University of Kansas - School of Law

Kansas Law is certainly considered a legal powerhouse in the Midwest. The university “offers a wide variety of classes that suit all types of students interested in an array of legal areas.” As one third-year shares, “I've never found it challenging to find classes I'm interested in taking. [In fact,] there are usually too many classes and I have to narrow it down to what fits into my schedule the best.” Moreover, students benefit from a curriculum that manages to deftly balance a “mix of traditional legal theory with practical skills.” Another satisfied third-year adds, “The clinical programs are numerous and diverse. A student could have practical experience in every semester as an upperclassman, just through the clinics and externships provided by the school.” However, some students do grumble that “the mandatory grade curve puts KU students at a disadvantage compared to other law schools within the region.”
Students at KU seem to fully enjoy their time in the classroom. This can certainly be attributed to “absolutely fantastic professors” who are “brilliant, approachable, and want to be there.” It’s readily apparent that they “genuinely love their job and love the university.” As one knowing third-year succinctly states, “They are very knowledgeable in their subject areas, friendly, accessible, and willing to help each student succeed.”
One area that could use a little improvement is the actual law school building. Many say that it feels “dated” and a first-year colorfully suggests that it resembles an “old airport.” Further, a disgruntled second-year laments that it’s “crowded with print resources no one uses, lacking moot court space, lacking group study space [and] lacking effective air conditioning.” Fortunately, though the law building might leave some wanting, the university’s “research resources are also quite simply, wonderful.” A first-year explains, “Our library is well stocked, and our librarians are very helpful, as well as available to us at all times. KU Law also provides us with Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg research trainings, and representatives from those companies are available 24/7.”
Finally, students also greatly appreciate the fact the administration is “very hands on.” In fact, even the “Dean teaches classes and takes the time to mingle with the students constantly.” As one excited first-year pleasantly sums up, “KU Law is still the most welcoming, diverse, inclusive, and supportive group of individuals I've yet to meet, and I would recommend it to anybody looking to law as a profession.”

Students at Kansas speak highly of their peers, finding them (among other choice adjectives) friendly, caring and helpful. As a second-year emphatically states, “The greatest strength of KU Law is that it is very congenial among the students. You hear these horror stories when you apply to law school of students stealing notes or destroying each other’s outlines for a competitive edge, but the experience here at KU is much different. While people are still competing for rank, they are still willing to help each other out and compete in an honest and fair way. This, I believe, leads to a much more conducive environment for learning and excelling.” A first-year concurs adding that “all of the 2Ls and 3Ls are very kind and supportive to new 1Ls and everyone looks out for one another.”
Beyond a warm and welcoming vibe, KU Law also provides students with a myriad of professional opportunities. As one proactive third-year delights in sharing, “I have had the opportunity to participate in an externship/clinic, serve on a legal publication, and work as a research assistant for a professor.” Moreover, due to “KUs geographical location, it is midway between Kansas City and Topeka, there is an extensive range of externship options, either in a big city or in a state capital.” Of course, fear not; these future JDs are also able to indulge in a little R & R every now and again. Indeed, we’ve been assured that KU offers a “great balance of school and fun” and students find plenty of time to “go out and socialize with [their] law school friends.” Not surprisingly, everyone loves supporting the Jayhawks!