Online education is increasingly popular due to its convenience and flexibility. If you already live in Kansas, you can take advantage of in-state tuition, local scholarships, and certain on-campus and online amenities. And if you are out of state, you can still compare the affordability of Kansas schools to other schools you are considering.
With so many online degree programs at Kansas colleges, trade schools, and community colleges, how do you know which one is right for you? This guide can help you make a well-researched and fully informed decision. Start by reviewing our rankings below, and continue reading for key insight that can aid your search for the right Kansas online college.
2024’s Top Online Colleges in Kansas
This year’s ranking began with cost. Which schools have tuition structures that a wide range of Kansas students can afford? Research and analysis then moved to the breadth and depth of online learning options, followed by student services such as academic counseling, career placement, and accreditation status. Learn more about our top picks below, and see which schools earned top marks in 2024.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Manhattan, KansasPublic $$
Kansas State University offers more than 100 programs online at the associate, bachelor, undergraduate certificate, master, doctoral & specialist levels, along with graduate certificates. Online students can study at their own time and pace with K-State’s asynchronous online classes. Online courses are taught by the same experienced instructors who teach on-campus courses, so students can be confident they’re receiving a quality education. Students complete weekly assignments, readings, discussions and occasional group projects at times that are convenient to them, but with the assigned due dates in mind. Some courses require online group work. Courses are delivered via the learning management system Canvas, where students can access course lectures and materials, turn in assignments, interact with faculty and classmates in chat rooms and discussion boards, view grades, and more. At Kansas State, online and off-campus courses are assessed at a fixed tuition rate regardless of residency status.
Program Highlights:
WAviation Management Bachelor’s Degree
- Credits: 120
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $351.20 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Adult Learning and Leadership Master’s Degree
- Credits: 33
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $510.60 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Food Science Master’s Degree
- Credits: 34
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $598.50 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Lawrence, KansasPublic $$$
The University of Kansas offers more than 80 online degree and certificate programs for students looking to obtain their degree, working professionals advancing their career, advancing your career, a student from another university supplementing coursework, or a high school student getting an early start on your college education, KU’s online courses and degree programs have great options. Online students receive the same high-quality education as on-campus students with programs taught by the same top-ranked faculty and instructors and the same rigorous curriculum and academic support. Students have access to the latest learning methods and systems. Students access courses using the online learning management systems Canvas and Blackboard. Students receive academic and technical support, along with writing support, counseling, tutoring, and more.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Professional Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $398 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Sport Management Master’s Program Details
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $694 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Master’s Degree in Digital Content Strategy
- Credits: 30
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $500 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Hays, KansasPublic $
Fort Hays State University has more than 200 online programs at the certificate and associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Fort Hays is aware of the ever-changing landscape of technology-based learning and always looking to advance their offerings. Courses are provided online in the Blackboard learning management system, where students will log in to access discussion boards, videos, presentations, individual and team projects, labs, and exams. Innovative faculty and student resources such as writing, tutoring, IT, and more, support students throughout their time as a Fort Hays student.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business
- Credits: 120
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $226.88 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
School Psychology MS and EdS
- Credits: 66
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $298.55 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Master of Science in Computer Science
- Credits: 33
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $298.55per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Emporia, KansasPublic $$
With more than 22 years of experience in online learning, Emporia State University has options for every online learning looking for flexibility in their schedule. Emporia State offers accelerated online programs in business, technology, and education, along with regular online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university has a long history of quality education with fresh, relevant, high-impact learning experiences, preparing students for future success. Online courses are delivered through the learning management system Canvas, where students access course materials, discussion boards, submit assignments, take tests, and interact with faculty and classmates.
Program Highlights:
Master of Accountancy Online
- Credits: 30
- Length: 12 months
- Cost: $10,890 total tuition
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (Program); Higher Learning Commission (School)
Master of Science in Information Technology Online (Accelerated)
- Credits: 33
- Length: 12 months
- Cost: $11,979 total tuition
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Master of Science in Educational Administration Online
- Credits: 33
- Length: 12 months
- Cost: $10,956 total tuition
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Wichita, KansasPublic $$
Wichita State University allows students to earn their degree while living their life, joining a community of caring faculty, staff, and fellow students. Online degree programs are designed and delivered by the same faculty who teach on-campus using technology and tools that give students direct access to the expertise of our faculty. Online students can earn an accredited associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree with convenient, flexible, and affordable programs. Students have access to online academic advisors that help personalize students’ plan of study. Courses are likely asynchronous, allowing students to login independently of a set time to participate with instructional material and are delivered through the online learning platform Blackboard. Through Blackboard, students can access course materials, engage with faculty and classmates, submit assignments, and take tests.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
- Credits: 120
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $228.09 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Online MSN in Nursing Education
- Credits: 37
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $307.98per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Masters in Arts Leadership and Management
- Credits: 30
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $307.98 per credit hour
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Topeka, KansasPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Pittsburg, KansasPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Haviland, KansasPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
McPherson, KansasPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Lenexa, KansasPrivate for-profit $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Manhattan, KansasPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Topeka, KansasPrivate for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Great Bend, KansasPublic $
Barton Community College offers a quality online education for 30 degrees and certificates through Barton Online, its virtual campus. Online courses can be taken in 6-week, 8-week, or 16-week formats with the option of a 12-week extended summer format and a 4-week intersession in the fall and spring. Barton uses Examity Virtual Proctoring for online exams to protect testing integrity without students having to go to campus. All online testing fees are covered by the college unless a student misses a scheduled exam time.
Program Highlights:
Associate in Accounting
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $155/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate in Elementary Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $155/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate in Wildlife Science
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $155/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Arkansas City, KansasPublic $
Cowley College offers online courses and programs using Blackboard and is authorized to offer them in all 50 states. While you don’t need special software to take these courses, you do need an up-to-date computer and Internet access. Online students have access to the Cowley Help Desk for technical support and to the eLibrary, the writing center, online tutoring, and blackboard program technical support. Some of its most popular online courses are Non-Destructive Testing, Milling Tech, and Business Administration.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Office Management
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $173/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Political Science
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $173/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Computer Science
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $173/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Colby, KansasPublic $
Colby Community College offers over 50 degrees and certificates, and 90% of students receive financial aid. CCC’s goal is to challenge students, create opportunities, and connect students to professional experiences. It offers online associate degrees in veterinary nursing, renewable energy, and equine science as well as an associate of arts and associate of science. These programs use Canvas, and students have access to technical support and assistance for hardware and software troubleshooting on personal devices. An Intel core i3 processor, 8 GB of memory, and a 500 GB Hard Drive SSD are recommended minimums.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Veterinary Nursing
- Credits: 82
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $165/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Renewable Energy
- Credits: 66
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $165/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Equine Science
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $165/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Hutchinson, KansasPublic $
Hutchinson Community College offers over 250 online courses with some degrees and certificates completely online. Canvas gives you access to coursework, readings, lectures, assignments, quizzes, and discussion boards, and you can contact professors through email and online discussions. Online students also have access to technical support for their computers and instructional support for their coursework. Hutchinson does not offer online proctoring, so you must go to campus or find a proctoring center near you to take your exams.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Business Administration
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $151/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Cybersecurity
- Credits: 61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $151/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Computer Drafting
- Credits: 61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $151/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Highland, KansasPublic $
Highland Community College offers online degrees for self-motivated students. In addition to several online degrees, students can take a single course online or complete general education courses for transfer. HCC offers extremely affordable tuition without sacrificing the quality of well-constructed curricula and instruction by trained faculty. It also offers disability services, transfer guides, financial aid, veteran affairs services, career planning and placement, student support services, tutoring, graduation checklists, and online academic advising.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Medical Coding
- Credits: 65
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $61/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Business and Accounting
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $61/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Criminal Justice
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $61/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Kansas City, KansasPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
El Dorado, KansasPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Emporia, KansasPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Ways to Earn Your Degree Online in Kansas
A program may be labeled “online,” but you’ll probably need more information than that. There are completely online programs, hybrid programs, and online courses with in-person practicums. The program may be synchronous or asynchronous. Some programs can only be taken full-time and some can only be taken part-time. Keep reading to learn about the common modes of online learning and why each is important to consider as you explore the best online colleges in Kansas.
Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended
A fully online college program in Kansas means all of the coursework, exams, quizzes, discussions, and lectures can be accessed entirely online. A hybrid/blended program means course material and lectures can be partially in-person and partially online. For example, this could mean that you complete some coursework online but attend lectures in person. Or it can mean that you complete all coursework online but that the program has a clinical or practicum requirement that must be completed in person. Due to the nature of some potential careers, certain programs may require students to learn hands-on skills, attend clinicals, complete practicums, or take part in student teaching at a certain location. These skills often need practice and supervision that cannot be completed over a computer screen. It’s important to research the requirements of the program you’re considering so you know exactly what to expect. Here are a couple of examples.
A.A. Paralegal at Johnson County Community College (Blended/Hybrid)
The paralegal program at Johnson County Community College can be completed in a hybrid format. This program is approved by the American Bar Association, with selective admissions based on testing criteria. The program is designed to mimic real-world experiences and focuses on putting the fundamentals of law into practice. Consisting of 63 credits, the program takes approximately two years to complete. Students must maintain a C grade in all law courses to remain in the program. The online portions of this degree are taken synchronously (in real-time), with lectures and exams in person. The curriculum includes courses in civil litigation, legal research, legal analysis and writing, legal ethics, interviewing and investigation, and advanced legal technology.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Iowa (Fully-Online)
The BA in political science from the University of Iowa requires students to have some college credit (24+ semester hours) or an associate degree before they can apply to the online program. All courses are taught by the same faculty as the on-campus classes. Students meet with academic advisors and instructors via virtual meetings. Students can complete the degree in four years and pay the same tuition as resident, on-campus students. Graduates of this program possess a basic understanding of American and world politics, can apply a theoretical approach in political science to understand American or world politics, have effective written and oral communication skills, and can conceptualize problems and apply analytical tools to solve them.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
Since online classes are typically created for working professionals, you’ll see that most online courses are completed asynchronously, on your own time and at your convenience. However, sometimes you’ll come across a class that has synchronous class times, typically one night a week, where everyone logs on and watches a lecture or participates in a group chat at the same time. Working professionals typically do best with asynchronous courses that allow them to study whenever their schedule permits. Though most online college classes in Kansas are asynchronous, you’ll probably run across a synchronous course now and again, especially for full-time students who take most of their classes on campus and just need to squeeze in one more class online. Below we’ve highlighted a synchronous and asynchronous online college program in Kansas so you can get a better idea of which is right for you.
Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the Central Christian College of Kansas (CCCK) (Asynchronous)
All of CCCK’s online programs, including the BS in psychology, are offered 100% online in an asynchronous format. Students take one six-week course at a time, with several different start dates each year. The psychology program helps students merge the science of the field and the belief in connecting with humanity so they can assess and achieve solutions in psychological care. The degree prepares students for graduate work in the field of psychology, which is typically required if students decide to pursue a licensed position such as a school psychologist or substance abuse counselor. Students pay $450 per credit hour and access their courses through the Canvas online learning system.
Master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Kansas State University (Synchronous)
Students pursuing the educational leadership master’s degree at K-State online will find that it has both synchronous and asynchronous elements, though the program is delivered in an entirely online format. This 36-credit professional degree goes beyond the traditional training of school administrators and helps students meet the Kansas Building Leadership initial license. Admission requires a state-issued teaching license and at least three years of teaching experience. Students study the ethics of educational leadership, school-community relations, education finance, educational law, and administrative leadership in staff development.
Online students at K-State can access the student support and advising office, which helps them in all of their academic endeavors. Students pay about $500 per credit and can rest easy knowing that there’s a 97% job placement rate for students who graduate from K-State’s online programs.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time
It’s pretty standard to pursue an undergraduate degree full-time, while students attending graduate school are more likely to study part-time. This is partly because many graduate students have full-time jobs. Regardless of your student status, if you have significant time restraints then it might be best to find a program that you can take part-time. If you don’t have a full-time job, or you just want to burn the candle at both ends to get things done, studying full-time may be the right course for you. Below are two examples of online college programs in Kansas to help you choose the one that’s right for you.
RN to BSN at the University of Kansas Medical Center (Part-Time)
The RN to BSN program at the KU Medical Center is designed to accommodate working nurses with varying schedules. The program can be completed totally online in as little as one year or can be taken part-time and completed in up to five years. Students enter the program at the start of any semester and will have access to course content online, 24 hours a day. No onsite clinicals or campus meetings are required.
To enter the program nurses must have a current nursing license and have completed the prerequisite courses. Topics covered include pathophysiology, pharmacology, client assessment, research, technology to enhance client safety, and the macro and micro systems of healthcare. Students complete a senior project as well. Tuition is about $375 per credit hour.
BA in Healthcare Management (nonclinical) at Ottawa University (Full-Time)
The accelerated bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from Ottawa University is available completely online and allows students to choose from five concentrations (which require four extra courses). The concentrations include economics, finance, human resources, leadership and management, and marketing. The healthcare management nonclinical track is specifically for business professionals looking to understand health management systems and gain the organization-wide insight and managerial ability to become leaders or managers of healthcare organizations. Students analyze the perspectives, methods, and values associated with the delivery and financing of health services. They learn to evaluate client needs, fiscal constraints, management practices, ethical principles, public policies, and promotional strategies of healthcare institutions.
Accreditation for Online Colleges in Kansas
It’s important to attend an accredited online college in Kansas, which means the school has been recognized as having a quality curriculum that meets a certain regional or national standard. Why? Because many things depend on you attending an accredited online college, including financial aid eligibility and certification/licensing requirements. It’s also easier to transfer college credits from one institution to another if you completed them at an accredited online college in Kansas or elsewhere in the country.
Colleges and universities in Kansas should be accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. But that’s only on an institutional level. Degrees such as nursing, engineering, or business have their own individual accrediting bodies that you should look for. For more information, please check out our accreditation guide.
The Cost of Online College in Kansas
On paper, college seems pretty straightforward, but the cost can be a big stumbling block for potential students. The Kansas Board of Regents reports that resident undergraduate students pay anywhere from $2,722 to $5,584 per semester at the six state universities. Though attending a local community college would be half that cost, it’s still a daunting price tag for many students to face.
Luckily, online programs often charge students the resident tuition rate, no matter where they live, which can be beneficial for students outside of the state. Even if you live in Kansas, taking online courses helps you cut costs by allowing you to study from home. This way, you won’t have to pay for transportation, on-campus housing, on-campus food, and even some of your course materials that could be available online. Below we’ve researched several online colleges in Kansas to show you the difference in tuition should you choose to attend online rather than on campus.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kansas | $9,130.80/year | $21,568/year | $9,552-$11,640/year | $9,552-$11,640/year |
| Kansas State University | $8,550.08/year | $21,406.88/year | $9,646/year | $9,646/year |
| Ottawa University | $12,276/year | $12,276/year | $12,276/year | $12,276/year |
| Wichita State University | $5,997/year | $13,489/year | $5,997/year | $5,997/year |
| Southwestern College | $7,800/year | $7,800/year | $7,800/year | $7,800/year |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for Attending College Online in Kansas
Paying for college can be one of the biggest challenges for students. Every Kansas university and college has different tuition rates, fees, and housing costs. Fortunately, there are a lot of financial aid opportunities on the local, school, state, and federal levels.
Local communities offer scholarships that typically you apply for online by submitting an essay. Check out the Kansas Board of Regents website for state-wide scholarships and information about the Kansas Learning Quest Savings program. On the university level, many schools offer scholarships based on GPA and various talents such as sports or music. There are grants and work-study programs at the state and federal levels if you’re looking into graduate school.
On the federal level, completing the FAFSA gives you access to the most common grant programs for university students, so students of every background should apply for it. While student loans are available, especially if you don’t qualify for a grant through FAFSA, look at those only as a last resort. Student loans have to be repaid and can have high interest rates. Many students find themselves still paying off their student loans decades after graduation. Find more information in our financial aid guide.
Top Careers for Kansas College Grads
Choosing a degree or career can be daunting, and the last thing you want to do is second-guess your decisions. Knowing which career fields are in the highest demand may help you. We’ve included a table below to show you some of the fastest-growing jobs in Kansas; see if they pique your interest.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Statisticians | 51.0% | $105,850 |
| Nurse Practitioners | 45.1% | $108,710 |
| Information Security Analysts | 38.7% | $91,940 |
| Logisticians | 37.3% | $57,870 |
| Data Scientists and Math Science Professionals | 35.3% | N/A |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 29.7% | $102,230 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 28.4% | $83,430 |
| Physician Assistants | 27.8% | $111,140 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 27.3% | $58,650 |
| Software Developers and Software QA Analysts/Testers | 25.4% | $88,830 |
Online College Resources for Kansas Students
Advice From Seniors to Freshmen
This article is from the University of Kansas, which collected advice from senior students to freshmen students. It consists of advice and tips seniors wish they had known when they started college to help the freshmen be more successful.
Benefits of Earning a Degree Online
This article from Central Christian College of Kansas covers four different topics students should consider when deciding between an on-campus and online degree. The verdict? Online colleges in Kansas have more benefits than you think.
Students in the 2023 and 2024 graduation classes who attend the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools can use GEAR UP student resources including tutoring, virtual campus tours, ACT prep, and career exploration, all free!
Kansas State University has put together a list of tips for new students at in-person and online colleges in Kansas who are seeking academic success. These include study tips, time management tips, general tips, and advice relating to grades, exams, and stress.
This mental health resource is tailored specifically toward college students. It offers 24/7 mental health support and lists additional counseling resources for students that are school-dependent. Such resources can help students with issues related to adjusting to college and other psychological, interpersonal, and family problems.