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University of Kansas

A flagship public research university in Lawrence, KU grew from a first class of 55 students in 1866 into a major institution serving Kansas and beyond. It’s especially known for combining strong research, professional education, and a deeply rooted Jayhawk identity.

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The University of Kansas was established by a charter from the Kansas Legislature in 1864 and opened to students in 1866 in Lawrence. Official KU materials say the first class included 55 students, and the university has since grown to more than 30,000 students across its campuses.

KU describes itself as a top-tier teaching and research institution, and its main campus in Lawrence is joined by major locations in Kansas City, Kansas, and Overland Park. It is a public university governed by the Kansas Board of Regents, with a broad reach in research, economic development, and professional education.

The school’s identity is closely tied to the Jayhawk tradition, but KU is also widely recognized for its academic and research role in the region. Its own overview emphasizes service to Kansas, the Midwest, and the world through discovery, learning, and public impact.