1868
Detroit, MI

About Wayne State University

Wayne State University, founded in 1868, is a dynamic institution in Detroit with a mission to create knowledge, prepare diverse students, and impact communities. Guided by values like collaboration, integrity, and innovation, it’s a leading force in Detroit’s revitalization and a vital part of Michigan’s research community. With a rich history rooted in healthcare and education, Wayne State University continues to lead with its transformative vision and modern approach to learning.

The university’s online hub, Knowledge on Demand, offers a range of courses and degree programs, making education accessible and convenient. Whether through short training sessions or comprehensive degrees, learners can pursue personal growth and professional advancement with Wayne State University online. 

Accreditation & Licensing

Wayne State University is accredited by:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Type:

4-year, Public

Highest Level Offered:

Doctor's degree

Religious Affiliation:

Not applicable

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 18,699 ; Graduate: 9,352

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 12% ; Graduate: 27%

Graduation Rate:

58%

Transfer Rate:

21%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$53,493

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$21,250

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

78%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$10,661

Yellow Ribbon Program:

Yes

Credit for Military Training:

Yes

Online Programs offered by Wayne State University

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Business

Graduate Certificate in Communication & New Media
Best Buy degree
Master of Arts in Sports Administration
Master of Science in Information Management

Education

Graduate Certificate in Information Management
Graduate Certificate in Public Library Service to Children & Young Adults
Master of Arts in Program Evaluation
Best Buy degree
Master of Arts in Teaching & Learning / Bilingual/Bicultural Education
Best Buy degree
Master of Arts in Teaching & Learning / English as a Second Language
Best Buy degree
Master of Arts in Teaching & Learning / Literacy Instructional Coaching PK-8
Best Buy degree
Master of Education in Learning Design & Technology
Popular degreeBest Buy degree
Master of Library & Information Science

Psychology & Human Services

Bachelor of Social Work
GetEducated Team Takes
Tony’s Take

Wayne State is a rigorous school with practical payoff. Classes move fast. The workload can be tough to manage. That pressure often pays off later at work.

Professors are a major plus. They are engaging, helpful, and present in class. The culture feels inclusive and diverse. The recurring friction is operational.

Advisor access can be hard at times. Some processes feel disorganized. Parking and commuting add daily hassle and cost. Overall, Wayne State fits students who want strong academics, career-ready training, and active faculty support.

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Reviewed By GetEducated
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wayne State University

Is Wayne State University accredited?

Yes. Wayne State University is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

How many online programs does Wayne State University offer?

Wayne State University offers 12 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.

What degree levels does Wayne State University offer?

Wayne State University offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.

How should students contact admissions at Wayne State University?

Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.

Is Wayne State University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?

Roughly speaking, Wayne State University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.

How quickly can I enroll at Wayne State University?

Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.

What should transfer students ask Wayne State University first?

The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.

What GPA do most Wayne State University programs require?

GPA requirements typically range from 2.5 to 3.0, and 3.0 appears most often.

Is Wayne State University military friendly?

Wayne State University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.

How can students request information from Wayne State University through GetEducated?

Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.

What documents are most commonly required for Wayne State University applications?

Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Statement of Purpose/Intent, Resume/CV, and Recommendation/Reference Letter(s). Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.

Does Wayne State University accept life experience credit?

Wayne State University does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.

Are Wayne State University programs fully online or mixed?

Wayne State University programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.

What kinds of online programs does Wayne State University offer?

Wayne State University has online program options in areas such as Education, Business, and Psychology & Human Services; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.

Do any Wayne State University programs have specialized accreditation?

Program-specific accreditors include Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP); American Library Association (ALA).

Are any admission tests required for Wayne State University programs?

One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.

Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Wayne State University?

Some programs show different in-state and out-of-state tuition totals, so check your specific program cost.

Do any Wayne State University programs have state authorization limitations?

Some programs show state or location restrictions, so students should confirm eligibility for their state before applying. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.

How often can students start at Wayne State University?

Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Wayne State University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.

How should working adults compare Wayne State University programs?

Working adults should compare program format, pacing, total cost, and application requirements before choosing a path.

Featured Ranking Reports

Wayne State University is featured in 5 of our ranking reports!

GetEducated continually compiles custom ranking reports to give you a complete snapshot of schools, degrees, tuition, and a detailed report on thousands of job categories throughout the entire education industry.

We provide these comprehensive ranking reports to you, for free. Click on any report below to learn more about how we ranked this school.

Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

Wayne State University is located in Michigan

Michigan at a Glance:

State flag of MI
Lansing
10,077,331
96,714 sq mi
15
45
28
$12,800.00

Top Incentives in Michigan:

Top Career Pathways in Michigan:

Automotive Engineering
  • Entry Level: Process Engineer ($70,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Engineer ($105,000)
  • Senior Level: Engineering Director ($160,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Engineering
  • Certifications: PE, Six Sigma, ASE
Software Development
  • Entry Level: Software Engineer ($75,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Developer ($115,000)
  • Senior Level: Technical Director ($155,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Computer Science
  • Certifications: AWS, Azure, Security+
Supply Chain Management
  • Entry Level: Logistics Coordinator ($58,000)
  • Mid Level: Supply Chain Manager ($95,000)
  • Senior Level: Operations Director ($145,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Supply Chain Management
  • Certifications: APICS, CSCP, PMP
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced