Universities Near Kansas City, MO?

KC locals, lend me your knowledge! It's looking like I might end up near Kansas City for college, but I'm a bit lost on the university scene. Any you would definitely recommend checking out or steering clear of?

Kansas City has a variety of colleges worth looking into, each offering a unique experience and educational focus.

1. The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC): UMKC is a public research university with a strong focus on health sciences. It's known for its pharmacy, dentistry, and medical programs.

2. Rockhurst University: This is a private Jesuit institution, known for its commitment to community service and strong programs in business, nursing, and pre-professional programs.

3. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI): If you are interested in fine arts or design, KCAI is a great school to consider. They offer a range of focused art programs such as painting, illustration, graphic design, and more.

4. Avila University: Avila is a private Catholic university known for its nursing, business, and theatre programs. It has a smaller student body, providing a more intimate community and class sizes.

5. William Jewell College: Located in Liberty, a Kansas City suburb, William Jewell is a private liberal arts college with a wide variety of programs, including a unique Oxbridge Honors program (based on the Oxford-Cambridge model).

6. Park University: Park is a private university located in Parkville, a suburb of Kansas City, that offers a broad range of programs and prides itself on its inclusivity and sustainability efforts.

Remember, the best way to decide if a university is right for you, aside from academic opportunities, is to explore the campus culture, student activities, and general environment, as these factors significantly contribute to your college experience. I'd recommend taking a closer look at each one online or scheduling campus visits if you can. Best of luck on your search!