University Of Missouri-Kansas City

University of Missouri-Kansas City admits 75.0% of applicants, meaning roughly 3 in 4 applicants receive an offer of admission. This moderately selective admission rate places UMKC significantly more accessible than the typical four-year institution, with a peer median admission rate of 84.6%.

The 9.6 percentage point difference below peer median indicates that UMKC maintains somewhat higher admission standards than similar public universities. This level of selectivity creates a balanced environment where qualified students have reasonable admission prospects while the university maintains academic standards.

For prospective applicants, this admission rate suggests that students with solid academic credentials should have good chances of acceptance, though preparation and a well-rounded application remain important. Students should approach UMKC as a match or safety school rather than a reach, depending on their academic profile.

The moderately selective nature means applicants should still demonstrate academic readiness and fit with the university's programs. Building a balanced college list that includes both UMKC and institutions with higher acceptance rates provides students with multiple pathways to achieving their educational goals.

University of Missouri-Kansas City's published cost of attendance reaches $24,645 annually, consisting of $11,988 in-state tuition, $12,118 for room and board, and $800 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $28,788, bringing their total cost of attendance to $41,445.

However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $12,837 representing $11,808 in financial aid savings. This net price sits $1,256 below the peer median of $14,093, indicating that UMKC provides competitive affordability relative to similar public institutions.

The substantial gap between sticker price and actual cost demonstrates UMKC's commitment to making education accessible through financial aid. For most families, the published cost of attendance bears little resemblance to what they will actually pay.

The university's financial aid effectiveness helps position UMKC as an affordable option for students from diverse economic backgrounds, supporting its role as a Selective Achiever institution.

UMKC graduates demonstrate steady earnings progression throughout their careers. Median earnings rise from $50,298 six years after enrollment to $53,412 at eight years and $59,637 at ten years, representing 18.6% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes are based on substantial cohort sizes of 2,881 graduates at six years, 3,419 at eight years, and 3,547 at ten years, providing high confidence in the reported figures. Graduates earn $6,244 beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, placing UMKC at the 77.7th percentile for earnings uplift.

The earnings distribution spans from $38,427 at the 25th percentile to $87,015 at the 75th percentile, reflecting diverse career paths and program outcomes. Approximately 21.0% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both immediate workforce entry and advanced education.

Compared to peer institutions, UMKC graduates earn significantly more while carrying less debt, creating favorable conditions for long-term financial stability.

UMKC offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for comprehensive outcome analysis. Business/Commerce General ranks #22 nationally and #3 in Missouri, graduating 271 students with median earnings of $53,997 and an impressive value score of 67.7, making it a flagship program.

Biology General ranks #84 nationally and #1 in Missouri, graduating 158 students with earnings of $53,097 and a value score of 77.4. General Studies ranks #40 nationally and #1 in Missouri, serving 151 graduates with earnings of $48,355 and the highest value score of 78.5.

Engineering programs demonstrate strong national competitiveness, with Computer Science ranking #133 nationally and producing 95 graduates earning $81,653. Adult Health Nurse/Nursing graduates 95 students earning $67,613, reflecting the university's strength in health professions.

The diversity of highly-ranked programs across business, sciences, health, and technology demonstrates UMKC's comprehensive academic portfolio.