Students compete on the national policy debate circuit, including major National Debate Tournament (NDT) and CEDA events, against top-ranked programs across the country.

Debaters develop advanced research skills, rapid strategic decision-making, and high-level oral advocacy skills applicable to law, politics, and graduate study.

Prior debate experience is not required. Students from all majors and backgrounds are encouraged to join and receive individualized coaching.

Our History

Having been established in the 19th century, the Wichita State debate team has a long and rich history of excellence. Producing numerous nationally competitive and championship caliber teams. This is a testimate to the hard work and dedication of the students and coaches involved. Wichita State Universities dedication to academic rigor has played a significant role in this success.

Robert Shields and Lee Thomspon won the 1968 National Debate Tournament and cemented a legacy of success for the Wichita State debate team. Since then Wichita State has consistently cleared teams to the top 32, 16, and 8 competitors at both the National Debate Tournament and the CEDA National Championships.

More recently the team has cleared teams to the top 32 competitors at the National Debate Tournament, top 16 competitors at the CEDA national championship, and has consistently been ranked amongst the top teams in the nation for inter-collegiate policy debate.

• Conduct in-depth research on domestic and international policy issues
• Write and refine affirmative and negative debate cases
• Develop impact analysis and strategic argument comparison

• Participate in regular team practices and mock debates
• Receive one-on-one coaching and detailed feedback
• Improve public speaking, organization, and persuasion

• Travel nationally to tournaments hosted by leading universities, at no cost to the debater
• Compete against nationally ranked debate programs
• Represent Wichita State at championship events

Policy debate closely mirrors legal reasoning and research. Alumni regularly succeed in law school and competitive graduate programs.

• Law and legal advocacy
• Public policy and government
• Political campaigns and consulting
• Communications, research, and analysis roles

No. Many Wichita State debaters begin with no prior experience. Training and mentorship are provided from the start.

Time commitments vary individually. There is no set requirement for involvement and is solely dependent on each individual debater.

Yes. Scholarship opportunities may be available through the debate program. Interested students should contact Dr. Phillip Samuels.