Key Highlights
- The State of Kansas is home to top-tier schools like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University, known for academic excellence.
- You can find a wide range of degree programs at public institutions such as Wichita State University and Pittsburg State University.
- Private options like Baker University offer unique liberal arts and specialized educational experiences.
- Kansas colleges are a major economic development engine, contributing to the state’s growth and offering vibrant traditions.
- Many institutions boast impressive graduation rates and provide strong pathways to successful careers.
Introduction
Are you looking for the perfect place to continue your education? The State of Kansas offers a fantastic array of colleges and universities to fit every ambition. From the sprawling research campuses of the University of Kansas and Kansas State University to smaller, intimate schools, you’ll find institutions committed to academic excellence. Whether you’re searching for public universities or private best value schools, the Sunflower State has a campus where you can plant the seeds for your future success.
Top Colleges in Kansas to Earn Your Degree
Choosing a college is a big decision, and rankings can be a helpful tool to see how different schools compare. When you look at factors like graduation rates, student retention, and post-graduate earnings, a few institutions consistently rise to the top as the best colleges in the state.
Let’s explore some of the leading four-year universities in Kansas. These schools, including the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Pittsburg State University, and Baker University, each provide unique opportunities for students.
1. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas (KU) consistently stands out, earning the top spot for overall quality in the state. As one of the leading research institutions, KU is known for its commitment to academic excellence and groundbreaking discoveries. Its main campus in Lawrence, not far from Kansas City, provides a classic college town experience.
KU offers a vast array of undergraduate and graduate programs across numerous fields, particularly in the arts and sciences. This makes it a premier destination if you’re seeking a comprehensive education with plenty of options to explore your interests. The school’s strong reputation is reflected in its graduates, who earn an average early-career salary of $61,945.
What truly makes KU special is its combination of high-level academics and a spirited campus culture, embodied by the “determination of Jayhawks.” With a 46% four-year graduation rate and a strong focus on student success, it’s a top choice for many.
2. Kansas State University
Kansas State University, located in Manhattan, is another powerhouse in the state’s higher education system. It ranks #2 among colleges in Kansas and is recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and strong student retention, with an impressive 86% of freshmen returning for their second year.
As a major economic development engine for the region, K-State offers a wide range of academic programs that prepare students for the workforce. From engineering and agriculture to business and special education, you can find a bachelor’s degree program to match your career goals. Graduates from this state university enter the workforce with an average early-career salary of $57,262.
Compared to other schools, K-State is celebrated for its vibrant traditions and tight-knit community feel, even as a large public university. This unique blend of academic opportunity and school spirit makes it an excellent place for students to thrive and contribute to the state’s economic development.
3. Wichita State University
Situated on an urban campus, Wichita State University (WSU) offers a unique connection to the state’s largest city and its industries. This connection provides students with incredible opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and career support services that bridge the gap between education and employment. WSU is dedicated to academic excellence, offering a diverse array of bachelor’s degree options.
As one of the state’s key research institutions, WSU focuses on innovation and applied learning. The university also provides flexible learning opportunities through its online programs, making education accessible to a wider range of students. The 25% four-year graduation rate is supported by strong institutional efforts to prepare students for their future careers.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree from WSU see an average early-career salary of $51,532, a testament to the university’s focus on career readiness. If you’re looking for a school with strong industry ties and robust career support, WSU is an outstanding choice.
4. Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg State University, affectionately known as Pitt State, is one of the well-regarded public universities located in southeastern Kansas. It provides a supportive and engaging community for students pursuing a wide variety of degree programs. The university is known for its hands-on approach to learning, particularly in technology, construction, and education.
Pitt State offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate programs and academic programs designed to prepare you for a successful career. The university boasts a very low student loan default rate of just 1.0%, which is significantly lower than the national average and speaks to the value of a Pitt State education.
With a 33% four-year graduation rate and an average early-career salary of $50,579, Pitt State delivers a strong return on investment. Its focus on building a strong community and providing practical skills makes it a standout choice among Kansas’s four-year universities.
5. Baker University
As the first university in Kansas, Baker University has a long history of academic excellence. Located in Baldwin City, with another campus in Overland Park, Baker is one of the state’s premier private colleges. It is particularly known for its strong liberal arts foundation, which encourages critical thinking and well-rounded intellectual development.
Baker University stands out with an impressive 50% four-year graduation rate and the highest average early-career salary on our list at $63,855. This demonstrates the university’s success in preparing students for high-achieving careers. Its small class sizes provide a personalized educational experience often sought at private institutions.
Compared to other private schools like the University of Saint Mary, Baker offers a distinct blend of historical significance and modern education. If you are seeking a private college experience rooted in the liberal arts, Baker University is an exceptional option to consider.
Types of Colleges in Kansas
When searching for the best colleges in Kansas, you’ll discover a healthy mix of public and private institutions. The state offers large public universities with extensive degree programs and smaller private colleges that provide a more specialized or intimate learning environment.
Whether you’re interested in the vast resources of a state university or the close-knit community of a private school, you have plenty of choices. Below, we provide accessible lists to help you explore the different public and private colleges available for your undergraduate or graduate programs.
Public Colleges and Universities
Kansas’s public universities are the backbone of its higher education system, offering affordable and high-quality options for students. Institutions like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University are major research hubs, while regional schools such as Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University, and Pittsburg State University provide excellent academic programs across the state.
These schools offer a diverse range of degrees and are committed to serving the needs of Kansas residents and beyond. Washburn University in Topeka is another key public institution, known for its strong programs in law, business, and nursing. A public state university can provide you with a world-class education and a vibrant campus life.
Here is a list of some of the prominent public four-year universities in Kansas and their locations.
| University Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Emporia State University | Emporia, KS |
| Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS |
| Kansas State University | Manhattan, KS |
| Pittsburg State University | Pittsburg, KS |
| University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS |
| Washburn University | Topeka, KS |
| Wichita State University | Wichita, KS |
Private Colleges and Universities
For students seeking a different kind of educational experience, Kansas is home to a wide variety of private colleges and universities. These institutions often feature smaller class sizes, specialized missions, and a close-knit campus community. Many are rooted in liberal arts traditions or have a specific faith-based affiliation, like a Christian college.
Schools like Baker University, Benedictine College, and Friends University offer rich academic environments with a focus on holistic student development. From Newman University in Wichita to MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, these schools provide excellent alternatives to larger public institutions. You can also find unique options like Barclay College or McPherson College.
Here are just a few of the many private colleges available in Kansas:
- Benedictine College (Atchison, KS)
- Friends University (Wichita, KS)
- MidAmerica Nazarene University (Olathe, KS)
- Newman University (Wichita, KS)
- Ottawa University (Ottawa, KS)
- Southwestern College (Winfield, KS)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kansas offers a diverse array of colleges and universities that cater to various academic interests and career goals. From the renowned University of Kansas to the vibrant programs at Wichita State University, students have ample opportunities to pursue their education in an engaging environment. Whether you’re considering public or private institutions, each college brings unique strengths and resources to the table. As you embark on your academic journey, remember to explore all the options available in the Sunflower State. If you’re ready to take the next step towards your educational goals, reach out today for more information on how these institutions can help shape your future!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which colleges in Kansas are known for arts and sciences programs?
The University of Kansas and Kansas State University are the state’s premier research universities and are highly regarded for their comprehensive arts and sciences programs. Their commitment to academic excellence makes them some of the best colleges for students seeking a broad and deep education in these foundational fields.
What makes the University of Kansas unique among state schools?
The University of Kansas distinguishes itself through its status as a top-tier research institution with a national reputation for academic excellence. Its location in Lawrence offers a quintessential college-town atmosphere near Kansas City, and the spirited campus culture, fueled by the “determination of Jayhawks,” creates a truly unique student experience.
Are there colleges in Kansas with strong career support services?
Yes, several colleges excel in this area. Wichita State University is particularly known for its strong career support services and ties to local industry. Additionally, major institutions like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University offer extensive career services to help students secure internships and jobs, boosting their post-graduation success.