At its State of the University , UMKC shared a few of its record numbers from the past year + updates on some major developments coming around the corner.
Like everything else in the metro, UMKC is growing fast. It saw the highest number of first-time students to date in fall 2023, as well as the highest retention + graduation rates in a decade, in part attributed to its First Gen Roo program.
The $120 million Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building begins construction in June, with sights set on a 2026 opening. The building will facilitate dental programs, medical programs, and research — with hopes for the university to receive an R1 research accreditation in the coming years, which only 146 four-year institutions in the country have.
Other projects, like the pedestrian plaza, streetcar stop, and Foodiverse food court, will also see updates in the coming year.