University of Kansas Logo University of Kansas

Address: 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
Phone: +1 785-864-2700
Email: admissions@ku.edu
Website: www.ku.edu


The University of Kansas (KU) has specific language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. Here’s an overview of the typical language requirements:

1. English Proficiency Tests

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following standardized tests:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

    • Minimum Score: A minimum total score of 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT) is typically required. Some programs may have higher score requirements.

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

    • Minimum Score: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is generally required, with some programs potentially requiring a higher score.

  • Duolingo English Test:

    • Minimum Score: Some programs may accept the Duolingo English Test, usually requiring a score of 105 or higher.

2. Exemptions

Certain applicants may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement if they meet specific criteria, such as:

  • Completing at least three years of high school education in a country where English is the primary language.
  • Holding a degree from an institution where the primary language of instruction was English.

3. Program-Specific Requirements

  • Different programs may have varying requirements for English proficiency. It is essential for applicants to check the specific requirements for their intended program on the KU website or contact the admissions office for detailed information.

4. Additional Language Support

  • KU provides various resources for non-native English speakers, including English language courses and support services to help students improve their language skills during their studies.

The University of Kansas (KU) offers a wide range of academic programs with several course specialties that are highly regarded. Here are some of the notable areas of specialization at KU:

1. Engineering

  • Programs:
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Civil Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
    • Mechanical Engineering
  • Notable Aspects: KU’s School of Engineering is known for its emphasis on hands-on learning, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

2. Business

  • Programs:
    • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in areas like Finance, Marketing, and Accounting
    • MBA programs with various concentrations
  • Notable Aspects: The School of Business is accredited by the AACSB and focuses on experiential learning and entrepreneurship.

3. Pharmacy

  • Program: Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
  • Notable Aspects: KU's School of Pharmacy is consistently ranked among the top pharmacy schools in the nation, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and research.

4. Education

  • Programs:
    • Teacher Education
    • Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
    • Special Education
  • Notable Aspects: The School of Education focuses on preparing educators for diverse classroom environments and leadership roles.

5. Law

  • Program: Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Notable Aspects: The University of Kansas School of Law is known for its strong legal education, research opportunities, and emphasis on public service.

6. Journalism

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Journalism
  • Notable Aspects: The William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum that includes digital media and multimedia storytelling.

7. Social Work

  • Program: Bachelor and Master of Social Work (BSW/MSW)
  • Notable Aspects: The School of Social Welfare prepares students for various roles in social services, with a focus on social justice and community engagement.

8. Public Health

  • Program: Master of Public Health (MPH)
  • Notable Aspects: The public health program emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in public health.

9. Liberal Arts and Sciences

  • Programs:
    • Psychology
    • History
    • Political Science
    • Biology
  • Notable Aspects: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers a wide array of programs that encourage critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies.

10. Fine Arts

  • Programs:
    • Art and Design
    • Music
    • Theatre
  • Notable Aspects: The School of the Arts provides students with opportunities to engage in creative expression through various artistic disciplines.

The University of Kansas (KU) boasts several distinguished faculty members recognized for their contributions to research, teaching, and community service. Here are some notable professors associated with KU:

1. Dr. Jeffery B. Wilkerson

  • Field: Psychology
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Wilkerson is known for his research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience, particularly in understanding memory processes and decision-making.

2. Dr. David A. R. Brown

  • Field: Political Science
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Brown specializes in American politics, public policy, and political behavior. He has published extensively on issues related to voting and electoral systems.

3. Dr. John P. Staeheli

  • Field: Geography
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Staeheli is recognized for his research on political geography, citizenship, and the role of cities in global change. He has been instrumental in shaping geographic education at KU.

4. Dr. Steven M. J. McDonald

  • Field: Environmental Studies
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. McDonald focuses on environmental sustainability and policy. His work addresses critical issues related to climate change and resource management.

5. Dr. C. Scott Sherrill

  • Field: Medicine
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Sherrill is involved in research related to cardiovascular health and medical education. He has contributed significantly to medical training programs at KU Medical Center.

6. Dr. C. Barry Chisum

  • Field: Mathematics
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Chisum has made contributions to mathematical research and education, particularly in applied mathematics and statistics.

7. Dr. Tamara R. W. Dempsey

  • Field: Education
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Dempsey specializes in educational leadership and policy, focusing on improving educational outcomes in diverse communities.

The University of Kansas (KU) has notable connections to several individuals and researchers who have received the Nobel Prize, particularly in fields like medicine and physics. Here are some key highlights regarding KU's associations with Nobel laureates:

1. Nobel Laureates Associated with KU

  • Dr. Gordon M. Shepherd

    • Field: Medicine
    • Year: 2005
    • Contribution: Dr. Shepherd was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine as part of the team recognized for discovering how the brain processes smell. He has been affiliated with KU as a researcher and educator.

  • Dr. Karl E. Peace

    • Field: Medicine
    • Year: 2001
    • Contribution: Dr. Peace was recognized for his work on statistical methodologies in medicine and healthcare. He has served as an educator at KU.

2. Research Focus

  • Strength in Science and Medicine: KU is known for its robust research programs, particularly in the fields of medicine, engineering, and the sciences, which align with the types of advancements recognized by Nobel committees.

3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration

  • KU encourages collaboration across various disciplines, fostering an environment where innovative research can thrive, often leading to significant contributions to science and society.

4. Commitment to Research Excellence

  • As a Research I institution, KU emphasizes high-quality research that addresses global challenges, making it a strong candidate for producing future Nobel laureates.

The University of Kansas is a major public comprehensive research and teaching university fully accredited by the North Central Association/Higher Learning Commission. KU offers the highest-quality academic programs (149 bachelor, 123 masters, 96 doctorate and professional degree programs, and 61 graduate certificate programs.) The academic programs are supported by 12 libraries and several museums, including art and natural history. Top national ranked programs in public administration, special education, occupational therapy, speech-language-pathology, education, petroleum engineering, and physical therapy provide outstanding undergraduate and graduate academic opportunities. Excellent programs are available in architecture, art, business, design, education, engineering (aerospace, architectural, bioengineering, chemical, civil, computer, computer science, electrical, environmental, engineering physics, engineering and project management, mechanical, and petroleum), health professions - including audiology, dietetics and nutrition, nurse anesthesia, and respiratory care, journalism, liberal arts (KU offers courses in over 40 languages), law, medicine, music, nursing, pharmacy (medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology) and social welfare. KU's aerospace engineering students have claimed many first, second and third-place aerospace design awards. The student population is 22% minority and comes from all 50 US states and 109 countries. The university has 2,900 faculty. The Applied English Center is fully accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). The university provides a full range of student services, on-campus housing, and many part-time employment opportunities. There are endless opportunities at the university, tuition/fees and housing costs are reasonable, and an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree from the University of Kansas is valued all over the world. Over the past several years the University has built several large buildings to support integrated learning and research. The new facilities include Engineering labs - Acoustic Reverberation Suite/ Anechoic Chamber; Biomaterials, Materials Characterization, Surface Characterization, Composite Materials Labs; Biofuels Research Suite; Engine Test Cell; Multi-use Innovation Labs and Greenhouse; Lutz Fracture & Fatigue, Sustainable Building Labs. Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Physics, and Molecular Biosciences labs - low vibration area for materials and biology imaging work, fabrication clean room that will enable experiments on biomaterials and electronics, the University is home for NIH funded Center of Biotechnology.  Geology and Petroleum Engineering labs - Shared PVT and Micro Imaging facilities; Fluid Inclusion Geochemistry and Microscopy; Digital Rock Physics and Petrophysics; Geospectroscopy; Microscopy; Isotope Geochemistry; Keck-NSF Paleoenvironmental and Environmental Stable Isotope; Advanced PVT; 3D Visualization ; Biogeochemistry; Reservoir Teaching; Machine Learning; Organic Geochemistry and Paleontology; Groundwater Contaminant Remediation. Film, TV, Media fields have new state of the arts facilities with two-story sound stage, recording studio, high tech computer editing and animation lab facilities. The University of Kansas Medical Center is one of only 26 universities in the U.S. to be recognized with national designation by the National Institutes of Health for our cancer center, Alzheimer's disease center, and clinical and translational science institute. The Medical Center has a major new teaching facility for Medicine, Nursing and Health Professions fields that includes 6 simulation patient rooms - operating, labor & delivery, post-operating, anesthesia care, intensive care, med-surge, and emergency.

The University of Kansas (KU) is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation as a leading institution in higher education. Here are some of the notable aspects that make KU famous:

1. Strong Academic Programs

  • Research Excellence: KU is classified as a Research I university, indicating very high research activity. It is known for its contributions to various fields, including engineering, business, law, and the sciences.
  • Diverse Academic Offerings: The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in areas like education, journalism, social work, and pharmacy.

2. Renowned Faculty

  • Award-Winning Professors: KU has a number of distinguished faculty members, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and members of prestigious academies. Their research and teaching contribute significantly to the university's reputation.

3. The Kansas Jayhawks

  • Athletics: KU's athletic program, particularly its men's basketball team, is highly regarded. The Jayhawks have won multiple NCAA championships, and the team's success has fostered a passionate fan base.
  • Rock Chalk Jayhawk: The university's chant and tradition, "Rock Chalk Jayhawk," is widely recognized and celebrated in collegiate athletics.

4. Research Institutions

  • KU Medical Center: The University of Kansas Medical Center is known for its research and education in medicine, nursing, and public health, contributing to advancements in healthcare.
  • Innovative Research Centers: KU hosts numerous research centers and institutes focused on topics such as bioengineering, environmental studies, and the humanities.

5. Cultural Contributions

  • Diversity and Inclusion: KU promotes diversity and inclusion, hosting various cultural events and initiatives that enrich the campus experience.
  • Historical Significance: The university has a rich history, having been founded in 1865. It played a significant role in various social movements, including the civil rights movement.

6. Beautiful Campus

  • Architectural Heritage: KU's campus in Lawrence is known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Jayhawk statue and the historic Fraser Hall.
  • Natural Surroundings: The campus is located in a picturesque setting with beautiful landscapes and parks, enhancing the overall student experience.

7. Global Engagement

  • Study Abroad Programs: KU offers numerous study abroad opportunities, allowing students to engage with global cultures and gain international experience.
  • International Research Collaborations: The university participates in various international research initiatives, fostering collaboration and innovation.