Best Online MPA Programs in Kansas | 2027 Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of Kansas MPA costs, accreditation, formats, and career outcomes to help you choose the right program.
By Holly AbramsonReviewed by PAP Editoral TeamUpdated August 29, 202623 min read
What you’ll learn in this article…
Kansas offers NASPAA accredited online MPA programs at institutions including the University of Kansas and Wichita State University.
Most Kansas MPA programs no longer require the GRE, easing admission for working professionals in 2026.
Top ranked Kansas MPA graduates report median earnings around $70,000 within four years, exceeding national medians.
Tuition varies widely across Kansas programs, but multiple scholarship and employer tuition discount options can significantly reduce costs.
Kansas state and local governments employed roughly 167,000 workers as of early 2025, and retirements across city management, budgeting, and policy offices are accelerating demand for credentialed replacements. An online MPA is the standard graduate qualification for those roles, yet Kansas offers only four university-level options with online or hybrid delivery, two of which hold NASPAA accreditation.
That small field creates a genuine tension: the NASPAA-accredited programs at the University of Kansas and Wichita State University carry more weight with hiring managers but cost more per credit than alternatives like Kansas State University or Fort Hays State University. Credit-hour requirements range from 31 to 40, and total graduate tuition spans roughly $5,000 to over $27,000 depending on residency and institution. For mid-career professionals already embedded in Kansas public agencies, the cost-to-credential calculus matters as much as program reputation.
Best Online MPA Programs in Kansas: Rankings & Comparison
Kansas students looking for a graduate degree in public administration have more online options than ever. These four schools offer programs that can be completed largely or entirely from home, whether you want a fully asynchronous format, live Zoom sessions, or the ability to mix online and on-campus coursework. Use this ranking to compare program strengths, tuition, and outcomes side by side.
NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
Internal program database
#1
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS · $12,000 – $27,000/yr
Best for: Aspiring city and county managers
The University of Kansas pairs a national reputation in local government management with flexible delivery: the 40-credit, NASPAA-accredited MPA can be completed fully online through Jayhawk Global or on campus in Lawrence, with synchronous and asynchronous classes. Specializations span city and county management, performance management, public policy, public and nonprofit management, and urban planning, and a City Management Fellowship supports students headed into local government careers. In-state tuition and fees are about $12,100 annually, with out-of-state tuition near $30,400. The university's overall graduation rate is 69%, and institution-wide median earnings for graduates are roughly $61,900 ten years after enrollment.
View 3 programs
NASPAA-accredited, 40-credit-hour program
Fully online via Jayhawk Online or on campus in Lawrence
Evening classes meet once weekly at 6:00 p.m.
Synchronous and asynchronous class formats
Finish in as few as 5 semesters; up to 7 years allowed
Start in Summer, Fall, or Spring
Five specializations including urban planning and performance management
Best for: Working Kansans wanting live Zoom courses
Kansas State University's MPA is a 36 to 37 credit program built for working professionals: it blends in-person courses in Manhattan with live online classes via Zoom, so students can mix modalities without changing their degree plan. The curriculum prepares graduates for careers in state and local government, nonprofits, and international organizations, and it pairs pre-service internships with skill-building options for in-service staff. Annual in-state tuition and fees are approximately $11,200, compared with about $28,600 for out-of-state students. The university reports a 71% overall graduation rate, and institution-wide median earnings for graduates are around $57,300 ten years after enrollment.
View 3 programs
NASPAA-accredited, 36-37 credit hours
Hybrid delivery: in-person in Manhattan or online via Zoom
Synchronous core courses for live interaction
Full-time completion in two years; part-time up to six
Best for: Pre-service students entering Kansas public service
Wichita State University's MPA is a 39-credit program that can be completed fully online, with the same curriculum available in person in Wichita for students who prefer a campus experience. The program emphasizes practical skills in public management, public finance, and public policy, and it welcomes working professionals and pre-service students alike, with no program prerequisites. Resident tuition is $350.73 per credit hour; nonresidents pay $861.38 per credit hour. The university's overall graduation rate is 51%, and institution-wide median earnings for graduates are near $51,500 ten years after enrollment.
View program
NASPAA-accredited, 39-credit-hour program
Fully online completion or in-person classes in Wichita
24 core credit hours plus 15 elective hours
No program prerequisites required
Full-time in 2 years; part-time in 3 to 5 years
Focus areas: public management, finance, and policy
Internships, assistantships, and fellowships available
Fort Hays State University offers a fully online Master of Liberal Studies with a Public Administration concentration, a 31-credit alternative to a traditional MPA that is the most affordable option in this ranking. The curriculum covers public finance, budgeting, policy analysis, personnel management, and communication, with customizable electives that let students apply coursework to their own agencies. Online tuition is a flat $348.78 per credit hour for all students, or roughly $3,139 per semester for a 9-credit load. The university's overall graduation rate is 48%, and institution-wide median earnings for graduates are about $48,900 ten years after enrollment.
View program
Fully online, 31-credit-hour program
Public administration concentration within a Master of Liberal Studies
Covers public finance, budgeting, and personnel management
Minimum 2.5 GPA in last 60 undergraduate hours
Personal statement and two recommendation letters required
Understanding the full cost picture is essential before committing to a graduate program. The table below compares graduate tuition rates, institutional average net prices, and median graduate debt across the four Kansas universities offering online or hybrid MPA degrees in 2026. Notably, the spread between the least and most expensive options is significant: in-state tuition at Fort Hays State University runs roughly $4,949 per year, while Kansas State University tops $12,089, meaning total program costs can vary by thousands of dollars depending on credit requirements and residency status. The net price figures shown are institution-wide averages (not MPA-specific), but they offer a useful benchmark for estimating what students actually pay after grants and scholarships. Program-level median debt and monthly repayment figures are not yet available for these MPA programs specifically.
University
Credits Required
In-State Tuition (Annual)
Out-of-State Tuition (Annual)
Est. Total In-State Cost
Est. Total Out-of-State Cost
Avg. Net Price (Institution-Wide)
Median Graduate Debt (Institution-Wide)
Fort Hays State University
31
$4,949
$12,745
~$10,800
~$27,800
$12,569
$21,000
Wichita State University
39
$7,986
$16,873
~$16,000
~$33,700
$13,194
$20,500
University of Kansas
40
$11,971
$27,146
~$30,000
~$67,900
$18,059
$21,000
Kansas State University
36-37
$12,089
$25,824
~$24,200
~$51,600
$19,406
$21,250
NASPAA Accreditation Status for Kansas MPA Programs
Accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is the gold standard for master of public administration programs in the United States. Before you commit tuition dollars and two or more years of study, verifying a program's accreditation status is one of the most consequential steps you can take. Competitor websites sometimes publish contradictory or outdated information on this topic, so here is a definitive breakdown based on the 2025-2026 NASPAA roster of accredited programs.1
Why NASPAA Accreditation Matters
NASPAA accreditation signals that a program meets rigorous peer-reviewed standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and mission alignment with public administration values. From a practical standpoint, the credential carries real weight in three areas:
Federal hiring preference: The U.S. Office of Personnel Management recognizes NASPAA-accredited degrees when evaluating candidates for GS-level positions in public administration. Some agencies treat accreditation as a qualifying factor.
Career mobility: State and local governments, nonprofits, and international organizations increasingly list NASPAA accreditation as preferred or required in job postings.
Credit transferability: If you ever pursue a doctoral program in public administration or need to transfer credits, accredited coursework is far more likely to be accepted.
Accreditation Status of Kansas MPA Programs
As of the 2025-2026 academic year, two Kansas institutions hold full NASPAA accreditation for their Master of Public Administration degrees, and two do not.1
University of Kansas (KU): Fully accredited. KU's MPA, housed in the School of Public Affairs and Administration, has maintained continuous NASPAA accreditation and is widely considered the flagship public administration program in the state.2
Wichita State University (WSU): Fully accredited. WSU's MPA program also appears on the current NASPAA roster, giving students in the Wichita metro area a strong accredited option.1
Kansas State University (K-State): Not NASPAA-accredited. This is the point where misinformation is most common online. K-State does offer an MPA, but the program does not appear on NASPAA's 2025-2026 accredited roster. It is also not listed as being in candidacy or self-study status. If accreditation matters to your career goals, verify directly with K-State's department and NASPAA's official directory before enrolling.1
Fort Hays State University (FHSU): Not NASPAA-accredited. FHSU offers an MPA that can be completed online, but the program is not currently accredited by NASPAA and does not hold candidacy status.1
MPA vs. Related Degrees: Watch for Look-Alikes
When searching for Kansas MPA programs, you may encounter degrees that look similar but are structurally different. A Master of Professional Studies (MPS) with a public administration concentration, or a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a health administration focus, may appear in search results alongside true MPA programs. These degrees can be valuable in their own right, but they are not MPA degrees and are not evaluated under NASPAA's accreditation framework. If your goal is a career in general public administration, policy analysis, or city and county management, confirm that the degree title is specifically "Master of Public Administration" and check NASPAA's roster independently.
The Bottom Line for Kansas Students
If NASPAA accreditation is a priority, and for most aspiring public administrators it should be, your accredited options in Kansas are the University of Kansas and Wichita State University. Both programs carry full accreditation and offer pathways to the public service careers where that credential is most valued. Programs at Kansas State and Fort Hays State may still serve certain students well, particularly those focused on state or local roles where accreditation is not a strict requirement, but you should go in with a clear understanding of the distinction.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Are you currently working full-time in government or a nonprofit and need scheduling flexibility?
Online MPA programs in Kansas are designed for working professionals, but formats vary from fully asynchronous to hybrid models requiring occasional campus visits. Your work schedule should drive which program structure you prioritize.
Do your career goals require NASPAA accreditation, and which Kansas programs hold that credential?
Some government agencies and competitive fellowships prefer or require a NASPAA-accredited MPA. Not every Kansas program carries this accreditation, so confirming status now can prevent credential gaps later in your career.
Will you qualify for in-state tuition, or should you budget for out-of-state rates?
Several Kansas universities extend in-state tuition to all online students regardless of residency, while others do not. The difference can amount to thousands of dollars per year, making this one of the biggest cost variables in your decision.
Admissions Requirements: GPA, GRE Waivers & Experience
One of the most common concerns prospective MPA students have is whether they need to take the GRE. The good news for Kansas applicants in 2026 is that the state's major online MPA programs have moved away from requiring standardized test scores, making the application process more accessible for working professionals. Below is a breakdown of what each program expects.
Minimum GPA Expectations
All three NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs in Kansas, at the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, recommend a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.123 This threshold is a recommendation rather than a hard cutoff at most programs, meaning applicants who fall slightly below 3.0 may still be considered if they can demonstrate professional accomplishments, relevant work experience, or strong application materials that offset a lower GPA.
GRE and GMAT Requirements
As of the 2025-2026 admissions cycle, none of the three major Kansas online MPA programs require the GRE or GMAT for admission:
University of Kansas: No standardized exam is required. KU's online MPA evaluates applicants holistically, placing weight on academic history, professional background, and written statements.2
Kansas State University: No standardized exam is required. K-State similarly focuses on a combination of academic credentials and professional readiness.3
Wichita State University: No standardized exam is required. WSU's admissions review emphasizes the applicant's fit for public service careers.2
This No-GRE approach reflects a broader national trend among NASPAA-accredited programs that increasingly view professional experience and academic potential as stronger predictors of graduate success than a single test score. Students exploring best online MPA programs across the country will find that many top-ranked options have adopted the same policy.
Additional Application Components
While specific requirements can vary by semester and should be confirmed directly with each program, Kansas MPA applicants should generally expect to submit:
Personal statement or statement of purpose: Describing career goals and interest in public administration.
Letters of recommendation: Typically two or three, ideally from professional supervisors or academic references.
Resume or CV: Highlighting relevant work experience, community involvement, or leadership roles.
Official transcripts: From all previously attended institutions.
Some programs may give preference to applicants with prior professional experience in government, nonprofit, or related sectors, though none of the three Kansas programs formally require a minimum number of years in the workforce.
Admissions Timelines and Start Dates
Admissions timelines vary across the three programs. Some Kansas MPA programs accept applications on a rolling basis, which allows greater flexibility for students who decide to enroll mid-year. Others follow fixed application deadlines tied to fall, spring, or summer cohort starts. Because deadlines and cohort structures can shift from year to year, prospective students should verify the latest dates directly through each university's graduate admissions office. Applying early is always advisable, particularly for students seeking graduate assistantships, scholarships, or other forms of financial support that may have earlier deadlines than the program itself.
The relatively streamlined admissions process across Kansas MPA programs is designed to welcome career changers and mid-career professionals alike. If you hold a bachelor's degree with a solid academic record and a genuine interest in public service, you are likely well positioned to gain admission without the added burden of standardized testing.
Online Format Comparison: Synchronous, Asynchronous & Hybrid
The way you attend class matters just as much as the curriculum itself, especially if you are balancing a full-time job in city government or a nonprofit role with evening and weekend obligations. Kansas MPA programs vary in how they deliver coursework online, and understanding the differences between synchronous, asynchronous, and hybrid formats will help you choose a program that fits your life.
Understanding the Three Delivery Models
Online MPA programs in Kansas generally use one of three formats, and some blend elements of each:
Synchronous: Courses meet at scheduled times via live video sessions. You log in at a set hour each week, participate in real-time discussions, and collaborate with classmates during the session. This format closely mirrors on-campus seminars.
Asynchronous: Lectures, readings, and assignments are available on your own schedule. You complete work within weekly deadlines but are not required to be online at any particular time. This is the most flexible model for working professionals.
Hybrid: A mix of online coursework and occasional in-person components, such as weekend intensives, capstone residencies, or practicum experiences that require a campus visit.
Some Kansas universities combine synchronous and asynchronous elements within a single course, offering recorded lectures alongside periodic live sessions for group projects or guest speakers.
How to Verify Each Program's Format
Delivery formats can shift from one semester to the next, so the most reliable approach is to go directly to each university's official MPA program page. Look for sections labeled "course delivery," "program format," or "online learning" on the sites for the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and Fort Hays State University. These pages typically specify whether a program is fully online or includes mandatory on-campus sessions.
For residency requirements or weekend intensives, check the admissions FAQ or the section on program requirements and curriculum details. Some programs require a brief on-campus orientation or a capstone residency, while others are designed to be completed entirely from a distance. If you are also comparing options beyond Kansas, our guide to best online public administration degree programs can help you evaluate formats across multiple states.
Typical Credit Hours and Program Length
Most MPA programs in Kansas require between 36 and 42 credit hours, which translates to roughly two to three years of part-time study. Full-time students who can take a heavier course load each semester may finish in as few as 18 to 24 months. The university's graduate catalog or program handbook is the best place to find exact credit-hour requirements, course sequencing, and any prerequisites that could affect your timeline.
Contact the Program Directly
Because delivery formats, residency policies, and scheduling details can change between academic years, reaching out to the program advisor or department is always a smart step. A quick email or phone call can confirm whether a particular course section will be synchronous or asynchronous in an upcoming term, whether any in-person components are required, and whether accommodations exist for students who live outside the Kansas City or Wichita metro areas. Advisors can also clarify how practicum or internship hours are handled for distance learners, a detail that is not always spelled out on program websites.
Career Outcomes & Salaries for Kansas MPA Graduates
Program-level earnings data for Kansas MPA graduates are not yet published by federal reporting agencies. However, institution-wide median earnings and Kansas-specific wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics offer a clear picture of the financial return on an MPA investment. Common MPA career paths in Kansas include city and county management, state agency leadership, nonprofit administration, and budget or policy analysis, all fields where demand remains steady across the state's public and nonprofit sectors.
Financial Aid, Scholarships & Tuition Discounts for Kansas MPA Students
Paying for a graduate degree is a real concern, especially for mid-career professionals who may already carry undergraduate debt. The good news is that Kansas MPA students have several overlapping funding streams to explore, from state-specific programs to federal aid and institutional awards.
Kansas-Specific Financial Aid and Tuition Discounts
The Kansas Board of Regents oversees tuition policies at all public universities in the state, and several programs can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
State employee tuition assistance: Kansas state employees are often eligible for reduced tuition or tuition waivers at public universities. If you work for a state agency, county government, or qualifying municipal employer, check whether your position qualifies. This benefit pairs naturally with an MPA, since many state workers pursue the degree for career advancement.
Military and veteran benefits: All four Kansas public universities with MPA programs participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, and several are designated military-friendly institutions. The University of Kansas and Kansas State University both highlight military-friendly accommodations in their MPA program materials. GI Bill benefits, tuition assistance for active-duty personnel, and veteran-specific fee waivers can cover a substantial portion of graduate tuition.
Midwest Student Exchange Program: If you live in a neighboring Midwest state, you may qualify for reduced tuition rates at Kansas public universities through this Board of Regents initiative, though eligibility varies by program and institution.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships
Wichita State University stands out by offering eight to ten graduate assistantships annually within its MPA program, along with multiple competitive fellowships. Kansas State University also advertises graduate scholarships and fellowships for MPA students. However, assistantships at many institutions are often tied to on-campus responsibilities such as research or teaching support, so fully online students should confirm their eligibility before counting on this funding. The University of Kansas offers a City Management Fellowship that combines funding with hands-on professional experience.
Federal Aid and Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Every MPA student should complete the FAFSA, which unlocks access to federal Grad PLUS loans and, in some cases, need-based institutional grants. While Pell Grants are reserved for undergraduates, looking at how well each university serves students with financial need offers a useful signal. Fort Hays State University and Wichita State University both enroll high proportions of financially constrained undergraduates (roughly 63% and 61%, respectively), which often correlates with stronger institutional support services and more robust financial aid offices that extend their expertise to graduate students as well. Keep in mind that this indicator reflects undergraduate enrollment patterns and should not be treated as a direct measure of graduate-level aid availability.
For working professionals, employer tuition reimbursement remains one of the most underused funding sources. Many public agencies and nonprofit organizations will cover a portion of graduate tuition, particularly for degrees directly related to your role. Programs at Fort Hays State, Wichita State, KU, and K-State are all structured to accommodate working schedules, making it easier to maintain employment while studying. Professionals who want to add credentials without committing to a full master's degree might also consider a graduate certificate in public administration as a more affordable first step.
Putting It All Together
The most effective approach stacks multiple sources: file your FAFSA early, apply for any assistantships or fellowships your program offers, verify whether your employer provides reimbursement, and check your eligibility for state or military benefits. Even modest awards from two or three sources can dramatically reduce total borrowing. Start the process well before your application deadline so you have a clear picture of your net cost before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas MPA Programs
Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about online MPA programs in Kansas. Each response draws on the program details, cost figures, and accreditation data covered earlier in this guide.
Which Kansas universities offer NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs?
As of 2026, the University of Kansas (KU) and Wichita State University (WSU) hold NASPAA accreditation for their MPA programs and offer online or hybrid delivery options. Kansas State University also offers a public administration pathway, but students should verify its current NASPAA status directly with the university. NASPAA accreditation is widely regarded as the gold standard for MPA quality assurance.
How much does an online MPA cost in Kansas?
Total tuition for an online MPA in Kansas generally ranges from roughly $20,000 to $40,000, depending on residency status and the institution. In-state students typically pay less per credit hour than out-of-state enrollees, though some programs offer a flat online rate regardless of where you live. See the full tuition breakdown table earlier in this article for program-by-program figures.
Do any Kansas MPA programs waive the GRE requirement?
Yes. Several Kansas MPA programs offer GRE waivers for applicants who meet certain criteria, such as holding a graduate degree, demonstrating significant professional experience in public service, or maintaining a strong undergraduate GPA (often 3.0 or higher). Each university sets its own waiver policy, so check directly with admissions for the most current requirements.
How long does it take to complete an online MPA in Kansas?
Most online MPA programs in Kansas require 36 to 42 credit hours and can be completed in about two years of full-time study. Part-time students typically finish in three to four years. Some programs offer accelerated tracks or allow transfer credits that can shorten the timeline. Capstone or internship requirements may also affect your completion schedule.
Is the University of Kansas MPA fully online?
The University of Kansas offers its MPA with significant online coursework, but the program has historically included some hybrid or on-campus components for certain concentrations or capstone experiences. Prospective students should confirm with KU's School of Public Affairs and Administration whether a fully online path is available for their chosen specialization in 2026.
What can you do with an MPA degree in Kansas?
An MPA opens doors to leadership roles in city and county government, state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare administration. Common positions include city manager, budget analyst, policy advisor, program director, and public affairs specialist. As noted in the career outcomes section above, Kansas MPA graduates frequently earn salaries that meet or exceed national medians for comparable public sector roles.
What is the difference between an MPA and an MPP or MPS degree?
An MPA (Master of Public Administration) emphasizes management, budgeting, and organizational leadership in the public sector. An MPP (Master of Public Policy) focuses more on policy analysis, research methods, and program evaluation. An MPS (Master of Public Service) tends to blend elements of both with a stronger community engagement focus. Your career goals should guide which degree fits best: choose an MPA if you want to manage programs, an MPP if you want to design or analyze policy.
