Emporia State University Profile

Emporia State University (ESU), founded in 1863, holds the distinction of being the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas. Over its long history, ESU has developed into a key educational institution in the region, committed to providing quality education across a wide range of disciplines. Located in Emporia, Kansas, the university offers a diverse array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, with a particular emphasis on teacher education, business, and the liberal arts. ESU is proud of its rich heritage, having been established at a time when higher education was still a relatively rare privilege, especially in the western United States. This longstanding tradition of excellence continues to define the university today.

One of the cornerstones of Emporia State University's credibility and academic strength is its accreditation. The university is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (now part of the Higher Learning Commission). This regional accreditation ensures that ESU meets rigorous standards of academic quality, offering programs that provide students with a comprehensive, well-rounded education. Regional accreditation is highly valued in higher education, as it signifies that an institution maintains high academic standards, offers appropriate student services, and consistently works to improve the quality of its offerings. Accreditation also ensures that credits earned at ESU are recognized by other accredited institutions, providing students with a high degree of academic mobility and respectability.

One of the university's most notable distinctions is its School of Business, which holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This prestigious accreditation places Emporia State among the top business schools in the country, as only about 5% of business schools worldwide earn this recognition. The AACSB is widely regarded as the gold standard in business education, and its rigorous accreditation process ensures that ESU’s business programs meet high standards of quality in terms of curriculum, faculty qualifications, and overall academic rigor. This achievement underscores the university's commitment to offering students a world-class business education that prepares them for leadership roles in an increasingly globalized economy.

Emporia State University has also gained recognition for its teacher preparation programs, which are nationally known for their quality and impact. The university has long been a leader in preparing educators who are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern classrooms. In fact, Emporia State's teacher preparation program was named one of the four “model” teacher preparation programs in the nation in a report titled Educating School Teachers, written by Arthur Levine. This recognition highlights ESU's commitment to producing highly qualified, effective teachers who can make a difference in the lives of students. The university’s strong emphasis on practical training, teaching methods, and student-centered learning ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to enter the teaching profession and have a positive impact on the education system.

Emporia State University is also proud of its rich history of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. The list of distinguished ESU graduates includes L. M. Gensman, a former U.S. Representative from Oklahoma; Hall Hibbard, a former chief design engineer for Lockheed Corporation; Dale Emerson Saffels, a former Federal Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Kansas; John Conover Nichols, a former U.S. Representative from Oklahoma; and Sam V. Stewart, a former Governor of the State of Montana. These alumni, along with many others, reflect the diverse academic backgrounds and career paths that Emporia State University has nurtured over the years. The success of these individuals serves as a testament to the quality of education and training that ESU provides, preparing students for leadership roles across various professions.

In terms of rankings and national recognition, Emporia State University consistently performs well and is widely regarded as one of the best regional universities in the United States. In the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges," ESU was ranked 84th among the nation's top 100 regional universities. It was also ranked 29th in the Midwest region, which includes the states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This ranking places Emporia State in the upper echelon of regional universities, showcasing its commitment to academic excellence, student success, and institutional development. Being named in the top tier of regional universities reflects the strength of ESU’s academic programs and its reputation as a provider of quality higher education.

In addition to its strong placement in U.S. News rankings, Emporia State University was also named one of the “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review. This designation places ESU among a select group of 158 institutions that have been recognized for their academic excellence and overall student satisfaction. The Princeton Review’s rankings are based on surveys of current students, who rate their experiences in areas such as campus life, academics, and student services. This recognition is a testament to the quality of the university’s academic programs, as well as the supportive and engaging environment it provides for students. The Princeton Review's endorsement further reinforces the university’s standing as a top-tier regional institution.

While the university is best known for its teacher preparation programs, its diverse academic offerings extend well beyond education. ESU provides a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines ranging from business to the arts and sciences. Whether students are interested in pursuing careers in healthcare, communications, social sciences, or the humanities, Emporia State University offers the resources, faculty, and opportunities to help them succeed. The university also offers graduate degrees, including master’s programs in education, business, and various other fields, giving students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and advance their careers.

Emporia State University has a strong commitment to providing an affordable education, which is a key factor in its national recognition. The university is consistently ranked by publications such as Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and Money Magazine for its affordability and value. In an era when the cost of higher education is a growing concern for many students and families, ESU remains dedicated to keeping tuition rates manageable while maintaining the quality of its academic offerings. The university also provides a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to ensure that students can access the education they need to succeed without incurring excessive debt.

Emporia State University also places a high value on student support and engagement. With a variety of student organizations, extracurricular activities, and campus events, students at ESU have numerous opportunities to get involved and build meaningful connections with their peers. The university’s strong sense of community helps foster an environment in which students feel supported both academically and personally. Whether students are participating in clubs, athletic programs, or service-learning projects, ESU provides ample opportunities for them to develop their leadership skills, pursue their passions, and contribute to the local community.

In conclusion, Emporia State University is an institution that has built a strong academic reputation over its more than 150-year history. As the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas, ESU has maintained a tradition of academic excellence, preparing students for success in a wide range of professions. The university’s accreditation, notable alumni, and strong rankings reflect its commitment to providing a high-quality education. Whether through its nationally recognized teacher preparation program, its AACSB-accredited School of Business, or its diverse academic offerings, Emporia State University remains a vital educational institution in Kansas and beyond. With a focus on academic rigor, affordability, and student success, ESU continues to prepare students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.