Overview of Kansas Colleges & Schools
The state of Kansas, located in the center of the United States, is home to a moderate number of public and private post-secondary institutions. These schools provide the state and its residents educational and research opportunities. In addition to four year institutions, the state operates 19 community colleges located throughout the state to provide coverage and support for the various counties and communities. Colleges and universities tend to be located in the larger urban centers in the state, though private institutions may be found at more remote locations. The state’s capital is Topeka, which is also the fourth largest city behind Wichita, Overland Park and Kansas City.
There are six public college and universities operating in the state, each independent of the other in administration though all receiving public funding.Public institutions tend to offer a broad number of programs and generally cost less than their private school counterparts. As a result enrollment tends to be higher with student to teacher ratios following suit. Of the six schools, Kansas State University, located in Manhattan, is the oldest, having been founded in 1863. Currently the school serves over 23,000 students per year and branch campuses in Salina and Olathe.
Public four year institutions in Kansas:
- Emporia State University (Emporia)
- Fort Hays State University (Hays)
- Pittsburg State University (Pittsburg)
- Wichita State University (Wichita)
- University of Kansas (Lawrence)
Private institutions generally smaller than their public university counterparts, offering a more limited selection of programs, or a more specialized curriculum. Such schools tend have smaller class sizes and excellent student to teacher ratios, as well as more academic opportunities such as study abroad programs and internships, though they also tend to cost more as a result. Private schools may also have Christian denominational foundations which apply Christian principles to modern liberal arts educations.
Private institutions in Kansas include:
- Baker University (Baldwin City)
- Friends University (Wichita)
- Kansas Wesleyan University (Salina)
- McPherson College (McPherson)
- University of Saint Mary (Leavenworth)
In addition to four year institutions and community colleges, the state is also home to vocational and career schools which offer short program educations in high demand fields. These schools provide the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the workforce as professionals immediately after completion. Such schools should be properly reviewed prior to applying, ensuring accreditation and job placement programs are effective. These schools also tend to be more expensive than equivalent programs at community colleges.
The most populous city in Kansas is Wichita, followed by Overland Park, Kansas City, and Olathe. While the most populous county in Kansas is Johnson County with Sedgwick County close behind. If you are interested in visiting the state of Kansas, consider visiting their state page or the state chapter of the Chamber of Commerce.
College Degree Breakdown for the State of Kansas
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, NCES, O*NET Online| Doctoral or professional degree | 30,910 | 2.2 |
| Master's degree | 20,810 | 1.5 |
| Bachelor's degree | 273,150 | 19.9 |
| Associate's degree | 28,720 | 2.1 |
| Postsecondary nondegree award | 92,610 | 6.7 |
| Some college, no degree | 43,930 | 3.2 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 518,190 | 37.7 |
| No formal educational credential | 365,860 | 26.6 |
Public Universities & Colleges
There are eight public 4-year state universities and colleges in Kansas. These four-year institutions predominantly offer bachelor's or higher level programs and some may even include research facilities. See a state-wide list of the state universities and colleges in Kansas.
Private Universities & Colleges
In Kansas there are twenty-four accredited private four-year colleges. Similar to public schools, private colleges and universities offer bachelor's or higher level programs and research opportunities, although they usually have smaller classes and higher tuition. Compare admission requirements and tuition details for private colleges in Kansas.
Community Colleges
Community colleges are public institutions that offer low cost, high quality education for residents throughout the state. These schools offer 2-year programs that grant associate degrees or offer training courses in specialized trades. Kansas" Community colleges also are the number one transfer-out programs available for four-year colleges and universities. Learn more and compare community colleges in Kansas.
Bible & Christian Colleges
Bible and Christian colleges generally provide specialized undergraduate education with a focus on religious or biblical study. There are approximately twenty such colleges in Kansas located throughout the state. See a full list of Christian colleges in Kansas along with program and tuition information.
Browse Schools by Career in Kansas
Follow the links below to get information on accredited schools in our database that offer programs or degrees.
Medicine & Healthcare
- Veterinary Schools in Kansas (D.V.M.) (1 Schools)
- Nursing Schools in Kansas (BSN, RN, LPN, ...) (63 Schools)
Law & Criminal Justice
- Law Schools in Kansas (J.D.) (2 Schools)