Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Kansas 2025
Wichita State University
387 computer science graduates annually, 87% graduation rate
University of Kansas
114 computer science graduates annually, 79% graduation rate
Washburn University
25 computer science graduates annually, 93% graduation rate
- 1.Kansas offers 13+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Wichita State University leads with 87% graduation rate
- 3.Kansas software developers earn median $92,340 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Kansas City, Wichita, Overland Park
- 5.Cost of living index: 86.8% of US average (below average)
Computer Science Education in Kansas: Overview
Kansas offers 13 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 699 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Kansas City, Wichita, Overland Park, with major employers including Garmin, Sprint, Cerner.
With a median software developer salary of $92,340 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 86.8% compared to the US average, Kansas offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Wichita State University, University of Kansas, Washburn University, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Kansas Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wichita State University | Wichita, KS | Public | $7,247 | 87% | 74 |
| 2 | University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS | Public | $10,596 | 79% | 56.5 |
| 3 | Washburn University | Topeka, KS | Public | $9,464 | 93% | 54.8 |
| 4 | Southwestern College | Winfield, KS | Private | $38,330 | 96% | 51.7 |
| 5 | Kansas State University | Manhattan, KS | Public | $9,964 | — | 50.1 |
| 6 | Friends University | Wichita, KS | Private | $32,108 | 70% | 42.2 |
| 7 | Benedictine College | Atchison, KS | Private | $34,000 | 70% | 40 |
| 8 | University of Saint Mary | Leavenworth, KS | Private | $32,750 | 65% | 35.3 |
| 9 | MidAmerica Nazarene University | Olathe, KS | Private | $35,120 | — | 33.7 |
| 10 | Emporia State University | Emporia, KS | Public | $5,542 | — | 29.9 |
| 11 | Butler Community College | El Dorado, KS | Public | $3,090 | — | 29.4 |
| 12 | Baker University | Baldwin City, KS | Private | $33,200 | — | 29.3 |
| 13 | Barton County Community College | Great Bend, KS | Public | $2,432 | — | 27.1 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Kansas: Side-by-Side
| School | Wichita State | U of Kansas | Washburn | Southwestern College | Kansas State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $7,247 | $10,596 | $9,464 | $38,330 | $9,964 |
| Graduation Rate | 87% | 79% | 93% | 96% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 387 | 114 | 25 | 20 | 106 |
| Acceptance Rate | 95% | 88% | N/A | 65% | 79% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 74.0/100 | 56.5/100 | 54.8/100 | 51.7/100 | 50.1/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Kansas
Kansas offers 11 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $64,638 in the Kansas market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Kansas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Kansas | $10,596 | 79% | 114 | 56.5 |
| #2 Kansas State | $9,964 | N/A% | 106 | 50.1 |
| #3 Wichita State | $7,247 | 87% | 70 | 66.0 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Kansas
For graduate study, Kansas offers 3 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Wichita State University, University of Kansas, Kansas State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Kansas reaching $120,042 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer science master's programs for more options beyond Kansas.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Kansas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Wichita State | $7,247 | 87% | 387 | 74.0 |
| #2 U of Kansas | $10,596 | 79% | 22 | 43.2 |
| #3 Kansas State | $9,964 | N/A% | 2 | 31.9 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Kansas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Kansas are at Barton County Community College ($2,432/year), Butler Community College ($3,090/year), Emporia State University ($5,542/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Kansas's competitive tech salaries.
At Barton County Community College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $9,728 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $64,638, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Kansas (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Barton County Community... | $2,432 | $9,728 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 Butler Community College | $3,090 | $12,360 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Emporia State | $5,542 | $22,168 | 0.7 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Kansas
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Kansas, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,247 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 387 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 95%
- • Ranking Score: 74.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 387 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 74.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (387 graduates), state salary outcomes ($92,340), and selectivity (95% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers access to the Shocker Career Accelerator which provides personalized career coaching and various career tools. Students have access to applied learning opportunities and career assessment tools like PathwayU.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,596 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 114 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 56.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 114 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 56.5 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (114 graduates), state salary outcomes ($92,340), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Kansas Computer Science program requires 128 credit hours and features comprehensive coursework including advanced topics like compiler construction and computer architecture. Virtually all EECS courses are taught by faculty rather than teaching assistants, ensuring quality instruction throughout the program.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 125 Calculus I
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 128 credits
- Capstone Project Required
Washburn University
Topeka, KS • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,464 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 25 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 54.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 25 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 54.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (25 graduates), state salary outcomes ($92,340), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Washburn's Computer Information Sciences program offers small classes with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, taught by five full-time faculty with doctoral degrees rather than graduate students. Students receive hands-on experience through research opportunities, internships, and partnerships with organizations like the Kansas Bureau of Investigations Forensic Science Center.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Capstone Project Required
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Southwestern College
Winfield, KS • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $38,330 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 20 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 65%
- • Ranking Score: 51.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 20 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 51.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (20 graduates), state salary outcomes ($92,340), and selectivity (65% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,964 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 106 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 50.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 106 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (106 graduates), state salary outcomes ($92,340), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
K-State's Computer Science program stands out with its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence for Research in Cyber-Security by the NSA and DHS, access to Beocat supercomputer, and the unique option to earn a concurrent B.S. in Computer Science and MBA in just five years.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 220 Analytic Geometry and Calculus I
- •MATH 221 Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
- •CIS 115 Introduction to Computing Science
- •CIS 116 Introduction to Programming
- •CIS 200 Programming Fundamentals
- •CIS 300 Data and Program Structures
- •CIS 301 Logical Foundations of Programming
- •ECE 241 Introduction to Computer Engineering
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5 for incoming freshmen, 2.0 for transfers, 2.3 for change of major within K-State
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 24 credits for pre-professional program
- Capstone Project Required
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rankings & Recognition
- designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence for Research in Cyber-Security by the NSA and DHS
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Kansas with strong job growth.
Full Stack Developer
SOC 15-1252Full Stack Developer opportunities in Kansas with strong job growth.
Systems Architect
SOC 15-1252Systems Architect opportunities in Kansas with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Kansas with strong job growth.
Technical Lead
SOC 15-1252Technical Lead opportunities in Kansas with strong job growth.
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Kansas City, Wichita, Overland Park
- You're seeking lower cost of living (86.8% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Garmin or Sprint
- You prefer Kansas's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Kansas's 13)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration
Computer Science in Kansas FAQ
Based on 13 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Kansas-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Kansas salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.