Emporia State University
Emporia, KS
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Emporia State University
Emporia State: Kansas's historic university, pioneering education since 1863 with a focus on student success.
Emporia State University (ESU) stands as a beacon of public education in Kansas, boasting a rich history as the third-oldest public university in the state. Established on March 7, 1863, as the Kansas State Normal School, its origins are deeply rooted in the commitment to fostering knowledge and serving the common good. Governed by the Kansas Board of Regents, ESU has evolved from its initial focus on teacher education into a comprehensive institution dedicated to preparing students for a dynamic future.
Following a significant university-wide restructure in 2023, Emporia State now offers a diverse array of academic programs through seven distinct schools, one specialized college, and an innovative institute. This modern academic framework includes the School of Business and Technology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Library and Information Management, School of Science and Mathematics, School of Visual and Performing Arts, School of Applied Health Sciences, The Teachers College, and the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, ensuring a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.
At the heart of ESU's academic excellence is the renowned School of Library and Information Management (SLIM), established in 1902. Recognized as the oldest school of its kind in the western United States, SLIM holds the distinction of being the only American Library Association (ALA) accredited program in Kansas and offers the university's sole PhD. With a vibrant campus spanning 234 acres, a fall 2024 enrollment of 4,557 students, and a spirited community rallying behind the black and gold colors and Corky the Hornet mascot, Emporia State University continues its legacy of changing lives for the common good.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established on March 7, 1863, making it the third-oldest public university in Kansas.
- ✦Home to the School of Library and Information Management (SLIM), the oldest school of its kind in the western U.S.
- ✦SLIM is the only American Library Association (ALA) accredited program in Kansas and offers the university's sole PhD program.
- ✦Enrollment of 4,557 students as of Fall 2024.
- ✦Operates with an endowment of $100.7 million (2021) to support its academic mission.
- ✦The university campus spans 234 acres in Emporia, Kansas.
- ✦Instrumental in the founding of two other Kansas universities: Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
8 notable schools within Emporia State University
School of Library and Information Management
Established in 1902, SLIM is the oldest school of its kind in the western U.S., Kansas's only ALA-accredited program, and offers the university's only PhD in Library and Information Management.
School of Business and Technology
One of the seven schools established in the 2023 university restructure, focusing on professional and technological education.
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Created in the 2023 restructure, encompassing diverse fields including English, communication, social sciences, sociology, criminology, and the Intensive English Program.
School of Science and Mathematics
Formed during the 2023 restructure, offering comprehensive programs in biological sciences, mathematics, physics, Earth science, chemistry, and forensic science.
School of Visual and Performing Arts
Established in the 2023 restructure, bringing together vibrant departments of music, theatre, and art.
School of Applied Health Sciences
A result of the 2023 restructure, covering crucial fields such as psychology, counseling, nursing, and health, physical education, and recreation.
The Teachers College
An integral institution reflecting Emporia State's foundational mission in education and teacher training, continuing its legacy from the university's earliest days.
Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies
One of the academic units offering innovative degree pathways following the university's 2023 restructure, promoting cross-disciplinary learning.
Find Scholarships at Emporia State University
Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.
Start Your Free Search