What is the full name and common abbreviation for the university located in Kansas City, Missouri, that is part of the University of Missouri System?

The university is officially named the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and it is commonly abbreviated as UMKC or referred to simply as Kansas City. It is a public research university and a component of the larger University of Missouri System.

What was the approximate student enrollment at UMKC for the 2023-2024 academic year?

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the University of Missouri–Kansas City had an enrollment of over 15,300 students. This makes it the largest university in the Kansas City metropolitan area and among the top three postsecondary institutions in the region by enrollment.

What academic designation does UMKC hold according to the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education?

UMKC holds a Carnegie designation of "R1: Very High Research Activity." This classification indicates a high level of research output and is a significant indicator of a university's commitment to advanced research.

What unique distinction does UMKC's School of Dentistry hold within Missouri?

UMKC is home to the School of Dentistry, which is the only public dental school in the state of Missouri. This institution plays a crucial role in dental education and public health within the state.

What were the origins of the University of Missouri–Kansas City, tracing back to the Lincoln and Lee University movement?

The university's roots lie in the Lincoln and Lee University movement initiated by the Methodist Church and Bishop Ernest Lynn Waldorf in the 1920s. This proposed university was intended to honor Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee and was planned for a location on the Missouri-Kansas border.

When did the University of Kansas City (KCU) officially begin holding classes, and what was its initial enrollment?

The University of Kansas City, or KCU, held its first classes in October 1933. It began with a faculty of 17 and an initial student enrollment of 264 students.

Which local private institutions were incorporated into the University of Kansas City (KCU) during its growth period?

As the University of Kansas City grew, it incorporated several existing local private institutions. These included the Kansas City School of Law (merged in 1938), the Kansas City-Western Dental College (merged in 1941), the Kansas City College of Pharmacy (merged in 1943), and the Kansas City Conservatory of Music (merged in 1959).

What significant change occurred for the University of Kansas City (KCU) on July 25, 1963?

On July 25, 1963, the University of Kansas City became part of the University of Missouri System. This transition involved the transfer of assets, including 23 buildings, and led to the university's renaming to the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC).

What was the outcome of the 2012 study regarding a potential name change for the university?

In 2012, UMKC conducted studies on renaming the school back to the University of Kansas City while remaining within the University of Missouri system. However, the university decided against the name change, noting that while prospective students and the community showed interest, current students, faculty, staff, and alumni did not favor the change at that time.

What criticisms were leveled against UMKC in the mid to late 2010s?

In the mid to late 2010s, UMKC faced criticism regarding alleged corruption and cover-ups, with accusations of prioritizing outside funding over other concerns. Specific issues included faculty exploitation of international students and the use of false data to inflate the business school's rankings.

According to the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, where did UMKC place among National Universities?

According to the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the University of Missouri–Kansas City was ranked #232 (tied) in the category of National Universities. This ranking reflects its performance across various indicators of academic excellence.

What is UMKC's mascot, and who originally designed it?

UMKC's mascot is Kasey the Kangaroo. The original design of the mascot is attributed to Walt Disney.

When did UMKC officially rebrand its athletic program to the Kansas City Roos?

The athletic program at UMKC officially rebranded itself as the Kansas City Roos on July 1, 2019. This change reflected a broader effort to align the athletic identity with the university's metropolitan location.

What athletic conference is UMKC currently a member of, and when did it rejoin?

UMKC is a member of the NCAA's Division I Summit League. The university rejoined this conference on July 1, 2020, after previously competing in the Western Athletic Conference for seven years.

Which UMKC sports teams play their home games at the Swinney Recreation Center?

The men's and women's basketball teams at UMKC play their home games at the Swinney Recreation Center. This facility also houses various other athletic and recreational amenities.

What NCAA record did the UMKC men's soccer team set in 2001?

On October 12, 2001, the UMKC men's soccer team set an NCAA record for the fastest trio of goals scored in Division I soccer during the MLS era, achieving three goals in just 1 minute and 46 seconds against Valparaiso University.

What are the primary campuses of UMKC?

UMKC operates primarily across two main locations in Kansas City: the Volker Campus, which hosts the majority of university operations, and the Health Sciences District (HSD) campus located on Hospital Hill. Additionally, the School of Medicine has a campus in St. Joseph, Missouri.

What is the significance of the UMKC Health Sciences District (HSD)?

The UMKC Health Sciences District, formed in 2017, is a unique partnership between the university, local and state governments, and major healthcare institutions like University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital. It aims to foster collaboration in research, innovation, education, and community outreach to advance health and wellness in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

What is notable about the UMKC School of Medicine's six-year program?

The UMKC School of Medicine is recognized for its six-year post-secondary program, which allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts and a Doctor of Medicine degree within a six-year timeframe. This accelerated program is designed to streamline medical education.

Which UMKC academic units are located on the Health Sciences District campus?

The Health Sciences District campus houses several key health-related academic units: the School of Nursing and Health Studies, the School of Medicine, the School of Dentistry, and the School of Pharmacy.

What is the purpose of the new medical education building opened on the UMKC School of Medicine's St. Joseph campus in August 2025?

The new 22,000-square-foot, $14.5 million medical education building on the UMKC School of Medicine's St. Joseph campus is designed to expand rural health education. It includes classrooms, simulation labs, and clinical training spaces to support this goal.

Which UMKC law school graduates are notable for having educated both a U.S. President and a U.S. Supreme Court Justice?

The UMKC School of Law is notable for having educated both Harry S. Truman, who became a U.S. President, and Charles Evans Whittaker, who served as a Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. It's important to note that Truman attended but did not graduate from the law school.

What literary and radio programs are associated with UMKC?

UMKC is the home of 'New Letters,' a literary magazine, and the nationally syndicated public radio program 'New Letters on the Air.' The university also broadcasts programming via KCUR, its NPR affiliate.

When did the Fungal Genetics Stock Center (FGSC) relocate to UMKC, and what is its role?

The Fungal Genetics Stock Center (FGSC) moved to UMKC in 2004 and is housed within the School of Biological Sciences. Founded in 1960 and supported by the National Science Foundation, the FGSC distributes research materials globally and is part of the World Federation for Culture Collections.

Which UMKC MFA program received national recognition from The Hollywood Reporter?

The MFA costume design program at UMKC Theatre was recognized by The Hollywood Reporter, being ranked among the top 10 best costume design schools in the country for 2017, 2018, and 2019.

What is the Supplemental Instruction program, and where was it established?

The Supplemental Instruction (SI) program is an academic support initiative designed to help students succeed in challenging courses. This program was established and developed at the University of Missouri–Kansas City.

What are the names of the two main buildings connected on four floors that house the School of Biological Sciences?

The Biological Sciences Building, built in 1972, is connected on four of its floors to the Spencer Chemistry Building. These buildings house offices, classrooms, and research laboratories for the School of Biological Sciences and the Chemistry Department, respectively.

Which building on the UMKC campus is the largest and houses the School of Computing and Engineering?

Flarsheim Hall, completed in 1999, is the largest building on UMKC's campus. It houses the Chemistry, Physics, and Geosciences departments, as well as the School of Computing and Engineering.

What is the significance of the Volker Campus name?

The Volker Campus is named after William Volker, who purchased and donated the land for the University of Kansas City. The campus was originally established on a 40-acre plot donated by him.

Which building on the Quad contains large murals along its main stairwell and houses the Mathematics and Communication Studies departments?

Haag Hall, built in 1937, contains offices and classrooms for the departments of Mathematics and Communication Studies. It is also known for its large murals along the main stairwell and is connected to Royall and Flarsheim Halls.

What is the historical significance of Epperson House, and what is its current status?

Epperson House, a Tudor-Gothic structure completed in 1923, was originally a private residence donated to the university for use as a men's dormitory. It is well-known for its reported hauntings and was featured on 'Unsolved Mysteries.' Currently, the house sits vacant and unused, awaiting a decision on its future purpose.

What was the original purpose of the University Center, and what did it become after renovations?

The University Center, built in 1961, originally housed the student dining hall and Pierson Auditorium. After undergoing renovations in 2012, it was rededicated as the Atterbury Student Success Center, focusing on promoting student academic achievement.

What facilities are available at the Swinney Recreation Center?

The Swinney Recreation Center offers a wide range of facilities, including five basketball courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, racquetball and squash courts, a weight-training center, a soccer field, and indoor and outdoor tracks. It is also one of only three locations in Kansas City with squash courts.

What is the James C. Olson Center for the Performing Arts commonly known as on campus, and what does it house?

The James C. Olson Center for the Performing Arts is commonly referred to as the PAC (Performing Arts Center) on campus. It partially houses the Conservatory of Music and Dance, the Department of Theatre, and the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, and includes White Recital Hall, Helen F. Spencer Theatre, and Studio 116.

What was the tradition known as Hobo Day, and what replaced it?

Hobo Day, later known as Bum Friday, was a campus-wide event established on May 8, 1935, to celebrate the end of the spring semester with students dressing as hobos and participating in various events. In 1982, the Student Life Office discontinued Bum Friday and replaced it with 'Roo Fest,' which lacked many of the original traditions.

What is the origin and location of the Bounder Bells at UMKC?

The Bounder Bells are a 49-bell carillon purchased through donations from alumni of the former Bounders Fraternity. Dedicated in May 1989, the carillon is located in the tower of the Swinney Recreation Center and can be controlled by an electronic keyboard to play melodies.

Who is the current Chancellor of UMKC?

As of the provided text, C. Mauli Agrawal is the current Chancellor of UMKC, serving since 2018.

What is the motto of the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and what does it mean in English?

The motto of UMKC is 'Salus populi suprema lex esto,' which is Latin for 'Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law.' This motto reflects a commitment to public service and community well-being.

What are the official colors of UMKC?

The official colors of the University of Missouri–Kansas City are blue and gold. These colors are often represented as royal blue and old gold.

What is the name of UMKC's student newspaper?

The student newspaper at UMKC is called 'Roo News'.

What is the Carnegie classification for UMKC, and what does it signify?

UMKC holds the Carnegie classification of 'R1: Very High Research Activity.' This designation signifies that the university is among the top tier of research institutions in the United States, indicating extensive research endeavors and output.

What academic affiliations does UMKC hold, as mentioned in the infobox?

UMKC is affiliated with the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU), the Great Cities' Universities (GCU), and the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities (USU). It also participates in the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program.

What was the approximate endowment of UMKC as of 2023?

As of 2023, UMKC's endowment was approximately $204.14 million for UMKC specifically, and $2.24 billion system-wide for the University of Missouri System.

What was the operating budget for UMKC for Fiscal Year 2024?

The operating budget for UMKC for Fiscal Year 2024 was $457.46 million.

What is the campus size of UMKC's main Volker Campus?

The Volker Campus of UMKC is described as a large city campus, covering 157 acres, which is equivalent to 0.2 square miles or 63.5 hectares.

Which academic units are housed in Flarsheim Hall?

Flarsheim Hall houses the Chemistry, Physics, and Geosciences departments, as well as the School of Computing and Engineering. It is the largest building on the UMKC campus.

What is the significance of the name 'Volker Fountain'?

The Volker Fountain, located on Brush Creek opposite the Nelson Gallery, is named in honor of William Volker, who donated the land for the University of Kansas City. It is a notable landmark associated with the university's history.

What is the role of the University Archives and the Western Historical Manuscript Collection at UMKC?

The University Archives and the Western Historical Manuscript Collection are housed in Newcomb Hall. These collections preserve and provide access to historical records and documents related to the university and the region.

What is the UMKC School of Medicine's six-year program designed to achieve?

The UMKC School of Medicine's six-year program is designed to allow students to complete both a Bachelor of Arts and a Doctor of Medicine degree, streamlining the path to becoming a physician.

What is the primary function of the Atterbury Student Success Center?

The Atterbury Student Success Center, formerly the University Center, was renovated in 2012 with the primary purpose of promoting student academic success. It serves as a hub for student support services.

What is the significance of the UMKC School of Law in terms of notable alumni?

The UMKC School of Law is distinguished by having educated both a U.S. President, Harry S. Truman, and a U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Charles Evans Whittaker. This highlights the caliber of individuals who have passed through its programs.

University Of Missouri U2013kansas City Wiki: UMKC: Charting the Course of Higher Education in Kansas City

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University Overview

Urban Research Hub

The University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) is a distinguished public research university situated in Kansas City, Missouri. As a vital component of the University of Missouri System, UMKC is recognized for its significant contributions to research and education, holding a Carnegie R1 designation for "Very High Research Activity."

Student Body

For the 2023-2024 academic year, UMKC served over 15,300 students, making it the largest university in the Kansas City metropolitan area. It ranks among the top three postsecondary institutions in the region by enrollment, offering more than 125 degree programs across its 12 academic units.

Strategic Location

Located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, UMKC's main Volker Campus is situated east of the Country Club Plaza, adjacent to prominent research institutions like the Stowers Institute for Medical Research and the Linda Hall Library. This strategic placement fosters collaboration and community engagement.

A Legacy of Growth

Early Foundations

UMKC's origins trace back to the early 20th century, with roots in various independent institutions. The concept of a unified university began with the Lincoln and Lee University movement in the 1920s, envisioned by the Methodist Church. This plan merged with the Kansas City Dental School, leading to the establishment of the University of Kansas City (KCU) in October 1933.

Consolidation and Expansion

Throughout the mid-20th century, KCU grew by incorporating other local institutions, including the School of Law (1938), the Dental College (1941), and the College of Pharmacy (1943). The Conservatory of Music joined in 1959, solidifying its comprehensive academic structure.

Joining the System

A pivotal moment occurred on July 25, 1963, when the University of Kansas City officially became part of the University of Missouri System, adopting its current name: University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC). This integration expanded its resources and reach, enabling further development of its professional schools.

Academic Excellence

Research Prowess

UMKC is recognized as an R1: Very High Research Activity university, the only institution in Kansas City to hold this designation. This signifies a commitment to advanced research and scholarly pursuits across its diverse academic units.

Key Schools

The university comprises numerous schools and departments, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
Conservatory of Music and Dance
Henry W. Bloch School of Management
School of Science and Engineering
School of Dentistry (Missouri's only public dental school)
School of Education
School of Law
School of Medicine
School of Nursing and Health Studies
School of Pharmacy
School of Graduate Studies

Innovative Programs

UMKC's School of Medicine is noted for its unique six-year program, integrating Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine degrees. The School of Law has a distinguished history, having educated a U.S. President and a Supreme Court Justice.

National & Global Standing

U.S. News Rankings

According to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, UMKC is recognized among national universities:

#232 (tie) in National Universities
#129 (tie) in Top Public Schools

International Recognition

UMKC also features in global university assessments, reflecting its international research impact:

ARWU: 801–900
QS World University Rankings: 1001–1200
Times Higher Education: 501–600
U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities: 681

Detailed Demographics

Student demographics provide insight into the university's diverse community:

Undergraduate Demographics (Fall 2023)
Race/Ethnicity	Percentage
White	48%
Hispanic	16%
Black	14%
Asian	11%
Two or more races	5%
International	4%
Unknown	1%
Economic Diversity	Percentage
Low-income (Pell Grant recipients)	39%
Affluent (Middle Class Minimum)	61%

Campus Athletics

The Kansas City Roos

UMKC's athletic teams are known as the Kansas City Roos. The mascot, Kasey the Kangaroo, has roots tracing back to Walt Disney's studio. The university's official colors are royal blue and gold.

Conference Affiliations

UMKC competes in NCAA Division I as a member of the Summit League. The university sponsors 16 intercollegiate sports for both men and women, including basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, and track & field.

Facilities

Key athletic venues include Swinney Recreation Center, home to basketball and indoor sports, and Durwood Soccer Stadium. The university also participates in the Summit League conference.

Campus Locations

Volker Campus

The primary campus, the Volker Campus, is located in Kansas City, Missouri's Rockhill neighborhood, adjacent to the Country Club Plaza. It houses the majority of academic operations and student facilities, including buildings like Flarsheim Hall, Haag Hall, and Scofield Hall.

Health Sciences District

UMKC's Health Sciences District, situated on Hospital Hill, is a significant collaborative hub. It hosts the Schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and Pharmacy, fostering interdisciplinary health education and research in partnership with major healthcare providers.

St. Joseph Campus

The UMKC School of Medicine also operates a campus in St. Joseph, Missouri. This location recently opened a new medical education building, enhancing its capacity for rural health education and clinical training.

Leadership & Influence

University Chancellors

UMKC has been led by a succession of distinguished individuals since its inception. The current Chancellor, C. Mauli Agrawal, has guided the university since 2018. The list of past leaders includes notable figures who shaped the institution's trajectory.

Ernest H. Newcomb (1933–1936)
John Duncan Spaeth (1936–1938)
Clarence Decker (1938–1953)
Earl J. McGrath (1953–1956)
Richard M. Drake (1956–1961)
Carleton F. Scofield (1961–1965)
Randall M. Whaley (1965–1967)
James C. Olson (1968–1976)
George A. Russell (1977–1992)
Eleanor Schwartz (1992–1999)
Martha Gilliland (2000–2005)
Guy Bailey (2006–2008)
Leo Morton (2008–2017)
C. Mauli Agrawal (2018–Present)

Campus Traditions

Hobo Day / Roo Fest

A well-known historical tradition was Hobo Day, later known as Bum Friday, celebrated at the end of the spring semester. Students would dress as hobos for a day of events. This tradition was replaced by "Roo Fest" in 1982.

The Bounder Bells

The Bounder Bells, a 49-bell carillon, were dedicated on campus in May 1989. Located in the tower of the Swinney Recreation Center, these bells are programmed to ring on the hour and play melodies, adding a distinctive auditory element to campus life.

Greek Life

Greek Life at UMKC involves approximately 24 Greek Letter Organizations. While the Greek population is relatively modest, many chapters have achieved recognition through awards from their international offices, contributing to campus vibrancy.

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References

The percentage of students who received an income-based federal Pell grant intended for low-income students.

The percentage of students who are a part of the American middle class at the bare minimum.

Link Names for Schools â The Kansas City Star â December 16, 1930 â Page 1

"After hiding details about studentâs death, UMKC needs to change its cover-up culture"

"UMKC widens investigation after Star found professor used his students as servants"

"Professor used students as servants"

"UMKC chancellor apologizes for use of flawed data in pursuit of rankings"

"Bloch School leader: No. 1 ranking lacked credibility"

"A deceptive jobs claim keeps cropping up at Bloch School"

Burmeister, S. L. (1996). Supplemental Instruction: An interview with Deanna Martin. Journal of Developmental Education, 20(1), 22-24, 26

A full list of references for this article are available at the University of Missouri–Kansas City Wikipedia page

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Important Disclaimers

Educational Context

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current.

This is not official university advice. Information provided here should not substitute consultation with official university resources or academic advisors. Always refer to the University of Missouri–Kansas City's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

UMKC: Charting the Course

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University Overview ℹ️

🏛️ Urban Research Hub

👥 Student Body

📍 Strategic Location

A Legacy of Growth ⏳

📜 Early Foundations

🤝 Consolidation and Expansion

🏛️ Joining the System

Academic Excellence 📚

🔬 Research Prowess

🎓 Key Schools

💡 Innovative Programs

National & Global Standing 📊

⭐ U.S. News Rankings

🌍 International Recognition

📈 Detailed Demographics

Campus Athletics 🏆

🦘 The Kansas City Roos

🏅 Conference Affiliations

🏟️ Facilities

Campus Locations 📍

🏙️ Volker Campus

🏥 Health Sciences District

🧑‍⚕️ St. Joseph Campus

Leadership & Influence 👤

👨‍💼 University Chancellors

Campus Traditions 🎉

🥳 Hobo Day / Roo Fest

🔔 The Bounder Bells

🏛️ Greek Life

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 References

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Important Disclaimers ⚠️

📜 Educational Context

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

University Overview

Urban Research Hub

Student Body

Strategic Location

A Legacy of Growth

Early Foundations

Consolidation and Expansion

Joining the System

Academic Excellence

Research Prowess

Key Schools

Innovative Programs

National & Global Standing

U.S. News Rankings

International Recognition

Detailed Demographics

Campus Athletics

The Kansas City Roos

Conference Affiliations

Facilities

Campus Locations

Volker Campus

Health Sciences District

St. Joseph Campus

Leadership & Influence

University Chancellors

Campus Traditions

Hobo Day / Roo Fest

The Bounder Bells

Greek Life

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Disclaimers

Educational Context