Wayne State College
Out-of-state tuition
$8,171
$18,313 with room and board
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
3,902
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
34.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 51.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wayne State College, located in Wayne, Nebraska, is a prominent institution known for its strong commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. Established in 1910, the college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including education, business, and the arts. The college's mission is to prepare students for successful careers and responsible citizenship through rigorous academic experiences and personal development. Wayne State College prides itself on its small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention from faculty, allowing students to build strong relationships with their professors and peers.
The campus boasts a vibrant culture and community, promoting student engagement through numerous extracurricular activities, organizations, and events. With a strong emphasis on athletics, Wayne State College competes in the NCAA Division II, providing students with opportunities to participate in various sports. The college also values diversity and inclusion, creating an enriching environment where students from different backgrounds can thrive. Graduates of Wayne State College enjoy high employment rates, thanks in part to the college's strong ties with local businesses and industry leaders, providing students with practical experiences and networking opportunities that enhance their career prospects. Overall, Wayne State College is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and preparing students for success in their future endeavors.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Wayne State College
The data from Wayne State College reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. One of the most striking observations is the increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, the in-state tuition rose from $5,574 in 2014 to $7,923 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 42%. The out-of-state tuition showed a similar trend, increasing from $9,774 to $7,923. This upward trend in tuition could potentially impact the accessibility of higher education, especially for students from low-income backgrounds.
In terms of graduation rates, the data indicates a fluctuating trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from 23.19% in 2013 to 32.21% in 2023. This increase is encouraging as it reflects the college's efforts to support students in completing their degrees in a timely manner. Conversely, the 150% graduation rate showed a slight decrease from 47.46% in 2013 to 52.94% in 2023. This inconsistency highlights the need for ongoing support mechanisms for students who may face challenges in their educational journey.
Additionally, student retention rates have shown a generally positive trend, with a retention rate of 71.88% in 2023, compared to 69.53% in 2013. This suggests that more students are choosing to continue their education at the college, which can be attributed to improved academic support services and a nurturing campus environment.
Overall, while tuition costs continue to rise, the college's efforts in improving graduation and retention rates signal positive progress in fostering student success. However, it will be crucial for Wayne State College to balance tuition increases with the provision of adequate support to ensure that all students can achieve their academic goals without excessive financial burden.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Omaha, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 180 mi
- Also known as
- WSC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Marysz Rames (President)
- Phone
- 4023757000
- Address
- 1111 Main St, Wayne, NE 68787
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's61 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's30 (0% international)
- Organizational Behavior Studies · Master's26 (0% international)
- College Student Counseling and Personnel Services · Master's21 (5% international)
- Elementary and Middle School Administration/Principalship · Master's18 (0% international)
- Secondary School Administration/Principalship · Master's17 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Wayne State College
The graduation data from Wayne State College presents interesting insights into the trends of various academic programs in 2023. Notably, the Criminal Justice/Safety Studies program leads with 72 bachelor's degree graduates, which reflects the increasing societal focus on law enforcement and public safety. This trend aligns with the growing demand for professionals in the criminal justice field due to rising crime rates and public safety concerns across the nation.
In the realm of education, the Curriculum and Instruction program boasts a significant 70 master's degree graduates, indicating a strong interest in advanced pedagogical strategies. This could be a response to the ongoing educational reforms and the necessity for educators to adapt to changing educational environments, especially following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, the Elementary Education and Teaching program also shows a robust output with 68 bachelor's degree graduates, which highlights the consistent demand for elementary educators. The absence of international students in these programs may suggest potential areas for growth, as increasing international enrollment can enhance cultural diversity and educational perspectives.
On the other hand, several programs, particularly in sciences and teacher education, show no graduates in higher degrees, which raises questions about the attraction and resources available for these fields. For instance, the lack of graduates in Chemistry Teacher Education could point to a shortage of qualified educators in STEM fields, which is critical for fostering future generations in science and technology.
Overall, the data illustrates a diversified interest among students at Wayne State College but also emphasizes the need for strategic initiatives to bolster enrollment in underrepresented programs, particularly in the fields of science and teacher training.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,957-$83,154 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | $60,021 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $46,708 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | - | ||
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $59,553 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | $55,925 | ||
| Computer Support Specialist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $38,303 | ||
| Physical Fitness Technician. | $38,303 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Counseling Psychology. | $39,733 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | - | ||
| Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $30,899 | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $30,899 | ||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $30,899 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $39,426 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geography. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biotechnology Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
4,666 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 72.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,038
- First-year undergraduates 771
- Graduate students 764
- Transfers and others 1,093
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,902)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Wayne State College in 2023
In 2023, Wayne State College showcases a diverse student body, with a total of 3,970 students across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen make up a significant portion, with 778 students enrolled, consisting of approximately 45.9% males and 54.1% females. This gender distribution reflects a continuing trend in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment in undergraduate programs.
The undergraduate juniors hold the largest population, totaling 2,082 students. Here, the male representation drops to 41.3%, while females constitute 58.7%. This trend of higher female enrollment persists in the undergraduate transfer students, who number 197, maintaining a balanced gender ratio with 48.2% males and 51.8% females.
Graduate students, however, present a different scenario with 913 enrolled. The male percentage decreases significantly to 30.9%, contrasting sharply with the 69.1% female representation. This could indicate that more women are pursuing advanced degrees, a trend observed in many institutions over the past few decades.
The data also suggests a diverse ethnic background among the students, with a strong representation of white students across all categories. Notably, the high percentages of female students in both undergraduate and graduate levels indicate a growing empowerment and participation of women in higher education. This aligns with national trends showing an increase in female enrollment in colleges and universities.
Overall, Wayne State College's demographics reflect broader societal trends in education, gender ratios, and cultural diversity, highlighting the institution's role in fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Wayne State College
The age distribution of students at Wayne State College reveals interesting trends and patterns. The data indicates that the majority of the student body is concentrated in the younger age brackets, with a significant number of students under the age of 24. Specifically, students under 18 years old account for approximately 39% of the total male students and around 38% of female students. This trend continues in the 18-19 age group, where the enrollment remains robust.
As we move into the older age groups, the numbers start to dwindle significantly. The 22-24 age group shows that about 16% of the total male and female students fall within this category, reflecting a slight decline in enrollment as students transition into adulthood and possibly into the workforce. The 25-29 age group shows a notable shift, with a higher proportion of graduate students, suggesting that older students are more likely to pursue advanced degrees.
Interestingly, the data highlights a drop-off in the number of students aged 30 and above, which may be indicative of various factors such as family commitments or career responsibilities that prevent them from pursuing further education. The graduate female students in the 30-34 age category represent roughly 80% of the total enrollment for that age range, showcasing the increasing trend of women pursuing higher education later in life.
Overall, this age distribution data reflects broader societal trends of higher education participation, especially among younger individuals, while also revealing the challenges faced by non-traditional students. With the ongoing evolution of educational needs, Wayne State College's demographic composition provides valuable insights for future academic planning and support services tailored to various age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
186 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
6 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Trends at Wayne State College
The data concerning international students at Wayne State College reveals notable trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of undergraduate international students has seen fluctuations, with the highest percentage recorded in 2023 at 2.85%. This increase signals a growing recognition of the importance of a diverse student body, which not only enriches the educational experience but also enhances the college's global perspective.
In the graduate sector, the numbers show a less encouraging trend. The proportion of international students has remained relatively low, peaking at just 1.54% in 2016. By 2023, the percentage had decreased to 0.77%, which raises questions about the factors influencing international enrollment in graduate programs. This discrepancy between undergraduate and graduate international student numbers could indicate various barriers that potential graduate students face, including application complexities, funding issues, or insufficient program offerings that cater to international scholars.
External factors such as immigration policies and global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, could have further impacted these enrollment trends. As institutions globally adapt to these challenges, Wayne State College might benefit from implementing targeted recruitment strategies to attract more international graduate students. Additionally, fostering a supportive environment for international scholars through mentorship programs and cultural integration initiatives could enhance the overall educational experience and boost enrollment.
In summary, while Wayne State College has successfully increased international undergraduate enrollment, it faces challenges in attracting graduate students. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the college to enhance its global standing and provide a well-rounded academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$18,313
- Undergraduate tuition
- $8,171
- Room and board
- $10,142
- Graduate tuition
- $10,194
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 50%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$80.4M
Expenses$71.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 87 | 82 |
| Football | 95 | - |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Soccer | - | 30 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 76 | 87 |
| Football | 102 | - |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 23 |
| Soccer | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Golf | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 79 | 70 |
| Football | 91 | - |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Golf | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South DakotaVermillion · 37.9 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 85.5 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 87.0 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 99.7 mi
U.S. News #169
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 143.9 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 173.1 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 178.4 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 210.0 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 212.2 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Wayne State College:
-
University of South Dakota (南达科他大学) - Ranked 269 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Creighton University (克赖顿大学) - A well-regarded comprehensive university, Creighton ranks 124 in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its strong programs in health sciences and business.
-
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (内布拉斯加大学林肯分校) - Ranked 159, this comprehensive university is recognized for its research opportunities and wide range of academic disciplines.
-
Iowa State University (爱荷华州立大学) - With a rank of 115, Iowa State is a comprehensive university known for its engineering and agricultural programs.
-
Grinnell College (格林内尔学院) - A highly-ranked liberal arts college, Grinnell is ranked 11 in the 2024 US News rankings and is known for its rigorous academics and diverse student body.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (明尼苏达大学双城分校) - This comprehensive university ranks 53 and is recognized for its outstanding research programs and diverse course offerings.
These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, providing a range of educational opportunities in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Wayne State College: A Closer Look
The crime statistics at Wayne State College over the past decade reflect notable fluctuations in the campus safety landscape. In 2013, the rate of infractions per 1,000 students was relatively high at 9.28, peaking at 10.33 in 2014. However, a significant decline was observed in subsequent years, with the lowest rate at 3.10 in 2023. This downward trend could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures and a growing awareness of crime prevention among students.
Examining the nature of reported crimes, arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses have been areas of concern. Interestingly, while gun arrests initially appeared to be a pressing issue, recent years have shown a marked decrease, suggesting that either fewer incidents are occurring, or that law enforcement is focusing on different areas of campus safety. Conversely, incidents of domestic violence and stalking remain critical issues that warrant ongoing attention.
The overall decline in crime rates is encouraging, but it's essential for the college administration to maintain vigilance and continue fostering a safe environment for students. Community engagement and educational programs on safety can further enhance awareness and prevention strategies. As we analyze these trends, it is vital to remember that the numbers reflect real lives and experiences, underscoring the importance of proactive measures in maintaining campus safety.
For those interested in understanding how these rates are calculated, more information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wayne State College include Gale W. McGee (U.S. senator from Wyoming and OAS ambassador), Rosie Ruiz (Stripped 1980 Boston Marathon women's winner) and Duke Erikson (Co-founder and guitarist of the band Garbage).
-
Gale W. McGee 1915–1992
U.S. senator from Wyoming and OAS ambassador
-
Rosie Ruiz 1953–2019
Stripped 1980 Boston Marathon women's winner
-
Duke Erikson 1951–
Co-founder and guitarist of the band Garbage
-
John Neihardt 1881–1973
American writer, poet and ethnographer
-
John Henry Kyl 1919–2002
U.S. Representative from Iowa
-
Harry Schmidt 1886–1968
Marine Corps general in World War II
-
George E. Danielson 1915–1998
California Democratic congressman and judge
-
DaVarryl Williamson 1968–
Former professional boxer
-
Val Peterson 1903–1983
26th Governor of Nebraska and diplomat
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
James B. Davis 1935–
Retired US Air Force general, SHAPE chief of staff
-
Roger Wendt 1933–2011
Democratic member of the Iowa House of Representatives
-
Charlie Janssen 1971–
Nebraska Auditor of Public Accounts
-
Greg L. Adams 1952–
Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature from 2013 to 2015
Science and academia
-
Brian Wansink 1960–
Former Cornell consumer behavior researcher
Arts and media
-
Rosemary Keefe 1940–2012
Nun, professor and co-editor of Lesbian Nuns Breaking Silence
Sports
-
Brett Salisbury 1968–
Former college football quarterback, model and author
-
Byron Chamberlain 1971–
Former NFL tight end
-
Tom Sherlock 1981–
Retired British professional basketball player
-
Nick Schumacher 1985–
Baseball pitcher who represented Spain internationally
-
Dale Jones 1918–1980
Former MLB pitcher for the Phillies
Other fields
-
Hilda Neihardt 1916–2004
Lawyer who accompanied her father to meet Black Elk
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.