Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Kansas

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 21 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$53,432

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

47%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,467

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

If you're considering a bachelor's degree in Kansas, you're not alone. Many students are evaluating their options, looking for programs that will lead to strong job prospects and manageable debt. The right choice can significantly impact your future earnings and overall career mobility, with average earnings from these programs in Kansas sitting at $53,432.

What sets the top programs apart in this list is a blend of graduation rates, post-graduate earnings, and manageable debt levels. Schools that excel tend to provide strong support for students, leading to better completion rates and preparing graduates for successful careers. By examining the net prices and student debt levels alongside these outcomes, families can make a more informed decision about which school best fits their needs.

For example, the University of Kansas leads the pack with average earnings of $61,945 and a graduation rate of 69%. In contrast, Fort Hays State University, while offering a much lower net price of $12,569, has a significantly lower graduation rate of 48% and earnings of $48,928. This illustrates the tradeoff between cost and the potential return on investment, prompting students to think carefully about what they value most in their education.

Key Findings

University of Kansas graduates earn an average of $61,945, the highest in this ranking.

Kansas State University boasts a graduation rate of 71%, the highest among the top five schools.

Fort Hays State University has a net price of $12,569, the lowest in this group.

The average graduation rate across all 21 schools listed is only 47%, indicating a need for stronger support systems.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 21

Avg. earnings at 10yr $53,432

Avg. graduation rate 47%

Avg. net price $22,467

Avg. median debt $22,455

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Kansas ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS

Graduation48%

Earnings$48,928

Net Price$12,569

View full profile →

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS

Graduation69%

Earnings$61,945

Net Price$18,059

View full profile →

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS

Graduation51%

Earnings$51,532

Net Price$13,194

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

Fort Hays State University, located in Hays, welcomes nearly 10,000 students and has a graduation rate of 48%. While this number may seem lower, the university emphasizes affordability with a net price of only $12,569. Graduates can expect median earnings of $48,928 after ten years, indicating that while the graduation rate is modest, many students find value in their degrees.

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS · 21,217 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 69% and a sizable student body of over 21,000, the University of Kansas in Lawrence is a vibrant community that offers plenty of opportunities for engagement and growth. The median earnings of $61,945 at ten years after graduation indicate that many graduates successfully transition into rewarding careers, making this school a strong option for those looking to invest in their future.

93% accepted 69% graduate $61,945 earnings

University's full profile

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS · 10,780 students · Public

With a diverse student body of nearly 10,800, Wichita State University cultivates an inclusive environment where 31% of students receive Pell Grants. The 51% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student success, while median earnings of $51,532 at ten years post-graduation indicate that many graduates are finding solid opportunities in the workforce.

94% accepted 51% graduate $51,532 earnings

Wichita's full profile

Newman University

Wichita, KS · 851 students · Private nonprofit

Newman University in Wichita is a small, private nonprofit institution with around 851 students and a graduation rate of 53%. This intimate setting can foster close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the overall educational experience. Graduates can expect median earnings of $55,041 after ten years, which reflects a decent return on investment for their studies.

74% accepted 53% graduate $55,041 earnings

Newman's full profile

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

Emporia State University, with a close-knit community of around 2,240 students, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on individualized attention. The graduation rate of 55% reflects an encouraging commitment to student completion, while the median earnings of $47,601 ten years after graduation demonstrate good earning potential for many alumni as they enter the job market.

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS · 15,142 students · Public

Kansas State University in Manhattan is home to over 15,000 students and has a graduation rate of 71%, showcasing its supportive environment for academic success. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $57,262 ten years after finishing their degree, which highlights the university's role in preparing students for the workforce effectively.

82% accepted 71% graduate $57,262 earnings

Kansas's full profile

Benedictine College

Atchison, KS · 2,272 students · Private nonprofit

Benedictine College, a private nonprofit institution in Atchison, Kansas, has a strong graduation rate of 63%. With around 2,270 students, it fosters a close community where individuals can thrive. Graduates earn a median income of $53,175 within ten years, suggesting that alumni are well-prepared for success in their careers.

98% accepted 63% graduate $53,175 earnings

Benedictine's full profile

Baker University

Baldwin City, KS · 1,100 students · Private nonprofit

With a 94% acceptance rate, Baker University is a welcoming community in Baldwin City, Kansas, where nearly 1,100 students pursue a variety of degree programs. The median earnings for graduates after ten years are impressive at $63,855, hinting that many students find their footing in stable careers after leaving the school.

94% accepted 59% graduate $63,855 earnings

McPherson College

McPherson, KS · 872 students · Private nonprofit

McPherson College offers a small, intimate learning experience in McPherson, Kansas, with an enrollment of just 872 students. While the graduation rate is only 44%, graduates earn a median income of $52,084 ten years after finishing their degrees, which indicates that many find their niche in the workforce despite the challenges of completing their studies.

77% accepted 44% graduate $52,084 earnings

McPherson's full profile

#10

MidAmerica Nazarene University

Olathe, KS · 983 students · Private nonprofit

MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, is home to about 983 students and has a graduation rate of 49%. Graduates can expect a median salary of $62,972 after ten years, reflecting the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers in various fields.

79% accepted 49% graduate $62,972 earnings

MidAmerica's full profile

#11

Friends University

Wichita, KS · 1,048 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $52,113 within ten years of graduation, Friends University in Wichita, KS, presents a solid financial outlook for its graduates. The school has a diverse student body of 1,048, and around 30% of its students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds. This combination of earnings and support suggests a positive environment for students seeking a meaningful education that can lead to solid career opportunities.

55% accepted 52% graduate $52,113 earnings

Friends's full profile

#12

Tabor College

Hillsboro, KS · 494 students · Private nonprofit

In Hillsboro, Kansas, Tabor College serves a smaller population of around 494 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. The college has a 65% acceptance rate and a graduation rate of 33%, indicating room for improvement in student retention. Graduates earn a median income of $54,058 ten years post-graduation, which shows potential for career success after completing their degrees.

65% accepted 33% graduate $54,058 earnings

Washburn University

Topeka, KS · 4,562 students · Public

Washburn University in Topeka serves a student population of about 4,560 and boasts a graduation rate of 53%. With median earnings of $49,774 at ten years after graduation, the university prepares students for various career paths. Its location in the state capital offers unique opportunities for internships and networking within governmental and educational sectors.

53% graduate $49,774 earnings

Washburn's full profile

#14

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, KS · 925 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas, students find a close-knit educational environment with around 925 peers. Despite a graduation rate of 46%, the school still manages to deliver median earnings of $59,483 for graduates ten years out, suggesting that many do succeed in their professional paths even if it takes a bit longer to graduate.

87% accepted 46% graduate $59,483 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Ottawa University-Ottawa

Ottawa, KS · 870 students · Private nonprofit

Ottawa University, located in Ottawa, Kansas, serves a smaller student body of approximately 870 students, creating a close community feel. With an 83% acceptance rate, it is an inviting choice for prospective students. However, it has a graduation rate of only 28%, which raises questions about student persistence and support. Graduates earn a median income of $55,552 ten years after graduation, reflecting the potential for solid career paths.

83% accepted 28% graduate $55,552 earnings

Ottawa's full profile

#16

Southwestern College

Winfield, KS · 924 students · Private nonprofit

Southwestern College, situated in Winfield, Kansas, enrolls about 924 students in a vibrant campus environment. The school has a 76% acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for many. Graduates can expect to earn around $55,646 ten years after completing their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the school's ability to prepare students for successful careers.

76% accepted 35% graduate $55,646 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#17

Bethel College-North Newton

North Newton, KS · 504 students · Private nonprofit

Bethel College in North Newton, KS, fosters a diverse learning environment with a student population of 504. The graduation rate of 42% points to a solid commitment to student success, while median earnings of $49,898 ten years after graduation indicate a promising financial future for graduates. The college's inclusive culture and faith-based values attract students who seek a holistic educational experience.

94% accepted 42% graduate $49,898 earnings

Bethel's full profile

#18

Sterling College

Sterling, KS · 538 students · Private nonprofit

Sterling College in Sterling, KS, has a small but close-knit community of 538 students, making it an appealing option for those who value personalized attention. With a graduation rate of 34% and median earnings of $45,846 at ten years post-graduation, there's potential for students to find their paths in various fields. The atmosphere here often fosters strong relationships among students and faculty, creating a supportive environment for learning and growth.

48% accepted 34% graduate $45,846 earnings

Sterling's full profile

#19

Kansas Wesleyan University

Salina, KS · 956 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Salina, Kansas, Kansas Wesleyan University has a close-knit community with around 956 students. With a 72% acceptance rate, it's a welcoming place for those eager to pursue their education in a supportive environment. The school’s graduates earn a median income of $51,152 ten years after enrollment, indicating that students find meaningful careers after their studies.

72% accepted 43% graduate $51,152 earnings

Kansas's full profile

#20

Bethany College

Lindsborg, KS · 569 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lindsborg, KS, Bethany College is home to 569 students and cultivates a unique community atmosphere. Although the graduation rate is lower at 32%, the median earnings of $49,694 after ten years show that graduates can still achieve solid financial outcomes. The college's emphasis on personal relationships and a supportive environment can be particularly beneficial for students who thrive in smaller settings where they can connect with peers and faculty alike.

56% accepted 32% graduate $49,694 earnings

Bethany's full profile

#21

Central Christian College of Kansas

McPherson, KS · 380 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of McPherson, Kansas, Central Christian College serves a tight-knit community of around 380 students. With a focus on personal attention, the college cultivates an environment where individual growth is emphasized, which can be particularly appealing for those seeking a supportive, faith-based education. While the graduation rate sits at 25%, many students find their path to success through dedicated faculty and a community that encourages perseverance.

53% accepted 25% graduate $44,468 earnings

Central's full profile

Looking at the data, it's clear that the University of Kansas outperforms Fort Hays State University in key metrics. With a graduation rate of 69% compared to Fort Hays' 48%, students at Kansas are more likely to complete their degrees. This is critical because higher completion rates typically correlate with better job prospects and earnings, with Kansas graduates earning an average of $61,945 versus Fort Hays' $48,928.

After reviewing the list, it’s important to think about what matters most for your unique situation. Consider factors like campus culture, program strength, and financial implications. Are you willing to pay more for a higher graduation rate and potential earnings, or is a lower-cost option with a different outcome more appealing? Align the data with your personal priorities to make the best choice.

The data suggests that choosing a college isn't just about the degree itself; it’s about the pathway to a stable life afterward. A degree from a school with a strong graduation rate and good earnings potential can be a pivotal decision for families. One choice could mean a more secure future, while another could leave graduates struggling with debt and uncertain job prospects.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility