Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2024

Badge for BEST IN KANSAS PUBLIC COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Updated:

Public colleges and universities account for almost 75 percent of all undergraduate students in the U.S. The best public colleges in Kansas provide broad access to reputable degree programs, affordable tuition, and sprawling educational communities.

Best Public Colleges in Kansas

Sort by:
  1. University of Kansas
  2. Kansas State University
  3. Wichita State University
  4. Washburn University
  5. Pittsburg State University
  6. Emporia State University
  7. Fort Hays State University
  1. University of Kansas
  2. Kansas State University
  3. Wichita State University
  4. Washburn University
  5. Pittsburg State University
  6. Emporia State University
  7. Fort Hays State University
  1. Emporia State University 96%
  2. Wichita State University 95%
  3. Kansas State University 95%
  4. University of Kansas 88%
  5. Fort Hays State University 88%
  6. Pittsburg State University 86%
  1. Wichita State University 20 to 1
  2. Kansas State University 18 to 1
  3. University of Kansas 17 to 1
  4. Emporia State University 17 to 1
  5. Fort Hays State University 15 to 1
  6. Pittsburg State University 14 to 1
  7. Washburn University 13 to 1
  1. University of Kansas $10,092
  2. Kansas State University $9,489
  3. Washburn University $9,016
  4. Wichita State University $6,848
  5. Pittsburg State University $5,836
  6. Emporia State University $5,278
  7. Fort Hays State University $4,140
  1. Kansas State University $10,294
  2. University of Kansas $9,989
  3. Washburn University $9,790
  4. Pittsburg State University $6,820
  5. Emporia State University $6,547
  6. Wichita State University $5,544
  7. Fort Hays State University $3,729
  1. Fort Hays State University
  2. Emporia State University
  3. Pittsburg State University
  4. Washburn University
  5. Wichita State University
  6. Kansas State University
  7. University of Kansas
  1. Fort Hays State University
  2. Emporia State University
  3. Pittsburg State University
  4. Washburn University
  5. Wichita State University
  6. Kansas State University
  7. University of Kansas
  1. Pittsburg State University 86%
  2. Fort Hays State University 88%
  3. University of Kansas 88%
  4. Kansas State University 95%
  5. Wichita State University 95%
  6. Emporia State University 96%
  1. Washburn University 13 to 1
  2. Pittsburg State University 14 to 1
  3. Fort Hays State University 15 to 1
  4. University of Kansas 17 to 1
  5. Emporia State University 17 to 1
  6. Kansas State University 18 to 1
  7. Wichita State University 20 to 1
  1. Fort Hays State University $4,140
  2. Emporia State University $5,278
  3. Pittsburg State University $5,836
  4. Wichita State University $6,848
  5. Washburn University $9,016
  6. Kansas State University $9,489
  7. University of Kansas $10,092
  1. Fort Hays State University $3,729
  2. Wichita State University $5,544
  3. Emporia State University $6,547
  4. Pittsburg State University $6,820
  5. Washburn University $9,790
  6. University of Kansas $9,989
  7. Kansas State University $10,294

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. The Sunflower State offers a wide range of highly accessible public options for Kansas students seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines.

Kansas is noted for its 23 community and technical colleges. These institutions provide numerous pathways to traditional and online degree programs, and well as online certificate programs for working professionals.

Kansas also has nine public universities, the largest being the University of Kansas (KU) with over 28,000 students. The school’s main campus is located in Lawrence, Kansas, but there are four other locations where students can attend KU classes: Overland Park, Kansas City, Wichita, and Salina. This means there are plenty of options for Kansas students seeking an on-campus experience and in state tuition rates.

It should also be noted that online students attending public colleges in Kansas are also entitled to in state tuition rates.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Kansas is also home to 22 private higher education institutions, with tuition ranging from $7,000 to $31,000.

In addition, students 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.

Kansas boasts an array of affordable options for both on-campus and online learners. The average tuition for a year of college in Kansas is $9,230, which is below the national average.

Kansas awards associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in popular fields of study, like economics, health services administration, early childhood education, elementary education, business administration, and more. Specialized degrees include aerospace engineering at the University of Kansas and agribusiness from Kansas State University.

Students who earn degrees in the medical and health care fields may have access to loan forgiveness-based programs, such as the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. This financial aid program awards up to $50,000, tax free, for those who serve two years at an approved site.

Arguably, it was the 1939 cinema classic, The Wizard of Oz, that put Kansas on the map. But this midwestern state is also known for its mouth-watering barbecue, open plains, and vast sunflower fields. Prospective students can also choose from traditional and online schools and universities across the state of Kansas.

See what Kansas has to offer by checking out the top undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as unique educational opportunities like online certificate programs and degree completion programs.


What are Kansas’s Colleges & Universities?

Kansas’s Best Overall

What is the difference between public and private colleges?

Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.

Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.

Kansas's Best Public Colleges Badge
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This list is composed entirely of public colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 7 public universities in Kansas. To be included in our list of the best public colleges in Kansas, shcools must receive direct funding from the state, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor’s degress.

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Best Public Colleges in Kansas 2023

  1. #1

    University of Kansas

    Lawrence , KS
    #8 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1215/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Kansas

    Cost of Degree: $11,700
    Expenses: $15,432
    Starting Salary: $59,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Kansas known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Kansas State University

    Manhattan , KS
    #3 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #13 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #2 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    23K

    Career Outlook for degree at Kansas State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,942
    Expenses: $18,344
    Starting Salary: $51,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Kansas State University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Wichita State University

    Wichita , KS
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Kansas 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1106/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Wichita State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,322
    Expenses: $18,490
    Starting Salary: $45,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Wichita State University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Wichita State University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Workforce Leadership And Applied Learning
    Degree Concentrations
    • Emergency And Public Service Leadership
    • Hospitality Management
    • Education And Innovation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Education- Early Childhood United/Elementary Education Apprentice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aging Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/MHA in Health Administration (Bachelor'S To Master'S)
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSDH in Dental Hygiene
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSET in Engineering Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Washburn University

    Topeka , KS
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Kansas 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Washburn University

    Cost of Degree: $9,578
    Expenses: $14,209
    Starting Salary: $43,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Washburn University known for?

    Washburn University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Washburn University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Technology Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Integrated Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    Pittsburg State University

    Pittsburg , KS
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Pittsburg State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,156
    Expenses: $15,994
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Pittsburg State University known for?

    Pittsburg State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Emporia State University

    Emporia , KS
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Kansas 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Kansas 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Emporia State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,356
    Expenses: $15,950
    Starting Salary: $40,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Emporia State University known for?

    Emporia State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Fort Hays State University

    Hays , KS
    #7 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #13 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Kansas 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Kansas 2025

    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: $5,633
    Expenses: $14,744
    Starting Salary: $42,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fort Hays State University known for?

    Fort Hays State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
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Kansas’s Best Public College in Your Area of Interest

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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.

  1. University of Kansas
  2. Kansas State University
  3. Washburn University
  4. Wichita State University
  5. Pittsburg State University
  6. Emporia State University
  7. Fort Hays State University

Check out our directory of public colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top public colleges in every state.

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