The University of Kansas began teaching classes through its law department in 1878, but it wasn't until 15 years later that the school formally established the University of Kansas School of Law. These days, KU Law features a strong tribal law department, and students can specialize in the representation of indigenous people through a certification in tribal lawyering or a JD/MA program in law and global indigenous nations studies. The school also hosts a tribal judicial support clinic to assist Native Americans in navigating both American and tribal law processes.

UK Law manages another nine joint degree programs that enable law students to combine their studies with departments across the university. The school's JD curriculum is the classic core courses followed by a selection of elective courses. Upper-level students can choose from a list of some 100 electives. Alumni tell Vault that KU Law's reputation can't be beat for employment within the state. Outside of Kansas, a large number of graduates practice in firms in Omaha, Tulsa, St. Louis and Phoenix. During their four years at UK Law, students benefit from the entertainment options of a college town with a large undergraduate population. However, some students prefer to separate themselves from the undergrads, and with Kansas City only half an hour away, many spend their weekends in the city and return to the quieter Lawrence for their studies during the week.