Best Psychology Schools in Kansas – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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Roughly 1,383,258 Kansas residents live in a community with an insufficient number of mental health professionals (Nami.org, 2021). The state falls slightly below the national average in meeting the demand for mental health workers, with only 26.0% being met compared to the national average of 27.7% (Kff.org, n.d.).

To fulfill the increasing demand for more mental health professionals, the local government, healthcare institutions, and schools in the state must take action. Fortunately, in Kansas, numerous schools have proactively improved mental health education by incorporating hybrid and online training options to meet this need.

Kansas, with its diverse range of universities and colleges, offers fertile ground for aspiring mental health workers, particularly psychologists, to nurture their passion and expertise. In this guide, we will delve into the top institutions, including graduate schools in Kansas, recognized for their academic excellence and the opportunities they provide for prospective psychologists.

Best Psychology Schools in Kansas Table of Contents

Is being a psychologist a good job in Kansas?
What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Kansas?
Continuing Education for Licensed Psychologists in Kansas
Psychology Program Length in Kansas
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Kansas
Kansas Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Kansas
What are the key challenges facing mental health professionals in Kansas, and how can they be addressed?
The Role of Licensure Pathways in Addressing Kansas' Mental Health Professional Shortages
What Are the Emerging Opportunities in Criminal Psychology in Kansas?
What are the career prospects for school psychologists in Kansas?
What are the unique opportunities for doctorate-level psychologists in Kansas?
What are the opportunities for behavior analysts in Kansas?
What are the key licensing challenges for psychologists in Kansas?
How can advanced education boost your career prospects in Kansas?
What are the pathways to become a mental health counselor in Kansas?
What are the career prospects for substance abuse counselors in Kansas?
What are the intersections between forensic science and psychology in Kansas?
What is the fastest way to become a counselor in Kansas?

Is being a psychologist a good job in Kansas?

Currently, there are 415 active licensed psychologist positions in Kansas, accounting for 14% of the total jobs per 1,000 people in the state (Zippia, 2023). It is also worth mentioning that the overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations (BLS. 2023).

Psychologists in Kansas with a master’s degree can expect a median salary of $92,191 (Salary.com, 2023). Meanwhile, those with a Ph.D. in psychology who practice in Kansas receive an average wage of $107,910.

Additionally, the cost of living in Kansas is 13.5% less than the national average (Kansas Commerce, n.d.). The typical tenant in the state pays $831 per month for housing, which is $192 lower than the nationwide median monthly rent of $1,023 (24/7 Wall St., n.d.). Kansas also has an average commute time of 19 minutes (Kansas Commerce, n.d.), which can contribute to a better work-life balance for psychologists.

A positive job outlook, a low cost of living, and a short commute time make Kansas an ideal place to practice psychology.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Kansas?

Becoming a psychologist involves a series of steps to get the needed education, practical experience, and licensing in Kansas. Research.com’s team of review experts offers an overview of these steps.

1. Earn a degree in psychology. First, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree as an undergraduate. Kansas has 40 public universities and colleges (Kansas Commerce, n.d.), some of which offer accredited online psychology graduate programs. If you do not major in psychology, you will have to complete additional prerequisites before entering a graduate psychology program in Kansas.

Typically, a bachelor’s degree takes four years to finish. Full-time students have to complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Some individuals who do not major in psychology also take a stand-alone master’s degree in this discipline after they finish their undergraduate degree. This option gives them more industry knowledge and experience.

Kansas offers a master’s-level psychologist license for those with a master’s degree, allowing them to work under the supervision of licensed, independent psychology providers.

Meanwhile, you must enroll in a doctoral program that is APA-accredited or meet equivalent standards to become a licensed psychologist in the state. The American Psychological Association (APA) is a scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the U.S. with over 146,000 members.

The doctoral program must include at least 1,800 hours of applied internship and a minimum of one hour of supervision from a doctoral-level licensed psychologist.

2. Complete the Application for Licensure for the Practice of Psychology form. Once you fill out the form, submit it to the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (KSBSRB) along with the application fee. The Board will issue a temporary license valid for two years that will allow you to practice in Kansas under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

Your supervisor has to fill out the Attestation of Supervised Psychology Professional Experience form after you finish your post-doctoral supervised experience.

3. Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) administers the EPPP exam, which you can take while still working on your post-doctoral supervised experience. You also have the option to wait until you complete the required hours for it.

The EPPP is a national exam with 225 multiple-choice items across a number of areas in psychology. You have to correctly answer 70% of the items to pass the test.

4. Receive your full license from the Kansas BSRB. For those who graduated from an APA-accredited psychology program in Kansas, they can expect notification regarding the issuance of their full license within 30 days of their licensure status. Once they receive their license, they can practice psychology in the state independently.

How can aspiring psychologists gain practical experience in Kansas?

Practical experience is essential for psychology students to prepare for real-world applications of their training. In Kansas, aspiring psychologists can gain hands-on experience in several ways:

Internships and Practicums: Many psychology programs offer on-site practicums or internships, which are essential for meeting state licensure requirements. These experiences provide students with supervised, applied training in clinics, hospitals, or private practices.
Field Placement Opportunities: Programs like those at Ottawa University include field placement hours as part of the curriculum. These placements allow students to apply their knowledge in diverse settings, including schools, counseling centers, and mental health clinics.
Research Assistantships: Universities often offer research assistant positions, allowing students to work closely with faculty on studies that contribute to psychological science. This is particularly valuable for those interested in academic or research-oriented careers.
Community Partnerships: Some Kansas universities partner with local organizations to offer psychology students community-based experience. This provides practical exposure in varied settings, from social service agencies to rehabilitation centers.
Graduate Assistantships: Many Kansas institutions provide paid or partially funded assistantships. These roles often involve research, teaching, or administrative support, building valuable skills and professional networks.

Continuing Education for Licensed Psychologists in Kansas

To maintain their license, psychologists in Kansas must complete continuing education (CE) requirements. This is vital for staying updated with the latest practices and research in the field. The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (KBSRB) mandates that licensed psychologists complete 30 hours of CE every two years. These hours must be obtained from approved programs or organizations to be recognized.

Approved CE providers include reputable institutions such as the American Psychological Association (APA), the Kansas Psychological Association (KPA), and various universities with psychology departments. Additionally, psychologists can choose courses focused on areas like ethics, clinical practice, and specialized fields such as neuropsychology or geropsychology. For psychologists aiming to expand their expertise in family-focused mental health, understanding the marriage and family therapist education level can be essential, especially if they are considering transitioning or collaborating in that field.

Completing these educational requirements helps psychologists enhance their skills, provide high-quality care, and adapt to the evolving mental health and psychological services landscape. For those looking to advance in specific areas, many universities in Kansas offer workshops and courses that align with these CE requirements. Participation in these programs fulfills the licensure conditions and supports career growth and professional development.

Psychology Program Length in Kansas

The length of psychology programs in Kansas varies depending on the degree level and the specific program. Typically, a bachelor’s degree program takes four years to complete, while a master’s degree program in organizational psychology or other specializations in the field can take two years. Meanwhile, doctoral programs in psychology usually have a duration of five to seven years.

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Kansas

The tuition and costs of psychology programs in Kansas differ based on the specific degree and the student’s residency status, whether they are residents of Kansas or from another state.

Aspiring psychology students must refer to the official websites of their preferred Kansas psychology programs to get the most recent and accurate information about tuition fees and expenses.

In the U.S., about 1,647 colleges offer psychology programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The average tuition for in-state undergraduate psychology students is $9,901 and $30,126 for out-of-state students (College Tuition Compare, 2023). For graduate psychology programs, the average tuition for in-state students is $11,381, while out-of-state students pay $24,645.

Kansas Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025

Higher levels of education among citizens contribute to enhanced opportunities and economic progress in a state. In Kansas, 13.04% of its residents earned a graduate degree (World Population Review, 2023).

Various colleges and universities in Kansas offer psychology degree programs at different levels and formats for every aspiring psychologist. In this section, we compiled the top universities in Kansas to help individuals interested in pursuing either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology streamline their search.

1. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas (KU) has a clinical psychology program that offers a clinical science approach to graduate training. The doctoral program aims to produce individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of scientific psychology.

Aside from clinical psychology, KU also offers other APA-accredited Ph.D. programs in psychology, including counseling, school psychology, and clinical child psychology.

Program Length: Five to six years (clinical psychology)
Tracks/concentrations: General program and clinical health track
Cost per Credit/Tuition: $416 cost per credit (resident graduate students) $998 cost per credit (non-resident graduate students)
Required Credits to Graduate: 96 credit hours
Accreditation: APA

2.Wichita State University

Wichita State University offers several master’s in psychology programs. One of which is the Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Psychology. The MEd program has various programs of study and customizable specialization options. Aspirants can also choose from flexible options, including in-person, online, and hybrid courses.

Program Length: Not specified
Tracks/concentrations: Offers general track, customizable specializations, and higher education/student affairs track
Cost per Credit/Tuition: $369 per credit hour for in-state students taking a general program and $1,035 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Required Credits to Graduate: 32 credit hours for thesis option
Accreditation: The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and APA

3. Kansas State University

Kansas State University offers a doctoral program in industrial and organizational psychology that prepares students for careers in private business, consulting, academic settings, and public agencies.

Kstate’s Department of Psychological Sciences offers industrial and organizational psychology courses on a regular basis. Students are also encouraged to take other elective courses related to industrial and organizational psychology as part of their program of study.

Program Length: Five to six years
Tracks/concentrations: Consulting, industry, government, and academia
Cost per Credit/Tuition: Not specified
Required Credits to Graduate: 90 credit hours
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers a graduate program in school of psychology. It requires the completion of a master’s program (30 hours) and the Education Specialist in School of Psychology program (36 hours). The graduate program is available in four different versions: virtual, accelerated, traditional on-campus, and a respecialization track for Kansas residents.

Program Length: Not specified
Tracks/concentrations: School psychology
Cost per Credit/Tuition: $288.50 per credit hour for in-state students and $482.50 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credit hours (Master of Science in School Psychology) 69 credit hours (Education Specialist in School Psychology)
Accreditation: NASP

5. Ottawa University

Ottawa University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling. It is a hybrid program that includes 39 credit hours of core classes, 15 credit hours of concentration and elective courses, and nine credit hours of field placement.

Program Length: Not specified
Tracks/concentrations: Expressive arts therapy, gerocounseling, and treatment of trauma, abuse, and deprivation concentration
Cost per Credit/Tuition: $635 cost per credit (online)
Required Credits to Graduate: 63 credit hours
Accreditation: HLC

Students who want a degree that focuses heavily on the application of psychological science rather than engaging in research should consider taking a PsyD program in Kansas City.

Kansas City University (KCU) offers a PsyD degree. As of April 11, 2021, the program is “accredited on contingency," which means that it meets all APA standards except for the inclusion of the required outcome data on interns or residents. KCU must provide all the missing data to the APA within a specific timeframe so the school can apply for full accreditation.

Education Attained

Count

Percentage

Associate's Degree

170,483

9.04%

Bachelor's Degree

415,201

22.01%

Graduate Degree

246,034

13.04%

What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Kansas

When looking for a psychology program in Kansas, there are several factors to consider, including:

Accreditation. Enroll in psychology programs accredited by the APA or the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Entrance requirements. Check whether the program has a minimum GPA requirement and whether prerequisite courses are required.
Location. Consider the location of the school and whether it is convenient for you to attend.
Resources. Verify whether the psychology program has access to resources such as clinical training sites, research facilities, and internship opportunities.
Faculty. Learn more about the faculty members’ credentials and whether they are actively engaged in research.
Program offerings. Check the degree levels available and whether the school offers specializations, such as behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, and sports psychology graduate programs.

What are the key challenges facing mental health professionals in Kansas, and how can they be addressed?

The mental health field in Kansas faces critical challenges, including a shortage of licensed professionals and limited access to care for underserved communities. Addressing these issues requires a combination of innovative strategies and increased support for aspiring psychologists.

Expand Accelerated Educational Pathways: To meet the growing demand for mental health professionals, Kansas schools could offer more accelerated psychology degree programs, enabling students to enter the workforce faster. For instance, accelerated psychology degree online programs allow students to complete their education in less time while maintaining rigorous academic standards and taking courses at any place with a stable connection.
Enhance Rural Outreach Programs: Many communities in Kansas lack adequate mental health services. Expanding rural internship placements and telehealth training programs could equip students with the skills to serve these areas effectively. Collaborations with local clinics and community organizations can create pipelines of care for underserved populations.
Increase Financial Support and Incentives: Offering scholarships, loan forgiveness programs, or stipends for students committing to work in high-need areas can attract more individuals to the field. These initiatives can alleviate financial burdens while encouraging professionals to address gaps in mental health care access.
Focus on Interdisciplinary Training: Kansas programs can enhance their curricula by incorporating interdisciplinary approaches, such as integrating behavioral health with primary care. This would enable graduates to address complex patient needs in holistic ways, a skill set that is increasingly valuable in today’s healthcare environment.

The Role of Licensure Pathways in Addressing Kansas' Mental Health Professional Shortages

Addressing Kansas' mental health professional shortage requires a multifaceted approach, and one of the critical aspects is ensuring clear and accessible licensure pathways for aspiring and practicing mental health professionals. Licensing not only ensures the quality and competency of care but also plays a pivotal role in attracting professionals to the field and retaining them long-term.

Kansas has made strides in streamlining the licensing process for mental health professionals, including psychologists and marriage and family therapists (MFTs). Aspiring MFTs, for instance, must meet specific MFT licensing requirements in Kansas that include completing accredited graduate programs, supervised clinical hours, and passing national examinations. These requirements, while rigorous, are essential for establishing a workforce that can provide ethical and effective care.

To further ease the pathway for licensure, Kansas could implement policies aimed at reducing administrative bottlenecks and offering financial incentives such as grants or tuition reimbursement programs tied to practicing in underserved areas. Additionally, expanding hybrid or online licensure preparation programs can make the process more accessible to individuals in rural regions, addressing geographic challenges that often deter professionals from entering the field.

The focus on licensure alignment and post-graduate support is equally critical. Collaborative efforts between state agencies, universities, and professional organizations can bridge gaps between education and practice, helping new graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. These initiatives should include robust mentorship programs that ensure up-and-coming professionals are equipped with both technical and interpersonal skills critical to serving diverse Kansas communities.

Integrating licensure pathways with long-term workforce development strategies will ensure a sustainable solution to Kansas’ mental health challenges, benefiting both practitioners and the populations they serve.

What Are the Emerging Opportunities in Criminal Psychology in Kansas?

In Kansas, specialization in criminal psychology presents an avenue to address forensic and correctional challenges through targeted research, intervention strategies, and risk assessment. Advanced training programs and certificate courses equip professionals with the analytical skills necessary to evaluate criminal behavior, contribute to legal proceedings, and support rehabilitation initiatives. For individuals aiming to work at the intersection of psychology and the criminal justice system, obtaining expertise in this niche field can amplify their impact on public safety and community well-being. Detailed guidelines on how to become a criminal psychologist in Kansas are available to support those looking to merge academic credentials with practical, real-world applications.

Exploring Psychology Programs in Kansas

Your choice of psychology school can play a pivotal role in your professional development. Whether you are aspiring to become a clinical psychologist, a researcher, or want to pursue a career in forensic psychology, the top psychology programs in Kansas provide the foundation and resources necessary for a fulfilling career in the industry.

What are the career prospects for school psychologists in Kansas?

School psychologists in Kansas are increasingly essential to address the growing mental health and academic needs within educational settings. They contribute to student well-being through assessments, counseling, and the development of tailored intervention programs that support learning and behavioral success. With state initiatives focused on enhancing mental health support in schools, career opportunities in this field are expanding steadily. Prospective professionals should consider rigorous preparation that complies with the school psychologist requirements in Kansas to meet state-specific demands. Employment growth is driven by an ongoing emphasis on early identification of learning and emotional challenges, which is reflected in the increased investment by both public and private educational systems.

What are the unique opportunities for doctorate-level psychologists in Kansas?

Doctorate-level professionals in psychology in Kansas can explore advanced roles beyond traditional clinical practice. They are well-positioned to lead independent research initiatives, develop innovative mental health programs, and assume key academic and administrative positions within educational institutions. Additionally, these specialists often contribute to shaping healthcare policies and cutting-edge treatment methods. For further guidance on specialized career trajectories, see our guide What can you do with a doctorate in psychology?

What are the opportunities for behavior analysts in Kansas?

Kansas presents emerging prospects for professionals specializing in behavior analysis. Roles in educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and community programs are expanding as demand increases for targeted behavioral interventions and support services. Aspiring behavior analysts should consider obtaining certification through specialized training to validate their expertise in managing behavioral challenges. For detailed certification guidance and to explore the career pathway, please review how to become a BCBA in Kansas. This certification not only enhances job prospects but also supports professional integration within multidisciplinary teams addressing complex behavioral needs.

What are the key licensing challenges for psychologists in Kansas?

Kansas requires adherence to a multifaceted licensure process, including strict documentation of supervised professional experience and compliance with evolving regulatory standards. Professionals must integrate ongoing continuing education and timely renewal of credentials to remain competitive and compliant. For detailed and updated information on the current licensure framework, refer to our article detailing the Kansas psychology license requirements.

How can advanced education boost your career prospects in Kansas?

Advanced education transforms practical skill sets by integrating cutting-edge theories with real-world application, enabling psychology professionals to address current challenges while preparing for future innovations. Specialized programs offer targeted training in leadership, evidence-based practices, and interprofessional collaboration, all of which are crucial for navigating Kansas' evolving mental health and educational landscape. Professionals who pursue further specialization can expand their competencies and network with industry experts, positioning themselves for advanced roles. For targeted training that meets these objectives, consider exploring masters in educational psychology.

What are the pathways to become a mental health counselor in Kansas?

Mental health counseling in Kansas requires a clear educational trajectory and adherence to state licensure standards that differ from psychology-focused tracks. Candidates typically begin by earning a relevant bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s degree in mental health counseling or a closely related field. Post-graduate supervised clinical experience, along with successful completion of a national examination, is essential for licensure. State-specific requirements ensure that professionals are equipped for the diverse challenges in community and clinical settings. For a detailed overview of educational requirements, credentialing steps, and best practices, review our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in Kansas.

What are the career prospects for substance abuse counselors in Kansas?

Kansas faces mounting challenges in addressing substance abuse, which has spurred an increase in demand for specialized counseling professionals. Career opportunities in this field are expanding as healthcare providers and community agencies seek adept professionals who can implement innovative treatment models and navigate complex licensing requirements. Industry standards require candidates to obtain supervised experience and certification from accredited programs. Prospective professionals should review the detailed roadmap on how to become a substance abuse counselor in Kansas to understand the educational prerequisites, certification pathways, and practical training necessary for successful entry into this critical sector.

What are the intersections between forensic science and psychology in Kansas?

Kansas offers unique interdisciplinary opportunities where forensic science and psychology converge, particularly in roles supporting criminal investigations and legal proceedings. Professionals in this niche can integrate behavioral assessments with evidence analysis, aiding in expert witness testimony and risk evaluation. Specialized courses and certifications can prepare individuals for these roles; for more guidance on the degrees needed to work in forensic science in Kansas, prospective candidates should review established educational pathways. Enhanced collaboration between forensic and psychological fields is fostering innovative methods in criminal justice and public safety initiatives across the state.

What is the fastest way to become a counselor in Kansas?

Accelerated licensure programs are available in Kansas that combine intensive coursework, supervised clinical practice, and targeted exam preparation to reduce the time to professional entry. These programs are designed to streamline degree requirements and offer condensed scheduling options without compromising academic rigor or state-approved standards. Prospective counselors can leverage institutional partnerships that focus on rapid integration of theory and practice, thereby meeting licensure criteria efficiently. For detailed guidance on these accelerated pathways, refer to our guide on the fastest way to become a counselor in Kansas.

Key Insights

High Demand for Mental Health Professionals: Kansas faces a significant shortage of mental health professionals, with only 26% of the need being met. This creates ample job opportunities for aspiring psychologists in the state.
Positive Job Outlook: Employment of psychologists in Kansas is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting the increasing demand for mental health services.
Competitive Salaries: Psychologists in Kansas with a master’s degree earn a median salary of $92,191, while those with a Ph.D. earn an average of $107,910. This is attractive, especially considering the lower cost of living in Kansas.
Diverse Educational Pathways: Kansas offers a range of psychology programs, from bachelor’s to doctoral levels, with flexible options including online and hybrid formats, accommodating various student needs and schedules.
Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in Kansas is 13.5% lower than the national average, and the state offers affordable housing and short commute times, contributing to a better work-life balance for psychologists.

FAQ

What are the job prospects for psychologists in Kansas?

The job prospects for psychologists in Kansas are promising, with employment expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032. The state faces a significant shortage of mental health professionals, creating ample job opportunities.

What is the average salary for psychologists in Kansas?

Psychologists in Kansas with a master’s degree earn a median salary of $92,191, while those with a Ph.D. earn an average salary of $107,910. These salaries are competitive, especially given the lower cost of living in the state.

What educational requirements are needed to become a psychologist in Kansas?

To become a licensed psychologist in Kansas, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree, complete a master’s or doctoral program in psychology, and fulfill the required supervised professional experience. Additionally, passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is necessary.

How long does it take to complete a psychology program in Kansas?

A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete. A master’s degree program can take an additional two years, while a doctoral program usually takes five to seven years to finish.

What are the tuition costs for psychology programs in Kansas?

Tuition costs vary based on the program and residency status. In-state undergraduate psychology students typically pay around $9,901 annually, while out-of-state students pay about $30,126. Graduate program costs are approximately $11,381 for in-state students and $24,645 for out-of-state students annually.

Which schools in Kansas offer accredited psychology programs?

Some of the top schools offering accredited psychology programs in Kansas include the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Kansas State University, Fort Hays State University, and Ottawa University. These institutions provide a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

What should I look for in a psychology program in Kansas?

When choosing a psychology program, consider factors such as accreditation, entrance requirements, location, available resources (such as clinical training sites and research facilities), faculty credentials, and program offerings, including specializations.

Are there online psychology programs available in Kansas?

Yes, several schools in Kansas offer online and hybrid psychology programs. These options provide flexibility for students who may have other commitments or prefer remote learning.

What are the licensing requirements for psychologists in Kansas?

Licensing requirements include earning a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program, completing a specified amount of supervised professional experience, and passing the EPPP exam. The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board oversees the licensing process.

How does the cost of living in Kansas impact the overall financial outlook for psychologists?

The cost of living in Kansas is 13.5% lower than the national average, with affordable housing and short commute times. This makes it financially advantageous for psychologists practicing in the state, as their competitive salaries go further in covering living expenses.