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Central Christian College of Kansas breaks the mold with a $12,473 net price that undercuts even public universities in the state. This private college in McPherson costs less than half of what students pay at Wichita State University ($13,776) despite being a private institution. Kansas chemistry graduates can expect starting salaries ranging from $30,771 to $41,193, with the University of Kansas leading earnings potential. The state's aerospace industry, anchored by Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, creates demand for analytical chemists who understand materials science and quality control processes. Public universities dominate the affordability market, with Fort Hays State charging just $5,633 for in-state tuition while maintaining a 47.8% graduation rate. The 20 programs span from $12,473 to $29,203 in net costs, giving students multiple pathways into careers supporting Kansas's manufacturing and agricultural sectors.
21
Programs
$12,473 – $29,520
Net Price Range
$36,211
Avg. Program Earnings
48.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Chemistry 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 $29,203 $31,946 28.7% 66.0%
21 $29,520 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Central Christian College of Kansas so affordable for chemistry students?

Central Christian College of Kansas offers the lowest net price at $12,473, despite being a private institution. The college provides substantial financial aid that brings costs below many public universities. This pricing strategy helps the small college in McPherson compete with larger state schools while maintaining a 23% graduation rate.

How do chemistry earnings compare between Kansas universities?

University of Kansas chemistry graduates earn $41,193 annually, significantly higher than Wichita State's $30,771. The $10,422 difference reflects the research opportunities and industry connections available at KU. Fort Hays State graduates earn $36,668, showing that smaller public universities can still deliver strong career outcomes.

Is the graduation rate gap between public and private schools significant?

Kansas State University leads with a 70.5% graduation rate, followed closely by University of Kansas at 68.8%. Most public universities cluster between 47-57% graduation rates. Private colleges show more variation, from Central Christian's 23% to Baker University's 59.4%, reflecting different student populations and academic approaches.

Does in-state tuition vary dramatically across Kansas public universities?

Fort Hays State charges the lowest in-state tuition at $5,633, while University of Kansas costs $11,700. Emporia State offers competitive pricing at $7,356, making it accessible for budget-conscious students. The $6,067 difference between the highest and lowest public tuition gives students significant savings opportunities.

Where do private college costs become competitive with public options?

Newman University's net price of $19,045 competes reasonably with public options when considering its 53.8% graduation rate. Most private colleges range from $22,000-24,000 in net costs after aid. Central Christian College stands alone at $12,473, making it the only private option cheaper than public alternatives.

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