Established to address the growing need for highly-skilled and compassionate health professionals, the University recently founded the KCU College of Health Professions. This new College reflects KCU's dedication to addressing the health needs of patients, particularly throughout the four-state area, and commitment to increasing opportunities for more students to pursue education in the health sciences education – while strengthening the University's role as both a regional and national contributor to the health workforce.

The Master of Health Science in Anesthesiologist Assistant (MHS-AA) program is the first degree program to be housed within the new KCU College of Health Professions. As the University looks toward the future, additional programs will be developed to best meet workforce demands in an array of health care fields – ensuring future generations of health professionals ready to help change health care for good.  

John Paulson, DO, PhD, FAAFP, serves as interim dean of the College of Health Professions and chair of Primary Care at KCU-Joplin. As interim dean, Paulson provides leadership for the College of Health Professions, supporting innovative education and preparing students for success in essential health care careers. 

"The College of Health Professions is preparing the next generation of health care professionals to meet the evolving needs of our communities. Through innovative education and meaningful clinical experiences, we are equipping students to make a lasting impact on the lives of the patients they will serve." — Dr. John Paulson