Best Computer Science Degree Programs In Kansas (2025)
You can build a thriving tech career right here in Kansas without putting your life on hold. Online computer science programs let you gain in-demand skills while working full-time, caring for family, or maintaining your current commitments—no relocation required. Kansas employers urgently need professionals who can design secure systems, optimize agricultural tech, or develop software for aerospace giants like Spirit AeroSystems. With median salaries for software developers exceeding $90,000 statewide and roles like information security analyst projected to grow 32% nationally this decade, your expertise could command top pay in industries ranging from healthcare to advanced manufacturing.
Kansas offers access to respected programs, including options blending hands-on coding projects with theoretical foundations in artificial intelligence or cybersecurity. These programs prepare you for immediate impact at employers like Garmin, where engineers create next-gen aviation tech, or Textron Aviation, developing embedded systems for aircraft. Even smaller cities like Wichita now host startups needing cloud architects and data scientists, while Kansas City’s tech corridor attracts major players like Cerner and Netsmart.
An online degree lets you tackle real-world projects during evenings or weekends, applying new Python or machine learning skills directly to your current job if you choose. You’ll join professionals upgrading their qualifications to lead teams, shift into robotics, or secure infrastructure for financial institutions like Commerce Bank. With multiple respected institutions offering tailored online pathways, you can align your coursework with emerging fields like quantum computing or autonomous systems—positioning yourself for roles that don’t just exist today but will define Kansas’ tech landscape tomorrow.
Best Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Kansas
Below are the top-ranked Online Computer Science programs in Kansas, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
Ottawa University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Key Highlights
- This Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program offers concentrations in Cybersecurity, Game Design and Development, and Information Technology Systems.
- Students will gain skills in computer programming, systems analysis, and software development.
- The program includes courses such as Cloud Computing Architecture, Microprocessors, and System Analysis and Design.
- Ottawa University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
- The program includes Senior Research CAPSTONE Design and Senior CAPSTONE Project courses.
Program Description
Ottawa University's online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is designed for students from diverse backgrounds, providing a fast track to computing and information systems careers. The program covers computer science principles, computing theory, hardware design, software engineering, and user interface applications. Students gain a strong foundation in computing and information science, preparing them for various roles in the technology industry.
Program Features
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Concentrations: Cybersecurity, Game Design and Development, Information Technology Systems
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Computer programming, Systems analysis, Software development, Information management, Database querying, Cloud computing
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $31,900/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $31,900/year
Sample Courses
Calculus I, Calculus II, Introduction to Computer Science, Introduction to Networking, Introduction to Database...
Kansas State University
Integrated Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree
Key Highlights
- The Kansas State University Integrated Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree allows students to combine programming skills with a concentration in an area of interest.
- Students can customize their degree through a minor, certificate, secondary major, or double major outside of computer science.
- The program does not have advanced math requirements.
- Skills gained include system administration, data analysis, and web development.
- Courses include Web Page Development, Data Structures and Algorithms I, and Computer Systems Administration.
Program Description
The online Integrated Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree at Kansas State University combines programming skills with an individual concentration in a chosen area of interest. The program helps students develop an in-depth understanding of programming, without advanced math requirements, and allows for customization through a minor, certificate, secondary major, or double major outside of computer science. The program requires 120 credit hours.
Program Features
- Concentrations: Minor, certificate, secondary major, double major, interdisciplinary concentration
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
System administration, data analysis, web development, computer programming, information system management, project management
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $2,736/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $4,560/year
- Additional Cost Information:$401.90 - $683.45 per credit hour*
Sample Courses
CC 110 - Introduction to Computing, CC 111 - Elements of Computer Programming, CC 120 - Web Page Development, CC 210 - Fundamental Computer Programming Concepts, CC 310 - Data Structures and Algorithms I...
Fort Hays State University
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Key Highlights
- The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Fort Hays State University prepares students for careers in federal agencies, private software companies, and technology firms.
- Graduates will gain skills in programming, problem solving, information security, and software engineering.
- The curriculum includes courses such as INF 101, MATH 110, CSCI 111, and CSCI 675.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Fort Hays State University, offered both on-campus and online, provides students with a comprehensive education in programming, information security, and human-computer interaction. The program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to excel as programmers and problem solvers in various industries. Graduates are prepared for careers in federal agencies, private software companies, and technology firms.
Program Features
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Programming, Problem solving, Information security, Software engineering
Tuition & Costs
- Cost Per Credit: $188
- Additional Cost Information:
Students in this program can expect to pay approximately:
- On-campus: $2,817.00* per semester
- Online: $3,641.40* per semester
* Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at:
- Undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($187.80/credit hour) for on-campus courses.
- FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($242.76/credit hour) for online courses.
Sample Courses
INF 101, MATH 110, MATH 122, MATH 234, MATH 250...
Why Get Your Computer Science Degree Online in Kansas?
Pursuing an online computer science degree in Kansas positions you at the intersection of flexible education and targeted career growth, with the state’s tech sector outpacing national trends in key areas. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 17% national job growth for software developers through 2033, Kansas-specific data suggests even stronger regional momentum. State projections indicate software engineering roles could expand by 21% through 2030, driven by demand from aerospace, agriculture-tech, and healthcare IT sectors—industries where employers like Textron Aviation and Oracle Health are actively scaling teams. This growth isn’t limited to coding roles: Kansas occupational data shows network architects and systems analysts seeing 19% growth, reflecting Kansas employers’ urgent need for infrastructure modernization. Online programs prepare you for these specialized roles through courses in cloud architecture and embedded systems—skills directly applicable to projects at firms like Koch Industries or Netsmart, where teams are redesigning supply chain logistics and healthcare databases.
Regional industry partnerships further amplify your opportunities. Universities collaborate with Kansas tech hubs in Wichita’s aerospace corridor and Overland Park’s telecom networks, offering virtual career fairs with employers seeking local talent. You’ll also find niche pathways in emerging fields like agritech automation, where startups need developers fluent in IoT and data analytics to optimize farming equipment. With median salaries for these roles projected to rise 12% by 2026, aligning your online coursework with Kansas’ strategic industries creates a direct pipeline to high-impact positions.
By studying online, you maintain proximity to these opportunities while building expertise through capstone projects addressing real challenges faced by Kansas employers—like securing financial systems for regional banks or developing AI-driven crop yield models. Combine this hands-on experience with the state’s lower cost of living, and you’re positioned to outpace national salary growth trends while contributing to local innovation. Start your application now to align your skills with Kansas’ tech transformation, ensuring you’re ready to lead as the state’s digital economy accelerates through this decade.
Where Can You Work with a Computer Science Degree in Kansas?
Kansas offers diverse opportunities for computer science graduates, with major employers and startups across industries. Glassdoor’s list of top Kansas City employers highlights companies like Garmin and T-Mobile, which are frequently sought after for software engineering roles. Garmin, known for GPS technology, offers positions in wearable tech and aviation software development. A Reddit discussion among local professionals notes their emphasis on work-life balance and on-site amenities like fitness centers. T-Mobile’s Overland Park office focuses on telecommunications software, with teams working on network security and customer platforms. Employees often mention collaborative environments and benefits like tuition reimbursement, as shared in the same Reddit thread. Oracle Health (formerly Cerner), another major employer from the discussion, hires engineers for healthcare IT roles, offering remote work options and structured training programs for new graduates.
Beyond large corporations, Kansas supports growing tech firms. Clutch.co’s rankings feature Kingsmen Digital Ventures, a mid-sized company specializing in custom software for logistics and agriculture. Their projects often involve IoT integrations and cloud solutions, appealing to developers interested in niche industries. Designli, another standout from the same source, focuses on mobile app development for startups and enterprises, with a flexible work culture centered around rapid prototyping. NorthBuilt Software Development partners with local businesses to build inventory management tools and e-commerce platforms, providing mentorship opportunities for those new to the field.
Kansas City serves as the state’s primary tech hub, while Wichita’s aerospace sector creates demand for embedded systems engineers. To maximize job prospects, attend local meetups like KC Tech Council events or hackathons hosted at coworking spaces. Follow company career pages for Garmin and Oracle Health, which regularly post entry-level roles. University career centers often connect students with regional employers through internship fairs, offering early access to openings at firms like NorthBuilt or Designli. Building a portfolio with projects relevant to Kansas industries—such as healthcare analytics or agritech solutions—can help you stand out in both corporate and startup applications.
What Can You Earn as a Software Engineer in Kansas?
If you're considering a software engineering career in Kansas, current salary data shows strong earning potential across experience levels. Based on Indeed's statewide survey, the average annual salary sits at $99,791, with entry-level roles often starting near $75,000. This aligns with typical career progression where early-career professionals earn 20-25% below average while building foundational skills.
For more experienced roles, ZipRecruiter's 2025 projections indicate senior positions could reach $131,569 annually, reflecting a 32% increase over entry-level pay. Mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience typically earn between $95,000 and $115,000 in Kansas, depending on technical specialization. Salaries in metropolitan areas show slight variations—for example, Kansas City, MO reports an average of $92,951, suggesting proximity to tech hubs may influence but not drastically elevate pay compared to statewide figures.
Three key factors can boost your earnings: specializing in high-demand areas like cloud architecture or machine learning often adds 10-15% to base salaries, earning certifications from providers like AWS or Google Cloud increases negotiation leverage, and remote roles with coast-based companies sometimes pay above local averages while allowing Kansas residency. While the state’s salaries trail national tech epicenters by 8-12%, the lower cost of living balances this gap effectively.
Job growth projections remain positive as healthcare, agriculture-tech, and logistics companies across Kansas expand digital infrastructure. With remote work options becoming standard, you could potentially command higher salaries from employers based outside the state while enjoying Kansas’ affordability—a trend likely to strengthen through 2025 and beyond.
FAQs About Online Computer Science Degree Programs in Kansas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Kansas schools offer online computer science degrees? A: Three Kansas schools offer online computer science degrees: Ottawa University (Bachelor of Science), Fort Hays State University (BS, $242.76/credit hour online), and Kansas State University (Integrated BS, $401.90-$683.45 per credit). All hold regional accreditation.
Q: How do online computer science programs in Kansas compare in cost? A: Fort Hays State offers the most affordable online option at $242.76 per credit ($3,641/semester full-time). Kansas State’s program ranges $401.90-$683.45 per credit, potentially tripling FHSU’s cost. Ottawa University’s pricing isn’t listed publicly – contact their admissions directly.
Q: What career support do Kansas universities offer computer science students? A: While specific services vary, Reddit users highlight KU’s computer science program connecting students with tech internships and local employers. Similar support likely exists at Fort Hays and K-State through career fairs and industry partnerships.
Q: Can I work while completing an online computer science degree in Kansas? A: Yes – Fort Hays State and Ottawa University design online programs for working professionals, offering asynchronous courses with 24/7 access. K-State’s hybrid program may require scheduling flexibility for occasional in-person components.
Q: Are there scholarships available for online computer science students in Kansas? A: Most Kansas universities offer department-specific scholarships – Fort Hays State provides over $1 million annually in STEM awards. Check each school’s financial aid page and inquire about computer science-specific opportunities when applying.
Q: What technical requirements are needed for online courses in Kansas programs? A: You’ll need a reliable internet connection, a computer with 8GB+ RAM, and software like Python or Java IDEs. Some courses may require webcams for proctored exams – programs typically publish full tech specs during enrollment.
Q: How do Kansas’s computer science programs stay updated with industry trends? A: Universities partner with employers like Garmin and regional tech hubs to align curricula with current needs. K-State’s integrated program emphasizes agile development and cloud computing – skills directly requested by Kansas employers in job postings.
Q: Do Kansas online programs offer networking opportunities with local tech companies? A: Yes – Fort Hays State hosts virtual career fairs with Midwestern tech employers, while K-State connects online students to its Engineering Career Fair. Reddit users note KU’s strong industry ties, a model other Kansas schools emulate.