UMKC looks to expand dentistry school program at Missouri Western
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Missouri Western students could see an all-new dentistry program offered in the coming years through a potential partnership with the UMKC School of Dentistry.
UMKC leaders unveiled an expansion plan for a new School of Dentistry satellite program at Missouri Western State University this week, a partnership aimed at addressing Missouri’s shortage of dentists.
According to the university, the UMKC School of Dentistry is Missouri’s only public dental school, providing 63% of the state’s dentists. Expansion of the program would positively impact dentist and dental hygiene shortages in rural communities by increasing the number of graduates by 10% to 15% annually.
The UMKC School of Dentistry currently offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery and a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene.
The DDS satellite program in St. Joseph, if approved, would admit 10 students for a total of 40 students when the program is at capacity. The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene would admit five students for a total of 10 students when the program is at capacity.
Coursework and instruction for students in the program would be split between UMKC and Missouri Western.
According to a release from the university, UMKC will be partnering with state, federal and philanthropic leaders to raise an estimated $12 million in one-time renovation and equipment startup costs to start the program on the Missouri Western campus in St. Joseph.
A start date for the program will be set when necessary approvals and funding are acquired, but UMKC anticipates a proposed start date in fiscal year 2027.
