Kansas, known for its rich history, agricultural economy, and vast plains, is also home to several prestigious private colleges and universities. These institutions offer a range of programs, nurturing students’ academic, cultural, and personal development.
1. Baker University
History and Overview
Founded in 1858, Baker University is the oldest university in Kansas. Located in Baldwin City, it has a strong Methodist foundation and continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Baker is recognized for its liberal arts curriculum, combined with professional and pre-professional programs.
Academic Offerings
Baker University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:
- Liberal Arts: English, History, and Philosophy.
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Business: Accounting, Management, and Marketing.
- Education: Teacher education and leadership programs.
- Nursing: A highly ranked School of Nursing located in Topeka.
Key Features
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention.
- Strong emphasis on student leadership and community service.
- Competitive athletic programs, part of the NAIA.
2. Benedictine College
History and Overview
Benedictine College, established in 1858 in Atchison, Kansas, is a Catholic liberal arts college. It was founded by Benedictine monks and continues to embrace the values of faith, scholarship, and community.
Academic Offerings
The college offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs, including:
- Theology: One of the core strengths of the institution.
- Liberal Arts: Programs in Literature, History, and Philosophy.
- Business: Finance, Marketing, and International Business.
- Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering.
- Nursing: A competitive Nursing program.
Key Features
- Strong focus on faith-based education, rooted in Catholic tradition.
- A vibrant student life with numerous spiritual and service opportunities.
- Notable for its scenic campus overlooking the Missouri River.
3. Kansas Wesleyan University
History and Overview
Located in Salina, Kansas, Kansas Wesleyan University was founded in 1886. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and offers a comprehensive liberal arts education.
Academic Offerings
Kansas Wesleyan offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees, with notable programs in:
- Liberal Arts: English, Communications, and Sociology.
- Nursing: A rigorous Nursing program preparing students for healthcare careers.
- Business: Degrees in Accounting, Business Management, and Entrepreneurship.
- Music and Fine Arts: Offering majors in Music Education, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
Key Features
- A strong sense of community, supported by small class sizes and close faculty relationships.
- Active engagement in athletics, with teams competing in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).
- Robust student organizations and activities, fostering leadership and service.
4. Friends University
History and Overview
Friends University is a Christian university founded in 1898 in Wichita, Kansas. The university is historically associated with the Quakers (Religious Society of Friends), although it now welcomes students from all faiths and backgrounds.
Academic Offerings
Friends University provides a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines:
- Business and Leadership: Programs in Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, and Marketing.
- Arts: Music, Ballet, and Fine Arts programs.
- Health and Social Sciences: Degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and Family Therapy.
- Education: Comprehensive teacher education programs.
- STEM Fields: Biology, Environmental Science, and Cyber Security.
Key Features
- Strong emphasis on ethics and leadership development.
- Known for its diverse student body and inclusive community environment.
- Active in performing arts, with a strong music and theatre program.
5. Southwestern College
History and Overview
Founded in 1885 and located in Winfield, Kansas, Southwestern College is a Methodist-affiliated institution that combines liberal arts education with professional and technical training.
Academic Offerings
Southwestern College offers a variety of programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, including:
- Liberal Arts: History, English, and Religion.
- Education: Teacher education programs for elementary, secondary, and special education.
- Business: Majors in Finance, Business Administration, and Marketing.
- Health Sciences: Nursing, Athletic Training, and Health Management.
Key Features
- Offers online programs for working adults and non-traditional students.
- A vibrant community with numerous student clubs, including service-oriented organizations.
- Active participation in the NAIA athletic programs.
6. Bethel College
History and Overview
Founded in 1887 in North Newton, Kansas, Bethel College is a Mennonite-affiliated liberal arts college. It is known for its commitment to peace, justice, and sustainability.
Academic Offerings
Bethel College offers a range of academic programs, including:
- Peace Studies: A unique program rooted in the college’s Mennonite values.
- Liberal Arts: History, Philosophy, and Social Sciences.
- Business and Economics: Offering degrees in Business Administration and Economics.
- Health Sciences: Nursing and Health Services Administration.
Key Features
- Emphasis on community service and social justice.
- Strong sustainability initiatives, including a focus on environmental stewardship.
- A dynamic performing arts scene, especially in music and theatre.
7. MidAmerica Nazarene University
History and Overview
MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU), founded in 1966, is located in Olathe, Kansas. Affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, MNU provides a Christian-centered education with a focus on service and leadership.
Academic Offerings
MNU offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable areas in:
- Business: Programs in Business Administration, Accounting, and Human Resource Management.
- Health Sciences: Nursing, Kinesiology, and Healthcare Management.
- Education: Teacher preparation and leadership programs.
- Theology: Christian Ministry, Youth Ministry, and Biblical Studies.
Key Features
- Strong integration of faith into the academic and community experience.
- Opportunities for international service learning and mission trips.
- A rapidly growing online program, particularly for adult learners.
8. Tabor College
History and Overview
Founded in 1908 by Mennonite Brethren, Tabor College is located in Hillsboro, Kansas. It is a Christ-centered institution that blends faith with education, preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of service.
Academic Offerings
Tabor College provides a variety of academic programs, including:
- Christian Ministry: Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership.
- Business: Business Administration, Accounting, and Entrepreneurship.
- Health Sciences: Nursing and Exercise Science.
- Fine Arts: Programs in Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
Key Features
- Strong Christian values are at the core of both academic and extracurricular activities.
- Focus on mission trips and community service, with opportunities for both local and global engagement.
- Active participation in athletics through the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).
9. Newman University
History and Overview
Newman University, established in 1933 in Wichita, Kansas, is a private Catholic liberal arts university. The institution is named after John Henry Cardinal Newman, whose philosophy of education emphasized the integration of faith and reason.
Academic Offerings
Newman University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with strengths in:
- Nursing and Health Sciences: Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Healthcare Administration.
- Liberal Arts: History, Theology, and English.
- Business: Accounting, Management, and Information Technology.
- Education: Comprehensive teacher education programs.
- Criminal Justice: A program with a strong focus on ethics and social justice.
Key Features
- Focus on service learning and community outreach.
- Strong Catholic identity, with regular spiritual activities and services.
- Known for its academic rigor, particularly in health sciences and business programs.
10. Ottawa University
History and Overview
Founded in 1865, Ottawa University is a private liberal arts university with a main campus in Ottawa, Kansas. The university is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA and has grown to include multiple campuses, as well as robust online offerings.
Academic Offerings
Ottawa University provides a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:
- Liberal Arts: English, History, and Psychology.
- Business: Finance, Marketing, and Management.
- Education: Teacher education and educational leadership programs.
- Health Sciences: Nursing and Healthcare Management.
Key Features
- Strong online education offerings, particularly for adult learners and working professionals.
- Focus on integrating Christian values into academic and campus life.
- Competitive athletics, particularly in football and basketball.
11. Central Christian College of Kansas
History and Overview
Founded in 1884, Central Christian College of Kansas is a private evangelical Christian college located in McPherson, Kansas. The college emphasizes a Christ-centered education, blending faith with academic and social engagement.
Academic Offerings
Central Christian College offers various programs across undergraduate and professional levels, including:
- Christian Ministry: Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, and Missions.
- Health and Sciences: Nursing, Pre-Medical, and Biology programs.
- Business: Degrees in Business Administration and Management.
- Psychology: Counseling and Clinical Psychology programs.
Key Features
- Small campus environment fostering close relationships between students and faculty.
- Strong emphasis on Christian service and missions.
- Active in athletics, with participation in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).
12. Hesston College
History and Overview
Founded in 1909 by the Mennonite Church, Hesston College is a small, two-year college located in Hesston, Kansas. It offers associate degrees and a select number of bachelor’s degree programs, maintaining a strong commitment to peace and social justice.
Academic Offerings
Hesston College offers various programs, including:
- Liberal Arts: Associate degrees in English, History, and Sociology.
- Nursing: A highly regarded nursing program.
- Aviation: Unique pilot training programs and aviation management.
- Business: Business and Accounting programs.
Key Features
- Close-knit campus community with a focus on peace, service, and faith.
- A top-rated nursing program with a high pass rate for licensure exams.
- Opportunities for international study and service projects.