Kansas is combining its agricultural and industrial strengths with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to create new educational and career opportunities. With strong public universities, growing interest in data science, and real-world applications in automation and logistics, Kansas is an increasingly attractive state for students pursuing AI degree programs.
Why Study Artificial Intelligence in Kansas
Kansas may not be the first state that comes to mind for AI, but it’s making steady progress in AI adoption and education—especially in industries tied to agriculture, logistics, and cybersecurity.
- AI in Agriculture and Supply Chain: Kansas plays a leading role in precision agriculture and automated logistics, offering practical applications of AI in high-demand industries.
- Strong Public Universities: Schools like the University of Kansas and Kansas State University offer reputable computer science and engineering programs with growing AI research components.
- Affordable Living and Tuition: Kansas provides relatively low tuition rates and a cost of living that makes college more affordable, especially compared to coastal tech hubs.
- Workforce Development Support: State-backed initiatives support STEM growth through scholarships, research funding, and public-private partnerships.
- Growing Tech Presence: Wichita, Manhattan, and Lawrence are fostering innovation through startup incubators, university research parks, and digital technology initiatives.
Some of the Top Artificial Intelligence Schools in Kansas
Kansas offers several strong academic institutions that are building AI capacity through research, interdisciplinary programs, and workforce-aligned curricula. The following schools represent some of the top options in the state:
Kansas State University – K-State Online
Bachelor’s in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems
Kansas State University offers a fully online bachelor’s degree in Machine Learning and Autonomous Systems that emphasizes both theoretical and applied aspects of artificial intelligence and automation.
- The program includes two customizable tracks: Web Development and a Computational Core.
- Students complete 120 credit hours covering machine learning, supervised and unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, automata theory, and AI system development.
- Courses also cover key competencies in programming, data structures, statistics, ethics, and professional communication.
- The program culminates in a senior capstone focused on autonomous systems.
- The degree is designed for careers in automated systems and intelligent frameworks across industries.
About the University
Kansas State University is a public research institution headquartered in Manhattan, Kansas. Its online division offers flexible, fully remote programs with a focus on applied learning and technological innovation.
Kansas State University – Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus
Advanced Intelligent Systems Programming Undergraduate Certificate
Kansas State University’s Salina campus offers an Advanced Intelligent Systems Programming Undergraduate Certificate aimed at developing advanced programming skills in artificial intelligence and intelligent systems.
- The program covers key topics such as machine learning, natural language processing, human-computer interaction, and data analysis.
- It is designed to prepare students for roles in AI development, data science, and other advanced programming applications in the tech industry.
About the University
Kansas State University is a public institution with a strong focus on applied learning and innovation. The Salina campus emphasizes hands-on, technology-driven education in fields like aviation, engineering, and computer science.
University of Kansas – Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
Graduate Certificate in Applied Machine Learning for Chemists and Engineers
The University of Kansas offers a Graduate Certificate in Applied Machine Learning for Chemists and Engineers through its Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering. This interdisciplinary program is designed for graduate students seeking to enhance their machine learning competencies with applications tailored to engineering and chemistry contexts.
- Students complete four courses totaling 10 credit hours: two core machine learning courses, one research course, and one data science course.
- The curriculum emphasizes collaborative, cross-disciplinary training involving faculty and coursework from C&PE, Chemistry, and EECS departments.
- Designed to align with M.S. or Ph.D. electives to reduce additional credit load.
- The program provides practical experience with machine learning projects relevant to research and industry.
About the University
The University of Kansas is a public research institution located in Lawrence, Kansas. It is known for its strong engineering and science programs and its commitment to interdisciplinary education and research.
AI Scholarships and Financial Aid in Kansas
Students pursuing AI and related tech degrees in Kansas have access to a variety of scholarship and financial aid opportunities:
- Kansas Comprehensive Grant – A need-based grant for Kansas residents enrolled full-time at eligible Kansas colleges and universities. Award amounts range from $100 to $4,000 at public institutions and up to $10,000 at private institutions.
- Kansas State Scholarship – Designed for high-achieving Kansas high school graduates who have completed the Kansas Scholars Curriculum and demonstrate financial need. Awards up to $1,000 per year.
- Kansas Education Opportunity Scholarship – Assists first-generation college students and/or dependents of teachers and paraprofessionals in Kansas with their first undergraduate degree. Awards are based on academic proficiency and financial need.
- Kansas Hero’s Scholarship – Provides tuition and fee waivers for eligible dependents and spouses of certain deceased or disabled public safety officers and military personnel attending public Kansas postsecondary institutions.
- Kansas Military Service Scholarship – Covers tuition and fees for Kansas residents who have served in military operations and meet specific service criteria.
- Kansas State University Scholarships – Offers a wide range of scholarships for students, including those in engineering and computer science programs.
- University of Kansas Financial Aid & Scholarships – Provides various scholarship opportunities for incoming and current students, including merit-based and need-based awards.
To maximize financial aid eligibility, don’t forget to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
AI Career Pathways, Certifications, and Resources in Kansas
Kansas offers practical, industry-aligned career opportunities for AI graduates—especially in sectors like agriculture, aerospace, insurance, and logistics. Students benefit from a growing number of regional tech jobs and research projects connected to AI.
- AI Career Outcomes in Kansas – Typical roles include machine learning engineer, data analyst, AI software developer, and robotics technician. Many jobs are tied to manufacturing automation, agricultural technology, and health data analytics.
- Major Employers and Innovation Centers – Organizations such as Koch Industries, Garmin, Spirit AeroSystems, and the Kansas Department of Transportation are investing in AI-powered solutions.
- AI Certifications and Microcredentials – Students and professionals can enhance their skills with credentials like the AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty.
- Tech and Research Hubs – Facilities like the Kansas State Innovation Partners, Wichita State’s Innovation Campus, and the KU Center for Research promote AI-related research and entrepreneurship.
What to Look for In an AI Program in Kansas
AI education in Kansas is often embedded in broader computer science, data science, or engineering programs. Students should look closely at curriculum, faculty research, and career connections when selecting the right path.
Here are some key points to guide your decision:
- Program Titles and Specializations – Degrees may be labeled as computer science or data analytics, but relevant courses in machine learning, robotics, computer vision, or AI ethics indicate strong AI alignment.
- Types of AI Degrees and Certificates:
- Certificates and microcredentials are useful for gaining practical skills in a short time—ideal for upskilling or transitioning into tech roles.
- Bachelor’s level AI programs offer comprehensive foundations in coding, algorithms, and data structures.
- Master’s programs often focus on applied research and industry collaboration, with options to specialize in AI subfields.
- A PhD in artificial intelligence is best suited for those pursuing research leadership, teaching, or innovation roles in advanced AI technologies.
- Certificates and microcredentials are useful for gaining practical skills in a short time—ideal for upskilling or transitioning into tech roles.
- Delivery Format and Flexibility – Many programs offer full-time, part-time, or hybrid learning options to accommodate different schedules and learning needs.
- Faculty and Research Opportunities – Explore whether faculty members are active in AI research areas and if the school offers lab-based or project-based learning.
- Industry Ties and Internship Options – Consider whether the program is partnered with local employers, hosts job fairs, or includes co-op or capstone experiences.
FAQs About Studying AI in Kansas
Is Kansas a good state to study and launch a career in AI?
Yes. Kansas offers accessible education, strong industry demand in sectors like agriculture and logistics, and growing support for tech innovation—all of which make it a solid option for AI students.
Do I need prior coding experience to enroll in an AI program?
Not always. Undergraduate programs typically begin with foundational programming courses. Graduate-level programs may expect some prior coursework in computer science or math, but bridge options may be available.
Are there online AI degree options in Kansas?
Yes. Some Kansas institutions offer online or hybrid programs in computer science, data science, and IT—fields that include AI-relevant content and provide flexible learning options.
Can I do AI-related research as an undergraduate in Kansas?
Absolutely. Schools like Kansas State and the University of Kansas offer opportunities to work with faculty on research in robotics, data modeling, and agricultural AI systems.
What makes AI education in Kansas unique?
Kansas integrates AI into real-world applications like precision farming, aerospace manufacturing, and traffic analytics. The state’s emphasis on applied learning and industry partnerships gives students a practical edge.