Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University News

UMKC Expands Dentistry Program in St. Joseph

Students engaging in dental education at UMKC

News Summary

The University of Missouri — Kansas City (UMKC) is expanding its School of Dentistry with a new satellite program at Missouri Western State University. This initiative aims to address the significant shortage of dentists in rural Missouri, generating an additional 10 graduates each year and increasing access to dental care. The project, estimated to cost $12 million, is set to commence in the fiscal year 2027, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities in a critical field.

St. Joseph Welcomes UMKC’s New Dentistry Program!

St. Joseph, Missouri, is buzzing with excitement as the University of Missouri — Kansas City (UMKC) announces a major expansion of its School of Dentistry. This new satellite program, which will take root at Missouri Western State University, aims to tackle a significant issue facing the state: the shortage of dentists in rural areas. It’s a move that’s bound to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of many in these underserved communities.

Addressing the Dentist Drought

Missouri currently faces a critical lack of dental professionals, especially in rural regions where access to care can be limited. With UMKC being the only public dental school in the state, it plays a pivotal role in training future practitioners. Believe it or not, a whopping 63% of all dentists practicing in Missouri are graduates of UMKC’s School of Dentistry! The new expansion is set to boost the production of dental graduates by an impressive 10% each year, which is music to the ears of those who know how badly these services are needed.

Expanding Enrollment Opportunities

Currently, UMKC’s School of Dentistry admits 109 students annually. With the advent of the new satellite program, the school is looking to add an additional 10 students each year. That might not sound like a lot at first glance, but when we consider the dire need for dental care in rural areas, every little bit helps. At full capacity, this will bring the total enrollment to a healthy 40 students, and that increase can significantly change the game for many communities.

Funding the Future

Now let’s talk dollars and cents. The expansion comes with an estimated price tag of around $12 million. This funding will be utilized for renovation projects and the startup of essential equipment needed to support the new satellite program. Considering the benefits that come with having more dentists in the area, many believe that this investment is worth every penny.

A Timeline for Change

As for when this program is set to kick off? UMKC is eyeing a proposed start date in the fiscal year 2027. That might seem like a bit of a wait, but considering all the planning that goes into launching a new program, it’s essential to ensure everything is just right.

Your Future Dentists in Training

The School of Dentistry offers several programs, including a Doctor of Dental Surgery and a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. With the new satellite program, students will have the unique opportunity to experience coursework split between both UMKC and Missouri Western State University. This will provide a well-rounded education and further prepare these future dentists for the real-world challenges they’ll face.

A Firm Commitment to Healthcare

UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal has been on a mission, visiting various smaller towns around the Kansas City metro area. During these visits, he highlighted the severe shortage of healthcare providers, including dentists. The need for solutions is pressing, and UMKC is stepping up to the plate. However, this is not the first time the university has implemented satellite healthcare programs; partnerships with local healthcare providers like Mosaic Life Care have already proven successful.

Looking Ahead

As St. Joseph prepares for this exciting new chapter, the community and its leaders are hopeful that by addressing the shortages of dental care providers, they are not just building a new program, but also a healthier future for residents. With the continuous commitment from UMKC and the community’s support, the day will soon come when dental care is more accessible for everyone in rural Missouri. Cheers to brighter smiles ahead!