Kansas has plenty to offer prospective college students, from suburban and rural institutes of higher learning to universities located in urban centers.

Many of the colleges and universities are private, Christian institutions. They offer excellent value, a liberal arts education, and you may be surprised at how good some of their specific programs are.

The 2022 best colleges and universities in Kansas may have you reconsidering your top higher ed picks.

Benedictine College – At #13 in regional colleges of the Midwest, this private Catholic school hand-picks their admitted students, and getting in is not easy. Students are encouraged to study abroad through the university, and options include programs in Italy and Ireland at sister campuses. Tuition and fees are $29,530 annually.

McPherson College – When small class size matters, McPherson is the choice for a liberal arts school in the Midwest. Students expand their learning through internships and international studies. You’ll pay approximately $28,951 a year in tuition and fees.

Ottawa University – Since 1865, this Christian school has provided higher education for students seeking vocational training and service to God.

Emporia State University – This school offers 80 undergrad majors, but the one they are most well known for is their education program. It’s been compared to a similar program at Stanford, and education majors seeking leadership training will find that a degree from this school earns them serious respect in their profession. Tuition is approximately $7,000 annually.

MidAmerica Nazarene University – This Christian-based school prepares students for critical thinking, a conservative philosophy, and a personal relationship with God. Three-fourths of the classes here have fewer than 20 students.   Tuition is $30,736 annually.

University of Kansas  – This university ranks at #129 nationwide, and it focuses on research and teaching. The programs in special education and public administration are outstanding, and the KU law program is a top 20 choice for value. Annual tuition is approximately $11,148.

Haskell Indian Nations University – This school is devoted to educating Native Americans in higher education, and one of its many unique characteristics is that it focuses on indigenous studies. Students learn about their native cultures and explore their role in history. The U.S. Bureau of Education pays for the tuition of native American students.

Even if you’re looking to travel beyond Kansas for your higher education program, Kansas is still a great state to call home. Kansas residents get discounted tuition rates at identified public universities in eight states through the Midwest Student Exchange.

 Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

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