New Program Offers Transfer, Adult Learners a Pathway to Complete Bachelor’s Degree
Monday, April 27, 2026 | Written by Mary Hirtreiter
OLATHE — Kansas State University Olathe is now enrolling students for Fall 2026 in the B.S. in Applied and Interdisciplinary Studies, a bachelor’s degree program designed for transfer students, community college graduates and working adults who want to finish their degree without starting over.
The program accepts up to 75 transfer credit hours, from community college coursework, technical training or an incomplete bachelor’s degree, toward the 120 credit hours needed to graduate. Students complete the remaining requirements through a combination of professional skills courses, a leadership certificate and a career-focused minor or certificate.
“This program is built for students who have already put in the work,” said Kim Voight, assistant dean of student services. “We’ve designed it so their prior learning counts and they can move forward toward a K-State degree in a way that fits their life and career goals.”
“Adult learners bring real experience and real commitment to their education,” said Jo Maseberg-Tomlinson, executive director of strategic program development and management at the Center for Academic Innovation. “This degree is designed to recognize what they’ve already accomplished and build on it in a way that’s relevant to their careers. It’s exactly the kind of flexible, market-responsive program that today’s learners need.”
How it works
All students in the program earn a 15-credit-hour Leadership Studies Undergraduate Certificate through K-State’s Staley School of Leadership. The certificate is built into the degree, giving graduates recognized professional skills alongside their B.S.
Students also choose a focus area consisting of a minor or certificate in business, engineering or human sciences to tailor the degree toward their career. For example, students interested in hands-on technical work can select the Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Electronics, which builds skills in embedded microprocessor systems, digital and analog electronics and microcontroller programming. Those who select a certificate focus area graduate with that certificate for a total of two certificates and a bachelor’s degree.
Courses are available in person, online and in hybrid formats depending on a student’s location and ability to travel to the K-State Manhattan campus.
Getting started
Students need a minimum of 24 transfer credit hours to enroll. A dedicated student success coach is available to help prospective students evaluate transfer credits, select a focus area, explore scholarship options and navigate the application process.
“Transfer students are among the most motivated people in higher education: they’ve often balanced work, family and school to get where they are,” said Andrew Wimp, associate director for transfer, online and adult populations in K-State’s Office of Recruitment and Admissions. “A program that acknowledges that effort and gives them a clear, attainable path to a K-State degree is exactly what this region needs.”
For more information or to connect with a student success coach, contact K-State Olathe Student Services at 913-307-7373 or olathetransfer@k-state.edu. Program details and focus area options are available on our website.