UMKC

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is a public research university located in the vibrant heart of Kansas City, Missouri. As part of the University of Missouri System, UMKC offers a diverse and inclusive environment with over 15,300 students and more than 125 degree programs across 12 academic units. UMKC holds a Carnegie "R1: Very High Research Activity" designation, making it the only R1 university in Kansas City.

Academics

UMKC provides a wide array of academic programs through its 12 schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the Henry W. Bloch School of Management, the School of Science and Engineering, the School of Medicine, and the Conservatory of Music and Dance. The university is particularly noted for its unique six-year medical program and Missouri's only public dental school. UMKC's graduate programs are highly regarded, with several ranking among the top 100 in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, including Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Pharmacy, and the School of Law's legal writing graduate programs. The teaching approach emphasizes real-world application, with opportunities for hands-on projects and practicum courses.

International Students

UMKC is a welcoming campus for international students, hosting individuals from over 85 countries, with international students making up approximately 5.7% of the student body. The International Student Affairs Office (ISAO) provides comprehensive support services, including admissions and recruitment assistance, arrival support, immigration and international advising, and cultural events. While many programs are taught in English, international students are required to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. UMKC fosters cultural integration through numerous student organizations, including the African Students' Association, which promotes cultural awareness and diversity.

Campus & Location

UMKC's main Volker campus is situated in an urban setting, offering a dynamic atmosphere close to Kansas City's city center. The campus features modern and historic buildings, including the Miller Nichols Library, the Student Union, and the Durwood Stadium. Students can easily explore Kansas City's rich arts and culture scene, museums, art galleries, music venues, and diverse culinary options, including its famous barbecue. Transportation is convenient with the KC Streetcar, which has a stop just steps away from the Volker Campus, offering free rides to various city attractions. Additionally, RideKC buses provide extensive service to the campus and surrounding areas, with UMKC student IDs often serving as a transit pass.

Career Outcomes

UMKC is dedicated to student success, with 92% of its graduates employed or pursuing advanced degrees within six months of earning their bachelor's degree. The median starting salary for UMKC graduates with a bachelor's degree has returned to pre-COVID levels at $56,000. The university's Career Services office provides extensive resources, including career coaching, resume and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, and job and internship search support. UMKC has strong industry connections within Kansas City, a major economic hub with a significant presence in finance, banking, consulting, computer science, engineering, healthcare, and biosciences. Large employers like Cerner/Oracle, Garmin, T-Mobile, and Hallmark frequently connect with UMKC students for internships and job placements.