Student Organizations

Student-sponsored organizations allow our students to enhance their academic experiences through leadership roles and meaningful experiences in their chosen career fields and areas of study.

Review the organizations below, which are perfectly suited for students in our programs, or learn about all the student organizations, teams and group activities UMKC has to offer at UMKC Student Life.

Organizations

Higher Education Student Association 

HESA’s mission is to further the understanding of the purpose and practice of higher education. Student members meet regularly throughout the semester to discuss issues, provide opportunities to explore various areas of higher education, professional development and socialize with faculty and students in the higher education program. 

Learn more about HESA

Master of Social Work Student Organization (MSWSO)

This organization offers an opportunity for students to actively be involved with the social work program, build networking relationships with peers and gain additional skills and experiences to enhance their social work career. Throughout the academic year, the organization sponsors events such as a licensing information seminar, social gatherings and licensing exam preparation courses. The MSWSO also gives students input into program decisions through service on faculty committees and participation in the faculty meetings. Programs and events are announced via the list serve email.

Learn more about MSWSO

Master’s of Counseling Student Association 

A student organization for students pursuing their master’s in Counseling and Guidance. This group serves as a source of support and advocacy for those in the program. In addition to seminars and social events, MCSA has a student mentorship program. For more information, email umkc-msca@umkc.edu

Phi Alpha Honor Society

The purpose of Phi Alpha Honor Society is to provide a closer bond among students of social work and promote humanitarian goals and ideas. Phi Alpha fosters high standards of education for social workers and invites into membership those who have attained excellence in scholarship and achievement in social work.

Benefits

  • Recognition of academic excellence
  • Respected by employers, social workers and college admissions
  • National presentation opportunities
  • Lifetime membership
  • Membership certificate and lapel pin

 Faculty Advisor - Amy Simmons

Psi Chi 

Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, encourages, stimulates and maintains excellence in scholarship and advances the science of psychology. Membership is open to undergraduate and graduate students making the study of psychology one of their major interests.  

Learn more about Psi Chi

Psychology Club 

Psychology Club is the sibling organization of Psi Chi. Its goal is to provide enriching social and educational opportunities beyond the classroom within the field of psychology. Whereas Psi Chi events often focus on advancing the science of psychology (which is consistent with its mission), Psychology Club officers have aimed to bring opportunities for practical and applied experiences to students. Also, unlike Psi Chi, Psychology Club membership is free and open to all UMKC students. If you are considering a career in psychology or are just interested in learning more about the field, we encourage you to join Psychology Club. 

Learn more about Pyschology Club

Student Government 

The ESWPS-SG (Education, Social Work and Psychological Sciences Student Government) is a group of student representatives from the school who want to help make a difference in your college experience! The officers strive to expand the students’ academic concerns and abilities; promote student involvement; act on all matters concerning students’ welfare; aid faculty and students in cooperative work; and to promote a professional attitude and feeling of responsibility. 

Learn more about Student Government