2026 Most Valuable human resources Degree Programs Ranking in Kansas

What can I expect from human resources degree in Kansas?

The average cost of pursuing a human resources degree in Kansas varies depending on the institution and degree level, but many students find it manageable with the right planning and support. Graduates from universities like Wichita State University and the University of Kansas often share how scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work helped them balance expenses without sacrificing their education quality. Tuition for public universities typically ranges between $8, 000 and $15, 000 per year for in-state students, making it accessible compared to national averages.

These costs cover coursework that blends theory with practical skills, often supported by internships or cooperative programs, which alumni remember as invaluable experiences. Many reflect on how working alongside Kansas businesses during their studies helped justify the investment by connecting classroom lessons directly to real-world challenges. This direct application not only softened financial concerns but deepened their passion for human resources and confidence in career readiness within Kansas' evolving job market.

Where can I work with human resources degree in Kansas?

Graduates with a human resources degree in Kansas often find rewarding career paths across diverse industries. Many who studied at the University of Kansas or Kansas State University describe how their education prepared them to thrive in dynamic workplaces like Spirit AeroSystems or Koch Industries, where managing recruiting and employee relations is vital. These experiences foster confidence as graduates handle real-world business challenges.

Healthcare also presents rich opportunities. Human resources professionals working at facilities such as the University of Kansas Health System often share how their skills contribute to improving staffing and benefits administration, creating a supportive environment for both employees and patients. This sector's steady growth offers stability and meaningful work.

Some alumni choose to serve in academia or government roles, appreciating the balance of administrative duties and strategic planning at colleges or at agencies like the Kansas Office of Personnel Services. Graduates value how these positions enable them to shape positive organizational cultures while engaging with their communities.

How much can I make with human resources degree in Kansas?

Graduates with a human resources degree in Kansas often find rewarding financial opportunities, especially when stepping into roles like Recruitment Coordinator or Employee Relations Specialist, where the mean annual wage is about $76, 060. Many graduates from institutions like the University of Kansas or Washburn University recall feeling confident pursuing these positions because the salary aligns well with their aspirations and living costs in Kansas.

For those entering roles such as Training and Development Coordinator, mean annual wages of approximately $71, 980 offer a solid foundation to build a career focused on growth and employee engagement. This salary range reflects a balance between responsibility and the chance to impact company culture positively.

Starting out, some graduates appreciate that their Human Resources Assistant roles also average around $76, 060, giving them encouraging stability while gaining hands-on experience. These figures are closely aligned with Kansas's vibrant job market and the state's economic environment, helping graduates envision a comfortable, upward career path.

Such salaries not only support individual growth but also inspire aspirations for managerial positions, where compensation rises significantly with experience. Kansas-based human resources graduates often share a sense of pride knowing their education makes them competitive in both local and broader markets.

How long does it take to complete human resources degree in Kansas?

Students pursuing a human resources degree in Kansas typically find that completion times vary based on the level of study and personal circumstances. Graduates from universities such as the University of Kansas or Wichita State often share that a bachelor's degree generally takes about four years if studying full-time, mirroring the norm across the state's public institutions. This timeframe allows for a well-rounded exploration of HR principles alongside business coursework, building a solid foundation.

Meanwhile, those who start at community colleges like Johnson County Community College appreciate the shorter, two-year associate degree programs that provide essential HR knowledge and serve as stepping stones to bachelor's degrees. Many graduates reflect positively on the flexibility these paths offer, especially when balancing work and studies.

For ambitious professionals, a master's degree from Kansas State University or similar institutions usually requires two years of full-time study, though part-time and online options can extend this to better fit busy schedules. Alumni often highlight the rewarding challenge of managing coursework with real-world responsibilities, emphasizing growth and perseverance throughout their education journey.

Cost of Human Resources Degree Programs in Kansas

Prospective students should consider not only tuition but also ancillary expenses when evaluating Human Resources degree programs in Kansas. In-state tuition at public universities such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University typically ranges from $9,500 to $12,000 per year, while out-of-state students may pay between $25,000 and $30,000 annually. Community colleges offer more affordable options, with associate degree programs costing approximately $4,000 to $6,000 per year for in-state residents. Private institutions can range from $15,000 to over $35,000 annually, depending on program prestige and campus resources. Additional costs often include: - Fees (technology, activity, lab): $500–$1,200 per semester - Books and supplies: $1,200–$1,800 per year - Living expenses (housing, meals, transportation): $10,000–$14,000 per year Many students offset these costs through work-study, part-time employment, and institutional scholarships. Comparing these figures to out-of-state benchmarks can provide broader context; for example, our Affordable Human Resources Degree Programs Ranking in California highlights programs with tuition as low as $6,000 per year for in-state California residents. By projecting a four-year bachelor’s degree, Kansas residents can expect total tuition and fees between $38,000 and $48,000, excluding living expenses. Factoring in financial aid and grants, many graduates report reducing their net cost by 25–40%. Understanding this investment upfront empowers students to evaluate return on investment accurately and choose the program that aligns with both career goals and budgetary requirements.

What's the difference between online and on-campus human resources degree?

Graduates from the University of Kansas often recall the vibrant energy of their on-campus human resources classes-engaging face-to-face discussions, instant feedback from professors, and impromptu study groups created a dynamic learning atmosphere that deeply enriched their experience. These in-person interactions helped them build strong local networks, especially valuable during job fairs and internships organized through the campus's close ties with Kansas employers.

Conversely, graduates from Fort Hays State University appreciate their online HR degree for its flexibility, which allowed them to balance work, family, and study without the stress of commuting or relocating. Many found that digital forums and virtual collaboration tools fostered meaningful connections, though they sometimes wished for more spontaneous networking moments that on-campus students naturally enjoy.

Both paths adhere to SHRM standards, ensuring quality education. Yet, for those in smaller Kansas towns, online programs opened doors previously closed by distance, demonstrating that choosing between formats often comes down to individual lifestyle and career goals rather than educational value alone.

What is the average cost of human resources degree in Kansas?

The average cost of obtaining a human resources degree in Kansas varies widely, but on average, students can expect the total cost to hover around $33, 240. For many in-state students attending well-known public universities such as Kansas State University or the University of Kansas, tuition and fees themselves can be significantly lower, often near $9, 322, making these schools a more affordable option. Graduates from these institutions frequently share a sense of pride in having balanced quality education with sensible expenses.

Those coming from out-of-state typically face higher costs, often matching or exceeding the median total cost, which includes tuition combined with living expenses and supplies. This financial reality requires prospective students to carefully consider their options early on. Some find value in starting at community colleges offering human resources certificates before transferring, which helps to reduce initial expenses. The conversation about human resources degree tuition and fees Kansas is incomplete without recognizing the deliberate budgeting needed beyond just tuition, such as room, board, and materials.

Private institutions in Kansas tend to charge even higher tuition, but many offer scholarships and financial aid that graduates find essential for managing costs effectively. In today's educational landscape, exploring varied pathways, including online programs popular among working adults, can offer both flexibility and financial relief. For students balancing work and study, these options may prove invaluable. You can explore accelerated degree college options for working adults as a viable alternative, often coming at a competitive price.

Cost and Return on Investment for HR Degrees in Kansas

For prospective students, understanding the overall financial investment of an HR degree—from tuition and fees to additional costs such as textbooks and technology—is crucial when evaluating a program’s true value. In Kansas, tuition for HR degree programs can vary significantly based on the institution and the educational level pursued, ranging from affordable community college options to premium private universities. To assess the return on investment (ROI), students should not only consider the direct costs but also how the degree may influence long-term earning potential and career growth. Real-world data shows that graduates often experience a substantial salary boost within a few years of entering the workforce, making this investment rewarding despite the initial expenses. In addition, many institutions provide extensive support through scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, reducing the financial burden. If you’re looking to compare program costs and evaluate value, explore the most affordable human resources programs in kansas to find options that align with your budget and career objectives. This comprehensive cost analysis supports informed decisions that balance academic quality with financial feasibility, ensuring that your investment today paves the way for a prosperous tomorrow in the field of Human Resources.

What financial aid is available to human resources degree students in Kansas?

Human resources students in Kansas often find relief through a variety of financial aid options tailored to their needs. Graduates from universities like Wichita State recall how federal programs such as Pell Grants significantly eased their tuition burdens, covering substantial portions of their fees. The FAFSA application is the indispensable first step, unlocking access not only to these grants but also to work-study jobs that offer both income and valuable HR-related experience on campus.

State-specific support, like the Kansas Comprehensive Grant, proves vital for many pursuing their human resources degree within the state, especially when combined with institutional scholarships. For example, University of Kansas students appreciate how college-based scholarships, often merit or need-based, make the difference between stressing over finances and focusing on career goals.

Loans like Stafford or Perkins provide another layer of support, with manageable repayment plans that graduates have found less daunting than private alternatives. Engaging with campus financial aid advisors early can shape a personalized funding path, smoothing what once seemed a complex journey into a hopeful and achievable pursuit.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in human resources degree program in Kansas?

To enroll in a human resources degree program in Kansas, the first step is meeting the foundational requirement of having a high school diploma or GED. Graduates from Kansas State University often recall how submitting official transcripts with a solid GPA-typically around 2. 5 or higher-was crucial in securing their spot. These transcripts act as a tangible reflection of your academic dedication, which admissions committees value deeply.

Many programs, including those at the University of Kansas, may weigh standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT, although recent graduates highlight how test-optional policies have offered greater flexibility, allowing them to focus on other strengths such as coursework in English and social sciences.

Additionally, letters of recommendation and personal statements can powerfully convey your motivation. Students have found that demonstrating communication and analytical skills through these materials often sets them apart. When considering graduate degrees in Kansas, experience in relevant fields sometimes becomes equally important, blending academic success with real-world insight.

What courses are typically in human resources degree programs in Kansas?

In Kansas, human resources degree programs typically include foundational courses such as organizational behavior, business communication, and management principles, which set the stage for deeper HR knowledge. Graduates from popular institutions like the University of Kansas often reflect on how these classes prepared them to understand workplace dynamics early on.

More specialized courses focus on employment law and labor relations, helping students grasp complex federal and state regulations that impact Kansas workplaces. Many students find studying recruitment and talent acquisition engaging, as it equips them with practical skills for interviewing and selecting candidates-a vital part of any HR role.

Other common courses include compensation and benefits administration, training and development, performance management, and the use of human resources information systems (HRIS). Alumni from Wichita State University appreciate how these subjects mirror real job challenges, such as designing effective training programs or managing payroll systems, making their education feel immediately relevant and empowering.

What types of specializations are available in human resources degree programs in Kansas?

Graduates reflecting on their human resources degree specializations in Kansas often highlight how options like Talent Acquisition and Recruitment prepared them for real-world hiring challenges in local industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. This specialization equips students to meet employer needs by mastering recruitment strategies that resonate with Kansas's dynamic job market.

Others found the Employee Relations and Labor Law track invaluable, especially given Kansas's strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Understanding state-specific regulations allowed them to confidently resolve workplace disputes and maintain compliance, skills praised by employers across the region's diverse economic landscape.

At universities known for human resources degree concentration options, such as those in Kansas's urban centers, students emphasize the benefits of specializations like Compensation and Benefits and Training and Development. These focus areas help future HR professionals design competitive pay structures and foster ongoing employee growth, addressing the evolving needs of Kansas's workforce.

Additionally, programs offering Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) specialization train students to integrate technology with HR functions, an increasingly crucial skill. Many graduates appreciate how this modern perspective gave them an edge.

For those exploring the variety of paths available, researching the easiest degrees can help clarify options and make the journey smoother.

How do you choose the best human resources degree in Kansas?

Choosing the best human resources degree in Kansas means looking beyond basic requirements to find a program aligned with your career vision. Graduates from popular universities in Kansas often emphasize the value of strong accreditation and SHRM-aligned curricula, which ensure the degree holds weight with employers and prepares you for real-world challenges. For example, students who selected institutions near economic centers like Wichita appreciated access to internships that connected classroom learning to actual HR environments.

Cost matters, but affordable HR degrees in Kansas 2026 often balance tuition with hands-on opportunities. Several graduates recall the benefit of programs offering evening or online classes, allowing working adults to advance without pausing their careers. Curriculum relevance is key; courses covering employment law, talent management, and strategic planning were frequently highlighted by alumni as critical to their confidence and success.

Networking in Kansas's vibrant job markets can't be overlooked, and programs with active career services and mentorship helped graduates quickly secure positions. Students weighing advanced options might also explore a doctoral degree no dissertation, which some found invaluable for leadership roles in HR management.

What career paths are available for human resources degree students in Kansas?

Graduates with a human resources degree in Kansas often find rewarding career paths tailored to various industries across the state. Many who studied at well-regarded institutions like the University of Kansas or Wichita State University confidently step into roles such as HR specialists, recruiters, and training coordinators, where they manage employee relations and recruitment efforts with a hands-on approach. These positions provide a sense of accomplishment as graduates directly contribute to shaping workplace culture and ensuring benefits administration aligns with compliance standards.

For those seeking more strategic roles, becoming an HR manager is a common next step, especially in thriving sectors like healthcare and manufacturing. These graduates frequently share how their coursework prepared them for the complexities of overseeing HR departments and developing policies that positively impact hundreds of employees statewide. Reflecting on human resources career opportunities in Kansas, many alumni recall how leveraging both traditional HR expertise and emerging skills in data analysis or HR information systems strengthened their job prospects.

Many graduates praise the accessibility of affordable education options in Kansas, which makes pursuing a degree practical and motivating, especially when combined with the strong job market. Students often explore fafsa online colleges that provide support during their studies, helping them balance tuition costs with career ambitions. Kansas human resources degree job prospects remain bright for those ready to invest in this dynamic field.

What is the job market for human resources degree in Kansas?

The job market for those with a human resources degree in Kansas reveals steady promise, especially for graduates from well-known institutions such as the University of Kansas and Wichita State University. Many graduates have found their education directly applicable to local industries, particularly healthcare and manufacturing, where HR roles are vital. These employers seek candidates familiar with employment laws and skilled in diversity recruitment, reflecting the region's evolving workforce needs. This steady demand is a key aspect of the human resources degree job outlook Kansas students often highlight when reflecting on their career prospects.

Graduates frequently recall how internships facilitated by their colleges connected them to real-world HR challenges, enhancing both confidence and expertise. Public universities in Kansas keep tuition affordable, encouraging students to gain local professional experience without overwhelming debt. Some have combined their degree with certifications to sharpen their credentials and remain competitive.

Students pursuing human resources degrees in Kansas might also explore options at nationally accredited universities offering flexible learning to complement their in-state opportunities. Such paths align well with the Kansas human resources career opportunities landscape, which values a mix of education, experience, and technological know-how.