Wichita State University

Wichita State University, or WSU, stands as a vibrant public research university nestled in Wichita, Kansas, offering an impressive array of over 60 undergraduate programs and more than 200 areas of study across its nine colleges. With its R2 classification for high research activity, WSU is a dynamic environment where students can engage in cutting-edge discovery. The graduate school further broadens horizons, providing over 50 master's degrees, a specialist degree in education, and 13 doctoral programs, cementing its commitment to advanced academic pursuits. As of Fall 2025, WSU celebrated its highest-ever main campus enrollment, demonstrating its growing appeal and welcoming academic community.

The university's rich history began long before its current name. What started as Fairmount College in 1895, evolving from a vision for a women's preparatory school in 1886, it quickly became a co-educational institution. Later, in 1926, it transitioned into the Municipal University of Wichita, becoming the first municipal university west of the Mississippi. This journey culminated in 1964 when it officially joined the Kansas state system as Wichita State University, marking a significant milestone in its growth and public service. This heritage of adaptability and expansion underscores WSU's enduring commitment to providing accessible, quality education.

Beyond its academic offerings, WSU offers a unique campus experience, including the original building of the first-ever Pizza Hut, now a landmark on its Innovation Campus. This blend of historical significance, forward-thinking research, and a commitment to student success makes Wichita State University an exceptional place to learn, innovate, and thrive. Students here don't just learn; they become part of a legacy of "Shockers" — a nickname born from the university's early football players who "shocked wheat" during harvest, embodying a spirit of hard work and resilience that continues today.