Best PhD and Doctoral Programs in Kansas: Online & Campus

Est. Time: 6 mins

Updated: 04/17/2026

If you’re considering doctoral or PhD programs in Kansas, use this guide to identify quality schools, consider different degree types, and learn about income potential.

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Salary Outlook

Doctoral programs in Kansas can help you advance your career — whether you’re a recent graduate or a working professional moving into leadership.

With strong industries in the state like manufacturing, business, and healthcare, degrees in areas such as business administration and nursing can be especially valuable.

This guide highlights top programs, flexible formats, and funding options across Kansas, along with insights into earning potential after graduation.

Best Doctoral Programs in Kansas: 2026 Rankings

Choosing the right doctoral program in Kansas depends on your goals, schedule, and learning preferences.

The universities below highlight what to look for, including affordability, flexibility, and strong academic quality.

Whether you want access to advanced research facilities or a fully online degree, these schools offer a range of options to fit your needs.

Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers 49 doctoral programs across both traditional and specialized fields, including computer science, entomology, and apparel and textiles.

Program details:

Formats: Eight programs available online
Credits: Most require about 90 credit hours
Tuition:
- Online: ~$539 per credit
- In-person/hybrid: $450–$1,007 per credit (varies by residency)

K-State is known for its strong job placement rate (98%) and supportive learning environment.

Funding options include assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships offered through various departments.

University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers 70 doctoral programs, making it one of the most comprehensive options in the state.

Programs include:

EdD, DMA, AuD, and JD
Medical and healthcare doctorates

The main campus in Lawrence provides access to professional opportunities and campus resources.

KU also offers strong student support services, including resources for daily living and mental health.

Funding highlights:

Business PhD students attend tuition-free with health insurance support
Additional fellowships and assistantships are available

Tuition examples:

DNP: $442–$1,039 per credit

EdD (online): ~$595 per credit

Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers 12 doctoral programs across fields like audiology and aerospace engineering, with a focus on applied learning.

Program highlights:

Online option: MSN-to-DNP pathway
Emphasis on mentorships, clinical placements, and real-world experience
Collaborative learning models, such as the EdD in Educational Leadership, where students engage in discussion-based learning

Tuition:

Online: ~$326 per credit
In-person: $326–$801 per credit

Why it stands out: Wichita State emphasizes hands-on training and career readiness, helping students transition from school to the workforce.

When choosing among doctoral programs in Kansas, focus on options that align with your career goals and preferred learning style, whether that’s research-focused or hands-on training. Also consider funding, faculty support, and real-world opportunities, as these can significantly impact your experience and career outcomes.

Timon Kaple

What Types of Doctoral Programs Are in Kansas?

There are many doctoral program options in Kansas, designed to fit different goals and schedules.

Whether you need a part-time format or prefer a no-GRE program, you can find a path that works for you.

Explore the options below to find the best fit for your needs and career goals.

Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs

Some doctoral programs in Kansas are only offered full-time, especially in certain fields.

Full-time study allows you to immerse yourself and finish faster, but it typically requires stepping away from full-time work.

Consider whether you can commit the time and financial resources before choosing this path.

Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs

Part-time PhD programs offer flexibility for students who need to work or manage personal responsibilities.

They’re a good fit for balancing multiple commitments, but they typically take longer to complete than full-time programs.

Consider whether the added flexibility outweighs the extended timeline.

Fully-Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs

If financing your degree is a priority, consider fully funded doctoral programs in Kansas.

These programs typically cover tuition and provide a stipend, allowing you to focus on your studies without taking on debt.

However, fully funded options are highly competitive, so apply early and to multiple programs.

No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs

Many doctoral programs in Kansas no longer require the GRE for admission.

Instead, schools place more emphasis on recommendations, personal statements, and academic transcripts.

If the GRE is optional, a strong score can still strengthen your application.

Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs

If you want to finish your degree quickly, consider accelerated doctoral programs in Kansas.

These programs often use short, fast-paced terms (such as 7–8 week courses), allowing you to move through material more quickly.

Depending on your prior graduate work, some programs may be completed in as few as one year.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in Kansas

Many people associate PhDs and doctorates with a thesis defense. While that’s the case for many programs, there are exceptions.

Some programs, especially those designed for working professionals, eschew the dissertation in favor of a final research project. Since doctoral graduates are seen as experts in their fields, this final project often contributes original ideas or research.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

If you’re planning on teaching at the university level, I recommend completing a program that requires a traditional dissertation based on original research. After completing coursework, I spent four years on research and writing.

Timon Kaple

Popular Degree Fields in Kansas for PhD and Doctoral Students

Nursing DNP and PhD

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing is designed for registered nurses seeking advanced roles in leadership, education, or research.

These degrees prepare you for careers such as:

Nurse practitioner
Nurse educator
Nurse researcher

Many programs are structured to allow you to continue working while earning your degree.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Fort Hays State University DNP

Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs

Education EdD and PhD

If you’re an educator looking to advance your career, consider an EdD or PhD in Education in Kansas.

These degrees can lead to higher salaries and leadership roles across education and policy.

Common career paths include:

Government policymaker
School principal or superintendent
College professor
Curriculum director
Instructional designer

Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs

Economics PhD

A PhD in Economics prepares you for careers in teaching, research, business, or policymaking.

These programs are typically full-time and highly rigorous, often taking five to seven years to complete.

Graduates go on to work in corporations, universities, and government agencies, applying advanced economic analysis to real-world challenges.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Social Work PhD and DSW

A PhD or Doctor of Social Work (DSW) can help social workers move into advanced leadership or research roles.

A PhD is typically research-focused, leading to careers in teaching or policymaking.

A DSW emphasizes practical application, with graduates working in program development, clinical leadership, and supervision.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Kansas State University PhD in Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work

Quality Example of Hybrid/Online Program

The University of Kansas DSW

Psychology PsyD and PhD

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) focuses on clinical practice, including diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.

In contrast, a PhD in Psychology emphasizes research and academic work.

Your choice depends on your goals — PsyD graduates often become clinical psychologists, while PhD graduates typically work in research, teaching, or policy roles.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Can You Earn a PhD or Professional Doctorate Online in Kansas?

Online and hybrid doctoral programs in Kansas have become more common, especially in fields like nursing and education.

These formats offer flexibility and cost savings, allowing students to learn on their own schedule while continuing to work.

Key benefits include:

Flexible scheduling with remote coursework
Lower costs without commuting or campus housing
Ability to balance work and school

Some programs still require in-person components, such as residencies or dissertation defenses.

Many universities in Kansas offer online options, including:

University of Kansas – several online doctoral programs

Kansas State University – multiple online and hybrid doctorates

Pittsburg State University – fully online DNP

Paying for Your Doctoral Degree in Kansas: Financial Aid Options

Paying for a doctoral degree in Kansas can be manageable with the right financial aid options.

Common funding sources include:

Scholarships and grants
Fellowships
Work-study programs
Research and teaching assistantships

Many schools offer strong support. For example, students at Kansas State University can access both institutional and external funding, while about one-third of full-time graduate students at Wichita State University receive assistantships or fellowships.

Some programs are even fully funded, covering tuition and providing a stipend. At the University of Kansas, all business PhD students receive full funding, with additional fellowship opportunities available across other departments.