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Newman University stands apart among Kansas Division II schools with a selective 51% acceptance rate, contrasting sharply with the open-door policies at Fort Hays State (88%) and Emporia State (96%). This selectivity appears to pay off, as Newman graduates earn $55,041 annually, the highest among these five institutions. Kansas aerospace giants like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron create strong demand for the technical and business skills these universities develop. Washburn University offers the most affordable path at $13,046 net cost while maintaining a solid 53% graduation rate. The state's Promise Act covering community college costs makes these four-year options even more attractive as transfer destinations. Fort Hays State serves the largest student body with 9,792 enrolled, nearly five times Newman's intimate 857-student community. Despite varying acceptance rates, all five schools maintain graduation rates between 48% and 58%, suggesting consistent support systems once students enroll.
5
Schools
$16,035
Avg. Net Price
$50,385
Avg. Earnings
53.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division II Colleges in Kansas

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 4,093 $13,046 52.6%
2 4,162 $18,889 57.6% 86.2%
3 857 $19,045 53.8% 51.0%
4 9,792 $13,493 47.8% 88.0%
5 2,328 $15,702 54.3% 95.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Newman University different from other Kansas Division II schools?

Newman maintains a competitive 51% acceptance rate compared to the 86-96% rates at other Kansas Division II institutions. This selectivity contributes to higher graduate earnings of $55,041, though the private school costs $19,045 annually. The 857-student enrollment creates a close-knit campus environment.

How affordable are Kansas Division II colleges compared to national averages?

Kansas Division II schools range from $13,046 to $19,045 in net costs, with Washburn University and Fort Hays State under $14,000. These costs benefit from Kansas's strong in-state tuition policies and the Promise Act, which covers community college expenses for qualifying students.

Where do graduates typically find employment after these programs?

Kansas aerospace companies like Spirit AeroSystems and Textron actively recruit from these universities. Graduate earnings range from $47,601 at Emporia State to $55,041 at Newman University, reflecting the state's strong manufacturing and agricultural sectors that value practical education.

Does school size affect graduation rates at these institutions?

School size shows minimal impact on graduation success. Fort Hays State enrolls 9,792 students with a 48% graduation rate, while Newman's 857 students achieve 54%. The 5,000-student range schools like Washburn and Pittsburg State both exceed 52% graduation rates.

Is it easier to get accepted at Kansas Division II schools than four-year universities elsewhere?

Most Kansas Division II schools maintain high acceptance rates, with Emporia State at 96% and Fort Hays at 88%. Only Newman University operates selectively at 51%. This accessibility helps Kansas residents pursue affordable bachelor's degrees close to home.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.