Skip to main content

Cheapest Biology Colleges in Kansas

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Central Christian College of Kansas delivers the state's most affordable biology program at just $12,473 net cost, nearly $4,500 less than the next cheapest option. This dramatic savings opportunity stands out among Kansas's 20 biology programs, which range from $12,473 to $28,083 annually. Public universities like Washburn and Fort Hays State follow closely behind, offering strong value with in-state tuition under $10,000. The earnings data reveals significant variation, with Washburn biology graduates earning $39,585 compared to Newman University's $22,420. Kansas's growing aerospace sector, anchored by companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, creates opportunities for biology graduates in quality control, materials testing, and research roles. The state's agricultural foundation also provides pathways in crop science and biotechnology. While private colleges typically cost more, several offer competitive net prices through financial aid. The Kansas Promise Act covers community college tuition for qualifying students, creating additional pathways into four-year biology programs.
23
Programs
$12,473 – $33,243
Net Price Range
$29,082
Avg. Program Earnings
46.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

23 Biology, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,473 $21,000 23.0%
2 $13,046 $9,578 52.6%
3 $13,493 $5,633 47.8% 88.0%
4 $13,776 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%
5 $15,702 $7,356 54.3% 95.7%
6 $17,365 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
7 $17,883 $10,942 70.5% 95.1%
8 $18,889 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
9 $19,045 $35,500 53.8% 51.0%
10 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
11 $22,403 $32,200 29.0% 61.1%
12 $22,500 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
13 $23,335 $33,890 44.1% 81.9%
14 $23,369 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
15 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
16 $24,837 $35,162 52.0% 65.9%
17 $25,752 $32,748 61.5% 63.3%
18 $27,310 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
19 $27,477 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%
20 $28,083 $35,300 28.7% 78.2%
21 $29,203 $31,946 28.7% 66.0%
22 $29,520 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%
23 $33,243 $14,400 33.3% 86.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Central Christian College's biology program so much cheaper than other Kansas schools?

Central Christian College offers the lowest net cost at $12,473, which represents substantial financial aid reducing the sticker price from $21,000. The college's small size and focused mission allow for generous aid packages. However, the trade-off appears in graduation rates, with only 23% completing their programs compared to state averages above 50%. Students should weigh immediate affordability against completion support when making decisions.

How do public university biology programs compare in terms of cost and outcomes in Kansas?

Public universities dominate the affordable options, with Fort Hays State charging just $5,633 in-state tuition and Emporia State at $7,356. Washburn University graduates earn the highest salaries at $39,585, significantly above Fort Hays State's $29,685. Graduation rates at public schools range from 47.8% at Fort Hays State to 70.5% at Kansas State University. Kansas State and University of Kansas offer the best combination of graduation rates above 68% and reasonable costs under $18,000 net.

Does the earnings gap between Kansas biology programs justify higher tuition costs?

Washburn University graduates earn $39,585 despite moderate net costs of $13,046, making it the best value proposition. Newman University charges $19,045 but graduates earn only $22,420, creating questionable return on investment. The $17,165 earnings difference between top and bottom programs represents significant lifetime earning potential. Students should consider that higher-earning programs often require stronger academic preparation and offer better research opportunities.

Is biology education in Kansas connected to the state's aerospace and agriculture industries?

Kansas aerospace companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation hire biology graduates for materials testing, quality assurance, and biocompatibility research. The state's agricultural sector offers opportunities in plant biology, soil science, and biotechnology development. University of Kansas and Kansas State University maintain research partnerships with these industries, providing internship pathways. Fort Hays State University's location in western Kansas particularly connects students to agricultural research opportunities.

Where should students look for the best financial aid opportunities in Kansas biology programs?

Private colleges like Central Christian and Tabor offer substantial aid packages, reducing costs from $32,000+ sticker prices to under $20,000 net. The Kansas Promise Act covers community college tuition, allowing students to complete prerequisites affordably before transferring. Public universities provide consistent affordability with in-state tuition under $12,000 at most schools. Students should apply early and complete FAFSA forms, as many Kansas schools offer additional state and institutional aid beyond federal programs.

More Biology, General Rankings

Best Value Biology, General in Kansas Biology, General Under $20,000 in Kansas

Related

All Biology, General Programs Best Colleges in Kansas Best Biology, General in Kansas

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