Inside Online Master’s in Kansas: Comparing Programs

Online Master’s Programs in Kansas: A Comparison

Kansas is home to many accredited universities with online or hybrid master’s degrees. Below, we spotlight three notable schools and one of their online master’s offerings, including program highlights and admission requirements. Each program is accredited and designed for flexibility, which can help you balance studies with work or family life.

Academic Focus Areas for Kansas Master’s Students

As a master’s student, you’ll want to know that your studies will lead to strong career prospects. Below are five high-demand fields where a graduate degree can yield strong job growth and return on investment (ROI):

1. Business Administration & Management

Over half of Kansas college graduates earn degrees in business-related majors. This is no surprise, as an MBA can open doors to leadership roles in nearly every industry. Kansas’s economy spans agriculture, manufacturing, finance, and more, all needing skilled managers. An MBA offers broad ROI: nationally, new MBA graduates report a median starting salary of around $129,000 (including bonuses). 

Kansas universities like Kansas State, Pittsburg State, and others offer online MBA programs with concentrations such as finance and data analytics. Graduates often enter in-demand roles like financial manager, operations manager, and business analyst. In fact, positions requiring an MBA have seen advertised salary growth of around 23% in recent years, outpacing those that don’t (11%). With relatively affordable tuition, earning an MBA in Kansas can be a smart investment for long-term career growth.

2. Education (Teaching & Administration)

Education is a cornerstone in Kansas, and many educational roles require or reward applicants with master’s degrees. Teachers often pursue a Master’s in Education (MEd) or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) to deepen their pedagogy or gain additional licensure. Additionally, Kansas school districts offer salary bumps for master’s-level teachers. Administrative positions, like principal or curriculum coordinator, must also typically hold a graduate degree. 

Kansas continues to face teacher shortages in certain areas, and school leadership roles are growing. Importantly, Kansas programs are accessible and affordable. Emporia State University, for example, offers an online MEd program that can be completed in as few as 12 to 18 months with an in-state tuition rate under $11,000.

3. Nursing & Healthcare Professions

Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors both nationally and in Kansas. An aging population and rural healthcare needs have created a high demand for trained professionals. Kansas hospitals and public health agencies seek leaders in nursing administration, health informatics, and healthcare management. 

Roles like nurse practitioners, nurse educators, healthcare managers, and mental health counselors are all on the rise. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an over 40% growth rate this decade for nurse practitioners and 29% for medical and health services managers. 

Kansas universities have kept pace by offering online programs in these fields. Wichita State University’s online Master of Health Administration (MHA) and Kentucky University Medical Center’s online MSN in Nursing Education and Organizational Leadership are both prime examples. These programs often accommodate working nurses and healthcare professionals through part-time study. 

4. Information Technology & Computer Science

From Kansas City’s growing tech scene to Wichita’s aerospace industry, expertise in tech and data is highly valued. Master’s degrees in fields like computer science, information systems, data analytics, or cybersecurity can significantly boost your qualifications. Kansas employers are investing in data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity talent to meet the growing needs of their organizations. 

Graduates in these fields often see excellent ROI. Technology is one of the highest-paying sectors for those with master’s degrees, with median salaries above $90,000 for many IT managers and analysts in Kansas. Additionally, the prevalence of remote work means Kansas graduates can compete for jobs nationally while enjoying the state’s low cost of living. 

5. Engineering & Applied Sciences

Kansas’s economy has strong roots in industries like aviation/aerospace (centered in Wichita), advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and energy. Earning a master’s in engineering and applied sciences can give you a chance to specialize and advance in this technical field. 

Industrial and mechanical engineers with advanced skills are needed to modernize manufacturing processes, and civil/environmental engineers are key to infrastructure projects in the region. The Kansas Board of Regents reports thousands of new jobs this decade requiring graduate degrees in science and engineering fields. 

In response, Kansas universities provide flexible programs to their students: Kentucky University offers an online master’s in aerospace engineering (thesis or non-thesis), and Kansas State’s online engineering master’s programs cater to working engineers. Engineers with master’s degrees typically earn higher starting salaries and are often first in line for promotion.

Why Accreditation Matters

Before enrolling in any online master’s, make sure to verify that the program and school are properly accredited. Accreditation is a quality seal granted by recognized agencies that evaluate colleges and programs. This matters because it affects credit transfer, financial aid eligibility, and employer acceptance of your degree. In Kansas, most universities are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), meaning the institution meets rigorous academic standards. 

Many Kansas programs also have specialized accreditations for specific degree types. Business programs may be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), such as Kentucky State’s MBA. Education programs can be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Nursing programs may be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), such as Hays State’s Master of Science in Nursing. These endorsements ensure the curriculum meets industry standards and licensing requirements.

Program Types for Online Master’s Students: An Overview

Online master’s programs in Kansas come in various formats to fit different needs. Whether you want to commit to full-time hours as a student, balance school with other commitments, or move through your program at an intensive pace, you can find an option that works for you. Below is an overview of program types:

Full-Time Online Programs in Kansas

If you’re looking to complete your master’s quickly, a full-time online program might be the right fit. Full-time typically means taking a heavier course load each term, enabling completion in as little as 12 to 18 months for many programs. 

Full-time online students in Kansas still enjoy flexibility, as courses are often asynchronous, but should expect a fast pace. The benefit of being a full-time student is that you enter the workforce with your new degree sooner. Just ensure you have the time to devote to your studies (typically 30 to 40 hours per week). Many full-time online master’s include summer coursework to speed up graduation. This format is great for recent grads or those able to pause work for school.

Examples:

• The University of Kansas (KU) — Master of Education
• Wichita State University — Master of Health Administration

Part-Time Online Programs in Kansas

Part-time study is the go-to choice for working professionals and others who need a lighter course load. Most Kansas online master’s programs are very friendly to part-timers, letting you take one course at a time if you wish. This flexibility means you might take two to three years to finish instead of one, but you can devote more time to your job and personal commitments. 

The key advantage of part-time study is flexibility; you won’t feel overwhelmed, and you can apply what you learn to your job in real time. Just plan for a longer timeline to finish your degree. 

Examples:

• KU Online — Master of Social Work
• Kansas State University — Professional Master of Business Administration

No GRE-Required Programs in Kansas

If you’re worried about taking a standardized test to get into your ideal program, the good news is that many online master’s programs in Kansas do not require entrance exams. Universities have increasingly moved toward a holistic admissions process, especially for online and professional programs. The reasoning is that your college grades or industry experience are better indicators of success than a test score. This reduces barriers and saves you time and money. 

For no GRE-required master’s programs, you typically just need to meet GPA requirements and submit application materials. In other programs, your application may need to be competitive to qualify for entry without a GRE score. Should you find that taking this exam is your better option, properly preparing for the GRE and meeting your target score can make your application stand out. 

Examples:

• The University of Kansas — Master’s in Education Administration
• Wichita State University — Master of Health Administration

Accelerated & Dual-Degree Options in Kansas

Many Kansas universities offer accelerated master’s pathways and dual-degree programs that can save you time and get you to graduation faster. Accelerated programs often allow you to begin master’s coursework during your bachelor’s (typically in your senior year). These are sometimes called “four-plus-one” programs since you graduate with both degrees in five years total. At the graduate level, “accelerated” can also refer to condensed timelines for completing a standalone master’s. 

Accelerated programs require a heavier course load or overlapping credits. They’re ideal if you’re certain about your academic path and want to enter the workforce or pursue a doctorate quickly. Just be mindful of the intensity, as accelerated schedules leave little room for pauses. Additionally, some schools offer dual joint-degreeprograms, though these are more common on-campus than online.

Examples:

• Newman University — Master of Business Administration
• Ottawa University — Online Master of Accountancy

What to Expect: Kansas Program Costs and Tuition

Cost is a big factor in choosing a master’s program. Thankfully, Kansas is known for relatively affordable tuition, especially for online programs. Public universities in Kansas generally offer in-state tuition rates that are lower than many out-of-state or private options. Some even extend in-state or flat rates to all online students regardless of residency. For example, Kansas State University charges the same per-credit tuition for online graduate courses to residents and non-residents, eliminating out-of-state penalties. 

Tuition is typically charged per credit hour, and online students might pay a small online fee but avoid many campus fees. When budgeting, consider the number of credits required (most master’s are 30 to 36 credits, but some programs can be over 60 credits). Also factor in any additional costs such as books, materials, and technology fees. 

Below is a snapshot of tuition costs for three example online master’s programs in Kansas:

FAQs About Online Kansas Master’s Programs

Q: Are online master’s degrees from Kansas universities respected by employers?

A: Yes, if your program is accredited, your online master’s will be taken seriously. Kansas universities hold the same accreditation for their online programs as for on-campus. Typically, your diploma won’t even state “online.” 

After you graduate, employers will see the university name and the degree, which carry weight. In fact, many online programs share faculty with on-campus, so you’re getting the same education. What matters to employers is that you gain relevant skills and knowledge, and you’ll meanwhile be able to enjoy the benefits of online study. Just be sure to choose a well-regarded, accredited program that you can confidently list on your résumé.

Q: Can I enroll in a Kansas online master’s program if I live in another state?

A: Kansas universities welcome out-of-state online students, and many programs are available nationwide. Non-residents often pay the same tuition rates as their Kansan counterparts, making these programs quite attractive if you’re outside Kansas. 

Do check each program’s state authorization page, as a few specialized programs (especially in licensed fields like nursing or teaching) might not accept residents of certain states due to regulatory requirements. However, if you live in a different state, you generally can apply to Kansas’s online master’s program. 

Also, be sure you have a reliable internet connection and be mindful of any synchronous class times when you elect to enroll in a program centered in a different state. Aside from that, being out of state is usually not a barrier.

Q: Is financial aid available for online master’s students in Kansas?

A: Yes, you will often be eligible for the same federal financial aid as on-campus students, as long as you attend an accredited program and enroll in enough credits. You should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and list your Kansas university; grad students can qualify for need-based federal loans and sometimes grants or work-study aid. It’s a good idea to check for fellowships for master’s students that you may qualify for.

Additionally, many Kansas schools offer scholarships specifically for graduate or online learners. K-State, for instance, has scholarships devoted to online students. Some employers also offer tuition assistance if your degree relates to your job, so check with your HR department. When budgeting, remember you can often study part-time, which spreads out costs.

Q: Will I need to visit campus or attend any classes in person for my online program?

A: In most cases, no campus visits are required, but it varies by program. Many online master’s in Kansas are 100% online, meaning all coursework can be completed remotely. For example, online MBA, IT, or education programs often have no in-person requirement at all. However, some programs use a hybrid model or have practical components. An example of this is KU’s online MSW, which requires an in-person field practicum in your local area. 

Some blended programs, like certain social work or counseling degrees, may have occasional on-campus seminars or residencies or require local internship hours. The majority of programs, though, do not ask you to travel to campus regularly. If there is a requirement, it’s usually short (a few days) and scheduled well in advance. Always read the program description carefully: look for words like “online with minimal campus requirement” or “hybrid.” 

Q: How long does it take to complete an online master’s program?

A: The timeline can vary widely, taking between one year and about three years, depending on the program structure and your pace. A typical master’s is around 30-36 credits. If you go full-time, you might finish in 12 to 18 months. 

Most online students, however, study part-time. Taking around six credits per semester, you’re looking at roughly a two-year program for a 36-credit degree. If you reduce to one course at a time, it could stretch to over three years. Flexibility is a hallmark of Kansas online programs, so you can often accelerate or decelerate as needed. 

Accelerated plans of study like combined bachelor’s and master’s programs can speed things up. In an accelerated program, you might take sequential half-semester courses and graduate sooner. Ultimately, the length is somewhat in your control. Advisors will help map out a plan that fits your life.