
Cowley County Community College, located in Arkansas City, Kansas, was founded in 1922 and was originally known as Arkansas City Junior College. The school originally operated out of a high school basement, receiving the nickname “Basement University”, receiving its own campus in 1952. The school went through multiple name revisions in the 1960's to meet changing state standards regarding two year institutions and was also met with a growth in enrollment and program offerings. Currently the school operates additional facilities in Wichita, Mulvane, Winfield and Wellington. The school is dedicated to providing a quality education for residents of its service area and is fully accredited by the North Central Association's Higher Learning Commission. The school is also known as Cowley College
Academics
Cowley County Community College offers a variety of programs that allow students to choose their path primarily through academic transfer and career training opportunities. Academic transfer is accomplished through the completion of a curriculum that mirrors the first two years of a four year education. Upon completion the student will apply to a four year institution to continue their education, eventually earning a bachelor's degree. Cowley College has agreements in place with multiple schools to help ease transfer requirements, and it is recommended that any students wishing to transfer, be it to a state school or private institution, should meet with a counselor to prepare a curriculum.
Career training programs offer students education and skill development in a high demand field with the purpose of assisting the student seek long term employment upon completion. Programs will typically have a practical component taught by experienced professionals that prepare students for real world use of skills and abilities. Programs take between one and two years to complete, resulting in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency and dedication to potential employers.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
Cowley County Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows students to enroll if they meet the minimum requirements, complete an application, and pay all fees. Students are also asked to provide transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are also encouraged to participate in new student orientation and to meet with a counselor in order to familiarize themselves with the campus and plan their academic future.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information provided within which will be used by the financial aid office to determine need and aid program eligibility when constructing a students aid packet. Aid must be applied for prior to each academic year and should be submitted prior to posted dates to ensure the information is available prior to the start of the school year.
Estimated Costs & Financial Aid
The average "out of pocket" cost of attendance, after any grants and scholarships are considered, is around $8,900. To calculate a more personalized cost visit the net price calculator. The figures listed below are for informational purposes only and do not represent current or future tuition, fees, and expenses.
Tuition & Fees Information
- Tuition estimates per year:
- State Residents: $1,700-$2,000
- Out-of-State: $3,500-$4,166
- Charges for part-time students are:
- State Residents: $55-$66 per credit unit
- Nonresidents: $110-$130 per credit unit
Financial Aid Details
The table below breaks down the types of financial aid, the percent of students receiving aid, and average amount of aid per student per year.
Percent of Students | Average Amount | |
---|---|---|
Any Financial Aid | 90% | - |
Receiving Grants & Scholarships | 90% | $3,851 |
Receiving Student Loans | 40% | $3,488 |
Admissions, Academics, & Student Services
Student Services
To help support students, Cowley County Community College may provide services to students including:
- Online course work available
- Remedial instructional courses
- Career path counseling
- Student employment
- Helping students find work after graduation
Graduation & Transfer Rates
Community colleges often offer both career training programs and options for students to transfer-out to four year institutions, which is why the table below is so important, it compares Cowley College against community colleges in Kansas.
Cowley College | Cowley County | Kansas | |
---|---|---|---|
Graduation Rate | 28.7% | - | 33.7% |
Transfer-out Rate | 26.5% | - | 23.5% |
Programs Offered
The program list below is organized by areas of study. The programs that have a link will direct you to the program's profile page where you can learn more about education requirements and career pathways.

Get more information about the programs offered by Cowley County Community College by clicking the request information to the right.
(C) Certificate or Award | (A) Associate's | (B) Bachelor's | (M) Master's Degree | (D) Doctorate (PhD,...)
Business and Marketing Studies
Computer and Information Sciences
- Computer and Information Systems Security
Engineering Technology
- Electromechanical Technology (A, C)
Family and Consumer Sciences
- Child Care (A)
Health and Clinical Professions
Legal Professions and Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Liberal Arts (A)
Mechanic and Repair Technology
- Auto Mechanic (A, C)
Personal and Culinary Services
- Cosmetology (A, C)
Precision Production
Science Technology
- Industrial Radiologic Technology (A)
Security and Protective Services
- Police Science (A, C)