Ahead of the Pack: In What Areas Is Wichita State a Leader?

Wichita State University

Wichita State is a local, regional and national leader in several key categories. The ability to top lists comes from its dedication to student-centeredness, focus on affordability and close ties with industry partners. Here is what Wichita State can proudly say it is No. 1 in.

Regional Affordability

Of the four-year public research institutions in the Midwest, Wichita State tops the list as the most affordable and the best value. This is based on WSU’s lower tuition costs compared to regional competition. The best part – students do not sacrifice quality. Wichita State offers state-of-the-art facilities where education is focused on hands-on applied learning.

Destination for Transfer Students

Since 2012, Wichita State has worn the badge of Kansas’ No. 1 Transfer Destination. Transfer students from community college and other four-year institutions find a welcoming home at Wichita State thanks to its transfer resources. Dual advising allows students to develop a plan of study with a WSU advisor. The Transfer Gateway is the perfect place to see how your credits will transfer. Plus, Wichita State has dedicated transfer admissions representatives and students to help at any step along the way.

Wichita State University

Research and Development

Wichita State being among the nation’s leading research institutions is highlighted by its continued rankings in the annual National Science Foundation (NSF) Higher Education Research & Development (R&D) Survey. WSU is No. 1 in aerospace engineering R&D from all funding sources totaling $350 million in 2026. The university is also ranked No. 2 in engineering R&D funded by industry and defense with $283 million, and No. 9 in engineering R&D from all funding sources with $360 million. For context, these positions are higher than or in the company of institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University and Georgia Institute of Technology.

Numbers and rankings reflect Wichita State’s impact as a leading higher education institute. And as Shocker Nation continues to expand through sustained enrollment growth and numerous new and upgraded facilities, Kansas’ premier urban-serving public research university is positioned to supply transformational education for future generations.