Best Community Colleges in Kansas: Admission Requirements, Transfer Options, and Online Degrees

Seward College is a public institution in Liberal, Kansas that was established in 1967. It currently has a total enrolment of around 3,000 school students pursuing degrees and certificates in 45 programs. Its most popular programs of study include nursing, truck driving, and cosmetology.

Seward County Community College Overview

• Tuition: $114/credit hour (in district); $117/credit hour (out of district); $139/credit hour (border state); $154/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 1,580
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 86%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Seward County Community College Programs

• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. This two-year program offers students the core knowledge and clinical skills they’ll need to thrive in the nursing field. There is a focus on learning how to provide holistic care for individuals based on their diagnosis. Students must complete a minimum of 68 credit hours to graduate and qualify for licensing exams.
• Associate of Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy. Students in this associate degree program become specialized healthcare practitioners who provide care for patients who have cardiopulmonary system deficiencies and abnormalities. Students must finish a minimum of 69 credit hours to graduate.
• Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology. This program is designed to train surgical technologists to conduct safe and effective surgical procedures under medical supervision. Students must complete 66 credit hours before they qualify for the National Surgical Technologist examination. 
• Associate of Applied Science in Diesel Technology. If you’re looking for affordable and comprehensive training in the operation, maintenance, and repair of medium and heavy-duty diesel vehicles, this program could be a great fit for you. This curriculum is based on the ASE Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation and ensures students will be ready for employment after they graduate. Students must complete a total of 60 credit hours to earn this two-year degree.
• Associate of Science in Engineering (Pre). This program prepares students to pursue a variety of career paths in the engineering field. Students gain the necessary knowledge in science, mathematics, and communications to have success in their career trajectories. Students can earn this degree after completing at least 60 credit hours.

Cloud County Community College is a public college in Concordia, Kansas that was founded in 1965. The institution currently has over 3,400 undergraduate students enrolled in more than 30 academic areas. Some of this school’s most popular majors include liberal arts and sciences, mechanic and repair technologies, and nursing.  

Cloud County Community College Overview

• Tuition: $71/credit hour (in district); $78/credit hour (out of district); $84/credit hour (out of state 
• Student Population: 1,589 
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 89%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Cloud County Community College Programs

• Associate of Arts. This program offers a broad liberal arts education with a focus on history, mathematics, literature, psychology, and life sciences. Students must complete at least 62 credit hours before they qualify for graduation. Upon completion of this degree students can pursue careers in fields like graphic design, event coordination, and music. 
• Associate of Science in Mathematics. There are at least 62 hours of study required to graduate with this associate degree. It provides training that will prepare students to address today's technological challenges. Graduates can work in fields like engineering and data analysis, among others. 
• Associate of General Study in Business. This is a career program that allows graduates to enter the workforce. It combines a general education core with business courses like accounting, management, and ethics and human relations. Students have 62 program hours to complete before they can graduate.
• Associate of Science in Nursing. This is a pre-professional program designed to prepare students to join professional schools. Over the course of the 62 required hours of study, students learn the skills necessary to work in supporting roles in the health industry. Graduates can continue their pursuit of careers in the health sector by continuing their education, or they can enter the workforce immediately.
• Associate of General Studies in Education. This degree requires courses in education with focus areas including the arts, communications, and science among others. Students complete 62 program hours of study after which they can become elementary school, high school, or college teachers.

Hutchinson College is a public institution located in Hutchinson, Kansas. It was founded in 1928 as the Hutchinson Junior College and was renamed several times before acquiring its current name in 1993. It has a total enrollment of 5,774 students distributed across over 70 different academic programs. Its most popular majors include nursing, liberal arts and humanities, and business. 

Hutchinson Community College Overview

• Tuition: $118/credit hour (in district); $149/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 4,907
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 92%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Hutchinson Community College Programs

• Advanced EMT - CCOMP. This is a short program for students who want to provide care to patients in pre-hospital settings at the advanced life support level. It’s composed of two courses: advanced EMT I which is 9 credits, and Advanced EMT II which is 6 credits. Career paths include EMT and paramedic.
• Associate of Science in Nursing transfer program. This program is designed for students who are interested in earning a bachelor’s degree. It allows them to acquire credits that will fulfill many of the general education requirements of most bachelor’s programs. Students must complete a minimum of 60 credit hours including 15 credits of electives to get this Associate of Science. 
• Associate of Fine Arts in Liberal Studies. If you’re looking to save money on a fine arts bachelor’s degree, this program could be a good way to begin your educational journey. You’ll not only get a well-rounded foundation in liberal arts, but you’ll also be able to transfer into many fine arts university programs. This is a minimum 60-credit degree.
• Home Health Aide - CCOMP. Students in this program learn to offer dressing, bathing, toileting, and routine motion exercise services for the elderly. The program consists of only one course, home health aide, which is just two credit hours.
• Certificate in Fire Science. This certificate is a great place to start if you want to become a firefighter. Students receive training that will qualify them for entry-level firefighting jobs. Since there are only 18.5 credits required for the completion of this certificate, you will be able to make progress in your career very quickly.

Cowley College is a public institution in Arkansas City, Kansas that was founded in 1922 as a junior college. By 2019, the educational institution had a total enrollment of over 2,600 students pursuing degrees and certificates in 14 fields. Its most popular programs include liberal arts and sciences, humanities, and health. 

Cowley County Community College Overview

• Tuition: $130/credit hour (in district); $140/credit hour (out of district); $190/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 2,475
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 94%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Cowley County Community College Programs

• Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts - Transfer Pathway. This program offers students the chance to experience a variety of course options and discover their career interests. It gives a broad foundation in the arts and humanities. Students are required to finish at least the minimum 62 credit hours.
• Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice - Transfer Pathway. Though this is a “transfer pathway”, meaning that it can be used to transfer to a four-year program at another college or university, it can also be used to pursue work in law enforcement directly after graduation. Students are required to complete at least 62 credit hours, and for those that do wish to use this degree to pursue further education, keep in mind that additional credits might be necessary. 
• Associate of General Studies in Technical Studies. This program is designed to provide students the opportunity to develop technical skills necessary in various sectors. Requirements for successful completion of this degree include 32 technical credits, 30 general credits, and 600 clock hours to be completed at an accredited vocational technical school. 
• Medical Coding (Vocational Certificate B) Pathway. If you want a tech career in the medical field, this program can help you achieve your goal. This certificate gives students necessary knowledge and skills to work as entry-level medical coders. It also prepares students for the AHIMA, CCA, and CPC exams. To earn this certification students must take at least 35 credit hours.
• Software, Security, and Development (Vocational Certificate B) Pathway. This program offers foundational training in software development and cyber security principles. Students finish a minimum of 19 credit hours of technical training to graduate, after which they can transfer to college or university. 

GCCC is a public institution in Garden City, Kansas that was established in 1919 to provide post-secondary education to area residents. The institution, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, currently has an enrollment of over 1,000 students pursuing certificates and degrees in 45 programs of study. Some of its most popular programs include liberal arts and humanities, nursing, and truck, bus, and commercial vehicle operation.

Garden City Community College Overview

• Tuition: $116/credit hour (in district); $118/credit hour (out of district); $132/credit hour (border state); $137/credit hour (out of state) 
• Student Population: 1,868
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 91%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A 

Best Garden City Community College Programs

• Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences. This is an interdisciplinary program that provides an overview of arts, social sciences, math, and the humanities. Students are able to tailor their courses to their areas of interest. This degree can be earned after completion of the minimum required 60 credit hours.
• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. This program prepares students to work in various health care settings as care providers, managers, or nurses. Students must finish at least 64 credit hours to graduate, after which they will be eligible to take the National Council of State Boards Nursing Exam.
• Associate in Applied Science in Welding. Based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research standards, this program meets the requirements for the American Welding Society Exam. Students are required to complete the minimum 64 credit hours to graduate and seek licensure.
• Certificate in Agribusiness. If you already have some experience in the field but you’re looking to further your education or become more successful in your agricultural endeavors, this certification might be for you. There are only 17 required credit hours, so this could be a quick and affordable option to get ahead.
• Associate in Applied Science - Fire Science Technology. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in fire service in either the private or public sector. Students learn fire prevention and control techniques and emergency medical and rescue procedures. The minimum credit hours required to graduate is 68.

NCCC is a public institution that was established in 1936 as the Chanute Junior College and later renamed Neosho County Community College in 1965. The institution currently has a total enrollment of 1968 with a student-faculty ratio of 11-to-1. Its most popular majors include nursing, liberal arts, and humanities. Neosho College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Neosho County Community College Overview

• Tuition: $123/credit hour (in district); $138/credit hour (out of district); $160/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 1,727
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 96%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Neosho County Community College Programs

• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing.  Students studying nursing at Neosho are required to complete 64 credit hours within a period of two and a half years. Typically, students will be ready to take the NCLEX-PN exam after three semesters. If they pass, they will become Licensed Practical Nurses and can continue their studies in preparation for the RN exam. 
• Associate of Applied Science in Welding. The welding program prepares students to work in the industry using welding and cutting processes. It focuses on teaching the skills necessary to work with modern equipment. Students are required to take at least 64 credit hours after which they can pursue careers in welding, cutting, and brazing.
• Associate of Applied Science in Accounting. Conceptual and practical knowledge of financial, managerial, and tax accounting and auditing will be gained by students in this program. There are 64 program credits required for graduation. Graduates are eligible for employment as bookkeepers, treasurers, or accounting clerks as well as in other positions.
• Associate of Science in Elementary and Secondary Education. This program provides the first two years of general education courses that most universities offer in comparable programs. Students are required to complete 64 to 68 credit hours within two years to graduate, after which they can apply to a teacher education program at a university.
• Certified Nurse Aide. This course teaches students about the aging process and related conditions. Students learn how to assist geriatric residents and how to help maintain the well-being of these patients. This course includes 45 hours of theory, 20 hours of lab work, and 25 hours of supervised clinical experience.

KCKCC is a public institution in Wyandotte County Kansas that was established in 1923 as part of the Public School System of Kansas City. The college, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, had a total enrollment of over 5,000 students as of fall 2021. It offers degrees and certificates in 14 different fields.

Kansas City Kansas Community College Overview

• Tuition: $104/credit hour (in district); $110/credit hour (out of district); $217/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 5,148
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 74%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Kansas City Kansas Community College Programs

• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, this is a competitive program that prepares students to become RNs. There is a strong emphasis on client need, nursing intervention, and outcome classification. Students must complete a minimum of 68 credit hours to graduate.
• Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration. This associate degree helps students prepare for immediate employment in a variety of work settings or for transfer to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree program. The total amount of credit hours necessary for graduation is 60. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
• Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences. To be considered for this degree, candidates must create their own program of study from relevant courses offered at the college. The program is primarily designed to prepare students to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs. There is a minimum requirement of 60 credit hours and students must also maintain at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Certificate in Automation Engineering. This program is designed to teach students the basic engineering principles and technical skills necessary to help more senior engineers develop, modify, and install automated systems. Students must finish the minimum 49 credit hours to receive this certification. 
• Certificate in Emergency Medical Services. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, firefighting, or any other field that could require an emergency medical response, this certificate program could be a great fit for you. It teaches foundational skills in life support, teamwork, and communication. There are only 16 required credit hours. 

Established in 1935, Dodge City Community College is a public institution in Dodge City, Kansas. The institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer certificates and associate degrees in 29 different fields. Its most popular programs include liberal arts and sciences, humanities, and business. It currently has a total enrollment of over 1,000 students and a student-staff ratio of 12 to 1.

Dodge City Community College Overview

• Tuition: $98/credit hour (in district); $136/credit hour (out of district); $148/credit hour (out of state) 
• Student Population: 1,459
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 90%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.0

Best Dodge City Community College Programs

• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Students can acquire their Associate of Applied Science of Nursing degree after completion of the 60 required credit hours. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and gives students the basic knowledge and clinical skills to succeed in the nursing field.
• Associate of Arts in Accounting - Business Transfer Program. This program offers students the equivalent of two years of a bachelor’s degree program in accounting, enabling an easy transfer to a four-year school. Students can earn a degree after completion of the minimum required 60 credit hours.
• Associate of Applied Science in Building Construction Technology. With the completion of at least 63 credit hours, students can earn this associate degree. It will give them a comprehensive understanding of building construction technology and prepare them for employment in the construction industry. Classes are designed so as not to interrupt careers, making this a convenient option. 
• Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. This program is for students who want to pursue a career in the early childhood education field. Courses prepare students for employment in educational settings. Students must finish the minimum 62 credit hours to earn a degree.
• Certificate in Cosmetology. This certificate program gives students the skills they need to become cosmetologists licensed by the State Board of Cosmetology. Students must complete the minimum 44 credit hours to earn this certificate, after which they can continue studies towards an Associate of Applied Science degree.

JCCC is a public institution in Overland Park Kansas that was established in 1969. The institution currently enrolls close to 17,000 students in over 40 academic programs, development courses, and basic education classes. Its most popular courses are in the arts, business, and health.

Johnson County Community College Overview

• Tuition: $97/credit hour (in district); $112/credit hour (out of district); $223/credit hour (out of state)
• Student Population: 13,891
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 74%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
• Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Johnson County Community College Programs

• Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts. This program offers a liberal arts education with a focus on natural and social sciences and history. All earned credits are transferable to  four-year colleges and universities. To graduate, students must complete a minimum of 60 program hours, including 30 hours of general education and 30 hours of electives.
• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. This two-year program is accredited by the Kansas State Board of Nursing. It provides training in various nursing specialization areas and healthcare subjects, such as pharmacology. Students must finish at least 66 program hours to graduate.
• Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration. With an array of classes in topics like marketing, economics, and business law, this program will prepare students for entry-level work in the business field. There is a focus on the development of decision-making skills and business management knowledge. To graduate, students will need 64 credit hours.
• Practical Nursing Certificate. This program is designed to provide theoretical and clinical laboratory study in nursing that will allow students to help other health care providers. Students are required to complete at least 42 program hours. Upon graduation, they will be able take the Practical Nursing Licensing exam.
• Railroad Conductor Certificate. This certificate program prepares students to be railroad conductors for over 500 companies in the United States railroad industry. Students are required to complete 18 program hours to earn this certification.

Labette Community College is a public institution in Parsons Kansas. Established in the fall of 1923, it’s now accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, and the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Its current total student enrollment is approximately 1464. Its most popular programs include liberal arts and humanities, nursing, and licensed practical nurse training.

Labette Community College Overview

• Tuition: $109/credit hour (in state); $130/credit hour (Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma residents); $134/credit hour (out of state) 
• Student Population: 1,464
• Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 95%
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1 
• Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.0 

Best Labette Community College Programs

• Associate of Arts. Through studio-based training in the fundamentals of drawing, painting, ceramics, and other artistic practices, students will hone their practical skills. There is a 60 credit hour requirement which includes various general education requirements. Graduates can pursue a bachelor's degree or a career in teaching or in another art-related sector.
• Associate of General Studies. This program gives students the ability to pursue their own interests and design their own programs of study. The minimum number of credits required for graduation is 60. These credits can also potentially be used to pursue further education in a bachelor’s degree program. 
• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. This program is a “bi-level” program designed for students who either want to become Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses. The course requires 66 credits for completion. Students who progress to the second part of the program can opt to take the NCLEX-RN exam and gain licensure as RNs.
• Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistance. This is a great training program if you want to become a physical therapist assistant or if you want to eventually become a physical therapist. Students learn the components of patient care and treatment and are able to collaborate with PTs. They must complete the minimum 74 credits required for graduation, then they are able to take the national exam. 
• Associate of Applied Science in Radiography. This 78-credit-hour associate degree prepares students to work in radiography roles in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, or other clinical settings. Upon completion, students can also continue to study in a variety of areas of study including sonography and mammography.

A nurse practitioner performs many of the functions of a licensed physician under supervision. They provide care, conduct check-ups, order lab tests, treat illnesses, and prescribe medication. To become a nurse practitioner you usually must complete a master’s degree program. 

If you start with an associate degree from one of the many community colleges in Kansas, you’ll be able to transfer your credits to a bachelor's degree program and eventually complete the necessary graduate degree. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $108,710
• Employment in Kansas: 2,630
• Overall Job Growth: 45%
• Best Kansas Community College Program: Associate of Science in Nursing 

A registered nurse provides and coordinates patient care and educates the public about various health conditions. These health care professionals work in hospitals, homes, clinics, and in various other settings. Many of the best community colleges in Kansas offer nursing programs that prepare successful candidates for licensing exams. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $66,560
• Employment in Kansas: 28,980
• Overall Job Growth: 9%
• Best Kansas Community College Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Nursing assistants offer basic care for patients. To become a nursing assistant, you must complete an accredited educational program and pass the licensing exam. Most Kansas community colleges offer associate degrees and certificates for aspiring nursing assistants.

• Average Salary in Kansas: $29,730
• Employment in Kansas: 21,750
• Overall Job Growth: 8%
• Best Kansas Community College Program: Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

These professionals are responsible for selling goods to businesses, government agencies, and other entities. Their income depends on their sales. A business associate degree from a Kansas community college is sufficient for many sales representative positions.

• Average Salary in Kansas: $72,090
• Employment in Kansas: 12,790
• Overall Job Growth: 5%
• Best Kansas Community College Program: Associate of Science in Business Administration 

These professionals install and repair electrical equipment in homes, offices, and in industrial settings. They also inspect and test equipment, clean and replace components, and keep record of repairs. To become an electrical installer and repairer, you need at least a high school education. Most specializations require advanced education and apprenticeship, which is available at most community colleges in Kansas. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $62,490
• Employment in Kansas: 160
• Overall Job Growth: 2%
• Best Kansas Community College Program: Associate of Science in General Studies