School of Professional Studies graduation

Cutting-edge programs to develop sought-after skills

The KU School of Professional Studies includes programs for some of the most in-demand professions in today’s workforce that will help propel your career and earning potential.

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+35 fields of study tailored to your needs and interests

The KU School of Professional Studies (SPS) offers a variety of degree, certificate, and minor options to help start, change, or advance your career and earning potential to match your ambition. With programs suited for all types of students, SPS course formats, class schedules, and student services are designed to meet the needs of the diverse and growing local, nationwide, and global workforce.

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SPS offers classes at the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, the Lawrence campus, and online to accommodate students who may work full-time, have considerable commitments outside the classroom, or are looking for a fresh approach to earning academic credentials and valuable experiences.

Degree and certificate areas of study include:

  • American Sign Language & Deaf Studies
  • Communication
  • Criminal Justice
  • Health
  • Management
  • Technology

School of Profession Studies at a glance

$94K
Estimated annual graduate program alumni salary*
92%
2020-23 graduates employed or continuing their education within six months
$74K
Estimated annual undergraduate program alumni salary*
4
New programs launched in 2023

Learn from industry experts to advance your career

As a student in the School of Professional Studies, you’ll collaborate with students and faculty across various disciplines to build a professional network that goes beyond the classroom to strengthen your career path. Our graduates have established successful careers in the Kansas City area and across the nation in industries like scientific, technical, and educational services, chemical manufacturing, software development, organizational communication, health and policy management, and more.*
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Professor teaches ASL

Your academic program options

We offer a range of degrees, certificates, minors and programs for working professionals and more:

See our degrees and certificates

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Contact us to receive info on admissions, cost, career paths, curriculum, and more

Academic and research opportunities with potential and value

The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university and is one of only 38 public institutions among the Association of American Universities — a prestigious group of leading research universities. The mission of KU and SPS is to uplift students and society by educating leaders, building healthy communities, and making discoveries that change the world.

Kaitlyn Sy

"Since many of the faculty at the School of Professional Studies either worked or are currently working in the industry, they take a very pragmatic approach to education — teaching students what the industry needs us to know and giving us hands-on experiences so we can apply what we learn immediately.”


Kaitlyn Sy
2024 SPS graduate
Austin Beahm

"SPS was a great choice because I’ve built relationships with faculty and students and was able to give time to my job and family. I’ve had the opportunity to pursue experiences that set me up for future success. Financially it made sense because I transferred a number of credits from a community college, which allowed me to save money.”


Austin Beahm
2023 SPS graduate

Join us on campus

Explore and learn more about the School of Professional Studies at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park or the Lawrence campus. Tour our innovative facilities, meet our award-winning faculty, and so much more.

FAQ: School of Professional Studies

Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.

SPS programs are offered on campus, online, and in hybrid-style classes at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park or the Lawrence campus. Review our degrees and certificates to see what’s available for your interests.

On-campus and online students have access to financial aid and scholarships. Check out what support and scholarships you qualify for.

Absolutely. SPS is one of 14 academic schools at KU and has some of the fastest growing programs at the university.

Learn more about the School of Professional Studies

Get more info on admission, deadlines, tuition and financial aid, career paths, curriculum, and more by filling out the form below. We’ll be in touch to answer any questions and help you get started.



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*Source: Lightcast


The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC)

The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) is part of the KU School of Professional Studies. KLETC directly trains most municipal, county, and state law enforcement officers in Kansas. KLETC oversees, supervises, and monitors the training of the remaining officers at eight authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies.