR, and more.
What Students Say:
"I would highly recommend Pittsburg State University to anyone who is seeking an MBA...While I did find this program quite challenging at times, it is definitely worth the investment. Whether you are majoring in international business, human resources, or accounting I would suggest the school."
Marc Resasco, Graduated 2021
Washburn University
Why We Like Them:
Washburn hosts 740 online students and boasts a recommendation rate of 89%, reflecting high levels of satisfaction among its graduates. The student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 ensures that as an online learner, you will receive focused and individualized attention in your courses. Furthermore, with 100% of students receiving financial aid, Washburn makes higher education accessible to a wide array of learners by reducing financial barriers. Washburn offers online degree and certificate programs through the Schools of Business, Nursing, and Applied Studies, as well as 29 departments in the College of Arts and Sciences.
What Students Say:
"Curriculum provides a great deal of flexibility... Professors understand that most of their students are working at the same time as obtaining their MBA. Easy to balance work, school, and life. I recommend this program to others."
John, Graduated 2018
Friends University
Why We Like Them:
Friends has hundreds of students engaged in online learning, and it features a very high review rating of 4.24 out of 5. Another critical metric is the impressive recommendation rate at 94%. Furthermore, the median earnings of $62,362 for graduates fall in the top 28% among similar institutions, indicating a strong return on investment not only in Kansas but on a national level. Additionally, Friends supports military students, evidencing an inclusive educational ethos with a 19% military enrollment rate. Undergraduate majors offered fully online at Friends include business administration, cyber security, elementary education, general studies, psychology, and strategic leadership.
What Students Say:
"I absolutely love Friends University...worth the extra money. The professors really care about you as an individual."
Halley, Graduated 2016
Newman University
Why We Like Them:
Newman has a growing virtual learning community, and if we consider the university's student-to-faculty ratio, standing at 10:1, it places Newman in the top 17% nationwide. We believe this means you are likely to receive a personalized educational experience that is highly supportive. Further enhancing its appeal is the average financial aid package of $25,823, positioning Newman among the top 13% of universities in terms of financial assistance nationwide. Newman has five online bachelor's degree programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, catering to diverse professional goals and previous academic experiences. It also has five online master's degrees in social work, education, theology, and more.
What Students Say:
"Overall, I was satisfied with my time at Newman University. I met a wide variety of people and most of them will be life long friends. The professors are outstanding especially in the science department... The small, intimate class sizes meant for a better learning experience for everyone."
Kayla, Graduated 2015
University of Saint Mary
Why We Like Them:
When evaluating Saint Mary, it may have a small digital presence of barely one hundred distance learners, but it has other commendable features to consider. Saint Mary offers impressive financial support, with 100% of its students receiving financial aid. This is further validated by their considerable average financial aid package of $23,638, giving them an advantage in terms of affordability. Additionally, the median earnings for graduates is $70,580, placing it in the top 18% nationally. It has six online bachelor's degrees in accounting, business, criminology, cybersecurity, exercise science, and psychology. It also has seven online graduate programs, from the master's to doctoral level.
What Students Say:
"I love Saint Marys University. It has a great academic feel, and the students are there for a good education, but also because it's inexpensive..."
Elise Peterson, Graduated 2014
Kansas Wesleyan University
Why We Like Them:
KWU offers a variety of degrees online, including undergraduate programs in criminal justice, emergency management, and an MBA, providing diverse and flexible options for advancing your education remotely. The median earnings of graduates at KSU is approximately $53,849, positioning the university in a favorable 59th percentile, signaling solid career prospects post-graduation. We also appreciate that the average financial aid package is $21,537, which places KWU in the top 18% for financial aid generosity. The institution also ensures that every single student receives financial aid, further reflecting its dedication to supporting its online learners.
Ottawa University-Ottawa
Why We Like Them:
Ottawa offers a range of online degree programs, including accelerated options in Nursing (both BSN and MSN) and specialized MBAs in Data Analytics and Strategic Innovation. At Ottawa, 100% of students receive financial aid and the average package is $23,303. to other institutions, placing the school in the top 17% nationally. Additionally, it has a small student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, ensuring personalized attention and support from instructors.
Manhattan Christian College
Why We Like Them:
If you are looking for a faith-based approach to your higher education journal, consider The Thunder Online at MCCKs, which includes online degree programs that are there to help Christian leaders develop into effective leaders in their communities. MCCK has two online degree options at the bachelor's level, including a Bachelor of Science in Biblical Leadership or a Bachelor of Science in Management & Ethics. Both of these are, importantly, degree completion programs, meaning they are designed for transfer students. Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 is notably favorable, ensuring plenty of individual attention.
Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

Pittsburg State University
- Online Enrollment: 985

Emporia State University
- Online Enrollment: 2,200
Emporia State University offers dynamic, accelerated online programs designed to prepare you for the unique challenges of today’s society. With over 22 years of experience in online education, ESU delivers high-impact learning environments through 100% online programs in business, technology, and education. Our business programs are AACSB-accredited, providing exceptional value for your MBA or Master of Accountancy. Additionally, tech and education programs support professional growth with specialized paths. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report in 2023 as a "Best Online MBA Program," we are committed to your success and development as a global citizen.
Student Reviews of Online Programs
I began Prism for an Associate's in Paralegal Studies when it was still The PJA School for Paralegal and Accounting. In the middle of my tenure, it switched to Prism; however, I still had the same instructors. The core classes were simple and easy to excel in as they were basic knowledge courses with regard to the office environment. Once my legal courses began, I learned a lot from my instructor D. K., an attorney for 20+ years. Mr. K. taught real life skills with regard to working in a law firm.... Read More
I have been happily employed with this attorney since August of 2010. Mr. K. has helped me excel within the legal field with the knowledge he has provided along with great recommendations to my current employer. He has also provided me with the confidence to continue my education after Prism. Since I have graduated in 2011, I have enrolled in the Criminal Justice Program at Rosemont College, where I currently have a 3.89 GPA and will be graduating this coming December. I do not believe I would have achieved all that I have without the guidance of D. K. Thus, if anyone is looking to enter the legal field as a paralegal and have the chance to have D. K. as an instructor, it is a guaranteed great learning experience.
Review Date: 10/18/2012
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I'd say Fordham University is a great private school education. Small classes and great teachers. The Price tag is the only issue. If you have the money and want a great education, small but beautiful campus and don't mind the Jesuits walking around (Who are a lot cooler than you think, actually), Fordham is a great place to go.
If you have any financial need at all, you should probably look elsewhere. They give little to no aid to the students most in need, few athletic scholarships, and have outrageous... Read More
Review Date: 9/18/2012
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I completed the Wind Turbine Tech program in 10 months. I had never taken online classes before so I was a little nervous. But my admissions coordinator was very helpful and supportive. There were a few times I started to fall behind and my admissions coordinator helped me get back on track. Online classes aren't for everyone. You have to be willing to sacrifice some of your free time. But once I got into a routine, I started earning solid B's and am almost completed with my program. The total cost... Read More
Review Date: 12/28/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was disappointed with the Payroll Clerk program. I enrolled thinking it would be similar to the American Payroll Association's PayTrain payroll training course where you start off learning basics for payroll calculation and terminology. Payroll Clerk is somewhat of a deceiving title because the course centered primarily on payroll manager's responsibilities or issues. I am a tax preparer and I took the class as a refresher course because payroll and income taxes go hand-in-hand. Payroll Clerk went... Read More
Review Date: 4/11/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am taking an online course on Introduction to Excel. I understand it is an introduction but to me it seems like the course is geared towards people who have never opened a spreadsheet in their life. There are no videos for visual understanding, just 2-3 pages of text for each lesson. Very disappointed with the curriculum, and most importantly it is way overpriced. The course is certainly not worth $139. I was planning on taking the Intermediate and Advanced courses too but you live and learn. And... Read More
Review Date: 2/13/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
low cost flexible program great strength-based focus
Review Date: 8/1/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have the ability to take all of my classes online and only have to go to campus once. This option is very confident with my family and small children. Due to the fact that this is a distance learning environment, I feel that the "classroom setting" is not there.
Review Date: 10/20/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Strictly an online graduate student. My degree will be in ETLS (educational technology/library science). One of the few universities that offers this combination strictly online. Very happy with the overall experience thus far.
Review Date: 3/18/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I feel the pros are the convenience of taking most classes online which allows an individual to continue to work full time. The cons would be the disorganization of the program.
Review Date: 12/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Fine school so far. Love the online option. Still required to take some completely irrelevant classes.
Review Date: 5/19/2014
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My opinion is that Penn Foster Career School has great courses, a friendly and supporting community, is affordable and you get more than you pay.I would highly recommend that school only to mature and self motivated people, who are seriously have the intention and they really willing to learn .The exams are not just a few quizzes, in addition you have to complete written exams. So, it's not a diploma mill,because the school is both regionally and nationally accredited. Everything is well structured... Read More
Review Date: 8/10/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This is a very competitive program. I enjoy working with people from such diverse backgrounds.
Review Date: 3/13/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The pro are that the program is offered online. The con is that many individuals may see the program as less prestigious than traditional, on campus programs.
Review Date: 1/19/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
It is online and very accessible. I really do like the thought of being able to take classes online. The faculty seems to be supportive and easy to get ahold of. I do feel that the career prospects of my program are someone in a grey area. I noticed that the possible career options for this program were the same as they were for several other programs.
Review Date: 12/28/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Good program, however staff are hard to get in touch with, sometimes to the detriment of a deadline.
Review Date: 7/31/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Working through the Pathway program made going to college all the more accessible and affordable for me.
Review Date: 12/11/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The school has a great support staff and the instructors really know how to engage their students. The course material is the best I've seen. Columbia Southern University is an excellent school to attend!
Review Date: 5/17/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Florida Alantic University offers an amazing graduate program the teachers are very helpful and are knowledgeable about the content. They only con I have about FAU is the parking I normally have to leave home two hours before class to allow time for travel and parking which normally takes about 30 mins! If the parking conditions would improve I would have no complaints!
Review Date: 7/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Liberty University provides excellent guidance and feedback. I find that faculty is patient, polite and willing to listen. In particular, I am fascinated by the level of competitiveness and willingness to surpass performance in service, goals and objectives.
Review Date: 5/21/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great program for the money. Love my adviser.
Review Date: 10/19/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overview of Higher Education in Kansas
According to data from the (NCES), Kansas college students have 62 colleges, universities, and technical schools to choose from when it comes to earning a degree.
The Sunflower State is home to large universities offering bachelor's and master's degrees, including the University of Kansas and Kansas State University, and small colleges such as Kansas Christian College. There are also 28 Kansas community colleges and technical schools that offer certificate programs and associate degrees.
With a total population of 2.9 million, Kansas still slightly beats the U.S. average for population graduating with a bachelor's degree or higher at 34.7%. This is according to the .
There are only two schools recognized as minority-serving institutions in the state. Haskell Indian Nations University is a tribal college in Lawrence, Kansas. Seward County Community College in Liberal, Kansas, is a Hispanic-serving institution.
The NCES shows that at public schools in Kansas are in line with the national average, a few hundred dollars cheaper on average. However, private colleges in Kansas tend to be significantly more affordable, with students paying about $8,000 less than the national average.
UUÖ±²¥s in Kansas H2
Students in Kansas can choose from 51 different colleges offering online and distance education programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, as well as certificates and diplomas.
Many adult learners and online students choose distance learning to accommodate work, family, and other responsibilities. Those who are squeezing college into an already busy schedule might look for a program that offers asynchronous classes, where students can watch lectures and participate in discussions when they have time rather than logging in at a set time. For students who need more structure, synchronous classes might be a better option so they can meet with their class at a set time each day.
If a school has accreditation, it means the college is regularly reviewed to make sure it can serve its students and that its programs meet academic standards.
Students interested in an associate or bachelor's degree will need a high school diploma to apply. Some schools also require things like application essays, letters of recommendation, SAT or ACT test scores, or a specific GPA. For graduate degrees, students need to have a bachelor's to apply. They may also need to take the GRE, but fewer schools require this now than they did in the past.
When choosing an online college, students should be sure to look for schools that have accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission or another organization approved by the U.S. Department of Education. If a school has accreditation, it means the college is regularly reviewed to make sure it can serve its students and that its programs meet academic standards. We only show accredited colleges on our site to help students find quality online programs.
FAQs About UUÖ±²¥s in Kansas
How Many Colleges Are in Kansas?
According to data from the NCES, as cited above, Kansas offers a total of 62 colleges, universities, and technical schools for students seeking a degree. These include online degrees as well as traditional, on-campus programs.
What States Have Tuition Reciprocity with Kansas?
Kansas has a tuition reciprocity agreement with Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Students from Kansas can qualify for in-state tuition at over 70 different schools in these states.
What is the Best College in Kansas?
The best college for one student may not be the best college for another, depending on what their personal circumstances and career goals are. When choosing a college, students should consider factors like what programs they have available, how much tuition is, how likely they are to get financial aid for their program, what the campus community is like, and what kind of student support is available.
We chose the best online colleges in Kansas based on several key factors: academic quality, affordability, flexibility, student support services, and overall reputation. These Kansas schools offer rigorous programs, competitive tuition rates, and strong support systems to accommodate non-traditional students. They also have solid reputations and high student satisfaction ratings, ensuring that their degrees are recognized and respected. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that prospective students can find the best options for their educational and financial needs.
Asking questions about academic advising, student clubs and organizations, counseling and mental health support, enrolling part time, financial aid availability, and other factors can help students choose which college is best for them. Students can also look at median debt and alumni salary for their specific program to figure out what kind of a return on their investment they might see after graduation.