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Cheapest Design and Applied Arts Colleges in Kansas

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

Kansas design programs show a dramatic cost divide that tells two different stories about arts education accessibility. Wichita State University delivers the state's most affordable option at just $13,776 net cost, while MidAmerica Nazarene reaches $29,520,more than double the price. This gap reflects the public-private split that defines Kansas higher education. The state's aerospace industry, anchored by companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, creates unique opportunities for design graduates who understand both creative principles and manufacturing processes. Kansas State University and University of Kansas offer middle-ground options around $17,000-$18,000, with KU graduates earning $37,208 annually,the highest in the state. The 15 programs span from small liberal arts colleges to major research universities, giving students choices that match both budget and career goals. With Kansas Promise Act covering community college tuition for qualifying students, the pathway into design education has become more accessible across economic backgrounds.
15
Programs
$13,776 – $29,520
Net Price Range
$33,912
Avg. Program Earnings
48.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Design and Applied Arts Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,776 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%
2 $17,365 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
3 $17,883 $10,942 70.5% 95.1%
4 $18,289 $15,340 50.0%
5 $18,889 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
6 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
7 $22,403 $32,200 29.0% 61.1%
8 $22,500 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
9 $23,369 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
10 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
11 $24,837 $35,162 52.0% 65.9%
12 $27,310 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
13 $27,477 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%
14 $29,203 $31,946 28.7% 66.0%
15 $29,520 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $15,744 difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The cost gap reflects Kansas's mix of public and private institutions serving different student populations. Wichita State University, as a public institution, offers the lowest net cost at $13,776 with in-state tuition of just $9,322. Private colleges like MidAmerica Nazarene at $29,520 provide smaller class sizes and specialized attention but charge significantly more. The middle tier includes University of Kansas at $17,365 and Kansas State at $17,883, both public universities with strong design programs.

How do graduation rates vary across Kansas design programs?

Graduation rates span from 28.7% at Bethany College to 70.5% at Kansas State University, showing significant variation in student success. The three major public universities,Kansas State (70.5%), University of Kansas (68.8%), and Wichita State (51.4%),generally outperform smaller private colleges. However, some private institutions like Benedictine College achieve 65.1% graduation rates. Students should consider these completion rates alongside costs when evaluating program value.

Where do Kansas design graduates typically work after completing their programs?

University of Kansas graduates earn the highest average salary at $37,208, while Wichita State graduates average $30,616 despite the lower program cost. Kansas's aerospace manufacturing sector, including Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, provides opportunities for industrial design and technical illustration roles. The state's agricultural economy also creates demand for packaging design, marketing materials, and digital media. Many graduates find work in Kansas City's larger metropolitan market or stay local in college towns.

Does acceptance rate indicate program competitiveness in Kansas design schools?

Most Kansas design programs maintain high acceptance rates, with 11 of 15 schools accepting over 60% of applicants. Benedictine College has the highest acceptance rate at 98.83%, while Tabor College is most selective at 52.71%. These rates suggest Kansas design programs focus more on fit and potential than strict academic credentials. However, students should still prepare strong portfolios since acceptance rates don't reflect the quality or rigor of individual programs.

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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.