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University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

See University of Missouri-Kansas City reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending University of Missouri-Kansas City. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free University of Missouri-Kansas City reviews, or contribute your own University of Missouri-Kansas City review if you're a current student there.

  • 18 out of 18 people found this review useful.

    Jasmine from Kansas City, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Most teachers care about you learning, however sometimes don't expect you to know much since we aren't at Mizzou I guess so that offends me esp considering I could have went to Mizzou if I wanted.
    Am enjoying being here

    GET INVOLVED and live on or near campus
    if not... your social life will suck!
    Bang for the buck

    Super cheap esp compared to other schools...
    and there are plenty of scholarships (IF YOU ARE FROM the KC Area or even Missouri)
    if you are from out of state... start looking for outside aid... NOW!
    Tips for prospective students

    1) Live on campus (MOST DEF your first year!)
    2) Get involved in clubs/sports/greek life/etc.
    3) Challenge the status quo
    Great for these types of students

    -KC Metro Area Students
    -Independent Thinkers
    -Non-Traditional Returning Students

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Jerica from Florissant, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am learning more at college than what I've learned from any of my Advanced Placement courses. The teachers cover broad topics and answer any questions the students have, especially through email or meetings. It also helps if you read about what your going over in class early, so you can get the full learning experience.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love UMKC, there are not too many distractions to keep me from my work, but there is always something to do on campus. It you are not interested in anything, the Plaza is in walking distance from both the dorms. Its only boring here if you make it boring, but still remember to study.
    Bang for the buck

    The food here is way better than what they gave us in high school. So you will never go hungry. The Recreation Center is great for that basketball game with your new friends, the indoor track helps for those who do not want to run in the sun or the cold, and the pool is tempting. The dorms are nice, especially if you decorate your own room.
    Tips for prospective students

    1-DO NO PROCASTINATE. Trust me, you will regret it. Its still college.
    2-Seek help when in doubt. There is a math /science resource center and SI.
    3-Just because you can find all your class material online doesn't mean not going to class. Attend as much as you possibly can.
    4-Stay involved. Everyone needs something to do besides studying. Trust me, you'd go crazy just staying in your room.
    5-Keep track of your grades, that way you can know if you need to pick up the pace, or you can relax.

    Great for these types of students

    Great for people who are not huge party people, but do not mind get togethers and one party every now and then. Also good for people who like walking, the school is on a hill. Also, the classes are smaller than the average huge university. There are still a lot of people, but it is not cramped.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Alexander from Blue Springs, MO

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    My father went here and they offer programs of what I am interested in.
    Will enjoy being here

    It looks like fun. Not party all night kind, but educationally fun.
    Bang for the buck

    So far the price doesn't seem too far off from me feeling comfortable with it.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Lydia from Springfield, MO

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    If accepted, I plan to be a part of the 6-year medical program. This program is awesome, and set up well. I loved how much clinical experience I would earn throughout my six years. It is also cheaper than attending undergrad and medicene.
    Will enjoy being here

    The 6-year medical program is something i will enjoy to set me up for my future. Also, KC is an area that I could enjoy living in.
    Bang for the buck

    Great education for the price. The average student to teacher ratio is 12:1, which is great. The teachers are said to truly care about the success of the student.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to visit the campus to see if this is right for you.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Charnell from Belleville, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Great teachers and a lot of tutors/help for struggling students
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is great and there are a lot of things to do, not only on campus but in Kansas City
    Bang for the buck

    Can be pricey but it is worth it. Who wouldn't want to have fun while learning and pursuing a career?
    Tips for prospective students

    Enjoy the school, there are many opportunities for you to meet new people so just have fun and keep your head in those books!
    Great for these types of students

    Outgoing and anti-social, book-smart or street smart...anyone can easily fit into this school it is very diverse.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Rosita from Saint Louis, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    There is so much information out there, you just have to go for it and take the classes! Step outside your bubble, but not too far, stay on track! Make it a great time!
    Am enjoying being here

    I absolutely love it here. There are so many groups and organizations to get involved in. The more you get involved, the more you get to know people, and then you have even more fun while getting your education.
    Bang for the buck

    I'm learning a lot and it's not too expensive. Yes, college is expensive, but UMKC is not as bad as other places!
    Tips for prospective students

    Get involved and live on campus! You will have more fun, meet more people and stay focused!
    Great for these types of students

    This school is challenging for Science majors, but they seem to learn a lot. Because the programs are so rigorous they end up being better students and candidates for their field.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Erika from Saint Charles, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am a Freshman here at UMKC. So I am just taking mostly gen eds right now. You would think that most of your gen ed teachers don't care because everyone has to take their class and blah blah blah. But I love my teachers, every single one of them have a passion for what they teach, which as most people know, only makes the class more interesting for the student. So I am learning a lot and I am actually enjoying the pointless gen ed classes I am enrolled in.
    Am enjoying being here

    First semester was not near as fun as second semester is so far. Give any college you attend more time than you think is needed. You cant decide in one semester if you hate the school or not. College is a big adjustment, you just have to get used to it. But the best advice is to get involved. Find new people, new activities, anything to keep you busy! Even if its a Saturday night and you cant find anything to do, have a movie night, call all your friends, open you door (if you live in the dorms). As long as you are doing something with someone, then you will have fun!
    Bang for the buck

    I believe UMKC is a great price for what education and experiences I have received here. I am not only attending classes where I am learning a ton, I am enjoying them as well. I am thankful for the location of UMKC. I am right next to the plaza, which means I can walk to something exciting. We are so close to the city it is amazing, a city is full of many wondrous things, you just have to go out and find them!
    Tips for prospective students

    1. get involved with everything you can find!
    2. meet new people every where you go! meet new people every day! Yes you are supposed to find you good group of friends, but new people introduce new things/ideas to you, that's what college us all about!
    3. Don't get behind in your classes, DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! procrastination will only make it worse!
    4. Always study for your first exams much more than you think you should! You never know how that teacher tests, so it is better to be over prepared than under prepared!
    3. LIVE ON CAMPUS your first year especially. it is a great way to meet new people and stay involved with them.
    Great for these types of students

    1. Adventurous- someone who is looking to meet all kinds of new people, and someone who is looking to do all kinds of new activities.
    2. Hard-worker- almost every student here, is here for a reason. They are very dedicated and know exactly what they want to do with their life. It can be intimidating, but know yourself and your goals. You will be fine!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Carlton from Kansas City, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    As a graduate of the Pembroke Hill School in Kansas City, Missouri, I was well-prepared for college. Attending the University of Missouri - Kansas City has been a breeze for me thus far because the academics thus far are not as rigorous as even my freshmen year in high school. However, if you are a graduate of some other high school, then you might find the transition from that respective high school to the University of Missouri - Kansas City a bit more challenging because of the necessity to study regularly, the fact that grades are earned and not given, and the fact that your parents are not there to help and assist you--you must help yourself by seeking aid from teachers or peers on campus.
    Am enjoying being here

    I have been a student at UMKC for one semester, and I must say that it has been a fairly good experience. I do not live on campus; however, I am content with my social life. I am from the Kansas City metropolitan area so I continue to see my old high school friends now and then.
    Bang for the buck

    If you work hard, any institution is worth whatever it costs to go there. I feel that I am getting a quality education at UMKC and that I am working towards my ultimate career goals by attending UMKC, and, to me, that's worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    My advice is to do what you love at UMKC. Find whatever your passion is and go for it. I feel that there are ample opportunities to find whatever it is that you're looking for and some here at UMKC. We have a wonderful conservatory, astounding theatre and a vast array of other fields that prepare students for success in their future occupational careers.
    Great for these types of students

    The University of Missouri - Kansas City is recommended for students who want a quality education, but want to stay close to home. I would also recommend UMKC for students who want to major in the arts, because UMKC offers great academic programs in the arts. I would also recommend UMKC to students who love and want to spend time in Kansas City. UMKC is located in a great place in the city, and is right next to the Country Club Plaza--which is a state-of-the-art shopping and entertainment district here in Kansas City.

  • 2 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Sally from Cape Girardeau, MO

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    This college is much like any other college, however, quality of learning is lower than say at a smaller, cheaper school. This school is much harder than you'd think, without a lot of the credit. I was in the UMKC School of Medicine though so I am sure it is much different than the regular undergraduate programs. In the School of Medicine, it is a memorization game and no one truly learns the material. Come boards step one, most students fail miserably because of the lack of emphasis on true learning especially in the practical sciences.
    Did enjoy being here

    The city does not have a lot to do for students under the age of 21 and the college is mostly a commuter school so there is not much to do on campus. For the size of the school, there is only two dorms so that may tell you something. Most students live off campus. It is extremely hard to meet people unless you are involved in some type of program such as pharmacy, medicine, or nursing. The only other way you can get to know people is through the extremely limited greek life. I must say Kansas City is one of the most terrifying cities I have ever been to with its crime rate. Also, the campus is located one block away from one of the worst streets in town. I never felt safe. Also, I felt it extremely hard to make friends though I was involved in many activities such as greek life and medical school. I wasted a year and a half of my life here!
    Bang for the buck

    As a medical student, I paid more than the typical person attending UMKC. I paid an extra $10,000 so that I could have doctors to follow around in the hospital and doctors to lecture my medical school class. This is cheaper than University of Missouri at Columbia on regular tuition, however, is ranked much, much lower and has little of the things most college students are looking for.
    Tips for prospective students

    There is not a wide variety of students here and most people keep to themselves. I do not recommend this for someone who is looking to branch out and to make college the best years of their life; however, if you intend on getting into dental or pharmacy school and are a Missouri resident, this may be a great place for you. Just don't expect it to be a lot of fun or to make a ton of friends.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want to live at home and live in the Kansas City area who are pursuing pharmacy or some other health profession. This is not a school for social events or even sport events. This is strictly a means to an end to undergraduate school.

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Jake from Independence, MO

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    The classes I took were a bit generalized and didn't have anything too specific or helpful to on the job work.
    Did enjoy being here

    UMKC is a fun environment and a beautiful campus. Most of the teachers are friendly and helpful.
    Bang for the buck

    UMKC is very affordable and most financial aid will fully cover all tuition and fees.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to study the classes you'll be taking in your program of study to be sure the degree you select is right for you.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want a general education in their intended field of study.

  • Urvasi from Saint Louis, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am majoring in Chemistry with a BA. I have learned a lot from the variety of clubs, and other resources that the campus has to offer. The campus is big, but all the main buildings are close to each other, so it is easy to get to places such as the cafeteria, gym, student center or even the administrative center.
    Am enjoying being here

    Yes, I love the experience because I thought it would be weird being 4 hours away from home. It is good, though, and I think I am able to stay more focused academically. Staying on-campus seems to help me also get to places better. I am enjoying the experience so far.
    Bang for the buck

    I have taken out loans this year and I have only 1 scholarship, but I am trying to apply for more and hoping that I can earn more, the tuition is low because I am still in-state, I still struggle financially because my parents earn low-income. This is why I am not trying to play around with my education, I do plan to stay focused and work hard throughout the rest of my college career. I want to make every penny worth it. Since I am a first generation college student, I am learning a lot about college and all its tricks. I am also a person who is very determined and does not like to give up so easily, I do not like settling for no, you can't do it. I have to try whatever I am struggling with at least once before giving up.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure that when you begin visiting college campuses you know what kind of college you are looking for. Aim for a specific college size, classroom sizes, campus resources, definitely the cost, and whether you want to commute or where you want to stay while in college. Another big thing is does that college offer a good program for your planned career? Do not allow others to discourage you or give up. Continue to keep grades high in high school. Here in KC,there aren't very good apartments close to the campus, so if you have to stay on campus, start searching for apartments or houses to rent ahead of time! It is very worthwhile in the end. It keeps you inspired and motivated to reach high and not give up easily, especially when you see people working so hard, it motivated you to stay on top of your work. If you do come from out-of-town, a car is helpful to have around, (even though parking on campus is hard to find). looking for a nice place if you are not planning to stay in the dorms is also very hard. Stay active, it really helps you maintain that balance necessary in a college lifestyle.The campus pressure is pretty tight, so brace yourself. Take advantages of the free workshops they offer during the semesters. Ask as many questions as you have about the university so that you are not in for any surprises.
    Great for these types of students

    If you're planning to enter the medical field or nursing program, definitely look into the 6-Year Medical Program and UMKC's Nursing Program, they are pretty intense, but it comes out worthwhile in the end. There are other great programs, but I am really only aware of these two at this point. The 6-Year Medical Program is very intense and hard to get in, so do not be surprised if you cannot get in the first time, never give up, you can always reapply the following year. Never give up on your dreams! Any kind of medical or pre-professional career that you may have is offered in this university, just make sure you have plenty of information about it.

  • Erika from Shawnee, KS

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    It seems like it is a very diverse university and that is able to help their students with enough scholarships to continue their education.

  • Keishla from Kansas City, MO

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    I did not attend very long. One of my teachers didn't speak English very well so it was hard to understand, and frustrating as well.
    Did enjoy being here

    The campus looks pretty decent. It is small so everything is farely close. However, it has too many stairs. For a small school it is a pain having to carry books and walking to your next class in the heat having to walk up tons of stairs outside.
    Bang for the buck

    I had a scholarship that said it would cover most of my fees. However it came with several strings attatched and my tuition more than tripled. For that amount I would rather go to a larger school that is not located downtown and in a bad area of a city.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are commuting, get a bus schedule. The parking is limited to the few students living in dorms; the rest are forced to park elsewhere and ride the bus the rest of the way. It is free though.
    Great for these types of students

    Older students going back to school.

  • Amber from Saint Joseph, MO

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    This school is completely awesome. They have great science and art programs.
    Will enjoy being here

    Campus life is pretty lively; much more to do than my old school. College is awesome.
    Bang for the buck

    A bit pricey -- but worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Weigh your options, but check this school out.
    Great for these types of students

    Looking for arts or science degrees.

  • Bernice from Kansas City, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am learning alot and it is very reassuring to know you are being thought by one of the best set of teachers. This is my one time life opportunity to be a ROO so i am making the best out of it.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being here.The assistance we get from the teachers in the school, they help you get better. The extracuricullar activities to distract you when necessary.
    Bang for the buck

    The school is quite costly but it is worth it. But we are provided with scholarships including good organiztions like this one, helps us have a wonderful college life.
    Tips for prospective students

    A little tip i will give to prospective students is that, they should know they have made the best choice considering UMKC, and should not get endulged in the activities and forget about their GPAs
    Great for these types of students

    Great for a diversed student, who like participating in activities. Great for a student who needs oportunities to explore, volunteer andshare wht they have.

  • Andrea from Neosho, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    This is my first semester at UMKC but so far it has been great. All of my classes are good to awesome and all of the teachers are nice and willing to help. Not to mention the majority of my teachers are just fun personalities, though that may not be true in the future.
    Am enjoying being here

    It only took a few days to start making friends, the campus is good-looking (but not too huge) and the city is so much better than my last location.
    Bang for the buck

    Although slightly more expensive than my last school, there are so many more academic programs on top of the top-notch faculty. Plus, there are generally ways to get scholarships, so it's totally worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take good notes for all your classes and you will probably be in good shape. I don't live on campus, but if it's something you are willing to pay for the dorms are nice and you will always be there for class. (I mention being there for class because UMKC tries really hard to avoid snow days, etc.)
    Great for these types of students

    Great for really anyone, but I would also like to point out that those who enjoy life in the heart of the city would also really enjoy UMKC (especially for living in the dorms). I chose to live in a suburb and feel I have best of both worlds: safer feeling at home but all the fun/cultural events of the city!