Colleges in Wichita KS: 5 Best Options to Pursue Higher Education

Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, is recognized as a hub for education, offering a diverse range of higher education institutions. With five nationally ranked colleges within the city limits, prospective students have an array of exceptional choices to pursue their academic aspirations.

1. Wichita State University

As the largest university in the city, Wichita State University boasts over 15,000 students and a faculty of more than 800. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly regarded degrees in engineering, business, and aviation. According to U.S. News & World Report, Wichita State ranks among the top 25 universities in the Midwest for its strong academics and research capabilities.

Key Highlights

• Undergraduate enrollment: 10,000+
• Graduate enrollment: 5,000+
• Faculty: 800+
• Academic reputation: Top 25 in the Midwest
• Annual research expenditure: $30 million+
• Notable programs: Engineering, Business, Aviation

2. Newman University

Founded in 1933, Newman University is a private Catholic university with a student body of around 2,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Newman University is renowned for its strong liberal arts curriculum, pre-professional programs, and emphasis on community engagement. The university has been consistently recognized for its academic excellence, earning a ranking among the top 20 Midwest regional universities by U.S. News & World Report.

Key Highlights

• Undergraduate enrollment: 1,500+
• Graduate enrollment: 500+
• Faculty: 150+
• Academic reputation: Top 20 in the Midwest
• Student-faculty ratio: 11:1
• Notable programs: Liberal Arts, Pre-Law, Pre-Medicine

3. Friends University

Established in 1898, Friends University is a private Quaker university with a student body of around 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Friends University is committed to providing a values-based education that emphasizes social justice, peace, and environmental stewardship. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate degrees in more than 100 areas of study and graduate programs in business, education, and nursing.

Key Highlights

• Undergraduate enrollment: 2,000+
• Graduate enrollment: 500+
• Faculty: 250+
• Academic reputation: Recognized for its values-based education
• Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
• Notable programs: Business, Education, Nursing

4. Bethel College

Founded in 1887, Bethel College is a private Mennonite university with a student body of around 600 undergraduate and graduate students. Bethel College is dedicated to providing a transformative education that emphasizes faith-based learning, critical thinking, and social responsibility. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate degrees in more than 40 areas of study and graduate programs in business, education, and social work.

Key Highlights

• Undergraduate enrollment: 500+
• Graduate enrollment: 100+
• Faculty: 70+
• Academic reputation: Recognized for its faith-based learning and social responsibility
• Student-faculty ratio: 10:1
• Notable programs: Business, Education, Social Work

5. Southwestern College

Established in 1885, Southwestern College is a private United Methodist university with a student body of around 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Southwestern College is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, professional programs, and commitment to student success. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate degrees in more than 50 areas of study and graduate programs in business, education, and nursing.

Key Highlights

• Undergraduate enrollment: 800+
• Graduate enrollment: 200+
• Faculty: 100+
• Academic reputation: Recognized for its liberal arts curriculum and professional programs
• Student-faculty ratio: 12:1
• Notable programs: Business, Education, Nursing

Choosing the Right College in Wichita KS

With five nationally ranked colleges within Wichita, prospective students have an abundance of options to pursue higher education. When selecting the right college for your individual needs, consider the following factors:

• Academic Programs: Determine which colleges offer the specific programs you are interested in pursuing.
• Reputation: Research the academic rankings and recognition of different colleges to assess their reputation within the higher education landscape.
• Campus Culture: Visit the campuses of different colleges to get a feel for their atmosphere and community.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare the costs of tuition, fees, and housing for different colleges and explore financial aid opportunities to ensure affordability.
• Location: Consider the geographical location of different colleges and how it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Wichita KS is a thriving hub for higher education, offering a diverse range of colleges with exceptional academic programs and renowned reputations. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, prospective students can make an informed decision about the best college to pursue their educational aspirations.