University of Kansas

As one of only 65 AAU members, KU punches above its weight in research (especially life sciences and aerospace engineering) while maintaining a teaching-focused undergraduate experience. The most popular majors reflect its practical bent:

• Psychology (7%)
• Nursing (5%)
• Marketing (5%)
• Finance (4%)

Reddit users call it 'generally well-regarded,' particularly for business and education. The university emphasizes flexibility with 400+ degree options and robust online programs through Jayhawk Global. Small quirks: KU is one of few schools with a dedicated 'Department of Indigenous Studies' and strong Scandinavian programs—legacies of its 19th-century Nordic immigrant ties.

Lawrence delivers the full college-town package: 600+ student orgs, a walkable Mass Street downtown, and relentless Jayhawk pride. Instagram posts from Student Affairs showcase everything from free therapy dogs to multicultural festivals. Reddit users note the 'extremely nice' culture ('girls have stopped me to compliment my clothes'). Housing ranges from historic scholarship halls to modern dorms with mountain-bike trails. The Achilles' heel? Some complain about Greek life's outsized social influence—though only 14% of students join frats/sororities.

KU's 70.3% six-year graduation rate outpaces many peers (Kansas State: 66%), though only 54% finish in four years. Business majors fare best—79% land full-time jobs within three months. Median earnings hit $69,680, well above the national midpoint ($60,377). The retention rate (87.5% for freshmen) suggests students find their groove after year one. One asterisk: Alumni surveys show humanities grads often pivot to unrelated fields, while STEM/Business majors report higher career alignment.

The average net price is $19,205 after aid, with 42% of students receiving assistance. KU meets 81% of demonstrated need, though aid leans heavily on loans. In-state students benefit from Kansas' 'Compact' scholarship, which covers tuition for top achievers. Budget pro tip: The dorms are pricier than off-campus apartments in Lawrence, where a shared house runs $500–$700/month.

KU is the rare school that pairs AAU-level research (think: $400M annual R&D spend) with open-door admissions. Its secret sauce? A collaborative culture—evident in undergrads co-authoring physics papers and business students consulting for local startups. The Jayhawk mystique runs deep: From 'Rock Chalk' chants at Allen Fieldhouse to the campus' stunning Campanile bells, tradition binds this sprawling public university together. For students who want Big 12 spirit without cutthroat academics, it's a golden mean.