Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Campus

The new Des Moines University (DMU) Medicine and Health Sciences campus in West Des Moines redefines healthcare education through innovation, sustainability, and community integration. Spanning 88 acres, the campus is designed to be the largest LEED Silver and WELL Building Gold certified facility. It includes four interconnected buildings: the Edge of Advancement, the Innovation Building, the Wellness Building, and the Campus Support Building, all linked by elevated pathways that encourage collaboration and accessibility.

The campus integrates cutting-edge learning environments, such as high-fidelity simulation labs, virtual reality-enhanced classrooms, and technology-rich active learning spaces, preparing students for the evolving healthcare landscape. The design emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, fostering teamwork across disciplines through shared study areas, labs, and clinical spaces.

Sustainability is a core principle, with an energy-efficient 700-well geothermal system, demand-controlled ventilation, and regenerative elevators contributing to a 59% reduction in energy use and a 67% reduction in operational carbon. Water management strategies, including bioswales and permeable surfaces, reduce annual runoff by 8 million gallons while supporting biodiversity with native plant restoration.

Designed for long-term adaptability, the campus layout anticipates future growth, ensuring spaces remain flexible and responsive to evolving educational needs. By merging sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, DMU’s campus serves as a model for the future of health science education