Washburn University has a rich history dating back 150 years. Our university was founded in 1865 by members of the Congregational Church on the principle that all people – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or family income – have the right to earn an education. Washburn University is a public institution with more than 6,900 students and 1,000 faculty and staff involved in more than 200 academic programs. Our programs lead to certification, associate, bachelor, master's, doctor of nursing practice and juris doctor degrees.