Heritage

Wayne State College was created as an institution dedicated to producing teachers for the nation's youth. Recognizing the pivotal role schools play in a well-functioning democracy, the state of Nebraska purchased the Nebraska Normal College (founded in 1891) at Wayne in 1910. This purchase was part of a statewide commitment to establish first-rate teacher preparation for Nebraska's schools. Later, the state authorized the conferral of graduate degrees at Wayne State in order to prepare master teachers, school counselors, and school administrators.

Over the years, Wayne State undergraduates and graduate students have distinguished themselves in nearly every state across the country and in the process Wayne State College has developed a reputation for exemplary professional education prgrams. Today teacher education remains a vital part of Wayne State's "comprehensive" mission. Over one third of all enrolled students pursue programs offered by the School of Education and Counseling.