Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Wichita, KS & Salina, KS
When students choose between Friends University and Kansas Wesleyan University, they're comparing two small private Kansas colleges with similar missions but dramatically different completion outcomes. Both institutions cost roughly the same and produce comparable earnings for graduates who finish.
The critical question isn't about career outcomes — it's about your likelihood of graduating at all. Friends students have significantly better odds of reaching commencement.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,000
federal loans
$23,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$15,000
borrowed by parents
$27,546
borrowed by parents
Friends University is predominantly business-focused, with 37% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 14% in education. Kansas Wesleyan has a more balanced mix: 22% Business, 12% Education, 9% Arts.
Friends' largest programs include Business Administration (65 graduates annually) and Accounting (24). Kansas Wesleyan's top programs include Business Administration (17) and Teacher Education (13).
Both schools emphasize practical, career-oriented programs that serve regional workforce needs.
For students prioritizing graduation likelihood, Friends University delivers significantly better completion outcomes with comparable career results. Friends graduates 61% of students while Kansas Wesleyan graduates just 38% — that 23-percentage-point gap represents the most important difference between these schools.
Kansas Wesleyan offers a slightly lower sticker price, but the completion risk and higher debt burden make it the riskier financial choice. The data points to Friends as the stronger value, particularly for students concerned about finishing their degree.
Both schools serve similar populations and career goals, but Friends gives you much better odds of actually reaching graduation.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
