Parents Why College + Emporia State University
ESU is a great investment
Why go to college
Investing in a four-year degree is worth it. What will you get for your four-year degree? A lot.
- More career options: More jobs than ever are requiring a bachelor's degree.
- More money: According to a 2019 article from Liberty Street Economics, “in recent years, the average college grad with just a bachelor’s degree earned about $78,000, compared to $45,000 for the average worker with only a high school diploma.” (source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- Better employment benefits: Employees with a bachelor's degree are more likely to be eligible for jobs with better benefits such as health insurance and retirement.
- Job security: Employees with a bachelor's degree are more likely to have better job security.
- A network: Students who participate in internships while in college and get hands-on experiences will graduate with a network of potential employers and references.

Emporia is listed as one of the top 10 safest places in Kansas. In addition, ESU's campus has a Police + Safety department with officers on campus 24/7.
It's all about excellence
- Undergraduate and graduate programs offered in ESU's four colleges: College of Liberal Arts + Sciences, School of Business, School of Library + Information Management, The Teachers College.
- Named a College of Distinction five consecutive years.
- Named to The Princeton Review's 2021-Best Regional Colleges List.
- 96% of graduates find jobs or are accepted to advanced studies programs within six months of graduation (four-yr average).
- Ranked in “2022 Best Colleges: Region by Region.” in Princeton Review Best Midwestern College
- High-impact learning, which prioritizes practical application of concepts in and out of the classroom, resume-worthy experiences, and hands-on learning.
- Stinger Success Program offers students a dedicated academic advisor, freshman seminar and academic support services.
- Smaller class sizes mean students don't get lost in the crowd.