Online education has ushered a new era in learning. Students can explore more educational opportunities than ever before without geographical restraints. Kansas students can enroll in online programs not offered by local schools, and non-resident learners can take advantage of the state's rich academic offerings.
Some Kansas institutions allow out-of-state online students to pay in-state tuition. Some of these schools include Pittsburg State University, Newman University, and Wichita State University. Paying in-state tuition can significantly reduce the cost of a four-year degree.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
Kansas institutions follow the residency laws established by the state legislature and the Kansas Board of Regents. Learners pay in-state tuition if they resided in Kansas for at least 12 months prior to their initial enrollment in a Kansas college or university.
With more than90 accredited colleges, Kansas offers many academic opportunities for students seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees. All state universities and several private colleges offer online options, with many of them offering fully online programs that require no campus visits.
Read on to explore some of the most affordable online colleges in Kansas, including scholarship opportunities and professional organizations.
Top 5 Best Value Online Colleges in Kansas
FAQ
Best Value Online Schools in Kansas 2021
Online colleges in Kansas rank among some of the most affordable institutions in the Sunflower State. Online students receive the same quality education as on-campus enrollees since only the delivery format differs. The same professors who teach on campus also teach online classes. The schools listed below offer a range of online bachelor's and master's degrees and welcome applications from in-state and out-of-state students.
Accreditation for Online Schools in Kansas
Accreditation is an evaluation process that involves a recognized accrediting agency examining the quality and rigor of a school's academic offerings. Most postsecondary institutions in the United States voluntarily go through this process to demonstrate their commitment to quality education.
TheU.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process. Nonprofit, degree-centered public and private colleges and universities typically pursue regional accreditation. Sectarian and vocational for-profit schools often seek national accreditation. ED and CHEA oversee both types of accreditation.
A school's accreditation matters especially for students who plan to apply for federal financial assistance to help fund their education. ED channels funds only through accredited institutions. Additionally, accredited colleges and universities typically accept transfer credits only from equally accredited schools.
TheDistance Education Accrediting Commission accredits institutions offering mostly online programs and other forms of distance education.
Why Study Online?
Most learners choose online programs for their flexibility and affordability. Online programs often feature asynchronous delivery formats and multiple starting dates. The ability to access course materials at any time and from anywhere especially benefits students who must juggle work, family, and personal responsibilities.
Online programs with multiple starting dates mean students need not wait for a fall or spring opening to enroll. Additionally, many online programs offer accelerated delivery schedules, such as eight-week terms instead of regular 16-week semesters. This means students can enroll in more courses during a typical school year.
Online learners save on transportation and other on-campus fees. They can also reap significant savings by enrolling in out-of-state schools that charge online enrollees the same tuition as in-state students. Earning a degree as quickly as possible allows students to enter the workforce sooner. While this may not save money, it means online graduates often start earning a salary sooner than on-campus students.
Professional Organizations for Students in Kansas
Kansas hosts regional chapters of several national organizations that welcome students pursuing a degree in their specific professional arena. Student members enjoy many benefits, including networking and mentoring opportunities, scholarships, and training and internship options. The four professional organizations below encourage membership applications from undergraduate and graduate Kansas students.
American Accounting Association
Kansas students enrolled in an accounting program can apply for membership in AAA's Midwest Chapter. Members gain full access to the organization's publications and scholarly journals. The organization specifically targets accounting majors who want to work in academia or as researchers in the accounting field. AAA accepts undergraduate and graduate student members.
American Advertising Federation
The Kansas chapter of AAF is one of the organization's largest and oldest chapters. Student members enjoy professional development and networking opportunities as well as discounted pricing on major AAF-sponsored regional and national events and conferences. They can also access an online job board and receive updates on member-exclusive internship and volunteer opportunities.
Kansas National Education Association
Students pursuing an education degree at a Kansas institution can apply for membership. KNEA offers several member benefits, including scholarships and professional resources for aspiring educators.
Society of Human Resource Management
SHRM welcomes students pursuing a degree in human resources or a closely related field such as business administration, industrial/organizational psychology, or labor relations. Student members gain full access to the organization's website, which features information about scholarships, internships, and professional networking opportunities. Members also receive discounts on training and educational materials and exam preparation resources.
Scholarships for Online Students in Kansas
The best online schools in Kansas offer several scholarships for students with varying skills, academic backgrounds, and interests. However, private organizations and special-interest nonprofits also administer financial assistance programs reserved for specific student groups. The four scholarships below represent a small sample of the many scholarships available for online students in Kansas.
The American Occupational Therapy Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: AOTF welcomes applications from students pursuing an accredited occupational therapy program at a Kansas institution. Students of an occupational therapy assistant program may also apply.
Amount: $1,000-$5,000
Capitol Federal Education Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The program accepts applications from incoming freshmen with a high school 3.35 GPA or higher. Applicants must be enrolled in a business program at an accredited Kansas institution and live in a Capitol Federal service area.
Amount: $2,500
Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students pursuing a nursing degree and enrolled in at least 12 credits can apply. Recipients must commit to working for the scholarship sponsor for one year for every year of assistance.
Amount: $3,500-$4,500
Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students pursuing an education degree leading to teaching licensure can apply. Recipients must agree to teach in an underserved Kansas community for one year for every year they receive funding.
Amount: Up to $5,536 per year
