The University of Kansas (KU), located in Lawrence, Kansas, is a prestigious public research university known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Established in 1865, KU has a rich history and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The university is home to a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, law, and the arts and sciences. The School of Business and the School of Law are particularly renowned, consistently ranking among the top institutions in the nation.

KU's campus culture emphasizes student involvement and community, with over 600 student organizations ranging from academic and professional societies to cultural and recreational groups. The university's athletic programs, especially in basketball, are a source of pride and play a significant role in campus life, generating school spirit among students and alumni alike. Moreover, KU's commitment to research is evidenced by its extensive facilities and resources that support innovation and inquiry, particularly in its notable research centers focused on areas like ecology, pharmacology, and biomedical engineering. This thriving academic environment, paired with a strong sense of community and school pride, positions the University of Kansas as an exceptional choice for students seeking a well-rounded education and an enriching college experience.

Analysis of Key Trends at the University of Kansas

Over the past decade, the University of Kansas has demonstrated notable trends, particularly in tuition costs, retention rates, and graduation rates. Tuition has seen a steady increase, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $9,278 in 2014 to $11,700 in 2024, marking a substantial increase of about 26%. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition has also escalated from $22,757 to $29,412 during the same period, indicating an increase of around 29%. This rising tuition trend poses potential barriers for some students, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, potentially influencing their ability to attend and complete higher education.

In terms of retention rates, the University of Kansas has exhibited an encouraging trajectory. The retention rate for undergraduates climbed from roughly 80% in 2014 to approximately 85% in 2024. This upward trend suggests that the university is enhancing its support systems for students, likely contributing to their academic success and satisfaction. Given that higher retention rates often correlate with an institution's investment in student resources and support services, this may be a positive indicator of the university's commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment.

Graduation rates also reflect an upward trend, with the 100% graduation rate increasing from about 32% in 2014 to approximately 50% in 2024. Meanwhile, the 150% graduation rate climbed to around 66%. This rise signifies a significant improvement in the university's ability to support students through their academic journey, potentially resulting from targeted initiatives aimed at advising, mentoring, and academic resources.

Overall, while the rising cost of education remains a critical concern, the university's improvements in retention and graduation rates indicate a commitment to enhancing student experiences and outcomes. As educational institutions continue to navigate financial pressures, these positive trends may help attract new students and contribute to a robust educational environment.

Analysis of Graduation Data from the University of Kansas

The graduation data from the University of Kansas reveals some compelling trends, particularly in the fields of healthcare and business. Registered Nursing emerged as the most prominent program for undergraduate degrees, with 191 graduates, of whom 3 were international students. This underscores the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the critical role of nurses and has likely influenced enrollment numbers.

In the business sector, the general programs in Business Administration, Finance, and Marketing have demonstrated strong output as well. Particularly, the Finance program graduated 158 students with an additional 7 international students, indicating a robust interest in financial careers that align well with the global economy's current focus on economic recovery and growth after the pandemic.

On a contrasting note, some specialized fields like Biochemistry and Legal Studies did not produce any graduates at the undergraduate or master’s level. This could reflect broader trends in student interest, signaling possible curricular adjustments or a need for increased marketing of these programs to stimulate enrollment.

Notably, there were also no associate or master’s graduates reported in several areas, which may reveal strategic gaps in these disciplines or a shift in student preferences towards more vocational education paths. Furthermore, the absence of international students in many disciplines raises questions about the university's global appeal and recruitment strategies in an increasingly competitive international education market.

Overall, this data reveals not just the popularity of certain fields but also potential areas for growth and adaptation, indicating a dynamic educational landscape at the University of Kansas. As employment trends evolve, the university may need to respond proactively to ensure a diverse and comprehensive educational offering that meets the demands of the future workforce.

Commentary on University of Kansas Admission Data and Rankings

The admission data and rankings for the University of Kansas depict a concerning trend over recent years. The university has experienced a gradual decline in its position in U.S. News rankings, dropping from 96th place in 2010 to a notably lower rank of 152nd in 2025. This 56-spot decline reflects the shifting landscape of higher education, where competitive standards are intensifying, and the need for distinctive institutional branding is critical. In terms of admissions, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants signal a trend of increased selectivity. For instance, in 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants was around 84%, while for female applicants it was about 91%. While these numbers may seem favorable, they also indicate that the university may be struggling to maintain its appeal in a more competitive environment, as the overall enrollment numbers have fluctuated, and the number of applicants being denied has increased significantly. Furthermore, the significant increase in the number of students denied admission—climbing to over 1,970 in 2023—alongside the rising number of deferred admissions, suggests that the institution could be contested by rising universities that have gained popularity and resources. This could potentially lead to a diminishing student pool in the coming years if the university does not reassess its recruitment strategies and academic offerings. As the University of Kansas looks toward the future, addressing these issues will be integral to reversing its ranking decline and ensuring that it attracts and retains a diverse and talented student body. The data underscores the pressing need for universities to adapt and innovate continuously in the face of changing expectations and competition within the higher education sector.

Trends in Admissions Test Scores and Submission Rates at the University of Kansas

The admission data from the University of Kansas reveals an interesting pattern regarding standardized test submissions and scores over the years, particularly focusing on the ACT and SAT. Historically, a high percentage of applicants submitted their ACT scores, peaking at 99% in 2007 and 2008, gradually declining to about 94% by 2016. This trend reflects a broader national shift in testing policies and student preferences, with many universities increasingly adopting test-optional policies.

Starting from 2021, SAT scores began to be incorporated into the data, with submission rates at just 21% in 2021, significantly lower than the nearly ubiquitous ACT submissions in previous years. This suggests a transitional phase in how the University approaches standardized tests—likely driven by changes in national educational policies and the increasing acceptance of alternative assessments.

Moreover, the reported SAT and ACT scores indicate a competitiveness in admissions, with the interquartile ranges showing a healthy distribution of scores. Over the years, the SAT reading and mathematics sections and the ACT composite scores display a commitment to maintaining high academic standards. The entrance scores for 2023 notably indicate that the lower quartile for the SAT Reading was at 550, suggesting that the university continues to attract students with solid academic records.

The evolution of these metrics is vital as higher education institutions nationwide reassess their admission strategies in light of changing societal values and testing accessibility. Overall, the University of Kansas is navigating these dynamics while maintaining a focus on academic excellence.

Demographic Insights of 2024 University of Kansas Students

The student body at the University of Kansas in 2024 reflects a vibrant and diverse community across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen comprise over 5,200 students, with a gender ratio tipping slightly in favor of females at about 54.4%. This trend of female representation among new students is consistent across other classifications, including upperclassmen and transfer students.

Upperclassmen amount to approximately 13,400, with a comparable gender distribution of 46.9% male and 53.1% female. Interestingly, transfer students, although significantly fewer in numbers at around 1,170, showcase a gender split similar to that of their peers, indicating a steady pattern in student demographics with regard to gender.

Graduate students stand as a notable portion of the student population, totaling around 7,700. Their demographic profile shows an even more pronounced female representation, with women making up about 57.9% of the grad student community, which is reflective of the increasing trend of women pursuing higher education in various fields traditionally dominated by men.

The data indicates a pronounced presence of White students across all demographics. However, details regarding the breakdown of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and international students, remain unspecified. As educational institutions continue to strive for a more inclusive environment, tracking these demographic trends becomes crucial for fostering diversity and ensuring that the university serves the evolving needs of its students.

Overall, the University of Kansas appears to embrace a balanced gender representation among its student population, while also recognizing the need for further analysis of its ethnic diversity in upcoming years.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of Kansas

The age distribution of students at the University of Kansas in 2024 reveals notable trends regarding undergraduate and graduate populations. The most significant proportion of students falls within the 18-19 age category, comprising 37.9% of total male students and 43.1% of total female students. This aligns with typical enrollment patterns, where recent high school graduates primarily enroll in undergraduate programs.

As students progress through their academic journey, the number of individuals ages 20-21 remains substantial, indicating continued enrollment among those in their second year. However, the data shows a marked decline in both male and female students in the 22-24 age bracket, potentially reflecting either graduation rates or shifts toward non-traditional student demographics.

Interestingly, the data highlights a growing presence of older students, particularly within the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, who comprise 21.5% and 4.5% of total students, respectively. This shift may be attributed to the increasing trend of adults returning to education, a phenomenon seen nationwide, often driven by the evolving job market and the necessity for advanced skills.

Moreover, the representation of students aged 35 and above, while smaller, is noteworthy, emphasizing a diverse student body. The overall balance of genders across different age categories illustrates a commitment to inclusivity, which is critical in fostering an environment rich in diverse perspectives.

In conclusion, the University of Kansas showcases a dynamic age composition within its student body, reflecting broader educational trends that accommodate both traditional and non-traditional students. This varied demographic could enrich the university experience, fostering interdisciplinary dialogues and collaborative learning among students of different ages and backgrounds.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Kansas

The data reveals noticeable fluctuations in international student enrollment at the University of Kansas over nearly two decades. The figures indicate that, while the total number of undergraduate students has experienced some variation, the proportion of international students in this group has generally seen a gradual increase from 3.05% in 2005 to a peak of 6.69% in 2014, followed by a decline to 3.38% in 2024. This suggests that international student recruitment strategies and external factors, such as visa regulations, have played influential roles.

In contrast, the graduate student enrollment figures present a more complex picture. Although there has been a general decrease in the percentage of international students within the graduate population, peaking at 18.07% in 2005 and dropping to 15.53% in 2024, the absolute number of international graduate students has largely remained above 900 for most years, with an observed increase in the intervening years despite the fluctuations.

This trend is noteworthy, especially considering the broader context of a global shift towards internationalization in higher education. Economic challenges and changing immigration policies continue to influence international mobility. As competition among American institutions intensifies to attract international talent, the data suggests that the University of Kansas may need to reassess its strategies, focusing on enhancing support services for international students and creating a welcoming environment conducive to learning and cultural exchange.

Overall, the mix of a declining percentage of international undergraduates and relatively stable graduate enrollments invites key questions about the university's long-term approach to maintaining and enhancing its global engagement and diversity within the academic community.

Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Kansas:

• University of Missouri-Kansas City - Ranked 244 in the US News 2025 rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

• Kansas State University - With a rank of 165, this comprehensive university is known for its strong agricultural and engineering programs.

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln - This comprehensive university is ranked 152 and is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

• University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranked 109, this university is well-regarded for its law, journalism, and business programs.

• Creighton University - This university ranks 121 and is known for its strong programs in health sciences and business.

• University of Iowa - With a rank of 98, this university offers an extensive range of programs and is known for its excellent writing and healthcare programs.

These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the vibrant academic landscape of the region.

Analysis of Crime Statistics at the University of Kansas

The crime statistics at the University of Kansas reflect a complex landscape of safety on campus. From 2013 to 2023, there has been considerable fluctuation in the recorded crime rates per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2015 witnessed a dramatic spike in crime, with an average of 82.34 incidents per 1,000 students, a figure that stands out starkly compared to other years. Following this peak, the averages have substantially decreased, particularly in the last two years where rates dipped to below 10 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating improvements in campus security.

In examining the types of crimes reported, gun-related arrests and alcohol violations have drawn attention. While the data suggests an uptick in incidents related to gun arrests earlier on, it is crucial to approach these figures with a nuanced perspective: they often reflect broader societal issues regarding gun violence and substance abuse, which universities are not isolated from. In particular, the shifts in alcohol-related arrests highlight an ongoing battle that many colleges face regarding student safety and substance misuse.

The notable reduction in crime rates in the years 2021 and 2022 could be attributed to various factors, including increased campus safety measures, heightened awareness among students, and community engagement efforts aimed at crime prevention. It is essential for the university to continue analyzing these trends to ensure that safety measures are not only maintained but improved for the well-being of all students.

For more information on how the crime rates are calculated, you may refer to this link.