about the campus

University of Kansas > Student Life – About the Campus

Exploring Campus

Considered one the most beautiful campuses in the nation, KU's central campus occupies 1,000 acres on and around historic Mount Oread in Lawrence, a community of about 100,000 in the forested hills in eastern Kansas. Ten of KU's 13 schools are based in Lawrence, as are internationally recognized research centers and laboratories.

KU Campus highlights

#4 Emerging STEM Center - Forbes, 2018

Modern and convenient student housing

Advanced laboratories and other facilities

More than 4km in size, including lots of green outdoor areas.

Bus transportation for on-campus and off-campus travel

11 Centers oversee research

Learn More about Research at KU

Traveling around campus

walking
Walking

Convenient and a great way to enjoy the fresh air. You can walk from the residence halls located on Daisy Hill to class in about fifteen minutes.

bicycle
Biking

Riding a bicycle is an easy and healthy way to travel around campus. KU was awarded Bronze as Top Bicycle Friendly University in the United States.

bus-gray
KU on Wheels

KU on Wheels is the transit system for KU and is a division of the Lawrence transit system. It's free with a KU ID card. Students can travel on-campus, off-campus, for shopping, downtown activities, and more.

Safety Comes First

To help you get the best U.S. university experience possible, KU emphasizes a peaceful and supportive environment on campus. Here are just a few of the programs and features available to all KU students.

Safebus

Safebus is a nighttime bus route throughout Lawrence, including downtown. Safebus operates Thursday through Saturday typically from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am. It is free with a KU ID card.

Saferide

Saferide is a free car service transporting you to your place of residence only. It operates seven days a week from 10:30 pm to 2:30 am when the semester is in session.

Residence Hall Building Security

All residents must scan their KU ID card to enter their building. All guests must check into the front desk and their host must escort their guest throughout the building. Student security staff members walk throughout buildings from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am. Resident staff is on call 24/7.

staying active
and healthy

Helpful Resources

Ambler Student Recreation Fitness Center

The Ambler Student Recreation Fitness Center features state-of-the-art facilities, including exercise machines, a rock climbing wall, basketball and racquetball courts. The Fitness Center also includes opportunities for students to sign up for intramurals, sport clubs and outdoor pursuits programs.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

CAPS aids in the emotional and psychological development of students in the university environment to enhance performance and assist in the evaluation of student academic progress.

Watkins Health Center

Watkins Health Center provides full-service, high-quality medical care through a team of dedicated professionals. The health center is a student-focused and student-friendly center. Students have access to a 24/7 Nurse Helpline, ability to schedule appointments to meet with a doctor, and a walk-in clinic to treat common illness and minor injuries. The onsite pharmacy can fill any valid prescription written by a healthcare provider licensed to practice in the United States and help students choose the best over-the-counter medication for your needs.

Ready to explore beyond the KU campus?

Lawrence has several must-see festivals and events that every local and visitor should attend while living in Lawrence. Check out these popular attractions and events.

Life in Lawrence»

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