Washburn University
Topeka, Kansas 66621
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — excellent value
Washburn University is a public institution in Topeka with particular strength in health sciences and business.
A mid-sized campus of 4.1K undergraduates with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
53% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $49,774 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $13,046.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Ichabods
History & Fun Facts
- •The institution was renamed "Washburn College" in 1868, after Ichabod Washburn pledged $25,000 to the school.
- •"The Ichabod" existed only in name until 1938, when alumnus (and later prominent graphic artist) Bradbury Thompson (B.
- •The athletic teams are nicknamed "Ichabods", although women's teams did not use that nickname until the 2013–14 school year.
- •In 1913, the medical department of Washburn College closed.
Source: Wikipedia
Schools Like This
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS · Town · Public
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS · Town · Public
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS · Town · Public
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS · Urban · Public
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
65.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
2.6%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$12,500
Programs (120)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
69%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
31
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from KS state average + city premium