The development of public support and financing for an adequate public educational system was the handiwork of progressive industrialist Pierre S. du Pont, who undertook the project in 1919. Today's schools compare favorably with those of neighboring states. Approximately 82.6% of adult Delawareans were high school graduates in 2000; 25% had obtained a bachelor's degree or higher.
In fall 1999, 112,836 students were enrolled in public elementary and secondary schools. Of these, 80,274 attended schools from kindergarten through grade eight, and 32,562 attended high school. Minority students made up approximately 40% of the total enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools in 2001. Total enrollment was estimated at 114,424 in fall 2000 and expected to remain the same in fall 2005. Enrollment in nonpublic schools in fall 2001 was 22,779.
As of fall 2000, there were 51,407 students enrolled in institutions of higher education. In the same year Delaware had 10 degree-granting institutions. In 1997, minority students comprised 20.4% of total postsecondary enrollment. Delaware has two public four-year institutions: the University of Delaware (Newark) and Delaware State College (Dover). Alternatives to these institutions include Widener University and the Delaware Technical and Community College, which has four campuses. There are three independent colleges: Goldey-Beacom College (Wilmington), Wesley College (Dover), and Wilmington College.