Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024

Badge for BEST IN KANSAS CHRISTIAN COLLEGES

Key Takeaways

  • The 16 Christian colleges in our ranking have small student bodies and more opportunity to interact with faculty.
  • Attending a Christian college in Kansas allows students to learn about and practice their faith while receiving an excellent education.
  • Students studying at a Christian college in Kansas are still eligible for financial aid as long as the school is regionally accredited.

10 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas

Sort by:
  1. Baker University
  2. Friends University
  3. Ottawa University
  4. Benedictine College
  5. Southwestern College
  6. Bethany College
  7. Bethel College
  8. Kansas Wesleyan University
  9. Hesston College
  10. MidAmerica Nazarene University
  1. Baker University
  2. Friends University
  3. Ottawa University
  4. Benedictine College
  5. Southwestern College
  6. Bethany College
  7. Bethel College
  8. Kansas Wesleyan University
  9. Hesston College
  10. MidAmerica Nazarene University
  1. Benedictine College 99%
  2. Bethel College 97%
  3. Baker University 92%
  4. University of Saint Mary 82%
  5. Ottawa University 78%
  6. Southwestern College 70%
  7. Kansas Wesleyan University 70%
  8. MidAmerica Nazarene University 67%
  9. Bethany College 66%
  10. McPherson College 66%
  1. Tabor College 15 to 1
  2. Kansas Wesleyan University 14 to 1
  3. Central Christian College of Kansas 14 to 1
  4. Benedictine College 14 to 1
  5. Baker University 13 to 1
  6. McPherson College 13 to 1
  7. University of Saint Mary 12 to 1
  8. Friends University 12 to 1
  9. Ottawa University 11 to 1
  10. Bethany College 11 to 1
  1. Southwestern College $36,650
  2. Tabor College $35,050
  3. MidAmerica Nazarene University $34,832
  4. Newman University, Wichita $34,400
  5. Benedictine College $33,720
  6. McPherson College $33,536
  7. Ottawa University $33,380
  8. University of Saint Mary $32,540
  9. Kansas Wesleyan University $32,470
  10. Baker University $32,320
  1. Kansas Wesleyan University $14,850
  2. Southwestern College $13,140
  3. MidAmerica Nazarene University $12,630
  4. Tabor College $12,000
  5. Central Christian College of Kansas $11,880
  6. Baker University $11,466
  7. Friends University $11,448
  8. University of Saint Mary $11,232
  9. Ottawa University $9,892
  10. Newman University, Wichita $7,920
  1. Central Christian College of Kansas
  2. Newman University, Wichita
  3. University of Saint Mary
  4. Donnelly College
  5. McPherson College
  6. Tabor College
  7. MidAmerica Nazarene University
  8. Hesston College
  9. Kansas Wesleyan University
  10. Bethel College
  1. Central Christian College of Kansas
  2. Newman University, Wichita
  3. University of Saint Mary
  4. Donnelly College
  5. McPherson College
  6. Tabor College
  7. MidAmerica Nazarene University
  8. Hesston College
  9. Kansas Wesleyan University
  10. Bethel College
  1. Newman University, Wichita 51%
  2. Tabor College 53%
  3. Friends University 63%
  4. McPherson College 66%
  5. Bethany College 66%
  6. MidAmerica Nazarene University 67%
  7. Kansas Wesleyan University 70%
  8. Southwestern College 70%
  9. Ottawa University 78%
  10. University of Saint Mary 82%
  1. Hesston College 7 to 1
  2. Southwestern College 9 to 1
  3. Donnelly College 9 to 1
  4. Newman University, Wichita 10 to 1
  5. Bethel College 10 to 1
  6. Ottawa University 11 to 1
  7. Bethany College 11 to 1
  8. MidAmerica Nazarene University 11 to 1
  9. University of Saint Mary 12 to 1
  10. Friends University 12 to 1
  1. Donnelly College $8,736
  2. Central Christian College of Kansas $20,650
  3. Hesston College $29,952
  4. Bethany College $31,305
  5. Friends University $31,812
  6. Bethel College $32,090
  7. Baker University $32,320
  8. Kansas Wesleyan University $32,470
  9. University of Saint Mary $32,540
  10. Ottawa University $33,380
  1. McPherson College $4,500
  2. Benedictine College $6,000
  3. Newman University, Wichita $7,920
  4. Ottawa University $9,892
  5. University of Saint Mary $11,232
  6. Friends University $11,448
  7. Baker University $11,466
  8. Central Christian College of Kansas $11,880
  9. Tabor College $12,000
  10. MidAmerica Nazarene University $12,630

Colleges and Universities in Kansas

Prospective students searching for both brick-and-mortar and online colleges in Kansas can choose from a wide range of excellent schools.

Students in Kansas can choose from one of 18 religiously affiliated schools, including Newman University, Wichita — a Catholic liberal arts university serving the state’s largest private school student population at just over 2,000.

Of those 18 colleges, our ranking of the best Christian colleges in Iowa includes 16 schools that self-identify as Christian, are fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.


What are Kansas’s Colleges & Universities?

Kansas’s Best Overall

The following list of the best Christian schools consists entirely of colleges and universities that offer four-year undergraduate degrees. We’ve identified 16 Christian colleges in Kansas. In order to be included in this ranking list of best Christian colleges and universities, a school must self-identify as Christian, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

three students studying the Bible together
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Best Christian Colleges in Kansas

  1. #1

    Baker University

    Baldwin City , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Baker University

    Cost of Degree: $33,800
    Expenses: $17,160
    Starting Salary: $59,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    As a small, private educational institution, Baker University offers more than 50 academic programs rooted in the liberal arts.

    What we love about Baker University:

    Baker University features innovative instructors and rigorous coursework to provide students with the best college education.

    Baker University is ideal for students who:

    Prefer a personalized learning experience.

    Baker University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not open to customizing their coursework according to their professional goals.

    Baker University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Leadership
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Friends University

    Wichita , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1065/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Friends University

    Cost of Degree: $32,748
    Expenses: $16,876
    Starting Salary: $46,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Friends University is known for fostering transformational learning through high-quality degree programs, including biochemistry, business administration, and cyber security.

    What we love about Friends University:

    As a private educational institution, Friends University ensures students can still afford their college education by offering scholarships and other types of financial assistance.

    Friends University is ideal for students who:

    Seek a diversity of learning experiences in a Christian setting.

    Friends University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not interested in cultivating Christ-like leadership.

  3. #3

    Ottawa University

    Ottawa , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    28%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    980/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Ottawa University

    Cost of Degree: $35,300
    Expenses: $17,000
    Starting Salary: $48,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Ottawa University has remained committed to educating students since its establishment in 1865, allowing them to gain inspired leadership and enlightened faith.

    What we love about Ottawa University:

    Ottawa University prepared students for lifetimes of personal significance and vocational fulfillment.

    Ottawa University is ideal for students who:

    Embrace innovation and thrive in a community of collaboration and belonging.

    Ottawa University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not too keen to embark on an educational journey that involves rigorous coursework.

  4. #4

    Benedictine College

    Atchison , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Benedictine College

    Cost of Degree: $34,800
    Expenses: $17,470
    Starting Salary: $45,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Benedictine College known for?

    Benedictine College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Benedictine College gives students ample opportunities to participate in pilgrimages, mission trips, and service projects that can enhance their college education experience.

    Benedictine College is ideal for students who:

    Embody the faithfulness, competency, and commitment to greatness.

    Benedictine College might not be ideal for students who:

    Lack the motivation to strive for wisdom through rigorous scholarship in the liberal arts.

  5. #5

    Southwestern College

    Winfield , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Southwestern College

    Cost of Degree: $38,480
    Expenses: $20,270
    Starting Salary: $54,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Southwestern College known for?

    Southwestern College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Founded in 1885, Southwestern College offers a comprehensive list of academic programs covering various fields such as computer science, education, psychology, business administration, biology, and chemistry.

    What we love about Southwestern College:

    Southwestern College features a rich educational experience through its rigorous curriculum and co-curricular activities.

    Southwestern College is ideal for students who:

    Want to prepare for a life of leadership through service and quality education.

    Southwestern College might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not open to lifetime learning, individual development, and Christian values.

  6. #6

    Bethany College

    Lindsborg , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    29%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    951/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Bethany College

    Cost of Degree: $31,946
    Expenses: $22,212
    Starting Salary: $45,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Bethany College designed excellent degree programs for students who want to dream bigger and realize their full potential. Students can select from numerous majors, minors, and graduate programs.

    What we love about Bethany College:

    Bethany College allows students to explore their interests and passions in preparation for a meaningful and successful career.

    Bethany College is ideal for students who:

    Want to learn and thrive in a small, close-knit learning community.

    Bethany College might not be ideal for students who:

    Prefer to confine their learning experience inside the classroom.

  7. #7

    Bethel College

    North Newton , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    975/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Bethel College

    Cost of Degree: $34,002
    Expenses: $18,518
    Starting Salary: $45,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Bethel College strives to provide students with an unparalleled educational experience with more than 40 areas of study on offer, each one tailored to each student’s interests and goals.

    What we love about Bethel College:

    Bethel College gives students a unique learning environment where they can freely explore their passions, discover their purpose, and develop skills that can help them achieve a successful career in their chosen fields.

    Bethel College is ideal for students who:

    Choose to prepare for a successful career through a hands-on learning experience.

    Bethel College might not be ideal for students who:

    Do not want to learn beyond the four corners of the classroom.

  8. three college students sitting outside on a ledge
  9. Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    32%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Kansas Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $33,470
    Expenses: $14,740
    Starting Salary: $43,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kansas Wesleyan University known for?

    Kansas Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Built on a pioneering spirit, Kansas Wesleyan University allows students to learn from talented and worldly scholars for a well-rounded educational experience.

    What we love about Kansas Wesleyan University:

    Kansas Wesleyan University promotes and integrates academic excellence and spiritual development in students’ college education.

    Kansas Wesleyan University is ideal for students who:

    Look for a student-centered and community-focused learning environment.

    Kansas Wesleyan University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are hesitant to engage in their campus and the local community.

  10. #9

    Hesston College

    Hesston , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hesston College

    Cost of Degree: $31,368
    Expenses: $16,360
    Starting Salary: $43,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hesston College known for?

    Hesston College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    A Christ-centered community, Hesston College educates and nurtures students through rigorous academic offerings. It offers more than 50 degree programs.

    What we love about Hesston College:

    Hesston College encourages students to celebrate diverse backgrounds and cultures while learning from each other.

    Hesston College is ideal for students who:

    Are excited to break through to new ways of learning and service in preparation for their future careers.

    Hesston College might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not keen on following Christ and learning within a Christ-centered community.

  11. Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1017/20

    Career Outlook for degree at MidAmerica Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $36,120
    Expenses: $22,661
    Starting Salary: $49,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is MidAmerica Nazarene University known for?

    MidAmerica Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    MidAmerica Nazarene University offers different fields of study that allow students to follow their academic interests. Currently, more than 60 academic programs are on offer.

    What we love about MidAmerica Nazarene University:

    MidAmerica Nazarene University provides a community that puts importance on scholarship, people, and faith.

    MidAmerica Nazarene University is ideal for students who:

    Thrive in a well-connected learning environment where they can pursue exciting endeavors beyond the classroom, from joining clubs and organizations to taking part in weekly activities.

    MidAmerica Nazarene University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are hesitant to add value to their college experience by immersing in activities outside the classroom.

  12. #11

    Tabor College

    Hillsboro , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    965/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Tabor College

    Cost of Degree: $35,050
    Expenses: $15,300
    Starting Salary: $45,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Tabor College known for?

    Tabor College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Featuring a transformative community, Tabor College provides students with an environment that’s conducive to learning, building lifelong relationships, and growing through a rich learning experience.

    What we love about Tabor College:

    Tabor College seeks to offer students academically excellent and globally relevant education that is Christ-centered.

    Tabor College is ideal for students who:

    Want to explore their faith within a decidedly Christian environment while preparing for a life of learning, work, and service.

    Tabor College might not be ideal for students who:

    Lack the passion for learning and do not believe in meaningful engagement with their college and community.

    Tabor College ’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Adaptive Ministry Leadership Program
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business As Mission
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
  13. #12

    McPherson College

    McPherson , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1014/20

    Career Outlook for degree at McPherson College

    Cost of Degree: $35,162
    Expenses: $15,504
    Starting Salary: $43,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is McPherson College known for?

    McPherson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Founded in 1887, McPherson College offers various academic programs in diverse fields, including business administration, human services, and health sciences.

    What we love about McPherson College:

    McPherson College provides reputable liberal arts and career-oriented education shaped by Christian values.

    McPherson College is ideal for students who:

    Want to push themselves to grow in and beyond the classroom.

    McPherson College might not be ideal for students who:

    Are afraid to learn in a vibrant community featuring diverse cultural backgrounds.

  14. #13

    Donnelly College

    Kansas City , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    24%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Donnelly College

    Cost of Degree: $12,353
    Starting Salary: $28,500
    What is Donnelly College known for?

    Donnelly College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Located in the heart of Kansas, Donnelly College is a coeducational Catholic institution that makes quality education accessible to students. It is the only federally serving Minority Serving Institution in the region.

    What we love about Donnelly College:

    Donnelly College has a strong liberal arts curriculum integrated with career- oriented majors across all degree levels.

    Donnelly College is ideal for students who:

    Seek to acquire transformative and accessible Catholic education.

    Donnelly College might not be ideal for students who:

    Are hesitant to become the best version of themselves and take part in civic engagement.

  15. #14

    University of Saint Mary

    Leavenworth , KS

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1000/19

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Saint Mary

    Cost of Degree: $33,890
    Expenses: $15,782
    Starting Salary: $42,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Saint Mary known for?

    University of Saint Mary’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Committed to providing accessible education to students, the University of Saint Mary offers affordable tuition rates and numerous financial aid support to students, including undergraduate academic scholarships from full tuition to $12,000.

    What we love about the University of Saint Mary:

    The University of Saint Mary students to are encouraged to pursue academic excellence by embracing new experiences and interests.

    The University of Saint Mary is ideal for students who:

    Want to discover their God-given potential and prepare for a successful future.

    The University of Saint Mary might not be ideal for students who:

    Do not have the curiosity and motivation to develop servant-leader knowledge and skills.

  16. Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    51%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Newman University, Wichita

    Cost of Degree: $35,500
    Expenses: $15,048
    Starting Salary: $47,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Newman University, Wichita known for?

    Newman University, Wichita’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Known for its distinctively Christian focus, Newman University offers dozens of academic programs. Its personal and challenging education means students are well-prepared for a successful future in their chosen career paths.

    What we love about Newman University:

    Newman University puts the Catholic faith at the center of everything they do, encouraging students to make a positive change in local communities and the world beyond.

    Newman University is ideal for students who:

    Strive for empowerment through quality education and a closer relationship with God.

    Newman University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not yet ready to embark on a journey of learning and discovery.

    Newman University, Wichita’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business And Strategic Intelligence
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business- Data Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business- Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  17. Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Graduation

    31%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Central Christian College of Kansas

    Cost of Degree: $21,000
    Expenses: $12,720
    Starting Salary: $34,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central Christian College of Kansas known for?

    Central Christian College of Kansas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    At its core, Central Christian College of Kansas provides Christ-centered education that can help students develop their character and prepare for a rewarding career in their chosen fields.

    What we love about Central Christian College of Kansas:

    Central Christian College of Kansas features four divisions, including Health Sciences, Human Services, Business, and Humanities, each one specializing in tailored academic opportunities.

    Central Christian College of Kansas is ideal for students who:

    Want to gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom through internships or practicum.

    Central Christian College of Kansas might not be ideal for students who:

    Are hesitant to grow as individuals and contribute to their field of study.

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Kansas’s Best Christian Colleges in Your Area of Interest

college students studying the Bible together

Student Submitted Questions about Christian Colleges in Kansas

Will I receive the same quality of education in a Christian college that I would receive at a traditional secular four-year school?

Each of the Christian colleges in this ranking are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). HLC is an institutional accreditor, which ensures that students receive a quality higher education.

Can I apply for financial aid when I attend a Christian college in Kansas?

Yes, as long as the college is accredited through the HLC, regardless of its religious affiliation, students can apply to receive financial aid. For more information on how to apply, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Can I attend a Christian college in Kansas even if I am not a Christian?

There are many religiously-affiliate colleges that accept students who do not profess any faith. However, it is always a good idea to contact the admissions department at the college to discuss.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here