Wichita is a major health care referral center and clinical facilities for essentially all clinical specializations are available and are used by both undergraduate and graduate nursing students. WSU is distinguished from the other Regents institutions by an urban mission. Using all of the educational, economic, cultural and entertainment advantages associated with the metropolitan area in which it is located, WSU offers its students a special kind of education that equips them with the intellectual, technical and professional skills to meet a modern, changing world. The WSU School of Nursing is located in the largest urban area in the state of Kansas and consequently the health care community is the largest and most comprehensive in the region as well as the second-largest employment sector in Wichita. The City of Wichita, with a population of over 300,000, provides students with cultural and recreational opportunities.
Many students take advantage of the availability of part-time jobs to help finance their education.
The resources of a large urban area provide greater opportunities for students in the health professions. While the University has always served the urban population, the mission statement for the Institution reinforces the need for strong ties to the community. The School of Nursing is now offering courses to students entirely through the Internet, with additional courses planned for the future. Currently, graduate level courses in Diabetes Mellitus, Human Lactation, and Continuing Education modules in Common Dermatological Problems in Primary Care and Low Back Pain are offered on the Internet. A chat room for advanced practice nurses links four universities in Kansas.