The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on October 18, 2023

Business, healthcare, criminal justice, and education are some of the most common degrees offered by online colleges in Kansas.

Distance learners can enroll in fully accredited programs in health management, nursing, organizational leadership, cybersecurity, and early childhood education and teacher preparation. Because many private colleges and universities in Kansas emphasize faith-based education, distance learners may also pursue degrees in areas such as theological studies, Christian leadership, and urban ministry. Online courses usually follow an asynchronous format powered by learning and conferencing platforms like Desire2Learn or Blackboard. Some schools offer accelerated online courses that last seven to nine weeks instead of the conventional 15. These features allow distance learners to create flexible degree plans that fit their schedule and goals.

The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Kansas State University

  • Location-markerManhattan, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Kansas State University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Enrollees at this public college can choose from 73 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

Career and academic service associates located at the Manhattan campus also assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Hands-on learning through internships help many students prepare for work in the field. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon program completion.

Contact the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Kansas State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 5,850

Online Bachelor's Programs: 13

Online Master's Programs: 26

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 26%

Admission Rate: 95%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,735
  • Out-of-state$25,251
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,212
  • Out-of-state$23,050
  • Retention Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate95%
  • Students Enrolled21,719
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment27%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Fort Hays State University

  • Location-markerHays, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Fort Hays State University provides one of the best online college experiences available. The public institution offers 40 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Hays campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. Graduates receive fully accredited degrees.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Fort Hays State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,759

Online Bachelor's Programs: 24

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 51%

Admission Rate: 91%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,990
  • Out-of-state$14,070
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,582
  • Out-of-state$10,206
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate91%
  • Students Enrolled15,908
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Ottawa University-Online

  • Location-markerOttawa, KS
  • 4 year
  • Online

Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider Ottawa University-Online. The private school offers 30 remote programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. The school's substantial track record in online education and strong academic reputation attract many distance learners.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Ottawa campus. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. Graduates receive a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

Ottawa University-Online at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: Data not available

Online Bachelor's Programs: 23

Online Master's Programs: 7

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%

Admission Rate: Data not available

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,976
  • Out-of-state$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,430
  • Out-of-state$11,430
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled261
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#4 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Southwestern College

  • Location-markerWinfield, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Online degree-seekers should consider Southwestern College. Students who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from 40 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

From its Winfield campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Southwestern College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 905

Online Bachelor's Programs: 19

Online Master's Programs: 8

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 50%

Admission Rate: 52%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$31,500
  • Out-of-state$31,500
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,340
  • Out-of-state$11,340
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance Rate52%
  • Students Enrolled1,512
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment60%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Emporia State University

  • Location-markerEmporia, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Emporia State University ranks among the best online colleges. Remote enrollees at this public college can choose from 32 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

The academic and career advisors located at the Emporia campus are also available to assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.

Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.

Emporia State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,438

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 18

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 35%

Admission Rate: 85%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,154
  • Out-of-state$19,071
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,394
  • Out-of-state$19,888
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled5,877
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment58%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Newman University

  • Location-markerWichita, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Newman University is a leader in online education. The private institution makes seven of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Wichita campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Program graduates receive fully accredited degrees.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

Newman University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 754

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 14%

Admission Rate: 67%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$30,386
  • Out-of-state$30,386
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,458
  • Out-of-state$10,458
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate67%
  • Students Enrolled3,205
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment24%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

University of Kansas

  • Location-markerLawrence, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

University of Kansas has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. Enrollees at this public college can choose from 38 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

The physical campus in Lawrence employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.

Potential applicants can get in touch with the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.

University of Kansas at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 8,005

Online Bachelor's Programs: 8

Online Master's Programs: 13

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%

Admission Rate: 93%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,092
  • Out-of-state$26,960
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,989
  • Out-of-state$23,951
  • Retention Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate93%
  • Students Enrolled27,552
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Pittsburg State University

  • Location-markerPittsburg, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

For many online degree-seekers, Pittsburg State University is an attractive choice. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level can choose from 16 options at this public institution. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

Online learners not located near the Pittsburg campus can still take advantage of academic and career-advising services. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.

School representatives can provide additional information about application and program specifics.

Pittsburg State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,121

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 96%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,694
  • Out-of-state$17,038
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,678
  • Out-of-state$17,510
  • Retention Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate96%
  • Students Enrolled6,645
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Baker University

  • Location-markerBaldwin City, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Baker University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. The private institution offers 14 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the Baldwin City campus are available to help online learners. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

Baker University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,126

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 25%

Admission Rate: 88%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$29,300
  • Out-of-state$29,300
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,800
  • Out-of-state$10,800
  • Retention Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate88%
  • Students Enrolled2,595
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment43%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Barclay College

  • Location-markerHaviland, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Barclay College has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. The school, a private institution, hosts 12 options for remote learners at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.

The academic and career advisors located at the Haviland campus are also available to assist online learners. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Barclay College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 119

Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Online Master's Programs: 3

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 92%

Admission Rate: 51%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$16,000
  • Out-of-state$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,110
  • Out-of-state$7,110
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate51%
  • Students Enrolled225
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment53%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Central Christian College of Kansas

  • Location-markerMcPherson, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Central Christian College of Kansas is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Those who choose to enroll at this private college can choose from nine different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The school's substantial track record in online education and strong academic reputation attract many distance learners.

Career and academic service associates located at the McPherson campus also assist online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. The school's internship program gives students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.

Prospective applicants can get more information about online programs and application requirements from the school directly.

Central Christian College of Kansas at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 438

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 23%

Admission Rate: Data not available

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$18,246
  • Out-of-state$18,246
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled677
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment65%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Ottawa University-Kansas City

  • Location-markerOverland Park, KS
  • 4 year
  • Online

Ottawa University-Kansas City is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The private institution makes 42 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's substantial track record in online education and solid academic reputation attract many distance learners.

Online learners can work with academic and career services professionals located at the Overland Park campus. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Ottawa University-Kansas City at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 546

Online Bachelor's Programs: 33

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%

Admission Rate: Data not available

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,976
  • Out-of-state$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,430
  • Out-of-state$11,430
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled546
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

University of Saint Mary

  • Location-markerLeavenworth, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

For many online degree-seekers, University of Saint Mary is an attractive choice. The private institution's five online degree options include offerings at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.

The school's main campus in Leavenworth hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates receive an accredited degree.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

University of Saint Mary at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 229

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: 2

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 11%

Admission Rate: 84%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$28,860
  • Out-of-state$28,860
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,124
  • Out-of-state$11,124
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance Rate84%
  • Students Enrolled1,240
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Donnelly College

  • Location-markerKansas City, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Those looking for an online college program should consider Donnelly College. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.

Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Kansas City, Kansas campus. Degree-seekers connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs and career-planning events. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

Donnelly College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 18

Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available

Online Master's Programs: Data not available

Percent of Programs Offered Online: Data not available

Admission Rate: Data not available

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,502
  • Out-of-state$7,502
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled303
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 The Best Online Colleges in Kansas

Wichita State University

  • Location-markerWichita, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Wichita State University is a leader in online education. The public school offers 25 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.

The school's main campus in Wichita hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. Degree-seekers connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs and career-planning events. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing the program.

More information about which programs are available online and how to apply are available by contacting the school.

Wichita State University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 7,796

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 14%

Admission Rate: 92%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,709
  • Out-of-state$15,890
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$5,435
  • Out-of-state$13,348
  • Retention Rate69%
  • Acceptance Rate92%
  • Students Enrolled15,342
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes

Best Online Colleges

Kansas

2023


The Best Schools

Online Colleges in Kansas Ranking Guidelines

We selected the online schools in Kansas based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.