Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024
Liberal arts colleges are a great option for students seeking a well-rounded education in an intimate campus setting. The best liberal arts colleges in Kansas offer a diverse selection of degree programs with opportunities for a highly individualized educational experience.
Top Ten Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024
- Pittsburg State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Education, Psychology, and Engineering
- Emporia State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Mathematics, Physics, and Earth Sciences
- Friends University
- Most Popular Degrees: Psychology, Biology, and Criminal Justice
- Fort Hays State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Literature, Biology, and Political Science
- Ottawa University
- Most Popular Degrees: Social Work, Psychology, and Sociology
- Benedictine College
- Most Popular Degrees: Literature, Nursing, and Economics
- Southwestern College
- Most Popular Degrees: Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Computer Science
- Bethany College
- Most Popular Degrees: Literature, Religious Studies, and History
- Bethel College
- Most Popular Degrees: Religious Studies, Mathematics, and Social Work
- Kansas Wesleyan University
- Most Popular Degrees: Criminal Justice, Biology, and Engineering
A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified 20 liberal arts colleges in Kansas. To be ranked among the 30 best liberal arts colleges in Kansas, schools must fully accredited institutions.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024
- #5 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
56%
Student body
7K
Career Outlook for degree at Pittsburg State University
Cost of Degree: $7,774Expenses: $15,440Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith its vibrant campus, Pittsburg State University offers a liberal arts education that blends a comprehensive curriculum with hands-on learning opportunities.
What we love about Pittsburg State University:
Students get the chance to study overseas and learn foreign languages through the International Knowledge & Experience Certificate.
Pittsburg State University is ideal for students who:
Would like to study women’s and gender studies.
Pittsburg State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for an online biology program.
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
52%
Student body
7K
Career Outlook for degree at Emporia State University
Cost of Degree: $7,001Expenses: $14,658Starting Salary: $40,300Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryEmporia State University has an excellent track record of preparing its students to enter the workforce with ease through proper guidance and career services.
What we love about Emporia State University:
The university hosts a Research and Creativity Day where both students and faculty can showcase their projects and compete for prizes.
Emporia State University is ideal for students who:
Prefer a diverse study body.
Emporia State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not fans of the outdoors.
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
Other Rankings
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: $31,812Expenses: $14,000Starting Salary: $46,900Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryStudents at Friends University go through a transformational learning journey, gaining valuable skills and growing in strong Christian values.
What we love about Friends University:
With a strong emphasis on inclusion, the Friendship Fields Academy provides classes and recreational activities for students with special needs.
Friends University is ideal for students who:
Want to pursue careers in social services.
Friends University might not be the best fit for students who:
Aren’t open to in-field experiences.
- #7 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #13 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$5K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
51%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/21
Career Outlook for degree at Fort Hays State University
Cost of Degree: $5,430Expenses: $14,185Starting Salary: $42,700Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryFort Hays State University ensures accessibility by offering on-campus and online programs at affordable tuition rates.
What we love about Fort Hays State University:
Perfect for aspiring performers, the High Plains Music Camp, available through the university, offers learning sessions from renowned musicians and conductors.
Fort Hays State University is ideal for students who:
Want to enjoy their military benefits.
Fort Hays State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Refuse to participate in internships.
- #17 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Arizona
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #6 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs 2025
- #6 Best Online Colleges in Wisconsin 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Arizona 2024
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas
- #13 Best Online Colleges in Arizona 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #11 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
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: $33,380Expenses: $16,774Starting Salary: $48,100Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOttawa University’s liberal arts core curriculum trains its students to become well-rounded and service-oriented professionals.
What we love about Ottawa University:
Its online addiction counseling program provides a strong foundation in theory and prepares students for the licensure examination.
Ottawa University is ideal for students who:
Plan on taking accelerated programs.
Ottawa University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for more Ph.D. programs to choose from.
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
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: $33,720Expenses: $17,230Starting Salary: $45,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith over 50 academic programs, Benedictine College offers a well- balanced student life that promotes collaboration and critical thinking.
What we love about Benedictine College:
The Great Books program offered by the university allows students to have an in-depth study of some of the best literary works of authors like Homer and Dante.
Benedictine College is ideal for students who:
Enjoy a culturally-rich campus.
Benedictine College might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for more work-study opportunities.
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
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: $36,650Expenses: $17,600Starting Salary: $54,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOffering well recognized programs in philosophy and chemistry, Southwestern College allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and practical projects.
What we love about Southwestern College:
The college extends several benefits for military students, offering 6-week accelerated courses that allow them to graduate faster.
Southwestern College is ideal for students who:
Are looking for quality online curriculums and extension services.
Southwestern College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to stay away from leadership and discipleship programs.
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: $31,305Expenses: $21,209Starting Salary: $45,100Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith a warm and friendly atmosphere, students at Bethany College are mentored by passionate professors and supported through extensive learning services.
What we love about Bethany College:
The college has partnered with prestigious schools, including West Virginia Reed College of Media and Appalachian School of Law, to deliver accelerated programs and flexible learning options.
Bethany College is ideal for students who:
Are interested in joining the Equestrian Club.
Bethany College might not be the best fit for students who:
Are searching for more online degree courses to choose from.
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
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: $32,090Expenses: $15,812Starting Salary: $45,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOffering over 40 academic programs, Bethel College maintains an active learning community that prepares students academically and spiritually.
What we love about Bethel College:
The college’s music program allows students to gain real-world experience and build their portfolio through freelance work and internships.
Bethel College is ideal for students who:
Want to learn more about the German language.
Bethel College might not be the best fit for students who:
Avoid challenging curriculums.
- #5 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
32%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Kansas Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $32,470Expenses: $14,000Starting Salary: $43,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryKansas Wesleyan University makes sure its students are always engaged and nurtured, offering various activities and campus facilities.
What we love about Kansas Wesleyan University:
With a strong emphasis on community interaction, the university offers regular service learning projects such as church clean-ups and farm work.
Kansas Wesleyan University is ideal for students who:
Are needing a college with financial aid options.
Kansas Wesleyan University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a bigger campus.
- #7 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$30K
Graduation
58%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Hesston College
Cost of Degree: $29,952Expenses: $14,994Starting Salary: $43,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryHaving roots in the Mennonite Church, Hesston College offers a holistic educational approach that integrates faith and community service into its programs.
What we love about Hesston College:
Not only does the college have a thriving learning environment, students can enjoy a wide array of facilities including tennis courts, an aviation center, and a botanical garden.
Hesston College is ideal for students who:
Prefer a school with an active sports scene.
Hesston College might not be the best fit for students who:
Avoid faith-based teachings and courses.
- #10 Best Christian Colleges in Kansas 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #15 Fastest Online Associate's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
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: $34,832Expenses: $20,177Starting Salary: $49,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith an active spiritual community, students at MidAmerica Nazarene University are given the right resources and platforms to grow and express themselves.
What we love about MidAmerica Nazarene University:
The university offers an accelerated liberal arts degree that’s perfect for working professionals and adult learners, having classes only once a week.
MidAmerica Nazarene University is ideal for students who:
Prefer learning outside the classroom through internships and workshops.
MidAmerica Nazarene University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer larger schools.
- #9 Best Private Colleges in Kansas 2024 #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kansas 2025 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Kansas 2024
Other Rankings
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: $35,050Expenses: $13,310Starting Salary: $45,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryFostering academic excellence, Tabor College aims to produce global changemakers in various fields, including behavioral science, music, and mathematics.
What we love about Tabor College:
Students who have received government grants may still seek additional financial aid, like the Ad Astra Scholarship, to cover their full tuition.
Tabor College is ideal for students who:
Would like to be a part of an excellent music program.
Tabor College might not be the best fit for students who:
Stay away from clubs and extracurricular organizations.
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
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: $33,536Expenses: $15,012Starting Salary: $43,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryMcPherson College believes in learning beyond textbooks and classroom discussions, exposing students to laboratory work, fairs, and field visits.
What we love about McPherson College:
As an International Studies Abroad affiliate, students can study in over 25 countries and take up courses as early as their sophomore year.
McPherson College is ideal for students who:
Prefer having many housing and residency options to choose from.
McPherson College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a hybrid learning setup.
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
24%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Donnelly College
Cost of Degree: $10,372Starting Salary: $28,500Boasting its accessibility and affordability, Donnelly College maintains a diverse student body that participates in both academic and social initiatives.
What we love about Donnelly College:
Service learning is a core component of the college’s curriculum, encouraging students to participate in activities such as feeding the homeless population and building shelters.
Donnelly College is ideal for students who:
Are seeking quality associate degree programs.
Donnelly College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer choosing from a wide array of bachelor’s programs.
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
37%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/21
Career Outlook for degree at Sterling College
Cost of Degree: $30,000Expenses: $14,836Starting Salary: $40,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salarySterling College aims to hone the creative and leadership skills of its students through liberal arts education and expert faculty.
What we love about Sterling College:
The college’s interdisciplinary studies curriculum connects complementing fields and explores their strengths to produce experts like wildlife conservationists and forensic scientists.
Sterling College is ideal for students who:
Plan on taking a history degree online.
Sterling College might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t enjoy being involved in art activities.
Sterling College ’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sports Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Christian Thought
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas #20 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
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: $32,540Expenses: $13,860Starting Salary: $42,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Saint Mary’s emphasis on academic excellence and servant leadership are integrated into their programs, pursuing education with a deeper purpose.
What we love about the University of Saint Mary:
Whether it’s cybersecurity or psychology, the university’s online programs are delivered in an accelerated track with various start dates to choose from throughout the year.
The University of Saint Mary is ideal for students who:
Are looking for evening classes.
The University of Saint Mary might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek work-study opportunities.
Tuition + fees
$21K
Graduation
31%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Central Christian College of Kansas
Cost of Degree: $20,650Expenses: $11,770Starting Salary: $34,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith a focus on faith-based values, Central Christian College of Kansas fosters a balanced academic environment through a mix of research studies, internships, and social events.
What we love about Central Christian College of Kansas:
The Briner Academic Center encompasses a wide range of student services, offering tutorials, spiritual resources, and counseling.
Central Christian College of Kansas is ideal for students who:
Are enthusiastic about campus activities and athletics.
Central Christian College of Kansas might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to pursue a degree in theater.
- #24 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #4 Best Online Colleges in Kansas 2024 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
51%
Graduation
52%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Newman University, Wichita
Cost of Degree: $34,400Expenses: $13,986Starting Salary: $47,900Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryNewman University Wichita’s academic programs promise to transform its students into empowered individuals who have the ability to make a difference.
What we love about Newman University Wichita:
The school’s Navigator Program helps students with charting their academic course, providing academic advising and networking activities.
Newman University Wichita is ideal for students who:
Are looking for affordable tuition rates.
Newman University Wichita might not be the best fit for students who:
Want more affordable tuition rates.
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
Kansas’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- Friends University
- MidAmerica Nazarene University
- Southwestern College
- Ottawa University
- Bethel College
- Benedictine College
- Kansas Wesleyan University
- Tabor College
- Pittsburg State University
- McPherson College
- Emporia State University
- Sterling College
- Newman University, Wichita
- Fort Hays State University
- Bethany College
- University of Saint Mary
Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.