Kansas Universities Ranked: The Best Colleges and Universities in Kansas

Kansas State University is a public institution and is one of the first land-grant universities. It has nine colleges on its three campuses in Manhattan, Salina, and Oathe, including an Aerospace and Technology Campus. Campus life is a big part of K-State culture, with NCAA DI athletics teams and hundreds of student organizations to choose from.

Kansas State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Manhattan, Salina, and Oathe
• Student Population: 20,854
• Acceptance Rate: 94%
• Graduation Rate: 68%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,608
• US News National Ranking: #162
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #801-1000

Best Kansas State University Programs

• BS in Animal Sciences and Industry. This 126-credit program is suitable for those hoping to become veterinarians or want to work in animal agriculture. Students can choose from six concentrations, including animal products, biotechnology, business, communications, production and management, and a pre-veterinary track. 
• BS in Mechanical Engineering. Graduates from this program are prepared for engineering jobs in a wide range of industries. Specializations include aerospace, automotive, automatic controls, machine design, and energy sustainability. Exceptional students can enroll in a BS/MBA dual degree program.
• BS in Cyber Security. This program focuses on system administration, computer science, and system analysis, with training in topics like cryptography, security, and networking. Graduates are prepared to detect and fight cyber threats in a variety of industries, and the program boasts a 97 percent job-placement rate.
• BS in Computer Science. Students in this program can choose to specialize in cyber security or entrepreneurship. The program emphasizes internships to prepare undergraduate students for the workforce. It is also possible to get an MBA alongside this degree with the dual degree option. 
• BS in Biomedical Engineering. This program has two main concentrations, which include sensors and devices and computation. Graduates of this program go on to become biomedical engineers and data scientists. They are also well prepared to continue on to medical school or PhD programs.

University of Kansas was founded in 1865 as a public research university. The public institution is the largest in the entire state, with the biggest student body and campuses in different cities, such as Overland Park, Lawrence, Wichita, Salina, and Kansas City. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

University of Kansas University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Lawrence, Wichita, Overland Park, Salina, and Kansas City
• Student Population: 26,744
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $56,386
• US News National Ranking: #122
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #401-500

Best University of Kansas University Programs

• BS in Business: Business Analytics. This program prepares students for a career in business analytics. Students learn about standard business concepts, like data management systems, business communications, and statistics. Advanced topics such as predictive analysis and data mining are also covered.
• MS in Public Health. This 42-credit master’s degree program offers concentrations in public health practice and epidemiology. Students can study in Lawrence or Kansas City, full-time or part-time. The curriculum prepares students to interpret data analysis reports for public health research and advocate for public health policies.
• BS in Behavioral Neuroscience. Behavioral neuroscience is a branch of psychology focused on the biological bases of behavior. The coursework includes science and math core courses, psychology electives like neurolinguistics and developmental psychopathology, and a capstone research project.
• BS in Journalism and Mass Communications. This journalism degree includes core courses in writing, storytelling, ethics, and media law. Students can choose concentrations in media arts and production and multimedia communication, and they learn skills like photography, reporting, and digital tools. Journalism graduates can work for startups, magazines, non-profits, sports organizations, and websites. 
• BS in Computer Science. Students in this program study programming, software engineering, and data structures. They participate in projects, in-depth discussions, and other problem-solving activities since class sizes are small. Before graduating, students complete labs that test their knowledge in real-life scenarios.

Baker University is a private school with campuses in Baldwin City and Topek. In addition to online options, it has four main schools, the biggest of which is the College of Arts and Sciences which offers over 40 liberal arts and science degree programs. With a small student population, Baker holds small class sizes and a 10-to-one student-to-faculty ratio. 

Baker University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Baldwin City and Topeka
• Student Population: 2,279
• Acceptance Rate: 93%
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $56,804
• US News National Ranking: #263
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Best Baker University Programs

• BS in Nursing. This nursing program is one of the most prestigious programs offered by Baker University. It is accredited by the CCNE, and graduates have a high pass rate for the NCLEX nursing examination. 95 percent of graduates from this program pass their exam and are working as nurses within three months. 
• BS in Biochemistry. This program prepares students for careers in research and medical fields, and graduates from Baker get accepted to medical school at twice the national average rate. The coursework includes cell and molecular biology, genetics, physical chemistry, and organic chemistry.
• BS in Sociology. This program is ideal for students who want to work in non-profits or as social workers. Students can choose between concentrations in criminology, welfare and social wellbeing, and social justice. Coursework includes studies of gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, and religion, ritual, and belief.
• BS in Criminal Justice. This bachelor’s program prepares students for law school or grad school for criminal justice. The coursework includes criminology, criminal investigation, criminal justice research, and ethics. The program is flexible, allowing working professionals to test out of core courses based on their real-world knowledge.
• BS in Computer Science. Students in this program learn the skills they need to work in tech fields. Some of the courses in the program include programming and database development. Students also participate in internships and must complete capstone projects in computer application design in order to graduate.

Pittsburg State University was known as the Auxiliary Manual Training Normal School when it was established in 1903. The public institution now has four main colleges, which are the College of Education, the College of Arts and Science, the College of Technology, and the College of Business.

Pittsburg State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Pittsburg
• Student Population: 6,398
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• Graduation Rate: 52%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $45,937
• US News National Ranking: #88
• Times Higher Education Ranking: >#800

Best Pittsburg State University Programs

• Master of Professional Accountancy. Most students complete this 33-credit program in two semesters. It’s a great preparatory program for the CPA examination. Coursework includes advanced taxation, financial accounting, quantitative business analysis, and marketing strategy.
• BS in Engineering Technology. This ABET-accredited program prepares students to work as project managers, site managers, or site engineers. It’s focused on construction and includes coursework on materials, structures, foundations, soils, and temporary structures. It is a hands-on program that includes internships.
• BS in Nursing. This program is for students who want to pursue careers in nursing. Students can start from scratch in the bachelor’s program or take an accelerated track if they already have a nursing license. The Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing offers research opportunities as well as hands-on learning experiences. 
• MS in Information Technology. Students who choose the IT focus in the technology master’s program study concepts like programming languages and database management. The 33-credit curriculum includes training in scientific, technical, supervisory, and managerial areas for students who want to pursue careers in IT.
• BS in Social Work. This degree offers four minors that students can choose from, including criminology, public health, youth and adolescence, and psychology. Graduates from this program can complete their MSW in one year.

Washburn University is a small university in Kansas’ capital city. The public institution offers professional programs, such as business and law, in both undergraduate and graduate programs. Washburn students have organized over 100 clubs on campus, and students can participate in intercollegiate athletics and arts programs.

Washburn University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Topeka
• Student Population: 5,880
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 51%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $45,260
• US News National Ranking: Ex. #299-391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: >#800

Best Washburn University Programs

• BS in Data Science. This data science program can be completed in four years. If you want to become a data scientist, this program will give you the theoretical foundation as well as the technical skills needed in the workforce. Students can get real-life experience before graduating through internships.
• BS in Forensic Biology. This interdisciplinary program incorporates genetics, biology, criminal justice, and chemistry. Coursework includes microbiology, physics, forensic chemistry, and advanced forensic investigation.
• BS in Nursing. This program can be completed in four years and prepares students for nursing careers. After the program, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX licensing exam. Nursing coursework includes hands-on practice using high-tech mannequins.
• BS in Computer Information Science. This four-year degree is for people who want to pursue a graduate program or work in a computer field like programming, networking, database administration, web development, or quality assurance. It includes courses like mathematics, computer science, and statistics. 
• Master of Accountancy. This master’s degree program is equally suitable for full-time students and working professionals. Courses are offered online and on-campus, and evening classes accommodate full-time work schedules. Semester-long internship programs are offered to students in this program.

Emporia State University is a small public institution on a rural campus. It offers both online and in-person programs at all degree levels. You can study in one of ESU’s four schools, the College of Liberal Arts and Science, the School of Business, the School of Library and Information Science, or the Teacher’s College.

Emporia State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Emporia
• Student Population: 5,828 
• Acceptance Rate: 86%
• Graduation Rate: 50%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $40,772
• US News National Ranking: #82
• Times Higher Education Ranking: #82

Best Emporia State University Programs

• BS in Business - Accounting. This interdisciplinary degree program prepares students to make better business decisions or pursue careers in accounting. Students learn everything they need to pass the CPA examination. This program boasts a 100 percent job placement rate for students within a year of graduating.
• BS in Art Education. This program is ideal for students who want to become art teachers in kindergartens, elementary schools, middle schools, or high schools. Along with basic education classes, students learn painting, photography, sculpture, and digital design.
• BS in Computer Science. This four-year degree offers an introduction to computer science before teaching students hands-on skills to prepare them for tech roles. Graduates work in fields like cyber security, programming, systems analysis, and game development.
• BA in Earth Science. This program offers areas of specialization in geographic information systems, paleontology, and oceanography, among others. Students take part in hands-on fieldwork and research projects. Graduates with this degree can work in fields like transportation, environmental agencies, museums, and energy companies.
• BA in History. If you want to work in public administration, museums, or universities, this is an excellent degree to get. The history curriculum is broad, and students can tailor their electives to suit their personal interests. Some interdisciplinary topics include Kansas and midwest history, Latin American history, and military history.

Fort Hays State University is a public institution and is the third-largest university in Kansas, with over 15,000 enrolled students. It’s located in Hays, a relatively small city with a population of about 21,000. FHSU has a robust student-run media program, Tiger Media Network, which includes writing, live radio, television, and YouTube videos. 

Fort Hays State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Hays
• Student Population: 15,033 
• Acceptance Rate: 91%
• Graduation Rate: 50%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,518
• US News National Ranking: #108
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Best Fort Hays State University Programs

• MFA in Art and Design. This 60-credit program lets students choose concentrations including painting, drawing, graphic design, ceramics, sculpture, and intermedia. Students complete a thesis project and display it in a formal exhibition to complete the MFA. 
• MS in Health and Human Performance. This hands-on master’s program is perfect for those hoping to become gym teachers, athletic coaches, and personal trainers. Students can choose between concentrations in exercise science, sports administration, and sports studies. This program is offered online, as well.
• BS in Computer Science. This program requires the completion of 120 credits. Students in this program develop technical skills needed for careers in tech. Topics covered include mathematics, web development, programming languages, and software engineering.
• BS in Tourism and Hospitality Management. This four-year degree prepares students for careers in the hospitality industry, like venue management and event planning. Courses cover standard topics like mathematics and marketing, along with industry-specific knowledge like foundations of wine and spa management.
• BA in Communication - General Communication Emphasis. This degree gives students a background in interpersonal and public communication. Interpersonal communication classes include intercultural communication and non-verbal cues, while the public communication classes cover things like public relations and news reporting.

Wichita State University is a public institution in Kansas’ largest city. It is a notable research institution and offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs. The school is known for both its NCAA DI athletics program and its music school, with many professional athletes and opera singers counted among its alumni.

Wichita State University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Wichita
• Student Population: 14,999
• Acceptance Rate: 80%
• Graduation Rate: 48%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,524
• US News National Ranking: #299-#391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: >#600

Best Wichita State University Programs

• Master of Accountancy. This program has two concentrations to choose from, including taxation and accounting information systems. It is open to students without an undergraduate degree in accounting. The 30-credit curriculum includes classes on financial accounting, advanced auditing, and tax research.
• BS in Aerospace Engineering. This degree prepares students for careers in the aviation industry. Background courses in science, math, and general engineering create a foundation for advanced classes like aerodynamics, space dynamics, aerospace propulsion, and materials engineering.
• BS in Biochemistry. Students in this program learn biology and chemistry in classroom and lab settings. Graduates of the program work in engineering, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and education. 
• MS in Business Analytics. This master’s degree program is offered by WSU’s Barton School of Business. Students choose between specializations in management and data science. The curriculum covers topics like data visualization, forecasting and analysis, and supply chain analytics. Students complete a business analytics capstone project.
• MEd in Educational Psychology. This customizable Master of Education program offers students the option to study online, hybrid, or in person. Many of those working on this degree are working teachers studying part-time. Students can choose to write a thesis or take an oral examination in lieu of a thesis.

Sterling College was founded in 1887 and is a private evangelical college with a strong focus on religion, offering theological programs, as well as liberal arts, sciences, and performance arts programs. Students can get the on-campus college experience in Sterling or choose an online education option.

Sterling College Overview

• Campus Location(s): Sterling
• Student Population: 678
• Acceptance Rate: 37%
• Graduation Rate: 43%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,497
• US News National Ranking: #43
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Best Sterling College Programs

• BA in Arts and Design. This program is hands-on and includes studio practice. Students are encouraged to enroll in this program regardless of previous art experience. The curriculum focuses on a full spectrum of art practice, from historical tools and techniques to the latest digital methods of creating.
• BS in Business Administration. This program prepares students to work in businesses. They learn appropriate communication, software proficiency, interpersonal skills, and the problem-solving skills that are used in the workplace. Topics covered include accounting and entrepreneurship.
• BA in History. History is a versatile field, with career opportunities in a wide range of fields like business, education, journalism, research, and public service. This program offers a broad selection of electives so you can tailor your degree to the eras that interest you. Sterling also offers licensure for teaching history at the sixth to 12th-grade levels.
• BS in Criminal Justice. This program offers concentrations in pre-law and law enforcement. The coursework covers topics like criminal investigation, crime and mental health, and diversity issues in criminal justice.
• BS in Biology. This program allows students to specialize in general biology, environmental biology, human biology, molecular biology, or pre-physical therapy. Students can also receive their secondary education licensure and become well-prepared for medical school applications after graduation.

Ottawa University is a private school affiliated with the Baptist church. Its small student population is split between the main Ottawa campus, a satellite campus in Surprise, Arizona, and the graduate campus in Kansas City. The university is also affiliated with the Ottawa Tribe of Oklahoma.

Ottawa University Overview

• Campus Location(s): Ottawa
• Student Population: 797
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Graduation Rate: 34%
• Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,355
• US News National Ranking: #50
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Best Ottawa University Programs

• BA in Accounting. This bachelor’s program can be taken online and teaches business skills like problem-solving, financial accounting, system analysis, managerial skills, and communication skills. Students can choose between concentrations in actuarial science,  economics, finance, or leadership and management. 
• MA in Education. This 36-credit master’s program is flexible to accommodate professional educators, with courses offered in-person and online. Students can choose a concentration like elementary education or school counseling and must complete a research project to earn the degree.
• BS in Management Information Systems. This degree helps students develop the programming, networking, storage, and communication skills they’ll need for careers in IT. The curriculum includes topics like systems analysis, basic business concepts and practices, and decision-making. 
• Doctor of Business Administration. This doctoral program consists of 56 credits, normally completed over three years. It is a flexible program that allows students to continue to work while they study. Coursework includes human capital management, strategic implementation methodologies, and informed decision-making.
• MS in Nursing. This is an accelerated master’s program that can be taken in person or online. It’s designed to give registered and licensed nurses the skills they need to enter leadership positions. Students can specialize as nurse educators or nurse leaders.

1. Kansas State University. KSU has a strong focus on student life. Students receive both personal and academic guidance from their advisors. The school has both top varsity athletics teams and intramural sports, and students can enrich themselves through on-campus live performances and art galleries.
2. Pittsburg State University. Students at this public institution can choose between the main campus in Pittsburg or the satellite campus in larger Kansas City. The main campus is home to the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, a huge arts facility with a gallery, a performance hall, a theater, and its own scene shop.
3. Emporia State University. This public institution is home to the first library school in the western US. Aspiring librarians can choose between Emporia’s master’s and PhD programs in library science, or earn a certificate in informatics.

1. Kansas State University. This public institution is one of the best in the state because of its flexible programs. It offers more than 100 online programs, allowing working professionals to enroll and study on their schedules.
2. University of Kansas. University of Kansas has excellent facilities to promote higher learning in some of Kansas’ biggest cities, like Overland Park, Lawrence, Wichita, and Kansas City. Students can also study in undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs online.
3. Wichita State University. WSU is a public institution in the heart of Wichita, Kansas’ largest city. Students here enjoy the benefits of a big city, like vibrant arts and food cultures, along with plenty of hiking trails and opportunities to enjoy nature.

1. Baker University. Baker University is highly ranked among private universities in the state. Part of its strong academic reputation comes from its 10-to-one student-to-faculty ratio, which translates to personal attention from professors.
2. Ottawa University. Ottawa University is highly ranked in the Regional Colleges Midwest list by US News & World Report. As a private school affiliated with the Baptist church, this school will appeal to those considering Christian colleges in their school search.
3. University of Saint Mary. This Catholic university has a small student body with fewer than 2,000 students and a low student-to-faculty ratio. It is also considered one of the best Regional Colleges Midwest by US News & World Report.

1. Kansas State University. K-State’s online education programs benefit from the school’s strong academic reputation and the school’s 50 years of experience with distance learning. It has over 100 programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates.
2. University of Kansas. KU offers online and hybrid programs for graduate, undergraduate, and non-degree courses. Tuition is the same in person and online. Flat rate tuition is available for some degrees.
3. Fort Hays State University. FHSU offers more than 200 online programs for associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate degrees, and certificates. Its tuition is also quite affordable, at around $226 per credit for bachelor’s degree programs. 

1. Kansas State University. KSU is a welcoming school for international students. The university has students from over a hundred countries in the world. Its International Student and Scholar Services program helps international students adjust as quickly as possible. 
2. University of Kansas. This public institution provides international support services for its international students. It has over 1,700 international students from more than 100 countries. Scholarships are also available to international students. 
3. Wichita State University. WSU has students from over 110 countries. It offers scholarships and financial aid for international students. International students enjoy Wichita’s big-city environment.

1. Kansas State University. K-State’s computer science program offers concentrations in entrepreneurship and cyber security to help students customize their degrees. Students can also pursue a BS/MBA dual degree.
2. University of Kansas. This university’s computer science program is a part of its school of engineering. It offers hands-on training to give students some experience before they enter the workforce.
3. Wichita State University. This computer science degree prepares students for both graduate programs and the tech workforce. It uses applied learning methods and research opportunities to make students job-ready.

1. Baker University. Baker University offers a bachelor’s program that prepares students for the state licensing examination to begin their nursing careers. The grad school also offers a master’s program for those interested in teaching or leadership positions.
2. Bethel College. Graduates from Bethel College’s nursing program pass the NCLEX licensing examination at a higher rate than most Kansas graduates. They offer a full bachelor’s program, while some universities only offer pre-nursing programs.
3. Kansas Wesleyan University. This nursing major stands out because of its 100 percent passing rate for the nursing qualification examination, NCLEX. The program takes place on the campus, and students can benefit from the school’s sports and exercise science curriculum, as well.

1. Kansas State University. The Carl Ice College of Engineering offers 13 engineering programs for undergraduate students and eight different master’s and doctoral degrees. Some master’s programs are also available online.
2. University of Kansas. KU offers seven engineering programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Some concentrations include aerospace engineering, bioengineering, and mechanical engineering.
3. Baker University. Baker offers a unique dual degree program called Engineering 3+2. Students in this program graduate with two bachelor’s degrees, one in engineering and one in a field of their choice.

1. Kansas State University. K-State’s online professional MBA is ranked 24th in the country by US News & World Report. This option is great for business professionals who are looking to earn their MBA while working full-time.
2. University of Kansas. KU is one of the best public universities for business majors, ranked in the top 50 in the nation by US News & World Report. Students can study full-time, part-time, in hybrid programs, or fully online. KU also offers a PhD in Business program.
3. Baker University. Baker University offers an accelerated dual-degree program that allows students to get their bachelor’s degree and MBA in five years. 

1. Kansas State University. KSU’s agriculture major is highly ranked. Programs include agricultural economics, entomology, animal sciences, and plant pathology.
2. Fort Hays State University. FHSU stands out for agriculture because the school has its own 3,825-acre farm. Students get hands-on farming experience while studying beef, swine, sheep, or crop production.
3. Butler Community College. This college offers programs in agribusiness, food sciences, and animal sciences. Butler awards associate degrees, so this program is ideal for those looking to complete their education in two years.

Software developers are experts who create computer applications. These experts create apps for mobile devices, tablets, and desktop computers. In most cases, they work with other experts to come up with useful applications and create them. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $99,380
• Employment in Kansas: 10,580
• Overall Job Growth: 22% 
• Best Kansas University Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Kansas State University

Registered nurses provide healthcare, assess health needs and advise patients on managing their health. Prospective nurses sit for a general examination to receive their nursing license, on top of their four-year education.

• Average Salary in Kansas: $66,560
• Employment in Kansas: 28,980
• Overall Job Growth: 9%
• Best Kansas University Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Emporia State University

Business operations specialists are responsible for improving how businesses operate. They manage the workflow of a business to optimize activities and enhance performance across the board. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $79,950
• Employment in Kansas: 9,070
• Overall Job Growth: 8%
• Best Kansas University Program: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at University of Kansas

Accountants are responsible for preparing financial reports for business and individual clients. These experts also evaluate financial transactions, prepare tax returns, and identify issues to help businesses run smoothly. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $71,650
• Employment in Kansas: 12,490
• Overall Job Growth: 7%
• Best Kansas University Program: Bachelor of Arts in Accounting at Ottawa University

Sales representatives represent brands by marketing and selling their products. These experts are responsible for managing the company’s customer relationships and serve as a point of contact before a customer makes a purchase. 

• Average Salary in Kansas: $63,690
• Employment in Kansas: 11,660
• Overall Job Growth: 5%
• Best Kansas University Program: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Sterling College