Wichita State University (WSU) is located in Wichita, Kansas, and is recognized for its robust academic programs and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1895, WSU has grown into a comprehensive public research university with a strong emphasis on innovation and practical experience. The university's mission is to provide high-quality education, foster research initiatives, and promote community engagement. WSU is particularly known for its focus on applied learning, where students engage in real-world projects, internships, and cooperative education experiences that prepare them effectively for the job market.

The university's commitment to student success is reflected in its diverse range of programs, including notable offerings in engineering, business, health professions, and fine arts. WSU boasts state-of-the-art facilities, such as the John Bardo Center, which supports interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The campus also features various recreational sports and arts facilities, enhancing student life and promoting a well-rounded college experience. WSU takes pride in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging students from various backgrounds to thrive academically and socially. With its focus on practical education and community involvement, Wichita State University positions its graduates for success in their chosen fields, making it an attractive destination for students.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Wichita State University

The trends observed in tuition fees, graduation rates, student retention, and male to female ratios at Wichita State University reveal both challenges and opportunities present within the institution. Over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, with in-state tuition rising from $6,926 in 2014 to $9,322 in 2024, marking an increase of 34%. This substantial rise adds financial pressure on students and their families, making it essential for the university to explore financial aid options and scholarship opportunities to assist students in managing these costs.

In terms of graduation rates, the percentage of students graduating on time (within 100% of the expected duration) has fluctuated, with a recent peak at 25.19% in 2023, an encouraging sign compared to the rates in previous years. Additionally, the graduation rate for taking 150% of the time accounted for 48.2% in 2023, indicating an overall challenge the university faces in ensuring students complete their degrees efficiently. These combined graduation metrics signal the need for enhanced academic support services and structured pathways to degrees, which could help improve overall student success.

Student retention has shown a concerning downward trend, dropping to 66.02% in 2023 from 74.49% in 2014. Enhanced engagement strategies and support systems are crucial to increasing retention, which is vital for student success and institutional stability.

Lastly, the male-to-female ratios indicate a shifting demographic within the student body. In recent years, there has been a decrease in male undergraduate representation, reaching 43.29% in 2023, while the female representation increased to 56.37%. This shift may have implications for program development and recruitment strategies, requiring the university to pay attention to creating an inclusive environment that meets the needs of a diverse student population.

In summary, while Wichita State University has made progress in various areas, the rising tuition costs, fluctuations in graduation and retention rates, and changing gender demographics necessitate focused and effective strategic planning to ensure long-term growth and student wellbeing.

Analysis of Graduate Data from Wichita State University

The graduation statistics for Wichita State University in 2023 reveal notable trends, especially in the fields of healthcare and education. For instance, the Registered Nursing program has produced 125 graduates at the bachelor's level, including three international students, highlighting the school's strong emphasis on nursing education amidst a nationwide nursing shortage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a steady increase in nursing jobs, suggesting a robust career outlook for these graduates.

In the education sector, the Elementary Education and Teaching program boasts an impressive 226 graduates, indicating a sustained demand for trained educators. With many challenges faced by the education system, such as teacher shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this output is crucial for replenishing the workforce and ensuring quality education for students.

The absence of graduates in certain fields, like Computational and Applied Mathematics, raises questions about the interest levels in these disciplines. The tech industry landscape calls for skilled professionals, and universities should consider enhancing curricula and engagement initiatives to attract more students into STEM fields, which could help bridge the skills gap in the job market.

Furthermore, the absence of graduation data for associate degrees suggests that either these programs are not currently prioritized, or other institutions in the area dominate this segment. There is potential for WSU to explore opportunities in offering associate programs, particularly for fields with high demand.

Overall, the data underscores the university's strengths in health sciences and education while also signaling areas for growth and improvement in technology and applied mathematics. As employment landscapes evolve, universities must adapt their offerings to meet changing industry needs and student interests.

Analysis of Wichita State University's Admission Trends and Rankings

Wichita State University has exhibited notable fluctuations in both its admission statistics and ranking over the past decade. The latest ranking for 2025 shows a positive trend, improving to 296 after a continuous decline. This shift suggests an effort to enhance its academic reputation and attract more prospective students, especially in light of the competitive landscape of higher education. The admission rates also reflect changes over the years. The acceptance rate for male students has seen varying percentages, peaking at approximately 96.8% in 2019, while the female acceptance rate has been consistently high in comparison, with a remarkable rate of around 96.3% recorded in the same year. However, the years following have brought challenges, especially in 2021 where the male acceptance rate dropped to about 81.4%, indicating a more selective admissions process during that time. Interestingly, the university has maintained a high number of applicants, as seen in the enrollments, which peaked at 1,847 in 2023. This reflects a sustained interest in the institution despite the fluctuations in rankings and acceptance rates. Nevertheless, the number of students denied admission and those who deferred has also risen, highlighting an increasingly competitive applicant pool. Overall, as Wichita State University moves into the 2025 academic year with a better ranking and vibrant enrollment numbers, it sets a promising precedent for the future. By continuing to adapt its admission strategies and solidifying its academic reputation, the university may further enhance its standing in the higher education landscape.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Wichita State University

The admission tests data from Wichita State University over the years reveals notable fluctuations in SAT and ACT scores as well as the number of students submitting these scores. The range for SAT reading and math scores shows a general upward trajectory, with the 25th percentile score gradually increasing from the low 400s to the mid-500s and even reaching the low 600s. This reflects a growing competitiveness among applicants, indicating that higher academic achievement is becoming the norm.

In terms of submission rates, there has been variation in the number of students who submitted their SAT scores, which fluctuated between approximately 5% to 11% over the years. It is important to consider this as universities increasingly move towards holistic review processes, where a broader view of an applicant’s capabilities is adopted. The declining percentage may suggest a shift towards other indicators of student potential or even a growing population of applicants choosing not to submit standardized test scores, following national trends where institutions consider test-optional policies.

ACT scores also indicate a similar pattern, with rising scores reflecting increased academic preparedness among incoming students. The high 25th percentile scores indicate a solid foundation in both math and English, which is essential for academic success in higher education.

Overall, these data trends enhance our understanding of how testing landscape changes impact college admissions and student preparedness, making the admissions process a dynamic element in shaping future academic cohorts. As institutions and students adapt to an evolving educational landscape, understanding these metrics will be vital for continued growth and achievement in university settings.

Demographic Insights of Wichita State University Students in 2024

The data from Wichita State University in 2024 reveals a diverse student population across various classifications. The total enrollment reflects a robust commitment to higher education, with significant representation from both undergraduate and graduate students. Notably, freshman students account for 1,786 individuals, comprised of 45.2% male and 54.8% female, showcasing a slightly higher representation of female students.

Continuing undergraduates represent 7,412 students, maintaining a similar gender ratio, with males at 45.1% and females at 54.9%. This trend of higher female enrollment persists across other categories, including transfer students and graduates, where the proportion of female students notably exceeds that of male counterparts. For instance, transfer students, totaling 1,295, display a striking 63.2% female presence, while graduate students account for 3,885, with females comprising 55.1%.

The data points to a growing trend of women's increasing participation in higher education, reflecting broader societal changes in educational attainment. Moreover, understanding the demographics of different ethnic backgrounds, although not fully detailed here, is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.

As universities strive to create diverse and supportive spaces for all students, the gender ratios and overall demographic distribution at Wichita State University highlight ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and promote gender equity in higher education. This aligns with national trends where female enrollment continues to rise, indicative of a paradigm shift in educational access and aspirations among various demographic groups.

Age Demographics at Wichita State University: A Closer Look

The age composition of students at Wichita State University reveals a diverse demographic landscape, highlighting notable patterns across various age groups. The largest contingent of students is found in the 18-19 age group, with a remarkable representation of undergraduate females. This aligns with national trends, where younger students dominate university enrollments, particularly in the early college years.

Examining the subsequent age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in overall student enrollment as age increases. The 20-21 age group continues to maintain strong participation, with a staggering 1549 male undergraduates and 1889 female undergraduates. The data indicates a peak in the 22-24 age range, showcasing substantial representation for both graduate and undergraduate students. This trend suggests a possible transition phase where students are either pursuing advanced degrees or entering the workforce, reflective of broader educational aspirations.

Interestingly, the data also indicates a substantial proportion of students aged 25 to 29, with a balanced representation between males and females. This may indicate an increasing trend of non-traditional students returning to education to enhance their careers or pursue new pathways, reflecting a societal shift toward lifelong learning.

The presence of older age groups, such as those aged 30-34 and even above 65, underscores the university's inclusive environment, welcoming diverse educational pursuits. Furthermore, the gender breakdown presents a noteworthy perspective—particularly among graduate students, where female representation is strong, suggesting evolving gender dynamics in higher education, aligning with national movements towards increasing female enrollment in graduate programs.

Overall, Wichita State University’s demographics reflect a vibrant and diverse student body, marking its role as a contemporary institution catering to various age groups and backgrounds amid broader societal trends in education.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Wichita State University

The data on international student enrollment at Wichita State University provides valuable insights into the trends over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduates has shown a steady increase from approximately 4.99% in 2005 to 14.32% in 2024. This growth reflects a broader trend seen in many universities across the United States, where institutions are actively seeking to attract a diverse student body from around the world.

The number of international graduate students also showcases a remarkable rise, with their percentage climbing from 22.02% in 2005 up to 37.17% in 2024. This shift indicates that graduate programs at Wichita State are becoming increasingly appealing to international students, possibly due to the university's expanding resources, curriculum, and support systems designed for these students.

The spikes in international student enrollment in recent years can be attributed to various factors, such as the global emphasis on higher education, the implementation of remote learning during the pandemic, and the growing acceptance of international credentials. The challenges posed by fluctuating immigration policies and geopolitical tensions may, however, pose future hurdles.

As global mobility resumes, institutions like Wichita State University may need to bolster their international student recruitment strategies to maintain this upward trend while ensuring that they provide a supportive and inclusive environment that meets the needs of their diverse student population. This will not only enrich their academic community but also prepare all students for a globally interconnected world.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Wichita State University:

1. Kansas State University - Ranked 165 in 2025 USNews, this comprehensive university located in Manhattan, Kansas, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. University of Kansas - With a ranking of 152, this comprehensive university in Lawrence, Kansas, is known for its strong research programs and diverse student body.

3. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 132, this university in Norman, Oklahoma, is recognized for its programs in aviation, meteorology, and engineering.

4. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - With a ranking of 152, this Lincoln-based university offers a comprehensive education, particularly noted for its programs in business and journalism.

5. Southern Methodist University - Located in Dallas, Texas, this university, ranked 91, is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers a wide range of programs including business, law, and liberal arts.

6. University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranked 109, this comprehensive university boasts strong programs in journalism, engineering, and education.

These universities offer various educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Crime Rate Analysis at Wichita State University

The crime data from Wichita State University reveals a fluctuating trend in the average number of crimes per 1,000 students over the past decade. The years 2016 and 2019 experienced the highest crime rates, at 5.81 and 4.72 respectively, suggesting a concerning pattern that could impact student safety and campus life. Notably, the significant drop in crime rates in 2021, down to 1.60 per 1,000 students, raises questions about the factors leading to this reduction, which could include enhanced security measures, community engagement initiatives, or even the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, where campus activities were significantly restricted.

Specific crime categories such as gun arrests and drug-related offenses deserve special attention. While the data suggests a slight reduction in gun-related offenses over the years, it is essential for the university to remain vigilant and proactively implement safety strategies. The prevalence of other issues, like domestic violence and assault, underscores the importance of ongoing education and intervention programs designed to support students and foster a safe environment.

As universities navigate the challenges of providing a secure campus atmosphere, they must also consider how policies and community interactions can shape the overall safety climate. Transparency in reporting and support services for victims should remain a priority for Wichita State University. Continued assessment of crime trends is crucial for fostering a respectful and secure educational environment.

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