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Best Value Teacher Education and Professional Development Colleges in Kansas

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Teacher education programs in Kansas show a striking cost divide that directly impacts student outcomes. While Fort Hays State University delivers training for just $5,633 in annual tuition, private institutions like MidAmerica Nazarene University charge $36,120 for similar preparation. The earnings gap tells a different story, with University of Saint Mary graduates earning $40,896 compared to Fort Hays graduates at $35,605. Kansas public schools face ongoing teacher shortages, particularly in rural districts where many of these programs place graduates. The state's agricultural economy and growing aerospace sector in Wichita create demand for STEM educators, while small towns across western Kansas struggle to fill elementary positions. Graduation rates vary dramatically, from Sterling College's concerning 29% to Kansas State University's solid 70.5%. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with all five state schools maintaining net costs below $19,000 annually.
25
Programs
$3,031 – $29,520
Net Price Range
$37,111
Avg. Program Earnings
46.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,046 $36,938 $9,578 52.6%
2 $13,493 $35,605 $5,633 47.8% 88.0%
3 $15,702 $37,896 $7,356 54.3% 95.7%
4 $17,365 $37,465 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
5 $17,883 $37,357 $10,942 70.5% 95.1%
6 $19,045 $36,437 $35,500 53.8% 51.0%
7 $18,889 $35,934 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
8 $23,335 $40,896 $33,890 44.1% 81.9%
9 $22,500 $37,424 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
10 $22,403 $36,745 $32,200 29.0% 61.1%
11 $23,369 $36,560 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
12 $27,310 $37,125 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
13 $27,477 $36,272 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%
14 $28,083 $36,437 $35,300 28.7% 78.2%
15 $29,520 $37,568 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%
16 $15,686 $10,950 28.6%
17 $3,031 $600 42.6% 93.3%
18 $24,837 $35,162 52.0% 65.9%
19 $25,752 $32,748 61.5% 63.3%
20 $28,827 $26,590 55.2% 52.7%
21 $12,473 $21,000 23.0%
22 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
23 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
24 $29,203 $31,946 28.7% 66.0%
25 $13,776 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $30,000 cost difference between Kansas teacher education programs?

Public universities receive state funding that dramatically reduces costs for residents. Fort Hays State charges just $5,633 annually compared to MidAmerica Nazarene's $36,120. However, private schools often provide smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. The net cost data shows that financial aid narrows this gap somewhat, but public options remain significantly more affordable.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Kansas teacher education?

Higher-priced programs don't guarantee better completion rates in Kansas teacher education. Sterling College charges $32,200 but graduates only 29% of students, while Kansas State University costs $10,942 with a 70.5% graduation rate. University of Kansas achieves the highest graduation rate at 68.8% while maintaining moderate costs. The data suggests public universities provide better support systems for student success.

Is the earnings difference between programs worth the extra tuition cost?

University of Saint Mary graduates earn $40,896 annually but pay significantly more in tuition than Fort Hays graduates earning $35,605. The $5,291 salary difference rarely justifies the additional educational debt. Kansas teachers' salaries are primarily determined by district funding and experience rather than alma mater. Most graduates enter similar starting positions regardless of their preparation program.

Does location within Kansas affect teacher education program value?

Geographic location impacts both costs and career opportunities for Kansas teacher education graduates. Programs in Lawrence and Manhattan benefit from proximity to larger school districts with higher salaries. However, rural programs like Fort Hays State directly address western Kansas teacher shortages. Topeka-based Washburn University graduates often find positions in state government education roles. Small-town programs typically have stronger community partnerships but fewer urban internship options.

Where do acceptance rates suggest the most competitive teacher education programs?

Newman University maintains the most selective teacher education program with a 51.03% acceptance rate, followed by Sterling College at 61.10%. However, high selectivity doesn't correlate with better outcomes in Kansas. Emporia State University accepts 95.67% of applicants but achieves a 54.3% graduation rate and produces teachers earning $37,896 annually. The state's teacher shortage means most programs prioritize access over exclusivity.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.