The Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine is the largest medical school in Missouri, but KCUMB students find a warm, supportive community of colleagues, faculty and staff. Because of its strong curriculum and tradition of excellence, competition for acceptance is intense, with more than eight applicants for each first-year seat. Once accepted, however, students find that the emphasis is on collaboration and the enhancement of learning rather than competition.

Students spend their first two years in this on-campus learning environment. The last two years focus on training in clinical settings, including the hospitals of the University's partner in clinical education, HCA Midwest, the largest health-care system in the Kansas City area.

Putting the patient's needs above all other concerns includes not just treating the mind and body but also the spirit. Students at KCUMB are exposed to a variety of cultures and religions to encourage an appreciation for the diversity of patients they will encounter as physicians. The University is one of only two medical schools in the United States to twice win the prestigious John Templeton Spirituality in Medicine Award, most recently for integrating elements of spirituality, end-of-life care and diversity throughout the entire medical-school curriculum.

Medical education, like the practice of medicine, can be an intense experience, and the University is committed to providing its students with the tools to excel while remaining emotionally and physically healthy. Students are encouraged to collaborate with peers in a wide range of organizations and community initiatives, A variety of support services such as counseling, tutoring and a broad network of alumni mentors are available.