Kansas City University Of Medicine And Biosciences Kansas City Mo
Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCU) is a private, non-profit university located in Kansas City, Missouri. KCU was founded in 1916 and has since established itself as a leading institution for medical education and research. The university offers a variety of programs in medicine, biosciences, and health professions, with a focus on training students to become compassionate and competent healthcare professionals. In this article, we will explore KCU and what makes it a unique and exceptional institution.
The History of KCU
KCU was originally founded as the Kansas City College of Osteopathy and Surgery (KCCOS) in 1916. It was one of the first schools of osteopathic medicine in the United States and was established to provide an alternative to traditional medical education. The school quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to hands-on, patient-centered education and became a leader in the field of osteopathic medicine.
In 1970, KCCOS merged with the University of Health Sciences (UHS) to form the University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine (UHS-COM). The new institution expanded its focus beyond osteopathic medicine to include other health professions, such as physician assistant and physical therapy.
In 2005, the university changed its name to Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences to better reflect its mission and expanded scope. Today, KCU is a comprehensive health sciences university that offers a wide range of programs in medicine, biosciences, and health professions.
Campus and Facilities
KCU has two campuses: the main campus in Kansas City, Missouri and a second campus in Joplin, Missouri. The Kansas City campus is located in the heart of the city and includes several state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Academic Center, the Health Sciences Library, and the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Lab.
The Joplin campus is home to the KCU College of Dental Medicine and features a 36,000 square foot simulation lab, as well as a community dental clinic where students can gain hands-on experience working with patients.
Both campuses are equipped with modern technology and resources to support student learning and research. KCU also has partnerships with several healthcare institutions in the Kansas City area, providing students with access to clinical experiences and internships.
Programs Offered
KCU offers a variety of programs in medicine, biosciences, and health professions. The university is known for its strong emphasis on primary care and its commitment to training healthcare professionals who can provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
The College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM) is KCU's flagship program and is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation. The COM offers a four-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, as well as several dual-degree programs in areas such as public health and business administration.
KCU also offers a wide range of graduate programs in biosciences, including Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in areas such as biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, and bioethics. The university also offers several health professions programs, including physical therapy, physician assistant studies, and a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree.
Admissions and Requirements
KCU has a competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 10%. The university considers a variety of factors when evaluating applicants, including academic performance, healthcare experience, leadership potential, and personal qualities such as empathy and compassion.
Prospective students must submit an application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The university also requires applicants to complete an interview and may require additional testing, such as the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Student Life
KCU has a vibrant and active student community, with a variety of clubs, organizations, and events that allow students to connect with one another and get involved on campus. The university also offers a range of support services, such as counseling and wellness programs, to help students succeed academically and personally.
Students at KCU also have access to a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities in the Kansas City area. Kansas City is known for its thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and diverse culinary offerings. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities, with several parks and nature reserves located within easy reach of the university.
Conclusion
Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences is a leading institution for medical education and research, with a strong commitment to training healthcare professionals who can provide compassionate and competent care. The university offers a wide range of programs in medicine, biosciences, and health professions, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support student learning and research. If you are considering a career in healthcare, KCU may be the perfect place to start your journey.