KCU is a private institution and encourages applications from qualified students who are interested in pursuing a career in osteopathic medicine, clinical psychology or biomedical sciences, regardless of their state of permanent residence.
The Office of Admissions is one of three service units within Student Services, and it prides itself in delivering professional service to all applicants. The office is mindful that for applicants, any lack of knowledge about the way the application process works can be stressful. Consequently, applicants are encouraged to visit the KCU website to review the application process and frequently asked questions for clarification. Applicants are also welcome to contact the Office of Admissions directly.
Admissions personnel are available to respond to your calls between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Standard Time at 877.425.0427 or 816.654.7160.
Authorization to Release Applicant Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) specifies that only the applicant has access to the application material and the status of his/her application. If the applicant wants another party or multiple parties (e.g., parent, spouse, advisor, physician, friend) to check the status of his/her application, the applicant is required to submit, in writing, a signed waiver giving personnel of KCU permission to discuss all details of the application with each said individual.
College of Osteopathic Medicine
As Missouri’s largest medical school and the oldest in Kansas City, KCU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine has built a tradition of excellence dating back to 1916. KCU-COM is known for an educational environment emphasizing both academic excellence and the education of caring, compassionate physicians who place patients’ needs above all other concerns. In 2017, the University opened a new COM location in Joplin, Missouri.
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Requirements
The minimum academic requirements for admission to the first-year COM class are:
- The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). The MCAT is administered electronically throughout the year. If applying for the 2020 entering class, only May 2017 through September 2019 scores will be accepted. To register for the MCAT, apply online at www.aamc.org. Direct questions via email to [email protected] or call 319.337.1357. Applicants applying through KCU’s Partnership Program are not required to take the MCAT exam.
- A baccalaureate degree earned from a regionally accredited college or University. Exceptions are only made for those students accepted through our Partners Program.
- Satisfactory completion, with a grade of C or higher, of the following college courses, including laboratory work:
- Biochemistry: 3 semester hours (4.5 quarter hours)
- Biological Sciences: 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours)
- Chemistry: 13 semester hours (19.5 quarter hours)
- Physics: 8 semester hours (12 quarter hours)
- TOTAL: 36 semester hours (54 quarter hours)
While not required for admission, additional preparation in genetics, immunology, histology, or embryology will enhance fundamental preparation for the rigorous medical curriculum and is strongly encouraged.
The ability to use a personal or network computer has become an integral part of the KCU curriculum and is becoming a clinical necessity. Each entering student must have a good working knowledge of common PC use and applications. Laptops are strongly encouraged for third-year students. Students will be provided an iPad at matriculation unless they have previously received one from KCU. A laptop is required for clinical examinations.
Substitutions or Waiver of Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. Often undergraduate students have taken courses such as molecular or cellular biology, which may fulfill all or part of the prerequisite requirements for biochemistry. An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework for KCU’s biochemistry prerequisites by forwarding one of the following to the Office of Admissions:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the university catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Documentation providing the most detail will expedite the review process. For biochemistry, the information should indicate the applicant has studied intermediary metabolism or more specifically, lipid metabolism. Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. Please note that if a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
Any request for substitutions or waiver of any of the admission requirements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admissions stating the request, rationale for the request and supporting documentation.
Admissions Partnerships
KCU has developed partnership programs with select educational institutions that have exceptional premedical programs. Partnership educational institutions have developed a prescribed educational program sequence, and students enrolled at each institution petition to matriculate through the partnership program sequence. The educational program sequence requires the completion of all medical school prerequisites in the first three years of matriculation (minimum of 90 semester or 135 quarter credits), while maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 and a minimum 3.5 science GPA.
Students from these partner program institutions who meet these educational standards and who have earned a minimum ACT score of 28 are eligible to petition for acceptance to KCU through their undergraduate pre-health advisor during their sophomore year. Applicants who are offered a seat in COM as full-time first-year students will matriculate at the end of their junior year. The Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) requirement is generally waived for these applicants. Partner institutions include Avila University, Central Methodist University, Culver-Stockton College, Doane University, Drury University, Harris–Stowe State University, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Missouri Southern State University, Missouri Western State University, Pittsburg State University, Rockhurst University, University of Missouri – St. Louis, University of St. Mary, and William Jewell College. For additional information, please contact the KCU Office of Admissions.
Non-U.S. Citizens/International Applicants
An international applicant is an applicant who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and requires a student visa (F-1) to study in the U.S.. International students applying for admission to KCU must meet all general requirements for admission as stated in this catalog and other admissions publications.
Note: International applicants who are in pending status for permanent U.S. residency are not eligible for admission.
International applicants whose native language is not English must also demonstrate objective competency in English by either:
- Completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within two years of the applicants anticipated matriculation date with a minimum score of 79 for the IBT (Internet-Based Testing) and a minimum score of 26 on the speaking component
- Successfully completing a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited college/university in the U.S., or from a recognized post-secondary Canadian institution that uses English as its primary language of instruction and documentation, not more than three years prior to the applicants anticipated matriculation. Of the 30 semester hours, 15 hours must be in the sciences, six hours in non-remedial English and three hours in speech/public speaking.
Once an offer of admission is extended, international applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funding to cover the entire length of the program. The applicant must complete and submit a Financial Responsibility Form with all supporting bank and/or financial documentation to the KCU Office of Admissions. Once received, the financial documentation is reviewed by the Office of Finance for verification and is subject to approval before the issuance of an I-20 form by the Registrar. International students are held to the same matriculation requirements as all other students.
International Students and Residency Placement
International students pursuing any medical degree, including the DO degree, are finding it more difficult to find residency training options post-graduation. Most international and national medical school associations are recommending that international students pursuing the DO degree pursue an ACGME residency training program in the United States, after graduation. This is the best residency option for international students. However, no guarantees exist for residency applicants, especially students from countries outside the United States. The factors that exist and impact residency placement are out of the control of KCU and individual students. We encourage all international student applicants to think seriously about the options that are available to them post-graduation from medical school before committing to a medical school within the United States.
Application Process
Step 1: AACOMAS Application
AACOMAS Online is a web-based application for individuals seeking admission to colleges of osteopathic medicine. The application allows prospective osteopathic medical students to submit their application to AACOMAS through a secured web server. AACOMAS Online allows the user to create an account and spend multiple sessions completing their application. Applicants are able to update their address, telephone number and certain biographical information and submit application fees online. Applicants will be notified by electronic mail when their materials have been received by AACOMAS.
AACOMAS Online is available for the 2020 entering class May 2019 through March 1, 2020. All application materials, including detailed instructions, can be accessed through the AACOM website, www.aacom.org. Applicants must request that official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended be mailed directly from the institution to the AACOMAS office. MCAT scores must also be forwarded directly to AACOMAS from the MCAT office. Mail transcripts to:
AACOMAS Transcript Processing Center
P.O. Box 9137
Watertown, MA 02471
AACOMAS gathers all the necessary material about each applicant and transmits the information in a standardized format to the college of osteopathic medicine selected by the applicant. AACOMAS has no participation in the selection process.
The applicant will receive from AACOMAS a computer-generated applicant profile with a calculation of GPA and MCAT averages. KCU also will receive the applicant profile, accompanied by a photocopy of the AACOMAS application and personal statement. KCU conducts an initial review of the transmitted AACOMAS application, MCAT scores and academic records to determine which applications will be further processed.
Step 2: KCU-COM Secondary Application
Applicants meeting the minimum initial review criteria may be invited to complete the KCU-COM Secondary Application. Minimum requirements for each incoming year can be found on the website at https://www.kansascity.edu/admissions/requirements/com. The minimum criteria for automatic receipt of a COM Secondary Application:
- 501 MCAT score.
- 3.25 science GPA.
- 3.25 cumulative GPA.
Applicants are encouraged to include the scheduled MCAT test dates on the AACOMAS application to indicate the intent of taking or retaking the exam.
At the discretion of the Office of Admissions, applicants who fall below the minimum criteria may be reviewed and offered an invitation to complete a secondary application.
Applicant Protocol of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine
Applicants aspiring to become osteopathic physicians (DO) are expected to act professionally in their interactions with the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS) and with colleges of osteopathic medicine. Responsibility, respect, good judgment and cooperation are qualities valued by the osteopathic profession, and applicants are expected to demonstrate these qualities throughout the application process.
- Applicants are responsible for becoming familiar with admission requirements, which includes all required coursework, following application procedures and meeting all deadlines at each school to which they apply.
- Applicants are responsible for the collection and timely submission of supplemental applications, letters of recommendation, transcripts and all applicable fees. All candidates who submit a supplemental application and subsequently complete the application process (submitting all required materials) are considered for admission by the colleges to which they submit a complete application. Applicants are encouraged to review the online application instructions and the colleges’ online program pages to determine the standards and processes for the colleges to which they are applying.
- Applicants are responsible for reporting and updating any changes in the initially submitted application (e.g., address, telephone numbers, academic status, state of residence).
- Applicants are responsible for responding promptly to all interview invitations and offers of admission (either to accept or decline).
- Applicants who have made a final decision on the medical school they plan to attend have the obligation to promptly withdraw their applications from all other schools.
- Applicants may hold only one acceptance after May 15.
Application Schedule
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process a year prior to matriculation. The following represents a monthly guide for application preparation.
May
- Contact all colleges and universities attended and have official transcripts forwarded directly from the education institution to AACOMAS.
- Begin AACOMAS application.
- Submit application.
July
- Invitations for completion of the Secondary Application are sent to qualified applicants upon receipt of the AACOMAS application in the Office of Admissions.*
September
- Personal interviews begin
March 1
- AACOMAS application deadline
- KCU-COM Secondary Application deadline
* Secondary applications are accepted and processed until all interview positions have been filled.
Required Supplemental Materials
The following supplemental materials are required as part of the application process for KCU-COM:
- A completed KCU-COM Secondary Application. ($60 nonrefundable fee waived if applicant has received fee waiver for AACOMAS fees.)
- Letters of recommendation/evaluation from each of the following sources:
- A physician (preferably an osteopathic physician).
- A premedical source. This could be an advisor’s letter, a composite evaluation or evaluations from a committee. If a premed source is not available, a letter from a science faculty member or advisor may be submitted.
Note: Evaluations must be written within the two years prior to making applications. Example: If applying beginning May 2019, letters must be dated no earlier than May 2017.
Applicants who anticipate applying for military scholarships should make arrangements to obtain additional copies of evaluation letters. Military scholarship committees require original letters for this purpose. Applicants anticipating applying for these scholarships should obtain additional evaluation letters from evaluators and have the letters placed in officially sealed envelopes.
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or who do not hold permanent residency status must provide a copy of their immigration documentation to the Office of Admissions, including a copy of their F-1 visa and proof of their ability to finance the entire length of their academic program at the time of acceptance.
Applicants with college credit at foreign institutions or institutions teaching in a language other than English will be required to submit official foreign transcripts for evaluation services. Applicants should seek additional information about this process from the AACOMAS website. KCU will accept the foreign transcript evaluation report as fulfilling admission criteria only if the evaluation service has indicated that the required coursework is comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
Note: International applicants who are in pending status for permanent U.S. residency are not eligible for admission.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include academic excellence and nonacademic achievements. Academic excellence is measured by an assessment of the results of the MCAT, grades and grade point averages, modified by such information as the degree of difficulty of the program in which the applicant studied. Nonacademic achievements also are considered, as well as a candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. The Admissions Committee looks for the following nonacademic achievements:
- Leadership roles.
- Involvement in community organizations/projects.
- Involvement in research activities.
- Commitment to an organization(s) for more than two years.
- Participation in a domestic/international mission trip.
- Work experience in the medical field (e.g., EMT, nurse).
- Medical field volunteer experiences.
- Shadowing of an osteopathic or allopathic physician.
Following the above assessment, selected applicants are invited to visit the campus for a formal personal interview. Applicants are evaluated on the following criteria:
- Professional demeanor
- Critical thinking
- Coping skills.
After the interview, the Admissions Committee reviews the applicant’s file and then makes recommendations to the campus dean of COM for consideration. Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made.
Matriculation Requirements
Acceptance & Matriculation Fee
An acceptance fee and a matriculation deposit are required from successful applicants. (See Tuition & Fees.) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. These fees are non-refundable regardless of reason. Withdrawing prior to matriculation does not negate the no-refund policy.
Official Transcripts
All incoming students are required to submit official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended (including dual credit in high school) to the KCU Office of Admissions. Official transcripts submitted to AACOMAS are available for download to KCU. Applicants only need to submit updated transcripts showing courses that were in progress or showing degree conferment. If you have any questions about which transcripts are due, please email [email protected]. All required coursework is to be completed with a C or better and degree completion be verified no later than July 1 of the matriculation year, unless otherwise granted by the Office of Admissions.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all students matriculating into COM must have a criminal background check performed at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by KCU. The purpose of the background check is to satisfy federal and state requirements for individuals participating in clinical activities involving patient care, including clinical clerkships and early clinical experiences.
Students will have a subsequent background check prior to clinical clerkships. Additional background checks may be required prior to graduation from KCU-COM. The background checks will be performed at the student’s expense and will be conducted in accordance with federal and state laws.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process or omission of information relative to scholastic records or test records will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension, or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Immunization & Health Requirements
Students who project themselves as future health care professionals are obligated to protect their health and the health of their future patients. All matriculating students at KCU are required to be vaccinated in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization guidelines. These guidelines change and are updated periodically, and applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable regarding the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on their website: www.cdc.gov. KCU students are responsible for maintaining a current and thoroughly documented official record of immunizations at all times. More information is available online.
Students who fail to meet these guidelines will not be allowed to matriculate or may jeopardize their eligibility for continued enrollment.
Required Textbooks
The lists of required textbooks for students are posted on the library website. Students are responsible for purchasing and having all textbooks or e-books on the provided lists.
Medical Equipment
Students are required to have certain medical equipment when starting medical school. Information is sent from the Office of Admissions to students prior to matriculation concerning specific equipment and pricing. Medical equipment is typically priced between $900 to $1,100 and can be purchased through the KCU Campus Store.
Transfer Admission Policy
Students enrolled at an AOA-COCA accredited osteopathic medical school may be considered for transfer admission into the second or beginning of the third year of medical studies at KCU upon completion of the equivalent level of medical education as currently structured at KCU and provided that a vacancy exists. Transfer applicants must be in good academic standing at the school where they are currently enrolled, be eligible for continued enrollment/readmission, and present a valid and compelling reason for transfer.
Under no circumstances may a student graduate from KCU-COM without completing a minimum of two terminal years of education at the institution.
Eligibility Guidelines
- Applicants must be in good academic standing at the osteopathic medical school currently attending (or previously attended in event of a withdrawal) and be eligible for continued enrollment or readmission.
- Applicants interested in transferring to KCU as a third-year medical student must have passed the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) Level 1.
- Applicants who have been dismissed by another osteopathic medical school are not eligible for transfer.
- Applicants from international or allopathic institutions or from other health-related professions are not eligible for transfer admission. Such individuals must apply through AACOMAS for admission as a first-year student.
Requirements
- KCU-COM Secondary Application and fee.
- A personal statement presenting valid and compelling reasons for admission by transfer.
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
- A letter of evaluation and support from the dean at the current/previous osteopathic medical school.
- Official scores for all MCATs taken.
- Official scores for all COMLEX exams taken (if applicable).
- A copy of the catalog from the osteopathic medical school transferring from.
- Any documentation, in addition to the catalog, that may be needed to demonstrate satisfactory completion of the equivalent curricular content at KCU, including course syllabi for courses in clinical skills, Osteopathic Principles and Practices (OPP) and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM).
- Two letters of recommendation.
Procedures & Deadlines
- Applicant completes a COM Secondary Application indicating interest as a transfer student and pays application fee.
- Deadline for receipt of application and fee is Feb. 1 of the year of the proposed matriculation.
- Deadline for receipt of all supporting documentation is March 1 of the year of the proposed matriculation.
- Office of Admissions reviews completed application for minimum admission qualifiers. If minimum qualifiers are met, the Office of Admissions contacts the vice provost to confirm available seat.
- If space is available, the applicant’s curricular content from the other osteopathic school is reviewed by the deans of COM and/or faculty with expertise in the areas of concern to ensure content fulfills the minimum curriculum requirements of KCU-COM and to determine transfer credit equivalents.
- Upon approval by the deans of COM, the documentation is forwarded to the Office of the Registrar for appropriate transfer consideration. Upon official confirmation from the Office of the Registrar regarding all applicable transfer courses, the applicant is invited for a personal interview.
- Interview team observations and applicant file is forwarded to the Admissions Committee for consideration.
- If the Admissions Committee recommends transfer admission, the applicant’s file is forwarded to the appropriate dean of COM for final approval and confirmation of transfer credit equivalents. Transfer credit accepted for COM is posted to the KCU transcript as a semester credit value summary with a transfer GPA, however, transfer credit may not be utilized for the determination of graduation honors.
- Only applications that are complete and received by the advertised deadline will be considered. No exceptions or deadline extensions will be approved. Incomplete applications will be withdrawn from consideration.
- Applicants who submit a completed application for transfer admission will receive written notification of the decision rendered by the appropriate dean of COM from the Office of Admissions.
- Potential transfer students should request application information from KCU’s Office of Admissions, 816.654.7162, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Health & Minimum Technical Standards
More information about this policy is available online.
All candidates and enrolled medical students must meet health and technical standards to be admitted to, participate in and graduate from the medical education programs of KCU. Because the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) signifies that the holder is a physician prepared for entry into the practice of a broad range of medical practice, and that he/she has met the requirements to enter a variety of diverse postgraduate training programs, KCU graduates must have the knowledge, skill and capability to fully perform and function in a broad variety of clinical situations. KCU students and graduates are trained and must demonstrate competency to provide a wide spectrum of acute and chronic patient care, including emergency care in a variety of settings. The emergency room, surgery suite, hospital, clinic, and as a first responder to a disaster are a few examples.
A candidate as well as an enrolled medical student for the DO must have abilities and skills in the areas described below and meet the standards described as an obligation to patients that they will interact with as a student physician and to society as the recipient of a DO degree upon graduation.
Reasonable accommodations will be made as required by law; however, the candidate/student must be able to meet all technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Please refer to the section on the Americans with Disabilities Act. The use of a trained intermediary necessarily requires that a candidate’s judgment be mediated by someone else’s power of selection and observation, and is not a permissible accommodation. Enrolled students who are unable to meet these standards may be asked to appear before the Student Progress Committee (COM-SPC) and may be subject to dismissal. Requests for accommodations should be directed to the KCU disability services coordinator. See Academic & Physical Accommodations.
Immunizations
Candidates and enrolled medical students must satisfy all requirements for immunizations at the time of admission and throughout their medical school career. Student physicians, interacting with patients in hospitals and in clinics, are exposed to a variety of infectious agents. Although universal precautions are required in many of these encounters, the risk of infection is still increased. In order to protect the student physician, and to prevent the spread of disease to patients, student physicians must satisfy the immunization requirements. Failure to do so will prevent matriculation or in the case of an enrolled student, lead to dismissal.
Observation
Physical diagnosis is based upon a physician’s ability to see, hear, touch, and interact with patients. Candidates and enrolled student physicians must be able to directly observe patients in order to diagnose. Direct observation of body stature, body position, ambulation, facial expression, skin color, range of motion, eye color, etc., are just a few examples of the necessary capability a student physician must have to master the requirement of physical diagnosis. Candidates must be able to observe demonstrations, experiments, and patients in the basic and clinical sciences. This includes but is not limited to the ability to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation requires the functional use of the sense of vision and somatic sensations.
Communication
Candidates and enrolled student physicians must be able to speak, hear and observe patients in order to elicit information; describe changes in mood, activity and posture; and perceive nonverbal communications. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and other health care professionals. Student physicians must be able to hear and speak in emergency situations (a member of a cardiac arrest team, emergency surgery and trauma in the emergency room are some examples). Communication (in English) includes speech, hearing, reading and writing. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively in verbal and written form with all members of the health care team.
Sensory/Motor
Candidates and enrolled student physicians must have sufficient motor function to elicit information by palpation, auscultation and percussion as well as other diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers. A candidate should be able to perform basic laboratory tests (urinalysis, CBC, blood glucose testing, etc.), carry out diagnostic procedures (endoscopy, paracentesis, etc.), and read EKGs and X-rays. A candidate should be able to execute motor movements reasonably required to provide general care, osteopathic manipulation and emergency treatments to patients. Examples of emergency treatment reasonably required of physicians are cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administration of intravenous medication, application of pressure to stop bleeding, opening of obstructed airways, suturing of simple wounds, the Heimlich maneuver, and performance of basic obstetric maneuvers. Such actions require coordination of both gross and fine muscular movements, the ability to stand, and equilibrium with the functional use of the senses of touch and vision. Candidates must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds and stand for a minimum of one hour.
Conceptual, Integrative & Quantitative Abilities
Candidates and enrolled student physicians must possess conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities, including measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis and synthesis. Problem-solving, the critical skill demanded of physicians, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, candidates must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationship of structures. Candidates and enrolled student physicians must be able to sit in a classroom and participate in a full eight-hour day. The practice of medicine requires periods of distinct concentration in surgery, trauma, emergency room care and other patient settings. Candidates and enrolled student physicians must be capable of extended periods of intense concentration and attention.
Behavior & Social Attributes
Candidates and enrolled student physicians must have the emotional health required for full use of the intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients. Candidates and enrolled student physicians must be able to tolerate physically and mentally taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, display flexibility and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients. Compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, interest and motivation are all personal qualities that will be assessed during the admission and educational processes.
Osteopathic Skills and Principles of Clinical Medicine Laboratory Policies
All courses that include osteopathic manipulation and clinical skill courses include didactic presentations, demonstrations, practical laboratory experiences and clinical opportunities. During these activities, students establish their knowledge and ability to recognize and utilize the relationships between structures and function that are integral to osteopathic medicine.
The student must develop the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate the principles and coordinate the proper osteopathic and clinical techniques to prevent and treat pathology and dysfunction. Concurrently, the students will learn other medical approaches to the treatment of disease and dysfunction in the systems courses. Each course provides education on the principles, philosophy and history of osteopathic medicine; examination and evaluation of the patient; and the proper selection and application of osteopathic treatments and techniques. These courses require the active participation of all students in the laboratory setting where the student, through the active and tactile examination of others along with reciprocal examination, will learn and demonstrate the ability to evaluate and proficiently treat their future patients.
The training of an osteopathic physician requires the ability to perform tactile examinations and osteopathic manipulative techniques on members of the same and opposite sex. The training of an osteopathic physician also requires that a student experience and understand tactile diagnostic exercise and manipulative treatment. Students are required to participate both as patients and as trainees in the OPP laboratory and Principles of Clinical Medicine laboratory, and examine and be examined by members of the same and opposite sex.
A graduate from KCU-COM has the ability to apply for licensure as a physician in all 50 states. Their license is not restricted to any one particular sex, and candidates for graduation must demonstrate the ability to practice medicine on both males and females.
Housing
KCU does not provide housing; however, the KCU Office of Admissions assists students in their search for housing.
College of Biosciences
In 2004, KCU expanded its mission to include a greater emphasis on research and discovery thus establishing the College of Biosciences (COB). In 2006, KCU-COB conferred its first Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. In 2017, KCU-COB established the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program.
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (KCU-Kansas City)
Through the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program’s sequential, cumulative, and gradated curriculum, students gain the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to practice as highly competent, caring, patient-focused clinical psychologists. Throughout the five-year program, students are exposed to a broad base of discipline-specific knowledge and receive training in the following profession-wide competencies:
- Research
- Ethical and legal standards
- Individual and cultural diversity
- Professional values, attitudes, and behaviors
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Assessment
- Intervention
- Supervision
- Consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills.
By providing students with two years of geropsychology coursework along with supervised practicum and research experiences with an older adult population, the PsyD program at KCU trains students to be uniquely positioned to treat the fastest growing sector of the population.
Academic Requirements
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the following documented evidence:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
- If applicant does not meet the undergraduate GPA requirement, a graduate GPA of 3.50 or better in a Psychology-related field and a cumulative/overall GPA of 3.00 or better may be used for consideration.
- Completion of 18 semester hours or equivalent of prerequisite coursework in psychology with a grade of C or better and must include:
- Introduction to General Psychology
- Human Growth and Development or Personality Theory
- Abnormal Psychology
- Statistics or Tests and Measurements
- Graduate Records Examination (GRE) General Test or GRE Psychology Subject Test scores using the KCU institution code of 6182:
- Scores will be accepted from tests taken no earlier than Jan. 1, 2017.
- For more information about the GRE, contact Educational Testing Services (ETS) at 609.771.7670 or toll-free at 866.473.4373 or visit www.ets.org/gre.
- Motivation for and commitment to health care as demonstrated by previous work, volunteer work or other life experiences.
- Oral and written communication skills necessary to interact with patients and colleagues.
- Commitment to abide by KCU’s Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy.
- Passage of the KCU criminal background check.
Substitutions or Waivers of Admission Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. Any request for substitutions or waiver of any of the admission requirements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admissions stating the request, rationale for the request and supporting documentation.
An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework prerequisites by forwarding one or more of the following to the Admissions office:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the University Catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Documentation providing the most detail will expedite the review process. Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. If a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
International Applicants
An international applicant is an applicant who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and requires a student visa (F-1) to study in the U.S.. International students applying for admission to KCU must meet all general requirements for admission as stated in this catalog and other admissions publications.
Note: International applicants who are in pending status for permanent U.S. residency are not eligible for admission.
International applicants whose native language is not English must also demonstrate objective competency in English by one of the following:
- Completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within two years of the applicant’s anticipated matriculation date with a minimum score of 79 for the IBT (Internet-Based Testing) and a minimum score of 26 on the speaking component.
- By successfully completing a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S., or from a recognized Canadian institution that uses English as its primary language of instruction and documentation, not more than three years prior to the applicant’s anticipated matriculation. Of the 30 semester hours, 15 hours must be in the sciences, 6 hours in non-remedial English and three hours in speech/public speaking.
Non-U.S. Citizens
As part of the application, applicants who are not U.S. citizens or do not have permanent U.S. resident status are required to provide the Admissions office with a copy of their USCIS documentation and visa.
Previous Attendance at Foreign Institutions
Applicants with college credit at foreign institutions, or institutions teaching in a language other than English, must submit official foreign transcripts to one of the following evaluation services as part of the admissions processes:
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
P.O. Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
414.289.3400
Josef Silny and Associates
International Education Consultants
7101 SW 102 Avenue
Miami, FL 33171
305.273.1616
www.jsilny.com
World Education Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 745 Old Chelsea Station
New York, NY 10113-0745
212.966.6311
KCU will consider credit from the evaluation report only if the evaluation service has indicated the coursework taken was similar to coursework taken at an institution which is comparable to a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process six to eight months prior to anticipated matriculation. Applicants can apply online through the KCU website.
Admissions personnel are available to respond to your calls between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. toll-free at 877.425.0427 or 816.654.7160.
Application Schedule
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process six to eight months prior to matriculation. The following represents a monthly guide for application preparation.
October
- Begin KCU-Kansas City PsyD Application.
- Contact all colleges and universities attended and have official transcripts forwarded directly from the educational institution to KCU.
- Request letters of recommendation through the KCU application.
- Have letters of recommendation sent directly to the KCU Office of Admissions at [email protected].
December
- Submit KCU-Kansas City PsyD Application to meet priority deadline for early consideration.
- Personal interviews begin.
January
- Submit KCU-Kansas City PsyD Application to meet second priority deadline.
- Personal interviews continue.
February through April
- Personal interviews continue.
*Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the class has been filled.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include a demonstration of academic achievement in psychology undergraduate courses and an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants are also rated on their GRE test scores or GRE psychology test scores, application essay, and letters of recommendation. Nonacademic achievements are considered, as well as a candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. The Admissions Committee looks for the following nonacademic achievements:
- Leadership roles.
- Involvement in community organizations/projects.
- Involvement in research activities.
- Commitment to an organization(s) for more than two years.
- Participation in a domestic/international mission trip.
- Work experience in psychology or a psychology-related field (e.g., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), social work, counseling).
- Community volunteer experiences.
- Shadowing of a psychologist.
Following the above assessment, selected applicants are invited to visit the campus for a formal personal interview. Applicants are evaluated on the following criteria:
- Professional demeanor
- Problem-solving skills
- Writing skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Communication skills
After the interview, the Admissions Committee reviews the applicant’s file and then makes recommendations on acceptance. Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made.
Matriculation Requirements
Matriculation Fee
A nonrefundable matriculation fee is required from accepted applicants. (See Tuition & Fees.) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. These fees are non-refundable regardless of reason. Withdrawing prior to matriculation does not negate the no-refund policy.
Official Transcripts
Acceptance is conditional until all official transcripts are received from previous colleges/universities attended. Transcripts must be received by the Office of Admissions by July 1.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation, preferrably from individuals in the field of psychology who can attest to your dedication to the field and quality of work.
Immunizations
Prior to matriculation, all entering students must be vaccinated in accordance with University’s guidelines. KCU determines immunization requirements based upon current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for health care workers in combination with current requirements for Clinical Education. These guidelines/requirements change and are updated periodically. Applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable of the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on the website www.cdc.gov.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all KCU students must agree to and undergo a criminal background check at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by the University.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process or omission of information relative to scholastic records or test records will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Major Area of Study
The PsyD program also offers a major area of study in geropsychology. PsyD students will complete two years of geropsychology coursework along with supervised practicum and dissertation or other research experiences with an older adult population. Those who intend to secure a specialty track in geropsychology will complete an internship with at least 50 percent of supervised service delivery with an older adult population as well as a postdoctoral placement with at least 80 percent of supervised service delivery with an older adult population.
Health & Technical Standards
All PsyD applicants and enrolled PsyD students are required to meet health and technical standards to be admitted to, participate in, and graduate from the PsyD program at KCU. Because the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology signifies that the holder is a psychologist prepared for entry into the practice of a broad range of psychological practices, and that he/she has met the requirements to enter a variety of diverse postgraduate training programs, KCU graduates must have the knowledge, skill, and capability to fully perform and function in a broad variety of clinical situations. KCU students and graduates are trained and must demonstrate competency to provide a wide spectrum of acute and chronic patient care.
A candidate, as well as an enrolled student for the PsyD, must have abilities and skills in the areas described below and meet the standards described as an obligation to patients that they will interact with as a psychologist in training and to society as the recipient of a PsyD degree upon graduation.
Reasonable accommodations will be made as required by law; however, the candidate/student must be able to meet all technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Please refer to the section on the Americans with Disabilities Act. The use of a trained intermediary necessarily requires that a candidate’s judgment be mediated by someone else’s power of selection and observation and is not a permissible accommodation. Enrolled students who are unable to meet these standards may be subject to dismissal.
Observation
Psychological diagnosis is based upon a psychologist’s ability to see, hear and interact with patients. Candidates and enrolled students must be able to directly observe patients in order to diagnose. Direct observation of body stature, body position and facial expression are a few examples of the necessary capabilities a student must have to master the requirement of psychological diagnosis. Candidates must be able to observe demonstrations, experiments and patients in the basic and clinical sciences. This includes but is not limited to the ability to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation requires the functional use of the sense of vision and somatic sensations. Thus, the use of a trained intermediary will fail to meet this requirement.
Communication
Candidates and enrolled students must be able to speak, hear and observe patients in order to elicit information; describe changes in mood, activity and posture; and perceive nonverbal communications. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and other health care professionals. Communication includes speech, hearing, reading and writing. A candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively in verbal and written form with all members of the health care team. Thus, the use of a trained intermediary, especially in an emergency situation, will fail to meet this requirement.
Conceptual, Integrative & Quantitative Abilities
Candidates and enrolled students must possess conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities, including measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis and synthesis. Problem solving, the critical skill demanded of psychologists, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, candidates must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationship of structures. Candidates and enrolled students must be able to sit in a classroom and participate in a full 10-hour day. The practice of psychology requires periods of distinct concentration in intake, therapy and assessment settings. Candidates and enrolled students must be capable of extended periods of intense concentration and attention. Candidates and enrolled student physicians who are incapable of intense concentration (with or without reasonable accommodations) do not meet this requirement.
Behavior & Social Attributes
Candidates and enrolled students must have the emotional health required for full use of the intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the assessment and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients. Candidates and enrolled students must be able to tolerate physically and mentally taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients. Compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, interest, and motivation are all personal qualities that will be assessed during the admission and educational processes.
Vaccinations & Immunizations
A student who cannot provide an official up-to-date immunization record, in accordance with University requirements, will not be allowed to begin or continue with clinical training and will be referred to the appropriate University official for disciplinary action.
Housing
KCU does not provide housing; however, the KCU Office of Admissions assists students in their search for housing.
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
There are two options for students interested in pursuing the accredited Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Individuals may apply for the non-research track or the research track program.
The non-research track includes coursework in anatomy, biochemistry, embryology, epidemiology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, physiology and histology. The research track is designed for individuals interested in pursuing careers in research or enrolling in doctoral programs in health-related fields, including medicine.
Academic Requirements
Requirements for admission to the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences in either the non-research or research tracks:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Completion of 13 hours of chemistry (including organic chemistry), 12 hours of biological sciences, 8 hours of physics.
- Graduate entrance examination completion of either the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), Dental Admission Test (DAT), or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). If you are interested in a health professions program outside of medicine, we will accept admissions tests in accordance with those professions.
- Two letters of recommendation, preferably from science faculty familiar with the applicant’s academic abilities.
- All transcripts from any college or university attended. If you have already submitted an application to KCU-COM, you do not need to submit transcripts at this time. If an offer of acceptance is extended, you will be required to submit all final transcripts directly to KCU. These should be submitted electronically to KCU from each institution, if available.
For more information about the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences, please contact the KCU Office of Admissions toll-free at 800.234.4847 or 816.654.7160.
Substitutions or Waivers of Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. Any request for substitutions or waiver of any of the admission requirements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admissions stating the request, rationale for the request and supporting documentation. An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework prerequisites by forwarding one or more of the following to Admissions:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the University catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Documentation providing the most detail will expedite the review process. Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. If a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
International Applicants
An international applicant is an applicant who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and requires a student visa (F-1) to study in the U.S.. International students applying for admission to KCU must meet all general requirements for admission as stated in this catalog and other admission publications.
Note: International applicants who are in pending status for permanent U.S. residency are not eligible for admission.
Requirements for International Applicants
International applicants whose native language is not English must also demonstrate objective competency in English by either:
- Completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within two years of the applicant’s anticipated matriculation date with a minimum score of 79 for the IBT (Internet-Based Testing) and a minimum score of 26 on the speaking component; or
- By successfully completing a minimum of 30 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S., or from a recognized Canadian institution that uses English as its primary language of instruction and documentation, not more than three years prior to the applicant’s anticipated matriculation. Of the 30 semester hours, 15 hours must be in the sciences, 6 hours in non-remedial English and 3 hours in speech/public speaking.
Non-U.S. Citizens
As part of the application, applicants who are not U.S. citizens or do not have permanent U.S. resident status are required to provide the Admissions office with a copy of their USCIS documentation and visa.
Previous Attendance at Foreign Institutions
Applicants with college credit at foreign institutions, or institutions teaching in a language other than English, must submit official foreign transcripts to one of the following evaluation services as part of the admissions processes:
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
P O Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
414.289.3400
Josef Silny and Associates
International Education Consultants
7101 SW 102 Avenue
Miami, FL 33171
305.273.1616
www.jsilny.com
World Education Services, Inc.
P O Box 745 Old Chelsea Station
New York, NY 10113-0745
212.966.6311
KCU will consider credit from the evaluation report only if the evaluation service has indicated the coursework taken was similar to coursework taken at an institution that is comparable to a regionally accredited U. S. college or university.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process eight to 10 months prior to anticipated matriculation.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include both academic excellence and nonacademic achievements. Academic excellence is measured by an assessment of the results of the MCAT, DAT or GRE, and possibly other comparable professional degree admission tests, in addition to course grades and GPA. Nonacademic achievements are also considered, as well as a candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. Nonacademic activities considered are community/volunteer services (medical and non-medical) and leadership positions (official and unofficial) and examples of the depth and duration of involvement. Activities for which the applicant has been honored should also be enumerated. This process is part of the application assessment.
Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made. Applicants who have been offered admission are then invited to visit the campus for an open house.
Matriculation Requirements
Matriculation Fee
A nonrefundable matriculation fee is required from accepted applicants. (See Tuition & Fees.) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. These fees are non-refundable regardless of reason. Withdrawing prior to matriculation does not negate the no-refund policy.
Official Transcripts
Acceptance is conditional until all official transcripts are received from previous colleges/universities attended. Transcripts must be received by the Office of Admissions by July 1. Applicants accepted while completing coursework will be expected to receive a grade of C or higher, and degree requirements must be completed by July 1.
Immunizations
Prior to matriculation, all entering students must be vaccinated in accordance with University’s guidelines. KCU determines immunization requirements based upon current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for health care workers in combination with current requirements for Clinical Education. These guidelines/requirements change and are updated periodically. Applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable of the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on the website www.cdc.gov.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all KCU students must agree to and undergo a criminal background check at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by the University.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process or omission of information relative to scholastic records or test records will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Transfer Admission Policy: Research Track
At the time of admission, a student may transfer up to nine semester credit hours from a regionally accredited graduate institution toward completion of the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences in the research track. To qualify for consideration as transfer credit, the following minimum requirements must be met:
- The requested credit must be from another regionally accredited graduate institution in the U.S. or a foreign institution that is recognized by its country’s ministry of education or equivalent agency as a graduate degree-granting institution.
- The requested credit must be for graduate-level coursework taught by a graduate faculty member with scholarly competence in the subject area.
- The transfer transcript must clearly indicate that the course was taken for graduate credit and include the number of credit hours and grade.
- The coursework must have received a grade of B or better (3.0 on a 4.0 scale).
- The course content is appropriate for the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences.
- The KCU course director determines if the requested transfer credit meets the graduate school requirements for the course.
- Approval by the dean of COB is required.
Housing
KCU does not provide housing; however, the KCU Office of Admissions assists students in their search for housing.
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