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Public universities in Kansas deliver nursing education at remarkably low costs, with Washburn University leading at just $13,046 net price. The $16,474 gap between the cheapest public option and most expensive private program reflects Kansas's commitment to accessible healthcare education. State nursing graduates enter a job market shaped by major healthcare systems like the University of Kansas Health System and Wesley Medical Center, plus rural hospitals serving farming communities across the state's 105 counties. Fort Hays State University combines affordability at $13,493 with strong earnings potential of $57,461, while the University of Kansas offers the highest graduation rate at 68.8% for $17,365. Kansas's aerospace manufacturing sector, anchored by Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita, also creates demand for occupational health nurses. The state's aging rural population drives consistent need for nursing professionals, particularly in administration and clinical research roles.
18
Programs
$13,046 – $29,520
Net Price Range
$56,372
Avg. Program Earnings
49.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,046 $9,578 52.6%
2 $13,493 $5,633 47.8% 88.0%
3 $13,776 $9,322 51.4% 94.9%
4 $15,702 $7,356 54.3% 95.7%
5 $17,365 $11,700 68.8% 87.8%
6 $18,289 $15,340 50.0%
7 $18,889 $8,008 57.6% 86.2%
8 $19,045 $35,500 53.8% 51.0%
9 $19,868 $35,050 32.9% 52.7%
10 $21,458 $31,368 57.4%
11 $22,500 $33,900 59.4% 91.8%
12 $23,335 $33,890 44.1% 81.9%
13 $23,369 $33,470 38.5% 69.6%
14 $24,392 $34,002 43.1% 97.2%
15 $27,310 $38,480 33.5% 70.2%
16 $27,477 $34,800 65.1% 98.8%
17 $28,083 $35,300 28.7% 78.2%
18 $29,520 $36,120 46.2% 66.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Washburn University's nursing program so affordable compared to other Kansas schools?

Washburn University offers the lowest net price at $13,046 with an in-state tuition of just $9,578. The Topeka-based public university keeps costs down through state funding and efficient operations. Graduates earn $54,812 annually with manageable debt of $22,062, making it an excellent value proposition for Kansas nursing students.

How do graduation rates vary between public and private nursing programs in Kansas?

The University of Kansas leads with a 68.8% graduation rate despite charging $17,365 net price. Public universities like Pittsburg State achieve 57.6% graduation rates while maintaining lower costs. Private schools show mixed results, with Baker University reaching 59.4% but Newman University at 53.8%, suggesting that higher prices don't guarantee better completion rates.

Is Rasmussen University worth the higher cost for nursing students in Kansas?

Rasmussen University charges $18,289 net price but delivers the highest earnings at $73,870 annually for graduates. The for-profit institution in Topeka produces strong earning potential despite a 50% graduation rate. Students should weigh the $25,000 debt load against the significant salary advantage over other programs.

Where can nursing students find the best debt-to-income ratio in Kansas?

The University of Kansas offers an excellent debt-to-income ratio with just $15,000 in debt and $58,350 earnings. Fort Hays State University also performs well with $15,842 debt and $57,461 income. Bethel College matches the $15,000 debt level but with lower earnings of $49,632, making the public options more attractive financially.

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