University of Kansas – Full Review

Overview

The University of Kansas (KU), also known as Kansas or KU, is a public research university located in Lawrence, Kansas. Founded in 1865, it was the first public university in the state of Kansas. The university has multiple campuses across the state, including the main campus in Lawrence, the medical campus in Kansas City, and the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, among others. KU has a diverse student body, representing all 50 states and more than 100 countries worldwide.

History

The University of Kansas was founded in 1865, shortly after the Civil War ended. Originally named the University of Kansas, the institution was located in Lawrence, a town that had been founded just a few years prior. The university’s first chancellor, Reverend Robert Stanton, was an abolitionist who fought against slavery in the state. Over the years, KU became known for its strong academic programs and research efforts, as well as its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus.

Organization

The University of Kansas is organized into 13 schools and colleges, each dedicated to a specific area of study. These include the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Engineering, and the School of Journalism, among others. Additionally, KU has several research centers and institutes that focus on specific areas of inquiry, such as the Dole Institute of Politics and the Kansas Geological Survey.

Campus

The University of Kansas has a beautiful and expansive campus in Lawrence, covering more than 1,000 acres. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including dozens of student residence halls, academic buildings, and administrative offices. The campus is also home to several museums and cultural institutions, such as the Spencer Museum of Art and the University Theatre.

Academics

KU is renowned for its strong academic programs, which span a wide range of disciplines. The university offers more than 190 undergraduate majors and more than 190 graduate programs, including master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and professional degrees. Some of KU’s most popular majors include Psychology, Business, Biology, English, and Nursing.

Colleges and Schools

The University of Kansas has 13 schools and colleges, each focused on a specific area of study. These include:

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• School of Business
• School of Education
• School of Engineering
• College of Health Professions
• School of Journalism and Mass Communications
• School of Law
• School of Medicine (at the Kansas City campus)
• School of Music
• School of Pharmacy
• School of Social Welfare
• Graduate Studies
• Continuing Education

Student Life

KU has a vibrant campus community, with more than 600 student organizations catering to a wide range of interests and hobbies. The university also offers a number of services and resources to support student success, such as academic advising, counseling, and career services. Campus events and traditions, such as Hawk Week and Homecoming, are a big part of student life at KU.

Athletics

KU is well-known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in basketball. The university’s men’s basketball team has won numerous NCAA championships and is a perennial contender for the title. KU also has successful teams in other sports, such as football, volleyball, and track and field.

Notable Alumni

The University of Kansas has produced many notable alumni over the years, including politicians, business leaders, athletes, and artists. Some of KU’s most famous alumni include:

• Wilt Chamberlain: basketball player
• Paul Rudd: actor
• Charles Koch: entrepreneur and philanthropist
• John D. Rockefeller: oil tycoon and philanthropist
• Robert Gates: former Secretary of Defense
• Janet Yellen: former Chair of the Federal Reserve
• Kathleen Sebelius: former Governor of Kansas and Secretary of Health and Human Services

University Profile