Metropolitan Community College-Blue River is a public, two-year institution located in Independence, Missouri, approximately 10 miles east of Kansas City, offering a variety of associate degrees, certificates, and training programs. Established in 1997 as part of the Metropolitan Community College (MCC) district, Blue River's campus combines modern facilities with accessible education paths for a diverse student body. Notable for its comprehensive Fire Academy and Police Academy programs, the college is recognized for its efforts to prepare students for careers in public safety and emergency services. While MCC-Blue River does not provide on-campus student housing, it facilitates a commuter-friendly environment accommodating a mix of traditional and non-traditional students. With an open admissions policy, the college is known for its inclusive approach to postsecondary education, valuing accessibility and community engagement. Academic offerings extend across various disciplines with flexible scheduling options, including evening and online courses to serve working adults and other nontraditional learners.
Metropolitan Community College Blue River has an open admission policy which permits enrollment by any high school graduate or GED holding student. 1,582 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 2,001 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $4,530 plus fees of $180.