Wayne State College

Wayne, NE

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

3,041

Total Students

$8K

Tuition (In-State)

$8K

Tuition (Out-State)

$15K

Avg Net Price

56%

Graduation Rate

6-year

73%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Wayne State College

From pioneering teacher training to accessible adult education, Wayne State empowers Nebraska's future.

Wayne State College boasts a rich history rooted in providing quality education, initially as the private Nebraska Normal College which first opened its doors on November 21, 1891. Founded by J.M. Pile, the institution quickly became a vital part of Nebraska's educational landscape. Its transformation into a state institution in 1910, rebranding as Wayne State Normal College, marked a significant commitment to public service and broadened its reach, particularly in the critical field of teacher training.

The college's journey reflects remarkable resilience and adaptation. Throughout the Great Depression in 1933, Wayne State faced immense challenges, even laying off half its staff, yet it persevered. Over the decades, its name evolved from Wayne State Normal College and Teachers College to Wayne State Teacher's College, ultimately becoming Wayne State College in 1963, always maintaining its core mission of educational excellence and community service.

Today, Wayne State College continues its legacy of accessibility and innovation. In 2011, in partnership with Northeast Community College, it opened the College Center in South Sioux City. This initiative underscores Wayne State's dedication to providing affordable, college-level education, specifically tailored to meet the needs of older adults, ensuring lifelong learning opportunities for its community. Prospective students and families will find a college with a deep history of public commitment and a forward-looking approach to education.

Key Highlights

✦Established as the private Nebraska Normal College on November 21, 1891, a foundational institution in Nebraska.
✦Transitioned to a state institution in 1910, enhancing its public mission and accessibility.
✦Historically served as a crucial center for teacher education, notably adding the Wayne Teachers College in 1921.
✦Demonstrated institutional resilience by surviving the Great Depression, despite significant funding challenges in 1933.
✦Renamed Wayne State College in 1963, reflecting its comprehensive educational offerings.
✦Partnered with Northeast Community College in 2011 to open the College Center in South Sioux City.
✦The College Center offers affordable, college-level education, specifically targeting older adults.

Timeline

1891

Nebraska Normal College, predecessor to Wayne State, opened by J.M. Pile.

1909

Control of the college transferred to Fred M. Pile after J.M. Pile's death.

1910

Transferred to Nebraska State College System, becoming Wayne State Normal College.

1921

Added Wayne Teachers College; rebranded as Wayne State Normal College and Teachers College.

1933

Laid off half of its staff due to a funding crisis during the Great Depression.

1949

Nebraska State Legislature changed the name to Wayne State Teacher's College.

1963

Name changed to its current form, Wayne State College, by state legislature.

2011

Opened the College Center in South Sioux City in partnership with Northeast Community College.

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