The Top Nursing Schools in Kansas

The Top Nursing Schools in Kansas

Kansas faces a high demand for nurses, and being a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state allows Kansas-licensed nurses to apply for a multistate license. This guide aims to assist aspiring nurses in identifying the best nursing programs in Kansas, guiding them toward earning a Kansas nursing license. The comprehensive information provided here helps individuals align their career goals with suitable nursing programs, offering insights into program selection, typical salaries, and the process of obtaining a Kansas nursing license.

The Best Nursing Programs in Kansas

Kansas boasts over 40 nursing programs offering degrees such as associate degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), and master of science in nursing (MSN). To aid in the decision-making process, this list highlights accredited nursing schools, facilitating individuals in finding the most suitable program based on their background and career aspirations.

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The ranking methodology relies on publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). The data, current as of the publication date, informs readers about the schools’ accreditation status and program-specific information.

 1. Flint Hills Technical College

Location: Emporia, KS
Program: Practical nursing certificate
Campus: Emporia, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $11,824 per program
Admission Requirements: Two professional references, high school or GED and college transcripts, college-level anatomy and physiology, TEAS test scores, certified nurse aide active status
Minimum Time Commitment: 11 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $4,512, Out-of-state: $4,512
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided, Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,222
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 38%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Flint Hills Technical College:
Flint Hills Technical College stands out as a top choice in Kansas, offering a practical nursing program that grants a technical certificate. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN and become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The program includes classroom, clinical, and laboratory components, preparing students for entry-level LPN positions.

Top Alabama Nursing Schools and Programs

 2. Emporia State University

Location: Emporia, KS
Programs: BSN; MSN
Campus: Emporia, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: Undergraduate: $3,467-$4786 per semester in-state and neighboring states, $7,425 all other states; MSN $400 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: BSN: graduation from an accredited high school, 2.25 GPA or test scores (21 for ACT or 1060 for SAT); MSN: BSN, RN license, 3.0 cumulative GPA or 2.5 GPA in the last 60 hours of study
Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,941 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $5,278, Out-of-state: $19,522
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $6,547, Out-of-state: $20,365
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 86%
Students Enrolled: 5,828
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 66%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Emporia State University:
Emporia State University offers an on-campus BSN program with entry options for practical and registered nurses. Additionally, they provide an online MSN program with tracks in healthcare education, healthcare management and education, and healthcare management. ESU’s experiential learning resources include a simulation center, skills lab, nursing library, and on-campus or local clinical sites.

3. Coffeyville Community College

Location: Coffeyville, KS
Programs: LPN certificate; ADN
Campus: Coffeyville, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $150-$167 per credit hour in-state and contiguous counties; $251 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: Certified nurse’s aide credential for LPN program entry; LPN license or Kansas paramedic license for RN program entry
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months for both LPN and RN
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $44,170 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $1,248, Out-of-state: $2,816
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided, Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 52%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,368
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Coffeyville Community College:
Coffeyville Community College provides a unique structure for nursing education. First-year students earn their LPN certification, and during the second and third years, they can pursue an RN associate degree. CCC has agreements with four-year nursing programs in Kansas for graduates aiming to complete their BSN degree.

4. Newman University

Location: Wichita, KS
Programs: BSN; LPN-to-BSN; Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Program (DNAP)
Campus: Wichita, Kansas
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
Tuition: $1,080 per credit hour for undergraduate students.
Admission Requirements: BSN: prerequisite college coursework, 2.85 GPA, CPR certification (LPN license for LPN-to-BSN); DNAP: BSN, 3.0 GPA, prerequisite statistics, RN license and certifications, GRE scores, 1-2 years of critical care experience
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,287 for bachelor’s graduates and $160,605 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $31,450, Out-of-state: $31,450
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $7,920, Out-of-state: $7,920
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 83%
Students Enrolled: 2,053
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 42%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Newman University:
Newman University differentiates itself by offering a traditional BSN degree and an LPN-to-BSN bridge track. The institution prepares undergraduates for the NCLEX-RN through coursework and arranged clinical experiences. Graduate students have the opportunity to earn a DNAP and complete clinical rotations at hospitals in Wichita and Oklahoma City.

5. Seward County Community College

Location: Liberal, KS
Programs: Practical nursing certificate; ADN
Campus: Liberal, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); ADN: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $71 per credit hour in-county; $72 in-state; $94 border state; $109 out-of-state
Admission Requirements: Three references; college transcripts; ACT scores or beginning algebra coursework; TEAs exam scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 10 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 74.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,107 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $2,304, Out-of-state: $3,488
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided, Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 56%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,580
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 23%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Seward County Community College:
Seward County Community College offers a practical nursing program lasting 10 months, followed by a two-year ADN program. Students have the flexibility to complete one or both programs. ADN applicants must be graduates of a practical nursing program. Those who earn their practical nursing certificate at SCCC need not reapply for the ADN portion but must submit a letter of intent.

6. Garden City Community College

Location: Garden City, KS
Programs: Practical nursing certificate; ADN (LPN-to-RN)
Campus: Garden City, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); ADN: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $61 per credit hour in-county; $63 per credit hour in-state; $77 per credit hour border state; $82 per credit hour out-of-state
Admission Requirements: Placement testing; high school diploma or GED certificate; college transcript; prerequisites; 2.5 GPA; nurse aide certification for practical nursing, LPN license for ADN
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 74.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $49,270 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $1,830, Out-of-state: $2,400
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: Not provided, Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,868
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 67%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

About Garden City Community College:
Garden City Community College offers a practical nursing certificate and an ADN completion track for graduates of a practical nursing program. The nursing department prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN for LPN licensure or the NCLEX-RN for registered nurse (RN) licensure.

This comprehensive guide provides a wealth of information for individuals aspiring to pursue nursing education in Kansas. The rankings and details about each institution aim to guide prospective students in making informed decisions aligned with their career goals.

7. Baker University

Baldwin City, KS
4 years
Online + Campus

Baker University offers bachelor’s and master’s nursing degrees, including a bridge program for associate degree in nursing (ADN)-holders to earn their master of science in nursing (MSN).

Baker’s bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) combines classroom learning with clinical immersions. MSN students learn online and can pursue post-master’s nursing administration or nursing education certificates.

Program(s): MSN; ADN-to-MSN; BSN
Campus: Baldwin City, Kansas
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: BSN: $10,659 per semester full-time, $686 per credit hour part-time; MSN $480 per credit hour; ADN-to-MSN $100 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
BSN: high school diploma; 2.7 GPA; prerequisite coursework
MSN: BSN (ADN for bridge program); RN license; 3.0 GPA; prerequisites
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (BSN)
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,168 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,170
Out-of-state
$30,170
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,124
Out-of-state
$11,124
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
2,279
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

8. Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS
4 years
Online + Campus

Pittsburg State University offers several tracks to a nursing degree, including a traditional bachelor’s degree and a bridge program for registered nurses (RN), a master’s with an education emphasis, and bachelor’s- or master’s-to-doctorate bridge tracks with an optional education emphasis.

PSU offers RN bridge, MSN, and DNP courses fully or partially online.

Program(s): BSN; RN-to-BSN; MSN; BSN-to-DNP; MSN-to-DNP
Campus: Pittsburg, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: Undergraduate: $3,872 per semester in-state, $9,544 out-of-state; DNP $521 per credit hour; online: $282 per credit hour undergraduate, $371 graduate
Admission Requirements:
BSN: TEAS exam scores; prerequisite coursework; three references; 3.0 GPA; ACT or SAT scores; nurse aide and CPR certification (RN license for RN-to-BSN)
MSN/DNP: nursing degree; 3.0-3.5 GPA; three references; prerequisites; RN/APRN license and employment
MSN: writing sample
DNP: proctored writing sample and admission testing
Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,586 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,836
Out-of-state
$17,180
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,820
Out-of-state
$17,652
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
6,398
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

9. Hutchinson Community College

Hutchinson, KS
2 years
Online + Campus

Nursing students at Hutchinson Community College can earn a certificate in licensed practical nursing (LPN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) with tracks in pre-licensure registered nursing (RN), LPN-to-RN online or on-campus, and a paramedic-to-RN online program.

HutchCC maintains relationships with bachelor’s in nursing programs in Kansas for graduates who want to continue their studies.

Program(s): LPN certificate; ADN (LPN-to-RN and paramedic-to-RN)
Campus: Hutchinson, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $118 per credit hour in-state; $149 out-of-state
Admission Requirements:
LPN: transcripts; prerequisites; placement test results; nursing assistant certification and two years of experience
ADN: Kaplan admission exam; prerequisites with a “C” or higher; CPR certification; high school transcripts; 2.0 GPA
LPN-to-RN: graduate of practical nursing program; LPN license; IV therapy certification; graduation within three years or 1,000 LPN work hours
Paramedic-to-LPN: graduation from allied health program; paramedic certification; graduation within three years or 1,000 paramedic work hours
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $47,260 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,790
Out-of-state
$3,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,907
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

10. University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS
4 years
Online + Campus

University of Kansas and KU Medical Center train nurses at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels and offer an online bridge program for registered nurses to earn their bachelor’s (RN-to-BSN).

KU also partners with community college nursing schools in Kansas to offer associate and bachelor’s nursing programs on campus at community colleges and online through KU.

Program(s): BSN; RN-to-BSN; MSN; doctor of nursing practice; Ph.D.
Campus: Lawrence, Kansas
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: BSN: $342 per credit hour in-state and online, $891 out-of-state; Graduate: $421 in-state and online, $990 out-of-state
Admission Requirements:
BSN: College transcripts; prerequisites with a 2.5 GPA; three reference letters; resume; RN license for RN-to-BSN admission
MSN: BSN; 3.0 GPA; RN license and preferred one year of clinical work; graduate-level statistics
DNP: BSN or MSN; college transcripts; goals and interests statement; three references;

RN license and specialty certification or one year of clinical experience (depending on track); graduate-level statistics
Ph.D.: BSN, MSN, or DNP; RN license; 3.25-3.5 GPA preferred; graduate-level statistics and analysis of variance courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 12-24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,350 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,092
Out-of-state
$26,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,989
Out-of-state
$23,951
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
26,744
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Kansas

Selecting a nursing school in Kansas can be challenging due to the multitude of options available. Considerations should encompass factors such as costs, financial aid opportunities, graduation rates, and acceptance rates. The pass rate of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) serves as an indicator of graduates’ preparedness for nursing practice.

Additionally, logistical elements like clinical placement, especially for online nursing students, play a crucial role in decision-making. It’s essential to note that this guide exclusively features accredited programs, emphasizing the significance of nursing school accreditation.

Why Become a Nurse in Kansas

As of 2020, Kansas boasted a count of 29,430 registered nurses, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The majority of these professionals hold single-state licenses. Given Kansas’ status as an NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) state, graduates from nursing schools in Kansas are eligible for a multistate license post the successful completion of the NCLEX-RN examination.

With a cost-of-living index at 86.9, ranking 44th nationally, Kansas offers a relatively affordable living environment. Tuition for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs ranges from $3,000 to $6,000, while in-state tuition for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs typically falls between $6,000 and $11,000 across most institutions.

The average NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2020 stood at 86.1%, with numerous nursing schools in Kansas surpassing the national average of 86.6%.

Nursing Salaries and Job Outlook in Kansas

Kansas’ below-average cost of living is reflected in nursing salaries, which, compared to national figures, are lower. The average registered nurse (RN) salary in Kansas is $66,560, contrasting with the national average of $80,010. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Kansas earn an average salary of $104,530, slightly below the national average of $114,510, according to the BLS.

Projections indicate an 8.1% increase in RN jobs in Kansas from 2018 to 2028, slightly below the national projection of 12.1%. Similarly, the growth of NP positions in Kansas is anticipated at 18.3%, trailing the national projection of 28.2%.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services forecasts a surplus of 12,600 RNs in Kansas by 2030. However, this projection does not account for retirements or departures from the healthcare field, particularly in the context of the ongoing and post-COVID-19 pandemic scenario.

Contrary to the perception of Kansas as predominantly rural, almost half of the state’s population resides in urban areas. Although the cost of living remains relatively low, salary expectations are higher in metropolitan areas, where major cities host academic medical centers, including the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City.

Top-Paying Cities for Nurses in Kansas

Source: BLS

Steps to Become a Nurse in Kansas

Requirements for becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Kansas involve completing nursing school, passing the national examination (NCLEX-RN), and undergoing a background check. This applies similarly to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). The Kansas Board of Nursing mandates a criminal background check with fingerprints.

RN Requirements

To attain RN status in Kansas, one must earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Graduates from nursing schools in Kansas are eligible for licensure by examination. The fee for a single-state license is $100, while a multistate license costs $125. Additionally, candidates must pay the $200 NCLEX-RN fee and undergo a criminal background check, incurring a $48 fee.

Both RNs and APRNs must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education for nurses within the preceding two years to renew their licenses.

APRN Requirements

Obtaining an APRN license in Kansas necessitates holding either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, along with a current and unencumbered RN license and a background check. The background check fee is $48, and the licensing fee is $50.

APRNs must also possess the appropriate board certification and pay the associated fee. Notably, Kansas maintains a reduced-practice authority for nurse practitioners (NPs), requiring them to practice in collaboration with a physician. License renewal mandates 30 hours of continuing education over the preceding two years.

Other Leading Nursing Programs in Kansas
– Best Kansas RN to BSN Programs + Online Bridge Options
– Top RN to MSN Programs in Kansas

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Kansas

1. How long does it take to become an RN in Kansas?

– Typically, it takes two years of full-time study to earn an ADN or four years for a BSN. While an ADN offers a quicker route, a BSN is a more valuable degree for those aiming at senior roles or pursuing an MSN. License processing time varies but is generally completed within 6-8 weeks.

2. What is the attrition rate for BSN programs in Kansas?

– In 2019, the attrition rate for BSN nursing programs in Kansas was 12%, while ADNs had an attrition rate of 19%. Students facing academic challenges are advised to consult their academic advisors promptly for assistance.

3. How long is a Kansas nursing license valid?

– A Kansas nursing license remains valid for two years, expiring on the last day of the individual’s birth month in odd or even years. Continuing education must be completed before applying for renewal, and only active licenses are eligible for renewal, with the option to apply for reinstatement if the license has lapsed.

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