Several online colleges and universities in Kansas provide prospects for working professionals and busy students to obtain a degree. Digital Learning Compass shows that the state has a steadily increasing status of online enrollment. The population of distance learners continues to grow throughout the year, as the need for online education has been increasing. Of these distance learners, 75% are enrolled in public institutions, 16% in private, for-profit academic institutions, and 9% in private, not-for-profit schools. Of the state’s population in online programs, 47% reside in Kansas, 45% are out-of-state students, and 8% were from the international community or students outside the U.S.
Several students take online courses in Kansas to study while devoting their time to personal and professional obligations. Also, distance learners can access the Kansas Association for Interactive Distance Education, a non-profit organization consisting of schools, state agencies, education facilities center, and IDL networks. KAIDE advocates for online learning, organizes conferences and forums, and awards related achievements. Kansas administration established the Kan-Ed Program to boost the use of broadband technology-based video conferencing for distance learning and telemedicine. Also, the program helps schools, hospitals, and libraries apply for federal grants associated with video conferencing for distance education and telemedicine. Distance learners can also benefit from the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, offering students affordable and flexible online degree programs.
Kansas is home to more than 50 four-year, degree-awarding academic institutions, 26 private schools, and 16 for-profit educational institutions. As such, students have a wide range of opportunities for online education, allowing them to choose their online degree programs at a school or university they like or can afford.
METHODOLOGY
Finding the best online school can be a real challenge for prospective distance learners. To aid you in your search, the staff and writers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com compiled a list of the 5 Top Online Schools in Kansas showcasing the academic institutions that promote a high quality of education. Here are the factors that we took into account to complete our list:
- A high-quality virtual learning platform enabling students to gain access to their coursework in a fast and easy manner,
- Highly competent teachers, some of whom are also instructors in brick-and-mortar colleges,
- Rigorous coursework that emphasizes an approach to effective training that is at par with traditional academic standards,
- Recognized by accrediting bodies that maintain the academic competence of colleges and universities.
See our Methodology Page to learn more about our ranking process.
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University offers several certificates, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs, providing students the skills to succeed in a rapidly-changing career. Students who are interested in supplementing their education and career advancement can choose from a variety of online certificate programs in areas of study such as business, criminal justice, management, sustainability, and leadership.
FHSU’s extensive online bachelor’s degree programs include finance, business administration, sociology, education, nursing, management, and information networking & telecommunications. Some of these programs offer degree specializations, which enables distance learners to align their studies to their personal and professional aspirations. The majority of the bachelor’s degree programs require 120-credit hours for completion, and students can earn their degrees in fewer than four years, especially if they have transfer credits.
Popular online master’s degree programs such as nursing, business administration, history, and education provide learners the opportunity to obtain their graduate degree while pursuing personal and professional obligations. FHSU offers online degree programs in education for professionals who seek career advancements in the academic fields. Furthermore, FHSU’s doctorate program in nursing has synchronous coursework offered in a cohort-based learning format.
FHSU has a wealth of online learning resources, providing a one-stop reference for students’ academic needs. Online students can access through FHSU’s Blackboard, a platform for hosting courses, assignments, research work, and interactive learning. Students can access the platform anytime, anywhere. Also, the university integrates Smarthinking, an online tutoring system for distance learners who require help and assistance in their academics.
Location: Hays, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 Scale
- ACT or SAT Test Scores
- GED Requirements
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Baker University
Baker University provides a variety of online degree programs and coursework to involve students and encourage personal and professional growth. Undergraduates can choose from the Bachelor of Business Administration offered in three specializations, namely Business Leadership, Management, and Strategic Business Communication. Students can opt for the online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, preparing them for a rewarding career in criminal justice fields, law enforcement, or graduate studies. Program requirements and completion vary per degree program; however, the majority of them need 120-credit hours for students to earn their degrees successfully.
The university also offers online master’s degree programs in organizational leadership, business administration, sports management, nursing, education, and instructional design & performance technology. The MBA program is offered in several concentrations, including human resources, finance, healthcare administration, and executive leadership. Graduate certificate programs in finance, leadership and organizational change, human resources, and healthcare administration are also available through the university’s online degree offerings.
The Doctor of Education in Instructional Design & Performance Technology is the sole doctorate program offered by Baker University, enabling professionals to improve training and efficiency within the workplace. A dissertation is required in the completion of the program, and students can complete the online doctorate program in as little as three years.
There are recertification and professional development courses for educators who want to pursue their studies and broaden their knowledge in diverse areas on a selection of topics.
Location: Baldwin City, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official ACT or SAT Test Scores
- GPA of 2.0
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Emporia State University
Emporia State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, enabling students to take a set of coursework that aligns with their personal and professional goals. Distance learners can tailor their degree program with integration of an area of specialization.
ESU’s online master’s degree programs in educational administration, school counseling, instruction specialty, library and information management, and curriculum & instruction has several concentrations to choose from, allowing students to specialize in their interest and academic goals. The majority of these master’s degree programs require 33-credit hours for completion. Distance learners can earn these through an accelerated 18-month timeline, making it possible to earn their graduate studies in lesser time.
ESU has a variety of certificate and licensure programs for additional knowledge and for working professionals who want to pursue career advancements and credentials. Undergraduate certificate programs include youth services, eLearning, the psychology of learning, archives studies, literacy certificates, and autistic spectrum disorders among other featured certificate programs.
Tuition and Fees for undergraduates living in Kansas is $262.76/credit hour, while non-resident distance fee is at $348.66/credit hour. Electronic Media Fee for all in-state and out-of-state distance learners costs $30.00/course. The university is a member of the Midwest Student Exchange Program, providing additional benefits for students who are non-residents of Kansas.
Location: Emporia, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official SAT or ACT Test Scores
- GED Requirement
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg State University has a wide selection of online degree programs in the undergraduate and graduate level of studies as well as several certifications. Students may choose from Pitt State’s undergraduate offerings namely Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN), Bachelor of Science in Workforce Development, Bachelor of Science in Workforce Development- Supervision & Leadership, and Bachelor of Science in Workforce Development- Human Resources. These undergraduate programs integrate sequenced coursework that blends theoretical knowledge and experiential learning programs.
Graduate students who want to earn a master’s degree at Pitt State can choose from more than 30 programs, including an MBA, history, sport & leisure service management, education, MSN-Nursing, human performance & wellness, and special education to name a few. The majority of the programs include 30-33 credit hours of coursework that develops advanced knowledge and competencies within their respective fields of interest.
Program requirements and completion vary per specific program. The university has flat-rate tuition across their online degree programs, allowing out-of-state and part-time learners to pay the same tuition as the in-state students.
Location: Pittsburg, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
- ACT or SAT Test Scores
- Official Transcript of Records
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Wichita State University
Wichita State University has a variety of associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs offered in flat-rate tuition, making the university one of the affordable choices in earning a degree program across Kansas. The university has a generous transfer of credit opportunities, providing undergraduate students the chance to convey significant credits to an online bachelor’s degree program.
WSU offers online bachelor’s degrees in areas of study such as general business, dental hygiene, education, homeland security, and criminal justice, among other featured programs. The university’s learning format allows distance learners to establish a curriculum tailored to their interest and aspirations, as well as with their future personal and professional goals.
The master’s degree programs include criminal justice, arts leadership and management, and aging studies, to name a few. Graduates can choose from WSU’s master’s degree program offering in different areas of study. Also, the university has a Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) that offers four areas of specialization namely adult/gero acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, adult/gero clinical nurse specialist, and psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. The school’s online DNP program is accredited by the Commission on College Nurse Education and is approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing.
Undergraduate Tuition costs $325.87 per credit hour, while graduate programs cost $404.19 per credit hour.
Location: Wichita, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Graduation from a Regionally-accredited and State-recognized high school institution
- Official Transcript of Records
- $40 Application Fee
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In Kansas, academic institutions typically provide lower tuition to state residents. However, some online schools in Kansas have the same tuition fees for all students, regardless if they are living inside or outside the state. A few schools charge higher rates for non-Kansas residents. If you want to qualify for a range of lucrative and rewarding career opportunities, earning a college degree is essential. When choosing where and what you want to study, you may need to weigh down both in-state and out-of-state schools. If you are a resident of Kansas, there are several advantages to enrolling in schools in your home state.
When prospective students consider a college or university in Kansas, they must consider residency status, exploring extensively for tuition rates at each prospective school to make sure they can afford tuition expenses without further problems. To be qualified as a resident of Kansas for tuition purposes, applicants must be a resident of Kansas for at least 12 months before enrolling to any program.
The Midwestern Higher Education Compact is developed to enhance post-secondary education through the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), providing affordable opportunities for prospective students interested in enrolling out-of-state colleges. Over 100 colleges in Iowa, North Dakota, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri advocate MSEP programs by providing cheaper opportunities for out-of-state distance learners.
METHODOLOGY
How important is affordability to an online learner? With the skyrocketing college tuition, it makes sense for any prospective student to find an online school that not only offers academic quality but also promotes inexpensive education. Below, the 5 Best Value Online Schools in Kansas features the cheapest online schools in the state that give every student a better return on investment. They also provide eligible students with opportunities for financial assistance.
University of Saint Mary
The University of Saint Mary has three undergraduate offerings for prospective students, including an RN-to-BSN program, Bachelor’s in Accounting, and a Bachelor’s in Health Information Management. The RN-to-BSN degree program provides practicing nurses admission to an advanced set of coursework in health assessment, nursing research, and community health to enable personal and professional development and growth. Distance learners interested in pursuing USM’s master’s degree in nursing enjoy a tuition discount.
The online MSN degree has two specializations, namely nursing education or nursing administration. The program prepares and develops nurses to make advancements in their careers or leadership positions within the healthcare industry or to master nursing training. Students complete a practicum opportunity in healthcare facilities, organizations, or institutions approved by the program staff. To meet practicum requirements, students must have 120 clinical hours.
USM offers a master’s degree in business administration with six specializations to choose from. Students can choose from human resources, finance, leadership and organizational health, marketing and advertising, healthcare management, or general management concentration. Students must complete 36-credit hours of coursework in the MBA program. Students can earn their MBA degree in as little as 12 months. The program has six start dates across the academic year.
USM’s Business programs receive accreditation from the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, while its nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Location: Leavenworth, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official SAT or ACT Test Scores
- GED Requirement
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tabor College
Tabor College provides working professionals and online students with several opportunities to further their education. Undergraduates can choose from three associate degree programs, namely Associate of Arts in Christian Studies, Associate of Science in Business Administration, and Associate of Arts in Urban Ministry. All associate degree programs can be credited for an equivalent bachelor’s degree once completed. Prospective students can also choose from the bachelor’s degree programs, including a BS degree in Christian Ministries, Nursing (RN-BSN), and Business Administration. Also, Tabor College offers a graduate-level of studies through its master’s degree program offerings in Ministry Entrepreneurship and Innovation, MBA- Leadership, MBA- Athletic Administration Leadership, and MSN- Executive Leadership.
Program Requirements and Length differ per degree programs. The associate degree programs require minimum 60-credit hours for completion. Once students can complete their AA degree, they can move directly to the 64-credit hours remaining in the completion of their bachelor’s degree in the equivalent program. On the other hand, the online BSBA program has required courses in marketing management, business ethics, managerial finance, organizations & management, human resource management, and business communication, among others. The RN-BSN Program of Tabor College receives accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
The courses offered by the school are intensive and delivered in an accelerated format. Students enroll in six-week courses entirely online. The majority of the students take one course at a time. One benefit of enrolling in the school’s online program is personalized attention in smaller class sizes, providing distance learners the extensive learning they need to meet their academic goals and aspirations. All instructions delivered by Tabor College’s courses are Christ-centered and are taught by well-trained Christian faculty.
Tuition Fees vary per degree program. Students who are residing outside Kansas pay the same tuition rate as in-state students. Associate degree programs cost $280 per credit hour, while the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs have corresponding per credit rates depending on the majors.
Location: Hillsboro, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- Official Transcript of Records
- Online Financial Aid Application (For qualified applicants)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Kansas Christian College
Kansas Christian College is considered one of the most convenient Christian online academic institutions in Kansas. They offer two associate and two bachelor’s degree programs in Leadership and Ministry as well as in Business areas of study. Prospective students earning an associate degree can choose from the Associate of Arts in Leadership and Ministry, and Associate of Arts in Business. However, they can choose from the bachelor’s degree program offerings through the Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry, and Bachelor of Arts in Business. All programs are hosted in an inspiring online environment and student-centered education.
The associate degree in leadership and ministry program requires 63-credit hours. Students take required core courses such as Sharing and Defending the Christian Faith, Communication for Leaders, Issues in Christian Leadership, and Leadership and Ministry Capstone, to name a few. The associate of arts in the business program requires 66-credit hours for completion. Some of the required core courses include Fundamentals of Business, Business Law, Introduction to Leadership, Global Issues in Business, and Accounting Methods. A business case study is also required for graduation, providing students the opportunity to apply the knowledge he or she has earned to the solution of actual business challenges in the organization. On the other hand, all bachelor’s degree programs require 120-credit hours for completion. Each baccalaureate program has core program requirements to be completed by distance learners.
Classes are delivered in an asynchronous format, allowing students the flexibility they need in completing their courses. They take one class at a time, with each completed in five weeks. Online Tuition costs $310 per credit hour. In-state and out-of-state students share the same tuition rates for all their online degree programs. The school offers several financial aid opportunities for qualified students as well as tuition discounts. All program curriculum is biblically-based.
Location: Overland Park, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- $40 Non-Refundable Application Fee
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Official High School and College Transcripts of Records
- ACT or SAT Test Scores
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Newman University
Newman University has three online undergraduate degrees and four graduate degrees in areas of study focusing on business, education, and theology. Undergraduate students can choose from Business- Organizational Leadership, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Business & Strategic Intelligence. On the other hand, prospective graduate students can choose from Newman’s online Master of Theological Studies, Master of Education, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Arts in Theology.
All program offerings by the university vary in program requirements and length. The online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership program requires 124-credit hours for completion. Students take courses in talent management, leadership, cross-cultural communication, mindful leadership, organizational behavior, and business ethics, among other featured major courses. The BS in strategic intelligence program also requires 124-credit hours for completion; however, core requirements include intelligence collection, law, and ethics in intelligence, the cold war, IT data visualization, and IT concepts of management information systems to name a few. The master’s degree programs require 30-credit hours for completion. Toward the beginning of each class at the graduate level, students are required to meet for an intensive weekend of instruction at the Wichita main campus. Students who are not able to attend the said event are provided with online versions of the discussion, lectures, and other events.
Newman University’s online programs are designed to meet student schedules and needs and start every eight weeks. Students take classes continuously throughout the academic year to help them accelerate their degree completion. The university integrates Blackboard as their learning management system, allowing online students to access course materials, assignments, and other learning resources.
Flat rate tuition of $15,193 is implemented if enrolled in 12-19 hours. Graduate tuition per semester differs per major program requirement. Master of Science in Education costs $425/credit hour, Master of Arts in Theology costs $482/credit hour, and Master of Science in Social Work costs $595/credit hour. Newman University is one of the most affordable universities in Kansas that provides numerous opportunities for financial aid programs, scholarships, grants, and discounts for qualified students. 99% of its first-time students received financial assistance in different forms.
Location: Wichita, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official ACT or SAT Test Scores
- Official High School and College Transcript of Records
- GPA of 2.0
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Barclay College
Barclay College offers a variety of online degree programs and coursework to help students respond to God’s call through academic excellence. Undergraduates can choose from different extensive programs provided by the school, including Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Leadership, Biblical Studies, Psychology, and Business Management. Program requirements and completion vary per degree program; however, the majority of them need 120-credit hours for students to obtain their degrees successfully.
All of the online bachelor’s degree programs permit students to transfer credits and earn their degree in less than four years. They can transfer up to 60-credit hours as well as complete their degree in 18-24 months, depending on the student’s timeframe and pace of learning. The majority of the programs require 128-credit hours for completion.
Barclay also provides undergraduate certificate programs. They can choose from biblical studies, business management, psychology, and Christian leadership. Also, students can choose a Friends Ministry Training Certificate at Barclay. The 30-credit hour certificate program offers distance learners a working knowledge of the Bible and an in-depth understanding of the role of prayer and scripture in everyday life.
Location: Haviland, Kansas
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application
- Official ACT or SAT Test Scores
- GPA of 2.0 or Higher
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
