10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Overland Park, KS

Do you live in Overland Park, Kansas? Are you interested in learning more about the colleges and universities in your community?

If so, keep reading as we discuss the top schools in Overland Park and neighboring cities.

We'll also answer some questions you may have about choosing the best school for you and being able to afford it.

Featured Colleges In and Near Overland Park, KS

Check out these 10 colleges and universities you can attend in Overland Park, Mission, Olathe, and other surrounding areas.

1. University of Kansas - Edwards Campus

The University of Kansas is a large public university headquartered in Lawrence; however, it has several additional locations, including the Edwards Campus in Overland Park.

This campus enrolls about 2,500 students and provides both in-person and online instruction. Both graduate and undergraduate degrees are available, along with various certificate programs.

The school serves primarily working adults and other nontraditional students by offering flexible options for continuing or completing a college education.

2. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University is a private school with 23 campuses throughout the U.S. One of the school's locations is in Overland Park.

The school focuses on providing technical training and career-focused degree programs for students looking to enter high-demand fields.

Programs are flexible and affordable, with both online and in-person degree programs available.

3. Kansas Christian College

Kansas Christian College is a small private school enrolling fewer than 200 students. The school is located in Overland Park and has been around since 1938.

Various degree programs are available, including:

• Religion
• Business Leadership
• Elementary Education
• Leadership and Ministry
• Psychology

Degree programs can be completed either online or on campus, and some graduate-level programs are also available.

4. Cleveland University - Kansas City

Cleveland University - Kansas City is a private school focused on providing health science education. It is located in Overland Park.

The school is mostly known for its chiropractic doctoral program, but it offers several health-focused degrees and certificates at both graduate and undergraduate levels.

Generous financial aid opportunities are available through the school to help students pay for their education.

5. Ottawa University - Kansas City

Ottawa University is a private school with its main campus in Ottawa. However, it has several additional campuses in other parts of the country, including a Kansas City campus located in Overland Park.

The Kansas City campus offers highly flexible courses that can be taken either online, on campus, or in a hybrid format. These courses are designed to meet the needs of busy nontraditional students.

Several accelerated and traditional degree programs are available at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

6. University of St. Mary - Overland Park

The University of St. Mary is headquartered in Leavenworth but has an additional campus in Leewood, near Overland Park.

The Overland Park campus of this school provides graduate-level degree programs and one campus-based undergraduate program (elementary education), along with several online bachelor's degrees.

Flexible course schedules and accelerated options allow busy working adults to finish their degrees on their terms.

7. MidAmerica Nazarene University

MidAmerica Nazarene University is a private school located in Olathe, not far from Overland Park. This school enrolls about 1,500 students.

Among the various bachelor's degree programs are the following:

• Children and Family Ministry
• Business Administration
• Film and Video Production
• Entrepreneurship
• History

Multiple online and graduate-level degree programs are available as well.

8. Emporia State University - Kansas City

Emporia State University is located in Emporia but has a Kansas City campus offering various in-person and online degrees. This campus is located in Overland Park.

Students at this school can pursue a Bachelor of Science in education through the Kansas City campus. This program is offered in conjunction with Johnson County Community College.

Students in the program can complete flexible courses either online, in person, or a hybrid format.

9. Concorde Career College

Concorde Career College is a school with various locations throughout the United States. The Kansas City campus has two locations, including one near Overland Park.

This school offers technical training in a variety of healthcare fields.

Most of these programs are short-term diploma and certificate programs, but a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is also available.

Students can complete their program of choice by taking flexible classes online or in person.

10. Johnson County Community College

Johnson County Community College is a large public junior college located in Overland Park. It was established in 1969 and enrolls more than 17,000 students.

A wealth of associate degrees, transfer programs, and certificates are available through this school. Options include:

• Journalism and Media Communications
• Game Development
• Early Childhood Education
• Hospitality Management
• Astronomy

Continuing education programs are also available. Students can choose to complete their degree online or through traditional campus-based courses.

What Is the Biggest School Near Overland Park, KS?

The biggest school in or near Overland Park is Johnson County Community College. This school has over 17,000 students.

How to Choose the Right College Near Overland Park, KS

Choosing a college can seem overwhelming. With so many options, how can you determine which school is a good fit for you?

Consider what is most important to you. Are you more interested in a school with affordable tuition rates? A specific degree program? A specific fraternity or sorority?

Make a list of your top priorities when it comes to choosing a school.

This will enable you to compare the options against each other and find one that aligns most closely with your priorities.

Paying for Your Degree Near Overland Park, KS

There's no doubt about it; college can be pricey.

To see if you qualify for financial aid available from your state or federal government (as well as your school), fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

While you're at it, do some research and find scholarships you could apply for.

These merit-based financial awards are more competitive than need-based aid, but there are plenty of scholarships available.

You may also be able to obtain tuition discounts or waivers through the GI Bill if you have a military background.

Tuition assistance benefits may be available through your employer, or you could apply for a work-study program at your school to earn money toward your college costs.

Start Your Degree Near Overland Park, KS Today

If you're ready to start your college journey in Overland Park, check out the local schools outlined above to find out which one will work best for you.