10 Most Affordable Online Colleges in Kansas 2025
Are you searching for a flexible degree path? Students can choose from several accredited universities in Kansas offering affordable online degree programs.
Are you searching for an affordable degree that works with your busy schedule? You're in luck ?there are several cheap online colleges, transfer students, or any degree seekers needing flexibility during their academic journey.
These accredited online colleges in Kansas provide the same quality education as on-campus programs. We discuss these schools below, detailing tuition rates and financial aid opportunities that can help make your academic goals a reality. Keep reading to find the cheapest online colleges in Kansas.
List of the Cheapest & Most Affordable Online Colleges in Kansas
Check out these inexpensive colleges in Kansas offering fully online degrees.
1. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University is a public four-year school founded in 1902 as the Western Branch of Kansas State Normal School. Today, it has over 200 online degree and certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Tuition rates are $257.33 per credit hour for undergraduates and $338.62 for graduates. Financial assistance is available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and institutional scholarships.
2. Central Christian College of Kansas
Central Christian College of Kansas in McPherson offers several online undergraduate degrees accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Students experience a personalized and engaging learning environment that provides the same quality education on-campus students receive.
Undergraduate tuition is $425 per credit hour, and 100% of students receive financial assistance through loans, scholarships, or grants. The school has a generous transfer credit policy, accepting up to 90 credits, including credit for military experience.
3. Kansas State University
Kansas State University is a public research institution offering over 100 fully online degree programs. Expert professors lead comprehensive and engaging online classes. Students also have access to support services, such as academic advising, technology help, and career support.
Tuition for undergraduates pursuing an online degree through the Olathe/Manhattan campuses is $404.78 per credit hour. Students can apply for financial aid and scholarships, as well as utilize a payment plan to help make tuition more manageable.
4. Barclay College
Barclay College is a private Christian school offering online undergraduate degrees in fields such as:
- biblical studies
- business management
- Christian ministry leadership
- criminal justice
- psychology
- RN-BSN
Students benefit from flexible, asynchronous online classes, which allow learners to fit coursework and lectures into their schedules.
Tuition is $420 per credit hour, but full-time students automatically receive a $600 scholarship each semester. Active first responders pursuing a criminal justice degree receive a 10% tuition discount on top of the full-time student scholarship.
5. Kansas Christian College
Kansas Christian College in Overland Park offers several online bachelor's degrees. Some of the fields of study include:
- business leadership
- elementary education
- healthcare administration
- leadership and ministry
- religion
Tuition costs $460 per credit hour. Military and Church of God members are eligible for a 10% discount. The school also matches church grants up to $500.
6. Wichita State University
Wichita State University is a public school that offers numerous online bachelor's and master's degrees. Students can pursue fields such as:
- human resources management
- business administration
- marketing
- organizational leadership
- nursing
Kansas residents and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate of $250.97 per credit hour. Around $100 million in scholarships are awarded annually to qualifying students. Loans, grants, and payment plans can also help make a degree from Wichita State University feasible.
7. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas is a four-year public research institution that's well-known for its high-quality degree programs and above-average graduation rate. According to the U.S. Department of Education Scorecard, 65% of students graduate.
Tuition varies by program and degree level; however, online undergraduate degrees are under $500 per credit hour. For example, the tuition rate for a bachelor's degree from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is $445.
8. Washburn University
Washburn University in Topeka offers several online bachelor's degrees. Online classes are flexible and convenient yet demand the same academic excellence as in-person courses.
Tuition for online undergraduates is $456 per credit hour. Students may complete FAFSA to help lower tuition costs.
9. Ottawa University
Based in Kansas City, Ottawa University offers several fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees. These online programs feature accelerated eight-week courses and a flexible learning environment, where students can fit studying into their busy schedules.
Online undergraduates pay $499 per credit hour. Military members and transfer students from partner schools can receive tuition discounts.
10. University of Saint Mary
The University of Saint Mary is a private, four-year college accredited by the HLC. Students can complete online undergraduate and graduate degrees in a convenient, accelerated format.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $425 per credit hour. Over 95% of students receive financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships.
Our Selection Criteria
To compile this list, we relied on several ranking considerations, including:
- Accreditation: All listed schools are accredited and offer rigorous coursework.
- Learning format: We chose cheap colleges in Kansas that offer degree programs that can be completed 100% online.
- Affordability: These schools offer affordable degrees through low tuition rates, FAFSA, scholarships, payment plans, and other cost-efficient measures.
- Location: While these schools offer fully online programs, they all have a campus in Kansas.
How Much Does a Cheap College in Kansas Cost?
Tuition rates range from $250.97 to $499 per credit hour according to U.S. News & World Report. Many colleges in Kansas also offer financial aid opportunities that can help lower expenses.
How Can I Make an Online Degree Affordable?
Achieving an affordable online degree involves the following key strategies:
1. Online Colleges: Enroll in accelerated online colleges to expedite graduation, completing a bachelor's degree in as little as three years. This approach reduces semester-based fees and allows you to start earning an income sooner.
2. Community College Credits: Earn credits or an associate degree at a community college, significantly lowering costs. In-state tuition for two-year colleges is substantially more affordable than four-year institutions. Credits from community colleges often transfer seamlessly to bachelor's programs.
3. Part-Time Study: Embrace part-time education, working while you study to save without taking loans. While it may prolong your time in school, this approach minimizes debt and provides valuable work experience.
Learn more below on how to make an online degree cheaper:
- online schools that accept financial aid
- online schools that accept Pell Grant
- online schools that accept transfer credits
- online schools with scholarships
- scholarships for online students
- online schools with tuition payment plans
- online schools with no application fee
FAQs About the Cheapest Colleges in Kansas
We answer top questions about the cheapest colleges in Kansas. Keep reading to learn more about affordable higher education.
What Is the Cheapest Online College in Kansas?
Wichita State University offers the lowest tuition rate for online learners at $250.97. This rate stays the same regardless of residency. Students can also benefit from the many institutional financial aid opportunities available.
Are Cheap Online Colleges in Kansas Accredited?
Yes, all of the cheap online colleges on this list are accredited. We chose schools that offer a comprehensive curriculum taught by expert faculty.
Are There Any Free Online College Degree Programs in Kansas?
The college degree programs on this list require tuition payments; however, students with demonstrated financial need or academic abilities can apply for aid opportunities that may cover tuition costs. Check with a school's financial aid office to determine your eligibility and total educational costs.
How Long Does It Take To Complete an Online Degree in Kansas?
According to U.S. News & World Report, some students may be able to complete their online degrees in four years or in 10. It depends on if you enroll as a full-time or part-time student. Some colleges offer offer accelerated programs with eight-week courses, such as Ottawa University and the University of Saint Mary, which would allow you to finish your degree even faster.
Find Online Degree Programs and Pursue Higher Education Today
If you're ready to earn an online degree, check out the affordable online colleges here on Learn.org. Contact each school for more information on financial aid opportunities, enrollment policies, and online learning opportunities.