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Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS

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Quick Facts

"Rule by Obeying Nature's Laws"

1863
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
14,835
Total Students
16,555
Undergrad
4,658
Graduate
$849M
Endowment
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
79%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
6-year
87%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Richard Linton

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Kansas State University

A pioneering land-grant powerhouse driving research, innovation, and global impact.

Kansas State University, affectionately known as K-State, stands as a historic public land-grant research institution with a proud legacy of pioneering education. Founded in 1863 as the first land-grant college under the Morrill Act, it not only holds the distinction of being the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas but also made history by opening its doors to men and women equally from its very first session. This commitment to accessible, comprehensive education continues to shape K-State's vibrant academic community.

Today, K-State is recognized as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," a testament to its significant contributions across numerous fields. Prospective students can explore a rich array of academic opportunities administered through nine colleges, offering 65 master's and 45 doctoral degree programs. Noteworthy strengths include its esteemed College of Veterinary Medicine and the specialized College of Technology and Aviation at its Salina campus. The Olathe Innovation Campus further expands its research prowess, focusing on critical areas like bioenergy, animal health, plant science, and food safety and security.

With a motto, "Rule by Obeying Nature's Laws," K-State fosters an environment where inquiry and application thrive. From its early pioneering of home economics for women in 1873 to its ambitious "K-State 2025" plan aimed at elevating its national research standing, the university consistently demonstrates a forward-thinking approach. Students at K-State join a tradition of innovation, research excellence, and a commitment to making a tangible impact on the world, preparing them for diverse and impactful careers.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1863, it was the first land-grant college created under the Morrill Act and the first public institution of higher learning in Kansas.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its significant research contributions.
  • Pioneered co-education, admitting women and men equally from its opening session in September 1863.
  • One of the first two colleges in the U.S. to offer academic teaching of home economics for women, starting in 1873.
  • Offers 65 master's and 45 doctoral degree programs across its nine colleges.
  • Manages an endowment of approximately $0.8 billion and serves over 21,213 students.
  • Home to specialized campuses in Salina (Technology & Aviation) and Olathe (graduate research in bioenergy, animal health, plant science, and food safety).

Timeline

1863
Founded as Kansas State Agricultural College, the first land-grant college under the Morrill Act and first public institution of higher learning in Kansas.
1863
Opened its first session, becoming one of the first public institutions to admit women and men equally.
1873
Pioneered the academic teaching of home economics for women.
1875
Moved its main campus to its present site.
1928
Accredited by the Association of American Universities (AAU).
1931
Name changed to Kansas State College of Agriculture and Applied Science.
1959
Name changed to Kansas State University of Agriculture and Applied Science (commonly known as Kansas State University).
2011
Opened the Olathe branch campus.
🏛️
163 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Kansas State University

🏥

College of Veterinary Medicine

One of the academic colleges offering various degree programs, contributing to the university's research excellence.

🏫

College of Technology and Aviation

Located at the Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus, focusing on specialized technology and aviation programs.

Leadership

Jesse Perez Mendez
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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