University of Missouri-Kansas City

Nestled in the heart of Kansas City, the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) stands as a vibrant public research institution and a cornerstone of higher education in the region. As the largest university in the Kansas City metropolitan area, UMKC proudly holds a prestigious Carnegie “R1: Very High Research Activity” designation, making it the only R1 university in Kansas City. This commitment to groundbreaking research is matched by its extensive academic offerings, encompassing over 125 degree programs across 12 distinct academic units.

UMKC's rich history traces back to the ambitious Lincoln and Lee University movement of the 1920s, a vision championed by the Methodist Church to create a university where "North met South and East met West." This grand plan eventually merged with the existing Kansas City Dental School, leading to the establishment of the University of Kansas City in 1933. Philanthropist William Volker played a pivotal role, donating the land that would become the university's campus, including the historic Dickey mansion, which served as its first building.

Today, UMKC is renowned for its strong professional schools, including a highly respected medical school, a prominent law school, and Missouri’s only public School of Dentistry. With an enrollment exceeding 15,300 students, UMKC offers a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Prospective students and their families will discover a university deeply integrated into the cultural and economic fabric of Kansas City, providing unparalleled opportunities for learning, research, and community engagement.