Wichita State University

Nestled in the heart of Wichita, Kansas, Wichita State University (WSU) stands as a vibrant public research institution, classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity." It serves as a hub of academic excellence, offering an impressive array of over 60 undergraduate degree programs across more than 200 areas of study, complemented by over 50 master's degrees in 100+ areas, a specialist in education degree, and 13 doctoral programs. WSU is dedicated to fostering discovery and preparing students to become leaders in a rapidly evolving world.

WSU's journey is one of remarkable transformation, beginning as Fairmount College in 1895. Amid financial challenges, it made history in 1926 by becoming the Municipal University of Wichita—the first municipal university west of the Mississippi River. This innovative move cemented its commitment to public service and accessibility. The institution continued to evolve, eventually joining the Kansas Board of Regents system in 1964 and adopting its current name, Wichita State University, a testament to its enduring growth and increasing impact on higher education in the region and beyond.

Beyond its rich history and diverse academic offerings, Wichita State cultivates a unique student experience. The university's distinctive nickname, the "Shockers," originates from a 1906 football game, honoring players who also worked shocking wheat during harvest season. Adding to its unique campus fabric, the original building of the iconic Pizza Hut found its permanent home at WSU, initially in the 1980s and then prominently on the Innovation Campus in 2017. With a significant endowment and budget, WSU continues to invest in its students and research endeavors, providing a dynamic environment where curiosity is celebrated and potential is unleashed.