In 1937, the program expanded and became known as the School of Medicine of Yunnan University, formerly known as Donglu University. In 1956, the School became an independent medical education institution known as Kunming Medical College, and in 1993 was listed among the key higher education institutions in the province. Since its inception, Kunming Medical University has established itself as the largest specialized medical university in Yunnan and leads the way in medical education, scientific research and medical services.

In the 76 years since its inception, Kunming Medical University has not only provided higher level medical education but also has taken responsibility for the development of medical and health care in Yunnan province. The over 60,000 graduates of KMU have made an outstanding contribution to the economic and social development of the whole province.