Best Online Colleges in Kansas 2025

There are several online colleges in Kansas, and more than 20% of students in the state study exclusively online, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Perhaps you're interested in learning more about online college programs. Specifically, you'd like to know more about the top online colleges and the programs they offer.

Keep reading as we explore some of the best online degrees available at accredited online colleges in your state. We'll also look at some popular online degrees in Kansas and provide general information about what to expect from distance education.

Best Accredited Online Colleges in Kansas

Learners enrolled in accredited online colleges can expect a mix of quality, convenience, and affordability. Let's take a closer look at some top Kansas schools with online programs.

1. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a public institution with its main campus located in Lawrence. The school offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs through its remote campus Jayhawk Global. Areas of study include:

• liberal arts
• information technology
• anthropology
• engineering management
• public administration

All undergraduate programs are considered degree-completion programs, making them ideal for students transferring from community colleges or other schools. About 93% of students receive financial aid, helping them afford a high-quality online education.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $11,700

Out-of-State: $29,412

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $10,488

Out-of-State: $25,150

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 88%

Retention Rate: 85%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Kansas State University

Kansas State University is a public school in Manhattan. It offers more than 150 online degrees, certificate programs, and minors, with degrees available at every program level. Some of the programs include:

• animal sciences and industry
• dietetics
• human resources management
• professional aviation
• integrated computer science

About 95% of Kansas State students receive financial aid. The school boasts more than 50 years of distance education experience, and the same world-class faculty teach online classes as in-person classes to ensure students receive the highest-quality learning experience.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $10,942

Out-of-State: $27,816

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $10,808

Out-of-State: $24,169

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 79%

Retention Rate: 87%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

3. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University is located in Hays. This regional university is a leader in online education with dozens of undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate programs available. Options include:

• management information systems
• modern languages
• health and human performance
• technology leadership
• special education

The school offers highly affordable online tuition rates and awards financial aid to 95% of students. Its affordability, quality, and wealth of programs combine to make it one of the best online schools in Kansas.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $5,633

Out-of-State: $16,811

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $3,979

Out-of-State: $11,334

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 92%

Retention Rate: 77%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

4. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State University is located in Pittsburg. This public school enrolls around 7,400 students, and many of its programs are available online. Areas of study include:

• workforce development
• nursing
• biology
• engineering technology
• music

Online learners can take advantage of affordable in-state tuition rates, and about 90% receive financial aid. Courses have a variety of student services and support measures built in, ensuring students never feel alone on their academic journey.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $8,008

Out-of-State: $19,692

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $7,162

Out-of-State: $17,994

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 88%

Retention Rate: 78%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

5. Wichita State University

Wichita State University is a public school providing more than 200 programs, many of which can be completed online. Some popular online degree programs at this accredited institution include the following:

• homeland security
• business administration
• aging studies
• criminal justice
• health management

The school awards financial aid to 89% of students. Online courses are flexible and taught by expert faculty, ensuring that remote learners receive a top-notch education on a schedule that works for them.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $9,322

Out-of-State: $19,240

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $5,871

Out-of-State: $14,418

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 95%

Retention Rate: 68%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

6. Emporia State University

Emporia State University is another public school offering online degree and certificate programs. Various online bachelor's and master's programs are available, including the following:

• general studies
• nursing
• applied sociology
• curriculum and instruction
• statistics and applied mathematics

About 95% of students at this school receive financial aid, and the school offers highly affordable tuition rates. Students can choose from a range of flexible classes to get their education in ways that work for them.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $7,356

Out-of-State: $15,669

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $6,875

Out-of-State: $17,186

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 98%

Retention Rate: 67%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

7. Washburn University

Washburn University is a public school located in Topeka. It provides several online degrees for part-time and full-time students, including majors in:

• communication and leadership
• nursing
• public health
• psychology
• general studies

About 90% of students receive financial aid when attending this school. Courses are taught by experienced faculty and provide a flexible option for busy students who can't come to campus.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $9,578

Out-of-State: $20,582

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $10,274

Out-of-State: $19,954

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Retention Rate: 69%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: HLC

Other Featured Online Schools

Online education makes it possible to study at schools far from your physical location. Let's look at some accredited online colleges headquartered outside of Kansas that provide degree programs available to students throughout the U.S.

Liberty University

Liberty University is located in Virginia. A large private school, it offers hundreds of online degree programs such as:

• healthcare administration
• interdisciplinary studies
• creative writing
• worship studies
• information technology

The school provides flexible eight-week classes and accepts up to 75% of degree requirements in transfer credits. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a private online school based in Utah. It offers various online degrees and certificates in fields such as:

• supply chain and operations management
• marketing
• data analytics
• communications
• educational studies

The school uses a competency-based education model to give students a truly self-paced educational experience and help them get their degrees on their terms. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global is an online school based in Colorado. Students can pursue an array of practical online degrees. Topics include:

• cybersecurity
• finance
• healthcare analytics
• project management
• legal studies

The school offers affordable tuition rates, accelerated eight-week courses, and a generous transfer policy in an effort to serve both traditional and nontraditional college students. The Higher Learning Commission accredits this school.

How We Rank Schools

We used data from the NCES and U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard when ranking the schools above. The following criteria were used in selecting the programs:

• Accreditation: Each Kansas online college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a nationally recognized accrediting body.
• Reputation: All of the schools are known for being some of the best colleges online in Kansas, as they provide high-quality academic programs for remote learners.
• Accessibility: The programs provide flexible coursework, multiple yearly start dates, affordable tuition, financial aid options, generous transfer policies, and other features to make college accessible for as many students as possible.

Pros and Cons of Online Degrees in Kansas

Online learning is a great option for a lot of students, but it does have its limitations. Let's talk about some common pros and cons associated with online college programs.

Pros of earning an online degree:

• Study from anywhere: Online students have the freedom to study from the comfort of their own home or anywhere there's an internet connection.
• Flexible coursework: Online courses are often taught asynchronously, meaning there are no set class times or schedules. This gives students the flexibility to study whenever it works for them.
• Affordable tuition: Online education programs are often cheaper than in-person programs due to lower tuition rates and/or fewer fees and related expenses.

Cons of earning an online degree:

• Lack of structure: Since online programs are more flexible than on-campus programs, they tend to lack structure, which could make it hard for some students to stay on track academically.
• Isolation: Online learners sometimes feel isolated from their professors and classmates, which may lead to feeling alone and unsupported.
• Employer skepticism: Online degrees are becoming more common in the workplace, but some employers still prefer to hire those with in-person degrees.

How To Choose the Best Online College in Kansas

As a prospective student, you want to make sure any college you're considering is accredited and reputable. This will ensure your degree is accepted and respected once you enter the workforce.

Next, think about how much each school on your list is going to cost, the available financial aid options, available majors, admission requirements, student resources, and whether the school accepts any transfer credits you may have. Know what your priorities are, then choose a school that best aligns with those priorities.

How Much Does an Online Degree in Kansas Cost?

College costs vary widely depending on many factors, such as whether you are a graduate or undergraduate student and whether you live in-state or out-of-state. Among the schools in this article, average tuition ranges from under $4,000 to more than $29,000 a year.

Keep in mind, too, that tuition is only one part of the overall cost. Additional expenses such as fees, books, and technology costs will likely raise the overall price of your degree.

Tips on How To Make Online College in Kansas More Affordable

There's no doubt that even cheap online degrees in Kansas can be pretty pricey. Fortunately, there are ways to attend accredited colleges online without breaking the bank.

By filling out the FAFSA, you can qualify for federal student aid like the Pell Grant and other grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Applying for scholarships can also help you earn free money for school. Attending schools with payment plans, no application fees, and generous transfer policies (if you have transfer credits) can help you save money and pay off your degree in more manageable increments. Find out more about each of these options below:

• online colleges that accept FAFSA
• online colleges with payment plans
• online colleges that accept the Pell Grant
• online colleges that accept transfer credits
• online colleges with scholarships
• online colleges with no application fee

Kansas Scholarships & Grants

Students attending online colleges in Kansas can earn a variety of scholarships to help cover their costs. Let's take a closer look at a few of these scholarships.

Kansas Comprehensive Grant

The Kansas Comprehensive Grant is a state-funded program providing educational funds for students with financial need. Students can earn this grant by completing the FAFSA and are encouraged to do so before the priority deadline, as there is limited funding available and only one in three qualified students receive aid from this program.

Award Amount: $100 to $10,000

Deadline: April 1, 2025

Scott Richards Kansas Scholarship

This scholarship is available for Kansas residents who are related to Scott Richards and who have demonstrated financial need. Students must be graduating high school seniors or current college students with a GPA of at least 3.0.

Award Amount: $3,000 to $5,000

Deadline: April 30,2025

Harper Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is sponsored by the Outdoor Communicators of Kansas and the Kansas Wildscape Foundation. It is available to high school seniors in Kansas planning to enroll in a Kansas college or university to study wildlife- or nature-related topics. Students must enroll full-time in an approved degree program, submit a letter of recommendation, and demonstrate a commitment to working in Kansas after graduating.

Award Amount: $1,000

Deadline: April 30, 2025

Top Majors for Kansas Graduates

There are many different distance learning programs in Kansas online schools. Some of the most popular majors in the state include:

• Business administration: Business administration degrees prepare students for a variety of careers in business. They are available at associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree levels.
• Psychology: Psychology focuses on human thought and behavior. Students in psychology programs can pursue various careers depending on their level of education. Associate through doctoral degrees are available.
• Elementary education: Elementary education prepares students to teach elementary-age students in public or private schools. They are commonly available as bachelor's degrees, but many schools offer them as online master's degrees as well.
• Accounting: This type of degree prepares students to work in taxation, auditing, fraud examination, and related fields. It is often available as an online bachelor's or master's degree.
• Criminal justice: Criminal justice degrees prepare students for legal- and law enforcement-related careers. Many schools offer these degrees as bachelor's and master's programs.

FAQs About Accredited Online Colleges in Kansas

If you still have questions about pursuing higher education online, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some commonly asked questions you may be curious about.

How Quickly Can I Earn My Degree Online in Kansas?

It typically takes about four years for online students to earn a bachelor's degree and an additional two years for them to earn a master's degree. However, accelerated online degrees in Kansas can speed up the process quite a bit. Learners can earn their bachelor's in just one to three years and their master's in one year or less.

What Is the Easiest Online University To Get Into in Kansas?

The easiest schools to get into in Kansas are the ones with the highest acceptance rates. There are several schools in the state with 100% acceptance rates, including Washburn University, making it the easiest school on this list to get into.

Should I Enroll in an Online College in Kansas?

Many students attend the best colleges online and feel that they are well worth the time and effort. If you are highly motivated, don't mind working alone, and need a flexible study schedule that allows you to work your education around other work or life commitments, then enrolling in an online college may be the right choice for you.

What Are the Best Online MBA Programs in Kansas?

Several of the schools discussed in this article offer top online MBA programs in the state. These schools include the University of Kansas, Fort Hays State University, and Pittsburg State University.

Discover Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Kansas

If you're ready to explore online colleges in Kansas, consider the schools featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools today to find out more about their programs and to determine which one might be a good fit for you.