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A small, public liberal arts college in Wayne, NE, Wayne State College was founded in 1910 as a public normal school, but its history actually stretches back to a private teacher’s college from 1891. Over the course of the 20th century Wayne State grew into a full four-year college, providing affordable, accessible educational opportunities to the people of rural northeastern Nebraska. Today, more than 3600 students take full advantage of a top-notch faculty and strong student support, and Wayne State has earned accolades from U.S. News & World Report (a top 25 public regional college in the Midwest) and Washington Monthly (the top-ranked public college in Nebraska).
Academic Programs
With more than 90 degree programs to choose from, and a growing slate of graduate degrees (including education, organizational management, and a well-received MBA), Wayne State makes a mark on Nebraska’s workforce and leadership. While Wayne State remains committed to traditional liberal arts education, with the humanities and sciences at the heart of the curriculum, the college’s pre-professional programs have become especially important to building Nebraska’s future. Students are especially drawn to Wayne State’s health programs including cutting-edge Rural Health Opportunities and Public Health Early Admissions Track.With the size and support of a small liberal arts college, Wayne State cultivates an atmosphere of academic excellence and mentorship. With a 20:1 student/faculty ratio, students can trust faculty to be available to them. More than 80% of Wayne State’s faculty have the highest degree in their field, and many add real-world professional experience to their wealth of knowledge. An exceptionally low tuition rate – as little as $140 per credit for Nebraska residents – has also made Wayne State a perennial best value on many rankings.
Student Life
Wayne State is proud of their small size and familial environment. The student body has grown over the years to just over 3600, and like most schools in Wayne State’s class, women outnumber men. Like Nebraska itself, the student body is majority caucasian, but a growing percentage of Hispanic/Latino students reflects Wayne State’s commitment to providing education for Nebraska’s people throughout changing times and demographics. Wayne State calls itself “Something Big That’s Small,” a tongue-in-cheek reminder that campus life, even on a small campus, can be busy and rewarding.Students at Wayne State can take part in dozens of honor societies, professional networking organizations, and student clubs and groups, including several fraternities and sororities. The Wayne State Wildcats compete in 11 NCAA Division II sports, and while small, support is strong. There are also 40 intramural sports for competitive students, from Strongman (for both men and women) to Sports Trivia (probably not that physically demanding). Community outreach and service is also central to student life at Wayne State, which has regional engagement in its blood. From business development to entertainment, Wayne State and its students make their little corner of Nebraska a better place.