Private Four-Year Universities in Kansas
Baker University
Overview
Baker University is a private liberal arts university located in Baldwin City, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, Baker offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1858, Baker University is the oldest university in Kansas. It was established by the United Methodist Church and has a long tradition of academic excellence and community engagement.
Academic Offerings
Baker University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Professional and Graduate Studies
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Biology, Psychology, and Nursing.
Student Life
Baker University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Oldest University in Kansas: Rich history and tradition of academic excellence.
- Small Class Sizes: Emphasis on personalized education and close interaction with faculty.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Baldwin City with historic and modern facilities.
- Strong Athletics: Competitive NAIA sports teams.
Admissions
Baker University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Baker University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Bill James: Renowned baseball writer and statistician.
- Erin Brockovich: Environmental activist and legal clerk.
- Georgia Neese Clark Gray: First woman Treasurer of the United States.
Benedictine College
Overview
Benedictine College is a private Catholic liberal arts college located in Atchison, Kansas. Known for its strong emphasis on faith and community, Benedictine offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1858 by Benedictine monks, Benedictine College has a long history of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Benedictine College offers programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Nursing
- Theology
- Biology
- Engineering
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and ministry.
Student Life
Benedictine College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and spiritual growth.
Unique Features
- Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Atchison with modern facilities and historic buildings.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Benedictine College’s admissions process considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the college’s Catholic values. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Alumni
Benedictine College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Dr. Edward J. Malloy: Former President of the University of Notre Dame.
- Nancy E. Brinker: Founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
- Dr. Thomas E. Hoenig: Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.
Bethany College
Overview
Bethany College is a private liberal arts college located in Lindsborg, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, Bethany offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1881 by Swedish Lutheran immigrants, Bethany College has a long tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and creativity.
Academic Offerings
Bethany College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Music
- Psychology
- Visual Arts
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and ministry.
Student Life
Bethany College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Swedish Heritage: Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Lindsborg, known as “Little Sweden,” with modern facilities.
- Strong Arts Programs: Renowned music and visual arts programs.
Admissions
Bethany College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Bethany College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Arne Anderson: Former President of the American College of Health Care Executives.
- Deanell Reece Tacha: Federal judge and former Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.
- Joyce DiDonato: Grammy-winning opera singer.
Bethel College
Overview
Bethel College is a private liberal arts college located in North Newton, Kansas. Known for its commitment to peace, justice, and service, Bethel offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1887 by Mennonite immigrants, Bethel College has a long tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Bethel College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Nursing
The college also offers pre-professional programs in law, medicine, and ministry.
Student Life
Bethel College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Mennonite Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on peace, justice, and service.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in North Newton with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Bethel College’s admissions process considers academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the college’s Mennonite values. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
Bethel College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Vernon Neufeld Redekop: Canadian theologian and peacebuilder.
- Katie Funk Wiebe: Author and editor.
- Harley Stucky: Former Kansas State Representative.
Friends University
Overview
Friends University is a private Christian university located in Wichita, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, Friends offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1898 by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), Friends University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Friends University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Business, Arts, Sciences, and Education
- College of Adult and Professional Studies
- Graduate School
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Psychology, Music, and Christian Spiritual Formation.
Student Life
Friends University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Quaker Heritage: Emphasis on peace, justice, and service.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Wichita with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Friends University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Friends University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- John Buckwalter: Dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences at Kansas State University.
- Erin Cummings: Actress known for “Spartacus: Blood and Sand.”
- Larnelle Harris: Grammy-winning gospel singer.
Kansas Wesleyan University
Overview
Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU) is a private Christian university located in Salina, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, KWU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1886 by the United Methodist Church, Kansas Wesleyan University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Kansas Wesleyan University offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Biology, and Criminal Justice.
Student Life
Kansas Wesleyan University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Methodist Heritage: Emphasis on faith, service, and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Salina with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Kansas Wesleyan University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Kansas Wesleyan University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Mike Pompeo: Former U.S. Secretary of State and Director of the CIA.
- Earlene Fowler: Author known for her mystery novels.
- Dean Smith: Renowned basketball coach.
McPherson College
Overview
McPherson College is a private liberal arts college located in McPherson, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and unique focus on automotive restoration, McPherson offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1887 by the Church of the Brethren, McPherson College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
McPherson College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Automotive Restoration
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Psychology
- Visual Arts
The college is particularly renowned for its Automotive Restoration program, the only one of its kind in the nation.
Student Life
McPherson College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Automotive Restoration Program: Unique program that attracts students from across the country.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in McPherson with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
McPherson College’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
McPherson College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Rick Schmidt: CEO of National Parts Depot.
- Wade Kawasaki: President of Legendary Companies.
- Jerry Dixey: Renowned automotive journalist and historian.
Newman University
Overview
Newman University is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in Wichita, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on service, Newman offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1933 by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, Newman University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Newman University offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing and Allied Health
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Biology, and Psychology.
Student Life
Newman University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Wichita with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Newman University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Newman University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Sister Helen Prejean: Author and activist known for her work against the death penalty.
- Ron Baker: Former NBA player.
- Nicole Ohlde: Former WNBA player.
Ottawa University
Overview
Ottawa University is a private Christian liberal arts university with its main campus located in Ottawa, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success, Ottawa offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1865 by Baptist missionaries, Ottawa University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Ottawa University offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Psychology, Nursing, and Biology.
Student Life
Ottawa University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Christian Heritage: Emphasis on faith, service, and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Ottawa with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Ottawa University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Ottawa University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Andy Brandt: Former NFL player.
- G. Homer Durham: Historian and educational administrator.
- Clarence Thomas: Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court (note: honorary degree).
Southwestern College
Overview
Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college located in Winfield, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success, Southwestern offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1885 by the Kansas Methodist Conference, Southwestern College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Southwestern College offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Performing Arts
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Psychology, Biology, and Music.
Student Life
Southwestern College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Methodist Heritage: Emphasis on faith, service, and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Winfield with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Southwestern College’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Southwestern College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Bill Kurtis: Journalist and television producer.
- Jerry Kill: College football coach.
- Vada Pinson: Former MLB player.
Tabor College
Overview
Tabor College is a private Christian liberal arts college located in Hillsboro, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, Tabor offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1908 by the Mennonite Brethren Church, Tabor College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Tabor College offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Psychology, Nursing, and Biology.
Student Life
Tabor College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Mennonite Brethren Heritage: Emphasis on faith, service, and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Hillsboro with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Tabor College’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Tabor College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Jay Hein: Former Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives.
- Barry Switzer: Former college football coach and NFL coach.
- Mark Lowry: Christian comedian and singer.
University of Saint Mary
Overview
The University of Saint Mary is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in Leavenworth, Kansas. Known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on service, the University of Saint Mary offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1923 by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, the University of Saint Mary has a long tradition of providing high-quality education. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
The University of Saint Mary offers programs across various schools, including:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Biology, and Psychology.
Student Life
The University of Saint Mary provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Leavenworth with modern facilities.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
The University of Saint Mary’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
The University of Saint Mary alumni are leaders in various fields, including healthcare, education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Elizabeth Dillon: U.S. District Judge.
- Michael Hayden: Former Governor of Kansas.
- Theresa Vail: Miss Kansas 2013 and contestant on “Survivor.”