Top 8 Cheapest Colleges in Kansas

Earning a college degree in Kansas doesn't have to mean taking on overwhelming debt. The state's universities and private institutions make higher education more attainable through affordable tuition and generous financial aid options, much like other cheapest colleges across the nation.

If you're ready to start your degree without breaking the bank, Kansas offers multiple schools that balance cost with quality. Below, we explore the cheapest colleges in Kansas and share ways to make your education even more affordable.

How Much Does College Cost in Kansas?

Kansas residents attending public universities typically pay between $8,000 and $10,000 per year in tuition and fees. Nonresidents can expect higher costs, averaging around $20,000 annually.

Community colleges and online programs tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Many Kansas schools also offer tuition discounts, scholarships, and regional reciprocity agreements to reduce expenses.

Top Cheap Colleges in Kansas

Kansas is home to several colleges with low tuition rates and quality academic programs. Below are some of the most affordable schools in the state, each offering strong degree options for students looking to save money while earning a respected education.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is a public school in Hays. It is one of six state schools that the Kansas Board of Regents funds, and it enrolls a little over 15,000 students. It offers both online and in-person degree programs. Some of the many options include:

• biology
• communication
• criminal justice
• geology
• organizational leadership

Undergraduate tuition starts at just $187.80 for students in Kansas and the surrounding states. Out-of-state tuition starts at $560.39. Tuition for online degrees starts at $242.76 and applies to all students regardless of residency.

2. Emporia State University

Emporia State University is another state-funded public school. It is located in Emporia and enrolls around 4,700 students. Various online and in-person degrees are available, including:

• accounting services
• computer science
• crime and delinquency studies
• elementary education
• health and human performance

Flat tuition rates are charged for students enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester, and students throughout the continental United States pay the same in-state tuition of $3,467 per semester.

3. Wichita State University

Wichita State University is a large public school in Wichita. It enrolls more than 17,500 students in campus-based and online degree programs. Some of the bachelor's degrees you can choose from include:

• American Sign Language
• collaborative design
• economics
• forensic sciences
• international business

In-state students and select regional students pay tuition rates of $241.55 per credit hour. Other regional students qualify for reduced out-of-state rates of $362.33. Regular out-of-state tuition is $572.15. All online students pay the same in-state tuition rate.

4. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State University is a public school located in Pittsburg. Like most of the colleges on this list, it offers both online and in-person degrees. Choose from many program options, including:

• architectural Manufacturing Management and Technology
• career and technical education
• computer information systems
• physics
• multimedia journalism

Kansas students enrolled in 10 or more credit hours pay a flat tuition rate of $4,078 per semester. Many out-of-state students can also qualify for in-state and reduced tuition rates. Out-of-state tuition is $9,750 per semester.

5. Southwestern College

Southwestern College is a private school that enrolls around 1,900 students. It is located in Winfield and strives to serve the unique needs of adult and nontraditional students.

Degrees are offered primarily online. Bachelor's degree options include:

• business quality management
• healthcare administration
• data science
• organizational psychology
• elementary education

Undergraduate students are charged a flat tuition rate of $325 per credit hour regardless of residency status. Military discounts of $250 per credit hour are available.

6. Kansas State University

Kansas State University is headquartered in Manhattan and has additional campuses in Olathe and Salina. It enrolls nearly 25,000 students in its campus-based and online programs.

Some of the many available programs include:

• agricultural economics management
• bakery science and management
• civil engineering
• dietetics
• educational studies

Resident undergraduate tuition rates are $332.12 per credit hour, while non-resident rates jump to $894.60. All online students pay the same rate of $393.75 per credit hour. Tuition discounts are available through the Salina campus.

7. Washburn University

Washburn University is a private college located in the state capital of Topeka. The school enrolls nearly 7,000 students. Degree programs include:

• actuarial science
• digital forensics
• kinesiology
• music
• welding

Tuition costs depend on the program. Rates for resident and regional undergraduate students start at $338 per credit hour. Out-of-state rates start at $731 per credit hour. All online programs start at $439 regardless of residency.

8. Donnelly College

Donnelly College is a small private school in Kansas City. It enrolls around 300 students.

A bachelor's degree program in business leadership is available. Associate and master's degree programs are also available. Tuition for all students (regardless of residency) starts at $395 per credit hour.

Other Cheap Colleges and Degree Programs

As a bonus, let's check out a couple of schools that provide affordable online education to students in Kansas and throughout the country.

University of the People

University of the People is a private, online-only school based in California. This school offers three bachelor's degree programs:

• health science
• computer science
• business administration

Though nominal fees are assessed for each course and program, tuition at this school is free.

Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University is located in Utah and has an additional campus in Idaho. It also offers online degrees through its BYU Pathway Worldwide program. Online degrees include:

• applied business management
• professional studies
• communication
• software development
• family and human studies

Tuition rates are not dependent on residency. Rates start at just $81 per credit hour for students of the Latter-Day Saint faith and are also quite low for nonmembers.

How We Rank Schools

Each college on this list was selected through Learn.org's data-driven process, which prioritizes accessibility, transparency, and quality. Schools were evaluated for affordability, academic reputation, and support for student success.

• Accreditation: All featured institutions are fully accredited by recognized agencies.
• Affordability and financial aid: Rankings consider tuition rates, grants, scholarships, and regional discounts.
• Program quality and reputation: Student satisfaction, graduation outcomes, and employer recognition all factor into rankings.

How To Make College Affordable

Even the cheap colleges in Kansas come with a hefty price tag. Let's take a look at some ways you can save money as you pursue your degree.

Scholarships and Aid

A variety of businesses, schools, and other organizations provide scholarships who demonstrate excellence in academics or some other area. Consider applying for some of these scholarships.

You can also fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for need-based financial aid. This aid is provided by state and federal governments.

Completing the FAFSA can also help your school determine if you are eligible for tuition waivers or other forms of aid.

Transfer Credits

Many high school students take tests and complete classes that allow them to obtain credit toward their future degree. These credits are often obtained at a much lower price than the college courses they replace.

You can transfer these credits, as well as any credits you obtain through a community college or associate degree program, to count toward your degree. This will save you money on your overall college costs.

Work-Study Programs and Tuition Benefits

Many schools offer work-study programs to help students cover the costs of their degree. Find out if your school offers one of these programs.

If you are already employed, check with your company to find out if they offer tuition assistance as a benefit. If so, your company may cover some or all of your costs to attend college.

FAQs About the Cheapest Kansas Colleges

Many students in Kansas want to know how to find affordable, flexible ways to earn a degree. Below are common questions about tuition, online learning, and financial aid.

Can I Earn an Online Degree From a Kansas College?

Yes, many Kansas schools, such as Fort Hays State University and Wichita State University, offer online bachelor's degree programs. These programs feature the same academic quality as in-person courses with added scheduling flexibility.

Online learning often removes expenses like housing, transportation, and campus fees. This makes it an ideal choice for working adults and students balancing family commitments.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available for Kansas Students?

Kansas students can apply for state grants, federal aid, and private scholarships to reduce tuition costs. Completing the FAFSA early helps determine your eligibility for multiple forms of assistance.

Many schools also award merit-based and need-based scholarships to new or transfer students. Combining several funding sources can significantly lower your overall college expenses.

How Can I Save Money Before Enrolling at a Four-Year College?

Starting at a community college is one of the best ways to reduce education costs. Many Kansas community colleges partner with universities to simplify the credit transfer process.

Students can also look for early college, dual-credit, or online options while in high school. You can earn credits faster and graduate with less debt this way.

Find an Affordable College in Kansas Today

The cheapest colleges in Kansas make it possible to earn a respected degree without overwhelming debt. Explore affordable programs and online options on Learn.org to find the school that fits your goals and your budget.