University of Kansas

The University of Kansas has an ROI Score of 28, indicating a moderate return on investment. While in-state tuition is affordable, graduates' median earnings may not substantially outpace their debt in the short to medium term.

As a large public university with over 21,000 students, the University of Kansas likely offers a wide array of campus activities and organizations. However, specific details on student support and the intimate feel of campus life are not detailed in the provided data.

The University of Kansas is not highly selective, with an admission rate of 93.5%, suggesting it is accessible to a broad range of applicants.

In-state tuition is $12,102, which is quite affordable, contributing to a high Affordability Score. Out-of-state tuition is considerably higher at $30,432. Graduates accrue a median debt of $21,000.

The median earnings 10 years after entry are $61,945, which is moderate. While this indicates some level of career success, it may not be exceptionally high compared to other institutions, especially considering the debt incurred.

The University of Kansas (KU) boasts a high admission rate of 93.5%, indicating that it is generally accessible to a broad range of qualified applicants. This suggests that while KU seeks to enroll capable students, it is not highly selective in the traditional sense. To be considered for admission, prospective students typically need a solid high school academic record, including a core curriculum of English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language. While specific GPA and standardized test score cutoffs are not always rigidly defined due to the holistic review process, successful applicants often present strong academic profiles. For instance, admitted students often have GPAs in the B+ to A- range and competitive ACT/SAT scores. KU also considers factors beyond grades and test scores, such as essays, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and letters of recommendation, especially for students whose academic metrics might be borderline. The university aims to build a diverse and talented student body, so demonstrating unique strengths and potential contributions is beneficial. While the high acceptance rate means admission is likely for many, aiming for strong academic performance and a well-rounded application will always enhance your chances and set you up for success within KU's rigorous academic environment.

The University of Kansas (KU) offers a strong return on investment, particularly for Kansas residents. The in-state tuition is $12,102, and the median 10-year earnings for graduates are $61,945, with a median debt of $21,000. This translates to an ROI score of 28, which is quite favorable. For in-state students, the cost of attendance is significantly lower, meaning the median debt can likely be paid off within 3-5 years based on median earnings. The earnings potential suggests graduates are entering fields that provide financial stability and opportunities for growth. Even for out-of-state students paying $30,432, the median earnings still provide a reasonable payback period, although the initial debt burden will be higher. Compared to national averages for public universities, KU's tuition is competitive, and its graduate earnings are solid. The value is further enhanced by strong programs in areas like journalism, engineering, and business, which lead to well-compensated careers. Overall, KU represents a financially sound investment, especially for residents, offering a quality education that translates into good career outcomes without excessive debt.

The University of Kansas (KU) excels in several key academic areas, making certain majors particularly strong choices for prospective students. The William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications is consistently ranked among the nation's best, offering robust programs in strategic communications, news and information, and sports media, preparing graduates for careers in media, public relations, and marketing. The School of Engineering also provides highly regarded programs, with strengths in civil, mechanical, petroleum, and aerospace engineering, feeding into strong regional and national industries. KU's School of Business offers popular majors like finance, accounting, and marketing, with excellent internship connections in the Kansas City financial sector. Additionally, the School of Health Professions offers programs in high-demand fields such as nursing, pharmacy, and occupational therapy, leveraging KU's medical center affiliation. Students interested in the sciences will find strong undergraduate research opportunities in biology, chemistry, and physics, often leading to graduate studies or careers in research and development. The university's commitment to research and its strong ties to industries in the Kansas City metro area ensure that graduates from these programs are well-prepared for competitive job markets.

Student life at the University of Kansas (KU) is characterized by a vibrant Big 12 atmosphere combined with the charm of a classic college town. Lawrence provides a dynamic backdrop, with a lively downtown area offering numerous restaurants, bars, music venues, and shops just a short walk or bus ride from campus. KU is known for its spirited athletics, particularly basketball and football, with strong traditions and passionate fan bases filling David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and Allen Fieldhouse. Social life often revolves around Greek life, campus organizations, and university-sponsored events. There are over 500 student organizations catering to a wide range of interests, from academic clubs and cultural groups to recreational sports and volunteer initiatives. The university also offers a rich cultural scene with performances at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, art galleries, and museums. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby Clinton Lake and the Kansas River trails. While the party scene is present, especially within Greek life, there's a strong emphasis on balancing academics with social activities, community engagement, and personal growth. The overall vibe is energetic, inclusive, and deeply connected to both the university's traditions and the unique culture of Lawrence.

The University of Kansas (KU) offers a comprehensive financial aid program designed to make education accessible. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid is typically distributed through federal grants (like Pell Grants), state grants (Kansas Comprehensive Grant), institutional scholarships, and federal student loans. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, test scores, and leadership, with many incoming freshmen receiving these automatically based on their application. Need-based aid is determined by the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). KU also offers specific scholarships for students in particular majors, from diverse backgrounds, or with unique talents. For the 2022-2023 academic year, approximately 75% of undergraduate students received financial aid. The average financial aid package included a mix of grants, scholarships, and loans. While specific dollar amounts vary widely based on individual need and merit, KU strives to provide aid that helps bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and a family's ability to pay. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA early and explore departmental scholarships for additional funding opportunities.

Graduates from the University of Kansas (KU) can expect competitive salaries, with the median earnings after 10 years reported at $61,945. However, actual salaries vary significantly based on the chosen major and industry. For instance, graduates from the School of Engineering, particularly in fields like petroleum or aerospace engineering, often command starting salaries well above the median, potentially ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 or more, especially when entering high-demand sectors or working for major corporations like Garmin or Burns & McDonnell. Similarly, finance and accounting graduates from the School of Business typically start in the $60,000-$75,000 range, with opportunities for rapid advancement. Those from the renowned School of Journalism and Mass Communications might start in roles like marketing coordinator or junior copywriter with salaries around $50,000-$65,000, but can see significant increases with experience in fields like public relations or digital media. Graduates in education or social sciences may have starting salaries in the $45,000-$55,000 range. The median earnings figure of $61,945 reflects a broad average across all disciplines, indicating that KU graduates generally achieve solid financial footing and career progression over time, particularly within the Midwest's economic landscape.

The University of Kansas (KU) offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to accommodate different student needs and preferences. Freshmen are generally required to live on campus for their first year, fostering a sense of community and easier transition. KU Housing includes traditional residence halls like Oswald, Ellsworth, and Self, which offer double or single rooms with shared community bathrooms, study lounges, and common areas. These halls are typically organized by floor or wing, encouraging social interaction. For students seeking more independence or specific living environments, KU also provides suite-style options, where a small group of students share a common living area and bathroom, or apartment-style living in residence halls like McCarthy Hall, which offers more privacy with single rooms and apartment-like amenities. Many residence halls include dining facilities conveniently located within or adjacent to the building. All dorms provide basic furnishings, internet access, and access to resident advisors (RAs) who offer support and programming. The university emphasizes creating inclusive and supportive living communities, with various themed housing options and opportunities for involvement in hall government and activities.

Yes, the University of Kansas (KU) is a strong institution for undergraduate and graduate research, offering numerous opportunities across its diverse academic disciplines. As a major public research university, KU actively encourages student involvement in faculty-led research projects. Undergraduates can engage in research through various avenues, including seeking out professors whose work aligns with their interests, participating in summer research programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), or enrolling in courses that incorporate research components. KU has significant research strengths in areas such as atmospheric science (with the Doppler radar and the Weather Data Laboratory), molecular biosciences, cancer research (affiliated with the KU Cancer Center), engineering (particularly in areas like sustainable infrastructure and advanced materials), and behavioral neuroscience. The university provides resources and funding to support student research, including grants and opportunities to present findings at symposiums and conferences. Graduate students find extensive opportunities for advanced research, often playing key roles in major projects and contributing to KU's reputation as a significant research hub in the Midwest.

The University of Kansas (KU) competes within the landscape of large public research universities, particularly those in the Big 12 conference and the Midwest region. Realistic peers include the University of Missouri, Kansas State University, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Compared to these institutions, KU often holds an edge in specific programs like Journalism and Mass Communications, which is nationally recognized. Its engineering programs are also highly regarded, often rivaling or surpassing those at its peers. KU's location in Lawrence offers a distinct college town experience that differs from the more agricultural focus of K-State or the larger city setting of Mizzou. In terms of research output and national rankings, KU generally sits within a similar tier as Mizzou and Nebraska-Lincoln, though specific program strengths can vary. KU's out-of-state tuition is often competitive within this group. However, some peers might have stronger connections in specific industries or broader alumni networks in certain geographic areas outside the immediate Midwest. KU's graduation rate, while solid, is sometimes slightly lower than some of its closest competitors, indicating a potential area for improvement.

Employers generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Kansas (KU), recognizing its strong academic programs and the quality of its graduates. KU's reputation is particularly strong within the Midwest, especially in the Kansas City metropolitan area, where companies like Cerner (Oracle Health), Garmin, Hallmark, Burns & McDonnell, and UMB Financial actively recruit KU talent. These employers value the practical skills and solid theoretical foundation provided by KU's programs, particularly in fields like engineering, business, journalism, and health sciences. The university's emphasis on internships and experiential learning means that many KU graduates enter the workforce with relevant experience, which is highly valued by employers. While KU may not have the same level of national name recognition as some Ivy League or top-tier private institutions, its status as a respected public research university ensures that its degrees are taken seriously. Employers appreciate the work ethic and preparedness of KU graduates, often seeing them as reliable and capable additions to their teams. The strong alumni network also plays a role, as current employees often advocate for and recruit fellow Jayhawks.