10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Olathe, KS

Do you live in Olathe, Kansas? Are you looking for a college or university you can attend that provides a quality education close to home?

Keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss the best colleges near Olathe and the surrounding areas. We'll also take a look at some answers to frequently asked questions.

Featured Colleges Near Olathe, KS

There are two schools in Olathe itself and several more colleges near Olathe in the surrounding communities. Read on for more information.

1. Kansas State University - Olathe

Kansas State University is a large public school headquartered in Manhattan. However, it has two branch campuses, one of which is located in Olathe.

This school primarily provides graduate-level studies; however, it also provides two bachelor's degree completion programs and a couple of undergraduate certificates.

The school also offers several K-12 educational programs. Generous financial aid opportunities are available for qualifying students.

2. MidAmerica Nazarene University

MidAmerica Nazarene University is a private school located in Olathe. This school enrolls around 1,500 students.

Many degree and certificate programs are available in various fields including healthcare, arts, sciences, business, and education.

Some degree programs are available exclusively online, while most can be completed on-campus or in a hybrid format.

3. University of Kansas - Edwards Campus

The University of Kansas is headquartered in Lawrence, but it has several additional campuses in the eastern part of the state. One of these, the Edwards Campus, is located in Overland Park.

This school provides many different degree and certificate programs, both at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Flexible online or campus-based programs make this an excellent choice for busy or nontraditional students who need a program that will fit with their existing lifestyle.

4. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University, a private school, has many locations throughout the United States. The Kansas City campus of this school is located in Overland Park.

This school provides dozens of academic programs with a focus on career training. High-quality programs are available in nursing and business as well as various other industries.

Students can choose to take classes online, in person, or in a hybrid format depending on their chosen program and which option best fits their needs.

5. Johnson County Community College

Johnson County Community College is a public school in Overland Park. It is a large junior college enrolling around 17,100 students.

The school provides associate degrees, short-term certificates, and career training programs. It has transfer agreements with dozens of four-year schools in the region so students can be assured their two-year degree will transfer seamlessly.

Academic programs are offered both online and in person. Some programs may offer hybrid learning opportunities.

6. Kansas Christian College

Kansas Christian College is a private school in Overland Park. This small school enrolls fewer than 200 total students.

Flexible degree programs are offered in various fields. Most programs are offered either online or in a hybrid format, and five-week class sessions allow for maximum flexibility.

Students typically take one to two classes at a time. Both graduate and undergraduate programs are available.

7. Avila University

Avila University is a private Catholic school in the southern part of Kansas City MO, across the state line from Olathe.

The school is known for its accelerated nursing degree program (ABSN) but provides a variety of other bachelor's and master's degrees.

Many degree programs are available both online and on campus, while some are exclusively offered either remotely or in person.

8. Cleveland University - Kansas City

Cleveland University - Kansas City is located in Overland Park. It is a private school with academic programs focusing on healthcare.

Associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs are all available, as well as a couple of certificates. The school is well-known for its Doctor of Chiropractic degree.

Students study on campus to ensure their hands-on training prepares them for their future careers.

9. Ottawa University - Kansas City

Ottawa University is headquartered in Ottawa, but its Kansas City campus is located in Overland Park. It is a private school.

This school provides flexible degree programs in a variety of fields such as healthcare, business, and education.

Many of these programs are offered via online or evening classes for nontraditional students in need of flexible scheduling.

10. University of St. Mary - Overland Park

The University of St. Mary is a small private school headquartered in Leavenworth. However, it has an additional campus in Overland Park.

The Overland Park campus provides graduate-level studies as well as undergraduate degree completion programs.

Most programs are available online or through flexible evening programs, and most offer accelerated timeframes so students can graduate with their degrees as soon as possible.

What Is the Biggest School Near Olathe, KS?

Johnson County Community College is the largest college near Olathe, with a total enrollment of more than 17,000 students.

How to Choose the Right College Near Olathe, KS

Choosing the right school can seem like a challenging endeavor. Fortunately, there are ways to simplify the process and remove some of the guesswork.

Think about the major or program you want to pursue, the cost of the colleges on your list, and whether or not location matters to you. Make a list of the various factors that are important to you in your ideal school.

Once you know what you are looking for and what your priorities are, you can more easily identify which schools would not be a good fit and remove them from your list.

Paying for Your Degree Near Olathe, KS

No doubt about it; college costs quite a bit of money. If you're worried about being able to afford school, fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for need-based financial aid from the government.

Scholarships can also help you pay for school. They are usually merit-based and competitive, but it's a good idea to do some research and apply for scholarships you think you might qualify for.

If you have a military background, find out if you could receive tuition benefits through the GI Bill. Finally, tuition assistance and work-study programs are both great ways to earn money for school by working.

Start Your Degree Near Olathe, KS Today

Look into each of the colleges near Olathe if you're ready to start your college journey. With a little research, you should be able to find one that will fit your educational goals and budget.