University of Central Missouri | 2023-24 Freshmen Viewbook

2023/2024

EXPERIENCE UCM

The University of Central Missouri is where your “what if” is met with “let’s make it happen.”

Where your creative curiosity is matched with resources and support

Where you can push the boundaries and watch your ideas come to life

Where you can learn about yourself and discover the person you want to become

MEET

1

Submit your application at ucmo.edu/apply.

Request that your official high school transcript be sent to UCM’s Office of Admissions (via processing@ucmo.edu or an electronic transcript service). 2

Optional: To be eligible for the maximum amount of financial aid, send your scores to UCM using our codes – ACT: 2272 and SAT: 6090

UCM IS TEST-OPTIONAL!

FILE YOUR 2024-2025 FAFSA WITH YOUR 2022 INCOME TAX RETURN.

UCM FAFSA CODE / 002454

!

Only university in Missouri with a LIVE MASCOT

2,740+ INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

NICKNAMES | MULES AND JENNIES

COLORS | CARDINAL RED & BLACK MASCOT | MO THE MULE

MOTTO | “EDUCATION FOR SERVICE”

STUDENT POPULATION | NEARLY 12,500

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS | 150+

CAMPUS SIZE | 1,561 ACRES

!

ANNUAL PETTING ZOO

SPIRITED SNACKS

Tradition has it –UCM graduates who kiss the bronze mule have a FUTURE OF LUCK AND SUCCESS!

That’s right, even our snacks have school spirit! Pick up our official UCM cookie in the Elliott Student Union.

WORLD RECORD HOLDER FOR LARGEST RIDDEN PARADE OF MULES

UCM’S TRADITIONS RESTAURANT overlooks the Mules National Golf Club with picturesque patio views!

SMALL CLASSES. BIG EXPERIENCES.

We’re the “show-me” state for a reason. Our faculty take you outside the classroom to show you real-life experiences and provide you with hands-on learning that will follow you throughout your career.

• Take an Astronomy course and explore space at the UCM Observatory!

• Become a DJ or create your own sports, news or talk show for UCM’s campus radio station The Beat!

• Start your own onesemester business! UCM’s Integrative Business Experience allows you to write a loan proposal, research, market and sell a product to benefit a nonprofit organization.

• Make connections with students and create your own lesson plan by student teaching through UCM’s Teacher Education program!

18 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE STUDENTS

60+ COUNTRIES TO STUDY ABROAD

100% STUDY ABROAD STUDENTS RECEIVE GRANTS

Short- &

LONG-TERM PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

GO GLOBAL

STUDY ABROAD

Enjoy college life to the fullest by designing your own study abroad experience! During the 2022-2023 academic year, UCM students traveled to 15 countries , and over $75,000 in grants and scholarships were awarded. ucmo.edu/studyabroad

TRAVEL FOR FREE

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous alumnus, UCM students have the life-changing opportunity to travel the globe for free and serve individuals living in impoverished areas with the Global Vision Endowment. Four times each year, a team of undergraduate students and a faculty advisor spend two weeks volunteering on community projects such as supporting youth and adults with special needs, teaching English to children from preschool through high school, and supporting at-risk individuals needing special emotional support. Programs range from 10 days to an academic year, and past trips have included St. Lucia, Cuba and Tanzania! LEARN MORE

EMERGE TRIUMPHANT

Our team is made up of nearly 12,500 students who never give up, dig in their heels and make things happen. Opportunity isn’t about what’s owed to you. It’s about what you work for — that “nevergoing-to-stop,” that “just-watch-me,” that “this-is-my-successredefined” attitude.

12 TEAM NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

17 NCAA

DIVISION-II TEAMS

MEN WOMEN

BASEBALL BASKETBALL

CROSS COUNTRY

FOOTBALL

GOLF

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD

OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD

WRESTLING

BASKETBALL BOWLING

CROSS COUNTRY

GOLF

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD

OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD

SOCCER

SOFTBALL

VOLLEYBALL

CHEER ON YOUR FAVORITE MULES AND JENNIES IN OUR ucmo.edu/athletics

525 STUDENT ATHLETES

Free ADMISSION TO HOME GAMES WITH STUDENT ID!

63 INDIVIDUAL NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

ATHLETICS APP GET HYPED

UCM has student organizations for everything from hobbies and sports to academics. Make time in your schedule to develop your passions, forge friendships, have fun and create memories that will stick with you long after graduation.

JOIN THE CLUB

Grow your passions or discover a new one! Here’s just a glimpse of the numerous clubs and organizations UCM has to offer:

• Dance

• Radio

• Social Justice

ENHANCE YOUR MARKETABILITY

Join one of UCM’s 75+ academic organizations! Getting involved in major-specific organizations is a great way to network while expanding your portfolio. Plus, your involvement in leadership and servicelearning projects adds value to your education and enhances your marketability, helping you stand out to future employers!

Find what interests you at ucmo.edu/studentorgs.

• Student Government

• Volunteering

• Wildlife

185+ STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

75+ ACADEMIC ORGANIZATIONS

32 SPORTS 350+ TEAMS

2,900 PARTICIPANTS

Staying active can improve both your physical and mental health. Plus, it’s a great way to manage stress and make friends! Take a break from your studies to join an intramural sport such as:

• Bowling

• Bass Fishing

• Climbing

• Fencing

• Rugby

• Trap and Skeet

• And more!

GO GREEK

Fraternities and sororities have been a part of UCM for 100+ years. By going Greek, you’ll make lifelong friendships and have the opportunity to participate in educational programs, social activities, community service, philanthropy projects and leadership development, enhancing your UCM experience!

26 CHAPTERS

NATIONAL GREEK LETTER

900+ STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN 50+ PHILANTHROPY EVENTS COMPLETING 2,200 VOLUNTEER HOURS AND RAISING/DONATING OVER $25,000. Fall 2022

THE UCM FRATERNITY & SORORITY COMMUNITY MAKES UP APPROXIMATELY

10% OF THE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT POPULATION. Fall 2022 data

PILLARS OF THE UCM FRATERNITY AND SORORITY COMMUNITY UNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP LEADERSHIP

EXPLORE THE BURG

POPULATION| NEARLY 20,000

30+ UNIQUE RESTAURANTS

400 ACRES OF PARK LAND WITH 8 PUBLIC PARKS | 16 SPORTS FIELDS

65+ BUSINESSES IN DOWNTOWN WARRENSBURG

Warrensburg, or “The Burg” as it’s lovingly known, gives you the perfect balance between city and small-town life! Here, you’ll find miles of hiking trails, two beautiful lakes, a dog park and even an axe-throwing venue downtown! Find hidden treasures at Those Were The Days, a 55,000-square-foot antique store with over 200 booths. Hang out with friends and enjoy national favorites like Chipotle®, Starbucks®, IHOP®, Buffalo Wild Wings® and more. Catch a race at the NASCAR-sanctioned Central Missouri Speedway. Whatever your interests are, you’ll find something to love about this town!

LOCALLY-OWNED FAVORITES

Take on “Ron’s Challenge” at Raging Bull Steakhouse! Finish a four-pound cheeseburger, two large orders of fries, two large milkshakes and one large soda in 30 minutes to get your bill paid, your name on the wall of fame and a free T-shirt!

Heroes Restaurant and Pub has been a town favorite since 1981! They’re famous for their onion rings and even have an entrée called the “Warrensburger!”

Keep your eye to the sky – you'll often catch a glimpse of the iconic B-2 Spirit bomber, as Whiteman Air Force Base is just 12 miles east of Warrensburg!

LIVE & LEARN

Ahh – freedom. Living on campus is your first taste of adulthood, and the memories you make here will stick with you forever! Create a community of friends and make your life exactly what you want it to be. You’ll be within walking distance of classes, food, events and activities. Did we mention food? There are 13 on-campus dining options to satisfy your appetite, including national favorites like Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. Plus, there are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and other allergy-free options!

9 RESIDENCE HALLS

13 ON-CAMPUS DINING OPTIONS

THREE VIRTUAL DINING OPTIONS:

UCM is one of the few colleges in Missouri to offer the “suite” arrangement to every student. Suites are two rooms joined by a full bath, ensuring you have more privacy.

Order online in the Everyday App and pick up at CRU5H in the Union!

UCM LEARNING COMMUNITIES

• Art & Design

• Aviation

• Biology & Related Fields

• Computer Science & Software Engineering

• Criminal Justice

• Cybersecurity & Information Technology

• Education

• Music

• Nursing

• Theatre

UCM SAIL

GENDER INCLUSIVE HOUSING SAIL (Safe and Inclusive Living) allows students who identify as LGBTQIA+ or an ally to live together in an inclusive and supportive community.

SAFETY FIRST

Your safety is important to us. UCM is protected 24/7 by its very own Department of Public Safety that includes 19 uniformed officers. Plus, our SAFE (Student Assistant Foot patrol and Escort) Team patrols the campus at night to help prevent crime and offers walking escorts. UCM also provides free self-defense programs taught by Public Safety officers. For increased security, all residential buildings with exterior door access have electronic locks. You can receive emergency messages, weather alerts and other important UCM information by signing up for TextCaster.

ucmo.edu/ps

CREATE

Creativity is the heartbeat of humanity. Imagine the opportunity to design your own future and express yourself in ways that make a difference! Create change. Create masterpieces. Create buzz worthy news. Whatever you choose, you’ll be able to pursue your talents with the diverse programs in UCM’s COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES !

TAKE CENTER STAGE

Whether you're a musician, actor, vocalist or dancer, you can step into the spotlight at one of our four on-campus theaters:

• Hart Recital Hall

• Hendricks Hall

• Highlander Theatre

• Nickerson Blackbox Theatre

LEARN FROM THE BEST

Meet John F. Malta – UCM associate professor of Art and Illustration. Not only has he art directed and illustrated a commercial for Honda, but he has also created work for Adult Swim, The New York Times, Facebook, The Wall Street Journal and Netflix’s Disenchantment, among others! He recently published “Intergalactic Moving Day,” a picture book out via POW!

Kids Books (Brooklyn), and has exhibited his paintings and installation work internationally.

BROADCAST YOUR SKILLS

Take a real-life role in public broadcasting! KMOS-TV, a PBS station, is located on UCM’s campus, giving you the chance to build career-ready skills, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes!

START YOUR CAREER!

Some of our programs include:

• Anthropology

• Art

• Communication Studies

• Digital Media Production

• Graphic Design

• Music

• Political Science

• Sociology

• Theatre

ucmo.edu/cahss

INSPIRE

Follow a legacy of educators that began in 1871, and prepare yourself for a meaningful career that will make a real difference in the lives of others. UCM’s COLLEGE OF EDUCATION gives you the knowledge and in-classroom experiences you need to inspire change and make an impact on future generations!

UCM’s teacher education programs are accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

LEARN FROM THE BEST

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR EDUCATION MAJORS

In addition to university-wide financial aid and scholarships, nearly 150 scholarships are exclusively available to College of Education students.

REAL EXPERIENCE FOR THE REAL WORLD

Our supportive learning environment makes us one of the best colleges for teaching degrees. Experience field-embedded lessons, complete engaging coursework and build innovative techniques to apply in your own classroom! Our Clinical Services and Certification staff assist you with:

• Admission to the Teacher Education Program

• Field experience placements

• Student teaching placements

• Processing applications for certification

Meet Dr. Shantia Kerr Sims – UCM professor of Educational Technology. Not only has she worked in both K-12 and higher education settings, but she has led the development of a mentoring program designed to ensure the academic success of transfer students and first-generation college students! ucmo.edu/coe

A NEARLY 99% JOB PLACEMENT RATE FOR UCM EDUCATION STUDENTS

INNOVATE

Be a catalyst for change in the world. Explore new ways to care for your patients. Discover a faster and safer method for building a structure. Create a revolutionary software program for securing sensitive information. UCM’s COLLEGE OF HEALTH, SCIENCE, AND TECHNOLOGY propels you toward innovation with cuttingedge programs and remarkable learning experiences.

BECOME A PRO GAMER

UCM offers an Esports program! Our teams compete in games such as Overwatch League®, League of Legends®, Rocket League®, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate®, Rainbow Six Siege®, NBA 2k® and Madden®. Plus, all players receive a scholarship!

ucmo.edu/esports

PROTECT THE FUTURE

UCM’s Cybersecurity program is one of only three ABET-accredited programs in Missouri, and one of only a handful in the nation!

LEARN FROM THE BEST

Meet Dr. Xiaodong Yue – UCM professor of Computer Science and Cybersecurity. Not only has he conducted research and published many peer-reviewed journal articles on wireless communications, networking and computer security, but he has obtained more than $500,000 in funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and Google!

START YOUR CAREER!

Some of our programs include:

• Agricultural Science

• Bioinformatics

• Biology

• Cybersecurity

• Design and Drafting Technology (CADD)

• Fashion: Textiles & Clothing in Business

CULTIVATE CHANGE

UCM Agriculture students benefit from a greenhouse and nursery complex and two farms, including a 260-acre farm with a herd of Aberdeen-Angus purebred cattle!

REIMAGINE HEALTH CARE

UCM’s Nursing program houses a state-of-the-art simulation lab, where you can practice your skills and experience realistic medical situations with interactive mannequins that speak, respond to treatment and even give birth!

• Nursing

• Occupational Safety

• Psychology

• Radiologic Technology

• Software Engineering

ucmo.edu/chst

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

UCM’s Welch-Schmidt Center for Communication Disorders has 15 treatment rooms with digital monitoring, two audiologic suites, an early childhood preschool for children with speech and language disorders and a voice and swallowing laboratory!

LEAD

Leadership takes strength. It’s about setting a goal, staying motivated and achieving it. It’s about being a good influence, contributing ideas and building your team. Whether it’s flying a plane, helping clients improve their well-being or managing an investment portfolio, the

HARMON COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

will give you the opportunity to get noticed by employers and fast-track your path to becoming a leader in your industry with hands-on, real-world experiences!

REACH NEW HEIGHTS

Look up at the skies above campus, and you might see one of UCM’s planes! Skyhaven Airport is home to a fleet of student-manned aircraft, as well as state-of-the-art flight simulators and a hot air balloon!

INVEST IN YOURSELF

The Forbes Center houses 12 Bloomberg Professional Service terminals and LED ticker displays that stream stock market information. UCM’s Student Managed Investment Fund has grown to more than $1 million!

LEARN FROM THE BEST

Meet Tony Gasaway – assistant professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Not only does he train Central Missouri Police Academy cadets on tactical communications and ethics, but he has extensive real-world experience including 31 years in federal law enforcement as a U.S. Marshals Service chief deputy and seven years as a staff instructor at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia.

START YOUR CAREER!

Some of our programs include:

• Accountancy

• Aviation Management

• Big Data & Business Analytics

• Child & Family Development

• Criminal Justice & Criminology

• Economics

• Finance

• Marketing

• Professional Pilot

• PR & Strategic Communication

• Speech-Language Pathology

• Sport Management

ucmo.edu/hcbps

MAJOR DECISIONS

From Aviation and Cybersecurity to Education and Graphic Design, UCM offers a wide variety of high-quality academic programs to ensure you find the right fit for your future plans. Our faculty are experts in their fields who take a personal interest in your success. You’ll learn from professional artists, scientists, writers and researchers who know you by name and take the time to guide you toward opportunities that boost your résumé!

YOU’VE GOT OPTIONS

Not sure which major to choose? You’re not alone! It’s totally normal to be undecided, and we can help. UCM is the only Missouri public institution to offer an OPEN OPTION PROGRAM that is designed to place you into courses that count for graduation and help you decide on a “right fit” academic program.

HOW IT WORKS

We provide two Open Option courses to help you find success in whatever interests you. First-time, incoming freshmen are required to take them, but they’re open to all students, even if you’ve selected a major and want to change your focus.

UNIV 1400 – University Foundations: Open Option

This course introduces you to UCM academics, services and resources and teaches you how to develop academic skills, build effective relationships, manage your time and money effectively, and set meaningful goals for yourself.

ucmo.edu/openoption

UNIV 1410 – Exploring Majors and Careers

This course introduces you to a wide range of academic programs and career options. Special emphasis is given to an exploration of self through the use of career assessments and individual career counseling sessions, as well as individual and group activities, discussions and interviews.

THE HONORS COLLEGE

The Honors College at the University of Central Missouri is designed to enrich the educational careers of highly motivated, creative and dynamic undergraduate students. Benefit from an inclusive environment that stimulates critical thinking, interdisciplinary problem solving, intellectual curiosity and a worldly perspective.

THE PERKS

• Early enrollment as the first students allowed to register for classes

• Small, honors-only general education course sections and colloquiums

• Honors-only housing, study and social spaces

• Grants for study abroad and research/creative activities

• Honors-only professional development and graduate school readiness activities

• Honors-only study tours and other experiential-based activities

• The Auchaer House – an honors-exclusive space to study, socialize, learn and host events

HOW TO GET IN

To be considered for admission to The Honors College, first-time incoming freshmen must be admitted to UCM and fulfill two of the four entry requirements:

• A minimum unweighted high school GPA of 3.5

• A minimum ACT superscore of 25

• A student-led product addressing how the applicant embodies the mission of The Honors College including – but not limited to – a written essay, multimedia presentation or theatrical/artistic performance

• A letter of recommendation that can speak to how the applicant embodies the mission of The Honors College

ucmo.edu/thehonorscollege

MORE SUPPORT. FEWER OBSTACLES.

We get it — college is a completely new experience. Here, you will find the right classes, land the right internships and navigate college life with the help of your own personal success team. We have your back whenever you need us, because support isn’t just about who stands with you at the beginning, but who is standing with you at the end.

YOUR TEAM

When you become a UCM student, you will have your very own team cheering you on and supporting you in every area of your education, including:

• An academic success advisor to help you choose a major, enroll in classes and build an academic plan.

• A financial aid counselor to help you find scholarships, grants and federal financial aid.

• An academic success coach to discuss your successes and struggles and point you to the resources you need to stay on track.

• A faculty mentor to help you gain the confidence and skills needed to reach your goals.

• A career advisor to help you design the life you want and prepare you for success after graduation.

UCM’s advisors and faculty mentors are consistently recognized for excellence in advising by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA)!

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UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER

The University Health Center (UHC) has a team of dedicated health care professionals available to help you with everything from routine physicals and immunizations to prescription medications and ongoing health care needs.

ucmo.edu/uhc

CENTER FOR MULTICULTURALISM AND INCLUSIVITY (CMI)

The CMI provides a campus atmosphere where people of all backgrounds, identities and perspectives feel welcome, secure and included, connecting you with resources and support to thrive.

ucmo.edu/cmi

CAREER AND LIFE DESIGN CENTER

UCM’s Career and Life Design Center empowers you with knowledge and opportunities that will lead to a meaningful career after college. Benefits include résumé assistance, mock interviews, internship placement and the Professional Clothing Studio with FREE professional and business casual clothing – just to name a few!

ucmo.edu/career

MILITARY AND VETERANS SUCCESS CENTER (MVSC)

The MVSC provides a supportive environment for you to connect with fellow military and veteran students. It features space to study and relax, a computer lab with free printing and laptops to check out, processing for VA, military tuition assistance and military transcripts, and dedicated staff members to answer questions.

ucmo.edu/mvsc

CREATE an Ebola vaccine.

HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS

It’s no secret that UCM graduates have outstanding outcomes with their degrees. Employers know quality when they see it – that’s why they seek out our career-ready students and often hire them before graduation.

WIN American Idol.

PLAY in the NFL.

FLY a B2 Spirit Bomber.

PRODUCE Marvel movies.

Make an IMPACT as someone’s favorite teacher.

BECOME a CNN media producer.

OWN a Major League Baseball team.

WRITE a New York Times Best Seller.

These are just a few of the real things our alumni have accomplished!

What will you add to the list?

ONLY

public institution IN MISSOURI WITH A FOR-CREDIT CAREER READINESS COURSE

96%

UCM GRADUATES FEEL PREPARED FOR THE WORKFORCE

UCM GRADUATES 97% LAUNCH THEIR CAREER OR CONTINUE THEIR EDUCATION WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF GRADUATION

100k+ alumni strong

23,018 EMPLOYERS

with 23,018 employers who have posted jobs for UCM students through our Career and Life Design Center.

LEARN MORE. SPEND LESS.

UCM FAFSA CODE / 002454

We want you to worry less about the “how” and more about the here and now. That’s why we take action to keep college affordable and help you graduate with less debt!

HOW UCM COMPARES NATIONALLY*

PAY $0 IN TUITION & FEES!

NAMED

ONE OF America's Top Colleges BY FORBES MAGAZINE

IN 2021

UCM’S TYPICAL YEARLY COSTS*

*These costs are before financial aid is applied.

**The UCM Bound Out-of-State Scholarship and other out-of-state assistance is available to those who qualify.

Please note: courses for some specialized academic programs may charge an additional course and/or program fee.

ucmo.edu/costs

UCM’s Mule Grant awards first-time undergraduate degree-seeking students and transfer students with an associate degree who are residents in the state of Missouri the opportunity to attend UCM with less financial stress. This grant covers any tuition and general fees remaining after federal, state and institutional grants and scholarships have been applied. View the website below for deadline information.

ucmo.edu/mulegrant

IN-STATE TUITION FOR OUT-OF-STATE STUDENTS

The UCM Bound Out-of-State Scholarship allows incoming, regularly admitted students to pay in-state tuition and fees for all classes on the main campus in Warrensburg if your permanent residence is either in one of the eight states that border Missouri or one of UCM’s Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association Conference (MIAA) border states.

ucmo.edu/outofstate

STUDENTS IN THESE 13 STATES SAVE UP TO $8,325!

JOIN UCM FAMILY CONNECTION

for resources like financial aid, health and safety, housing, university news and campus events!

Visit UCM...

BECAUSE VIBES SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS.

DISCOVER CENTRAL DAY

Come to campus for one of UCM's Discover Central Days and see what we have to offer! You’ll interact with faculty, eat lunch, browse student organizations, learn about getting involved, hear from current students, receive free swag and more.

DAILY CAMPUS VISITS

From our historic buildings to our newest facilities, our daily campus visits give you a glimpse of what life at UCM is really like. You’ll enjoy:

• A walking tour led by a current student.

• The opportunity to meet with faculty in your area of interest.

• An Admissions presentation where you’ll learn about the application process/requirements, costs, scholarships and financial aid and student organizations.

• A free UCM T-shirt.

YOUR NEXT STEPS

 Apply at ucmo.edu/apply.

 Submit your housing application (May 1 priority deadline).

 Apply for UCM Foundation scholarships via UCM Scholarship Finder (Feb. 1 priority deadline).

 Sign up for Orientation (May 1 priority deadline).

 Pack your bags and prepare for the best years of your life!

Fall CLASSES BEGIN AUG. 19, 2024!