Best Colleges in Wichita

Questions About Going to College in Wichita

How are the career opportunities for college graduates in Wichita?

As might be expected in the state’s largest city, Wichita provides a wide range of career possibilities. Aviation and health care remain central industries, but manufacturing, education, communications, and finance all contribute to the area’s economy. And while not quite Silicon Valley, efforts at innovation have been growing. Particularly helpful has been an initiative called Startup Wichita, which fosters connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and techies.

What major companies/industries are hiring what type of graduates/skills in Wichita?

Grads interested in putting their skills to use in the aviation industry would be hard pressed to find a better city than “The Air Capital of the World.” Cessna Aircraft Company has called Wichita home since 1927 and continues to employ some 12,000 workers. Spirit AeroSystems Inc., Hawker Beechcraft, and Bombardier Aerospace reside there too. And don’t think these big companies only want those with a degree in aviation sciences. They need human resources personnel, IT experts, marketing specialists, and other professionals. Wichita also has plenty of places for health science graduates to seek employment, such as Via Christi Health, Wesley Medical Center, and Wichita Clinic PA.

Is Wichita more of a college town or a great place to start a career and family?

With a 330-acre campus and more than 14,500 students, Wichita State University can feel like a city in and of itself. But with nearly 387,000 residents, Wichita obviously appeals to more than just those seeking a great education. Affordable housing lures young families that want to settle into classic Midwestern neighborhoods. Millennials flock to Old Town, a former warehouse district that has been transformed into hip apartments and condos. Add plenty of cultural opportunities (40 museums and galleries) and easy access to health care, and you can see why so many choose to settle here.

What do the locals in Wichita like to do for fun?

What could be more fun than zip lining, helicopter rides, inflatables for the kids, parades, clowns, and paddle boats while great live music fills the air and food vendors tout everything from chicken on a stick to funnel cakes on every corner? Old and young alike look forward to this annual nine day summer celebration known as Riverfest. But Wichita has plenty going on at other times of the year too. Visit the elephants of the Zambezi River Valley at the Sedgwick County Zoo. Get tickets to Sesame Street Live or a Blake Shelton concert at the INTRUST Bank Arena. Check out the extensive glass art collection at the Wichita Art Museum. Or invite your neighbors over for a BBQ – they’ll be sure to return the favor.

What's the dating scene like in Wichita? Will I meet my perfect mate?

The numbers certainly favor a match: 644,000+ people in the Wichita metro area with roughly equal numbers of men and women. Nightlife thrives – kick up your heels at Club Rodeo or sample live music (and a beverage or two) on the patio at Oeno’s Wine Bar. But don’t feel the downtown scene is your only option. Religion is a top priority for many people in Wichita, and couples often meet through church activities. Enjoy a big Sunday dinner with your new crush’s family following Sunday mass.