Oh, the places you’ll go
The buildings on Des Moines University’s campus are designed to take advantage of the site’s topography and history. More than 10,000 years ago, the Wisconsin Glacier moved south across North America, shaping the land as it moved. It came to rest at the center of the site of DMU’s campus, creating a defining hill above the flat expanse of land.
This “edge of advancement” inspired DMU to think differently — about ways to enhance curricula, explore new teaching methods and expand research and clinical services.
The university has seized this rare chance to be innovative, grow and forge new partnerships that benefit students, faculty, staff and the community. You will feel this positive energy in the buildings on campus.
Edge of Advancement
The Edge of Advancement building embodies DMU’s vision for educating highly competent, compassionate health care professionals. This “front door to campus” hums with activity in adaptable learning studios and collaborative spaces for classes, small groups and community events. Open learning commons on the first and second floors are designed to support academic study, foster discussions and connect faculty and students across programs. A variety of accessible campus support functions are conveniently located nearby.
The third, fourth and fifth floors feature multiple interprofessional office suites with easy access to the floors below. Two exceptionally-appointed pathways at the second and fourth floors offer beautiful views of campus and directly connect the Edge of Advancement building with the Innovation building.
Innovation
Innovation is embedded in DMU’s DNA, and the Innovation building reflects this throughout its diverse, immersive and technology-rich spaces.
The building’s hybrid learning labs support diverse curricula, while the simulation center enable students to learn and practice a variety of skills in environments that depict real-life settings and scenarios. The top floor’s mix of state-of-the-art wet and dry academic and research labs spark discoveries, enrich learning and engage students and faculty across disciplines.
Students, employees and guests gather to dine, recharge and collaborate in the main food service area housed on the first floor, with direct access to the outdoor quadrangle. Lockers, changing rooms, wellbeing rooms, a coffee bar, the campus store and other amenities create a one-stop shop for students.
Health and Wellbeing
The Health and Wellbeing building stands as a symbol of DMU as a champion of holistic health. It provides students and employees with on-site access to a fully appointed wellness center, medical clinic and student counseling services. The building houses the Swift Gymnasium, Groben Wellness Lab and Doughty Family Activity Pool, as well as an elevated running track and locker rooms. Easy access to diverse individual and group fitness activities and equipment reflects the university’s commitment to a key tenet of excellent health care — the health and well-being of the people who provide it.
Campus Support
Campus Support is the backbone of DMU’s facilities, providing all the critical resources, systems and security for our 88-acre campus.
Additionally, this facility manages campus deliveries, storage and maintenance that are critical for the smooth operation of an academic campus. These campus support elements are integrated into the three-level parking structure's first floor, providing direct access to Innovation through elevated walkways connecting each building.
