The BriefMissouri Southern State University is constructing a $40+ million Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center featuring a simulated hospital with NICU, labor and delivery, and critical care unitsThe facility will transform health science education through immersive learning environments and advanced simulation technologyThe building is scheduled for completion by fall 2026, alongside a new welcome center also under construction
JOPLIN, Mo. — Construction crews are transforming the Missouri Southern State University campus as work progresses on two major projects: a new welcome center and the $40+ million Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center.
The health science center represents a significant investment in the university’s future, designed to revolutionize how students learn healthcare through hands-on simulation and immersive experiences.
“We’re really changing the entire way that we do education for these students,” said Sherry Whiteman, Allied Health Department Chair. “And health care, because now we really have the space and we really have the equipment to support a true flipped classroom to really immerse students even more than we do now.”
The facility will house a simulated hospital complete with specialized units, including a neonatal intensive care unit, labor and delivery ward, and acute and critical care rooms. These realistic environments will allow students to practice real-world scenarios before entering actual healthcare settings.
Construction continues on MSSU Health Science Center
“This building isn’t just a bunch of spaces for classrooms,” said Chad Greer, principal architect with CGA Architects. “It’s a real immersive learning environment, where all this simulation happens, preparing these students for these real-world activities.”
The project’s scope extends beyond immediate educational needs, with architects focusing on long-term durability and functionality.
“You want it to stand the test of time,” Greer said. “So all the thoughts and considerations around the materials we used for the building — just ensuring that this building would be here for generations of students to learn the health sciences.”
For faculty members like Whiteman, the new facility represents a transformative opportunity that will permanently elevate the university’s capabilities.
“I’m so excited to be in this space. It’s a dream come true for us,” Whiteman said. “Already, I can’t imagine this campus without this building. To see the potential of everything it opens every door for every student. We won’t be able to go back. We’ll have the ability to do so much advanced learning. We won’t ever be able to go back. This will be here forever. It’s a legacy.”
While the construction site currently shows empty hallways and unfinished spaces, but university officials say the building will be transformative for students across campus for years to come.
MSSU plans to complete the Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center and have it ready for students by fall 2026.
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