University of Missouri-Kansas City

Step into a world of academic innovation and urban vitality at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), the largest university in the Kansas City metropolitan area. As a proud member of the University of Missouri System, UMKC stands out with its prestigious "R1: Very High Research Activity" designation, making it the only R1 university in the heart of Kansas City. With over 15,300 students, UMKC offers an extensive array of more than 125 degree programs across 12 academic units, ensuring every student can find their path to success.

The university's rich history traces back to the ambitious Lincoln and Lee University movement of the 1920s, conceptualized by the Methodist Church. This vision, which sought to create a significant educational institution where "North met South and East met West," merged with the Kansas City Dental School in 1930. The formal establishment of the University of Kansas City in 1933 marked the birth of what would become a cornerstone of education in the region, built on land generously donated by William Volker.

UMKC is particularly renowned for its robust professional schools, including a highly respected medical school, a dynamic law school, and Missouri's *only* public School of Dentistry. These programs, alongside a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate offerings, provide unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and community engagement, fostering an environment where students can truly make an impact.

Beyond academics, UMKC places you in the vibrant cultural hub of Kansas City, offering a lively student experience with a strong sense of community. Whether you're pursuing groundbreaking research, mastering a performance art, or preparing for a career in healthcare or law, UMKC provides the resources and environment to thrive, embodying its motto, "Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law."