University of Kansas

Public research university · Lawrence, Kansas

Illustration of University of Kansas

Overview

The University of Kansas is the state's flagship university, set on Mount Oread above Lawrence and famous for Jayhawks basketball.

History

The university was founded in 1865. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, coached and taught there.

Today

KU is Lawrence's largest employer, and games and campus events bring large crowds.

Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.