Economic Development Update Spring 2016
A Medical School For The Region $100 Million Estimated Economic Impact; 600 Students, 100 Faculty and Staff After years of effort, a new, major driver of the regional economy became a reality at the end of March. Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCU) began work on its new Joplin campus with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by thousands of people throughout the region. KCU is the oldest medical school in Missouri and 12th largest medical school in the country. One hundred fifty students per year will be enrolled in the doctor of osteopathic medicine program at the new campus site. When fully operational, the Joplin campus, opening in 2017, will add 600 students to the 1,000 plus at the Kansas City campus. “The expansion of KCU to an additional location marks a significant moment for our University, and an opportunity to help address the rural health care needs for the region,” said Marc B. Hahn, D.O., president and chief executive officer, KCU. “As the second-leading educator of physicians for both Missouri and Kansas, and with nearly 40 percent of our graduates practicing medicine in rural areas, this was a logical decision for us.” KCU made the commitment to creating the 600-student campus contingent on the region raising $30 million, or about half of the total cost of obtaining accreditation of the new school, renovating and equipping the former 150,000-square-foot Mercy facility just vacated and having operational funds for the first few years while the student base grows.
MSSU Gears Up For New Medical School
In December, MSSU and KCU signed the “Advanced Medical Acceptance Program,” which will allow up to 25 MSSU students to be admitted to the KCU’s new school upon successful completion of Southern’s pre-med requirements. “This unique partnership with Missouri Southern State University guarantees students acceptance into medical school, paving a bright future for primary care in Joplin and the region,” said KCU CEO Dr. Marc Hahn at the announcement. “It’s a differentiator for us,” it sets us apart from other schools that don’t have a connection like this,” said MSSU President Dr. Alan Marble. “It also raises the bar for everyone. It elevates the standards and the rigor that will be happening in our classrooms.”
Inside ... Pittsburg State Research Park Two More Work Ready Counties Shell Buildings Available