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Schools in the Kansas State public university system are listed below to provide ready access to the details about the colleges. At MatchCollege, we work tirelessly to provide prospective students with the tools to help find the perfect college for them by assembling access to 3D campus tours, enrollment trends, acceptance rates, tuition, financial aid trends, and degree information. Universities and colleges that accept state funding are considered public schools. Public universities found in Kansas include metro and suburban schools in Wichita, Topeka, Lawrence, Hays, and Emporia to name a few cities. Top ranked public universities in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Kansas State University, and Fort Hays State University.

2024 Best Public Colleges in Kansas

University of Kansas (KU) is a public research and teaching college with one main campus and multiple satellite campuses.  KU offers high-tech laboratories, interactive classrooms, and several performance venues and athletic arenas.  The university's illustrious alumni include the inventor of basketball, Pulitzer Prize winners, astronauts, governors, artists, and a Nobel Prize winner.

Often referred to as "the castle on the hill," KU's scenic main campus of red-roofed buildings and forested hills is located at the top Mount Oread in Lawrence, Kansas.  The KU has strong academic programs, and offers more than 190 undergraduate majors, numerous master's level degrees and more than 12 graduate and professional doctoral degree programs.

History

KU was founded in 1866 as The Kansas State University.  The university's first major building was completed in 1872. Old Fraser Hall, designed by renowned architect John G. Haskell, came to symbolize KU.  This structure was, however, later torn down due to structural problems. 

In 1873, 23-year-old Flora Richardson became the university's first female graduate.  She was also class valedictorian that year.

Academics

The University of Kansas academic calendar follows the semester system, with fall and spring semesters, and a summer term.

Colleges and Schools

  • School of Allied Health
  • School of Architecture, Design and Planning
  • School of Arts
  • School of Business
  • School of Education
  • School of Engineering
  • School of Journalism and Mass Communications
  • School of Law
  • School of Medicine
  • School of Music
  • School of Nursing
  • School of Pharmacy
  • School of Social Welfare
  • College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Student Life

There are 642 student groups, clubs, and organizations currently registered at KU, including intramural sports leagues and local chapters of fraternities and sororities. There is plenty to get involved in at KU. The Student Involvement and Leadership Center has more information about groups, events, and service and leadership opportunities for students.

Athletics

The Kansas "Jayhawks" athletic teams compete in 16 intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Track and Field

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball

Satellite Campuses

In addition to its beautiful Lawrence Campus, the University of Kansas has several satellite campuses that include:

  • The University of Kansas Medical Center (Kansas City, Kansas)
  • The University of Kansas School of Medicine - Wichita (Wichita, Kansas)
  • The University of Kansas, Edwards Campus (Overland Park, Kansas)
  • Life Span Institute at Parsons (Parsons, Kansas)
  • The University of Kansas Public Management Center (Topeka, Kansas)
  • Juniper Gardens Children's Project (Kansas City, Kansas)
  • Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (Hutchinson, Kansas)
  • School of Medicine - Salina (Salina, Kansas)

Community Life

Students at KU and the local community can enjoy many renowned performing arts venues that offer music, dance and theatre.  KU is also home to an excellent archives collection, as well as the many art, plant and animal specimen collections that are open to the public.

Enrollment

27,690

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Kansas State University (K-State) is a public research university. K-State has three campuses in Kansas: Manhattan Campus, Salina Campus and Olathe Campus, and offers more than 250 undergraduate majors. The K-State Graduate School at the Olathe Campus offers 65 master's degrees, 45 doctoral degrees and 22 graduate certificates. 

K-State is working to become a top 50 public research university in the U.S. by the year 2025. It has strong science programs, and is home to the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, and the Biosecurity Research Institute. The K-State "Landon Lectures" guest speakers have included international leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev and Vicente Fox, as well as seven U.S. presidents. High profile alumni include Erin Brockovich and Jordy Nelson, among others.

History

Kansas State University was founded in 1863 as one of the first land-grant colleges in the United States.

Academics

The academic calendar for Kansas State University follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer terms.

Colleges and Schools

The colleges, schools and divisions of Kansas State University are:

  • College of Agriculture
  • College of Architecture, Planning and Design
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of Education
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Human Ecology
  • College of Technology and Aviation
  • College of Veterinary Medicine
  • Division of Continuing Education
  • Graduate School
  • School of Leadership Studies

Student Life

K-State offers nearly 500 student clubs, groups and organizations for those seeking involvement. Student groups cover a broad range of interests from culture and politics to charity work or sports. There are many opportunities for community services or developing leadership skills through the School of Leadership Studies. The Hands On Kansas State program offers training for service on campus, in the community or abroad.

Greek Life is active on campus, and local chapters of fraternities and sororities offer more opportunities for charity work.

On campus housing is available, and a majority of K-State students live on campus their first year. Residence Halls include the Derby Complex, Kramer Complex and Strong Complex. A wide range of dining options is also available.

Traditions

The Kansas State University school colors are purple and white. The school mascot is the "wildcats."

Athletics

The K-State "Wildcats" athletic teams compete in several intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross County
  • Equestrian
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Rowing
  • Track and Field 

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Equestrian
  • Golf
  • Rowing
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball

Satellite Campuses

The main campus for Kansas State University is its Manhattan Campus, a 664-acre site in northeast Kansas. A second campus for K-State is its Salina Campus, a 149-acre site in central Kansas (and 70 miles from Manhattan, Kansas). A third campus for K-State is its Olathe Campus, which is located in the Kansas Bioscience Park.

Community Life

The city of Manhattan, Kansas has a population of 50,000, and is known as "The Little Apple."  It has an interesting history and offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation, as well as fine dining and excellent shopping. The army fort, Fort Riley is nearby, and the area is surrounded by the scenic Flint Hills. The Kansas State University campus in Manhattan is considered one of the safest college campuses in the nation.

Enrollment

22,221

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Pittsburg State University is a public university that has a large selection of majors and degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Pittsburg, Kansas, in a predominantly rural area. Approximately 7,100 students are enrolled yearly at Pitt State. Students can choose from several areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • Education
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
Students applying for admission are usually asked to submit an application, transcripts, test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the school. Most students accepted to Pitt State score in a range of 19 to 24 on the ACT exam. 77% of those students that apply are accepted to Pittsburg State University, of which 52% choose to attend. More information on admissions can be found here. The tuition at Pittsburg State University varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay close to $5,700 per year and out-of-state residents are charged $16,000 annually. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements. The Pittsburg State University "Gorillas" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered may include but not limited to:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
Contact information, academics information, areas of study offered, and much more may be accessed on school's website at http://www.pittstate.edu.

Enrollment

6,625

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Wichita State University, located in Wichita, Kansas, was founded in 1895 as Fairmont College by Reverend Joseph Homer Parker. The school began by offering a faith based education to locals and those interested in attending a Christian institution. In 1926 the city voted and the school became a non-denominational institution and changed its name to the Municipal University of Wichita. The school operated as a municipal institution until 1964 when became one of the six universities governed by the Kansas Board of Regents. The school is one of three public research universities in the state, and has grown from humble beginning into a large college dedicated to maintaining its partnership with the city of Wichita and the state of Kansas.

Academics

Wichita State University offers a large number of programs and majors for its current and future students. The school believes in the importance of practical experience based learning alongside more traditional classroom based education. The school has maintained a policy of low cost, high quality education. Students are encouraged to explore educational opportunities and utilize WSU's resources to the fullest.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in enrollment at Wichita State University must fulfill one of the following requirements: Have an ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 980, be in the top third of one's graduating class, or have GPA of 2.0 or higher in required pre-admission courses. GED students must have a minimum of 550 on each test portion, and an overall score higher than 2550. Interested students may complete and submit an application, providing all pertinent documents, including transcripts, for review. Once submitted, the admissions office will look over the application and respond as quickly as possible.

Financial Aid is available in the form of loans, grants, work study programs and scholarships. The school disburses over $100 million a year in aid.  Students in need of financial aid may begin the process by contacting the financial aid office for assistance. Scholarships may require separate applications to be submitted to the bodies responsible for the scholarship, and are awarded for a variety of reasons.

Organizations

Students are encouraged to participate in one or more of the large number of student organizations at Wichita State University. Students who pursue their interests through such organizations will encounter other individuals with similar interests and develop bonds that extend beyond the classroom, and often beyond graduation. Such organizations also offer insight into how groups operate, the process of decision making by committee, and the various actions necessary to realize an event. Student organizations are an important part of the college experience, offering a network of people who may support one another academically and socially.

Some organizations at WSU:

  • Engineers Without Borders
  • Experimental Anthropology Research Society
  • Wichita State University Ceramics Guild
  • Wichita Jazz Festival Student Planning Committee
  • Students on Film

Recreation

Wichita State University offers a variety of options for students in regards to recreational activities. Some students may be inclined to join intramural sports teams, while others may pursue maintaining their health through exercise, and others may seek to casually compete in a variety of games.

Intramural sports and workout facilities are handled through the Heskett Center, a 160,000 square foot facility. For students interested in more casual pursuits, the Rhatigan Student Center basement houses bowling lanes and billiard tables, as well as a variety of arcade games. WSU understands the importance of recreation among students, and supports them through on campus facilities, and off campus events. Students are encouraged to partake of these resources in order to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy mindset.

Enrollment

15,778

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Emporia State University provides a variety of program options for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Emporia, Kansas and publically funded. Approximately 6,300 students are enrolled yearly at Emporia State University.

Students can select from a few areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • Education
  • Library Science
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Social Sciences

Students applying for admission are usually asked to submit an application, transcripts, records, standardized test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by the admissions staff. Most students accepted to this school have an SAT score in a range of 425 to 505, or an ACT score within the range of 19 to 24. 82% of students that apply are accepted to ESU, of which 48% choose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found at emporia.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition varies for in-state and nonresidents. In-state residents pay around $5,400 and nonresidents pay $17,000 per year. Housing may be available for those that want to live on-campus for around a cost of $3,600 per year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements.

The ESU Hornets participate in a number of athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include the following:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

Contact information, admission forms, programs, and much more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.emporia.edu.

Enrollment

5,796

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Haskell Indian Nations University was founded in 1887 and has the unique honor of being one of America’s tribal universities.  The school is committed to educating Native Americans. Their focus is holistic learning, which integrates learning with work and recreation. They have three separate divisions: the college of education, the school of business, and the college of arts and sciences.

Having cultivating relationships with area businesses, Haskell is able to offer cooperative learning opportunities to students, so they can gain practical work experience as they further their educations. Extracurricular activities round out this impressive experience, with choices ranging from Apache Club to Boxing Club.

Financial aid opportunities at Haskell include Pell grants, scholarships, and financial aid for students who qualify. For more information on how to get started on the path to a successful future, contact the Haskell admissions office. For students who are looking for an authentically American college experience, Haskell is a smart choice!

Enrollment

733

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Washburn University provides a variety of program options for students to aid them in their growth and development. The school is located in Topeka, Kansas and publically funded. Enrollment at Washburn University is nearly seven thousand yearly. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Legal Professions And Studies
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Public Administration And Social Services
  • Education
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Security And Protective Services
Students applying for admission are generally required to submit an application, transcripts, records, standardized test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the admissions office. Most students accepted to Washburn University score in-between 19 - 25 on the ACT. More information from the admissions office can be found here. Tuition & fees at this school vary for in-state and nonresidents. In-state tuition costs around $5,800 per year with out-of-state tuition costing $13,000 for the year. The cost of on-campus housing is around $3,700 annually. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is generally offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. The Washburn University Ichabods participate in a number of athletic programs, within the NCAA organization. Athletic programs available may include the following:
  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)
  • Golf (NCAA Division II)
Students can visit the Washburn University website to see a complete list of academic programs offered, financial aid details, and more.

Enrollment

6,571

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Fort Hays State University, a public institution, offers a variety of degree programs, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Hays, KS, the school resides in a rural setting for students to study in. FHSU has an annual student enrollment of approximately twelve thousand.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Liberal Arts And Sciences
  • Education
  • Computer And Information Sciences

The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and standardized test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions committee. Most students admitted to Fort Hays State University score in a range of 18 to 25 on the ACT. FHSU admits approximately 70% of applicants. Of those students accepted, nearly 59% of students registered for enrollment. More information regarding admissions can be found at fhsu.edu.

The tuition at FHSU varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay nearly $4,500 per year and out-of-state residents are charged $14,000 annually. Students attending FHSU may qualify for aid which is typically grants and loans.

The Fort Hays State University "Tigers" compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Available sports offered may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

To see a full list of programs offered, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please visit the school's website at http://www.fhsu.edu.

Enrollment

15,523

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

How to Find the Best College in Kansas?

The best way to determine the best college degree program for you is to start with you. In other words, determine what is important to you before making life decisions based on the latest college rankings. You will be best served by writing down your educational priorities, career aspirations, and personal objectives. To help you start, utilize our acclaimedguideThe Complete College Admissions Guide to help you detail your priorities before completing your first college application.

Degree Programs for Kansas State Universities

Public universities in Kansas help students prepare for careers in a variety of industries with degree programs inlaw,medicine,physical therapy,cosmetology,welding,business administration,psychology,corrections officer,architecture, andsports managementto list a few sample programs. Degree tracks can be found as undergraduate, graduate programs, or professional certificates to meet the emerging needs of students and employers in and around Kansas. Search and sort by top rated Kansas schools or by degree program to learn more about areas of interest to you.

Kansas State University System

The 5 schools listed below are part of the Kansas State University System. By following the links below, you can view each school's profile in detail.

Barclay College (FHSU) in Hays, KS

Visit the website for Barclay College at http://www.barclaycollege.edu

Program Details

  • 10,000 to 19,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $21,000 per year
Flint Hills Technical College (ESU E-State) in Emporia, KS

Visit the website for Flint Hills Technical College at http://www.fhtc.edu

Program Details

  • 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $7,000 per year
Kansas Wesleyan University (K-State) in Manhattan, KS

Visit the website for Kansas Wesleyan University at http://www.kwu.edu

Program Details

  • More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $31,000 per year
Newman University (University of Kansas) in Lawrence, KS

Visit the website for Newman University at http://www.newmanu.edu

Program Details

  • More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $34,000 per year
Pratt Community College (Pitt State) in Pittsburg, KS

Visit the website for Pratt Community College at http://www.prattcc.edu

Program Details

  • 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $4,000 per year for state residents ($4,000 Nonresidents)

Other Public 4-Year State Universities & Colleges

Below is a list of other 4-year state universities and colleges in Kansas.

WSU Tech in Topeka, KS

Visit the website for WSU Tech at http://www.wsutech.edu

Program Details

  • 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $7,000 per year for state residents ($8,000 Nonresidents)

Notes: Tuition & fee amounts are for both Kansas in-state residents and out of state students, unless noted otherwise. The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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