| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1937
Location: Joplin, Missouri
Type: Public University
Campus Size: 373 acres
Mascot: Roary the Lion
Colors: Green & Gold
Athletics: NCAA Division II – MIAA (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association)
MSSU offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's degree programs across various fields, including:
Business
Health Sciences & Nursing
Education
Engineering Technology
Criminal Justice
Communication
Biology & Environmental Health
International Studies
The university also has a strong international mission, encouraging students to engage in global learning experiences.
Modern classrooms and research facilities
On-campus housing and dining options
Student organizations and extracurricular activities
Strong athletics program with various sports teams
In-state tuition: More affordable for Missouri residents
Out-of-state & international tuition: Higher but offers scholarships
Various financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and work-study programs
Global Focus: MSSU integrates international education into many of its programs.
Small Class Sizes: Offers a more personalized learning experience.
Affordable Education: Known for being budget-friendly compared to other universities in the region.
Business & Management
Accounting
Finance
Marketing
Management
International Business
Entrepreneurship
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Information Science
Environmental Health
Engineering Technology
Electrical
Manufacturing
Mechanical
Health Sciences & Nursing
Nursing (BSN)
Dental Hygiene
Radiologic Technology
Respiratory Therapy
Health Science
Social Sciences & Humanities
Psychology
Sociology
Political Science
History
Criminal Justice
Communication
Education & Teaching
Elementary Education
Secondary Education (Various Subjects)
Special Education
Arts & Media
Mass Communication
Public Relations
Graphic Design
Theater & Drama
Music
MSSU offers a few master's degree programs, including:
Master of Science in Management (MSM)
Master of Science in Education (MSE)
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
MSSU also provides pre-professional pathways for students planning to enter specialized fields:
Pre-Medical
Pre-Dental
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Law
Pre-Engineering
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) (Estimated for International Students) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Management |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
International Business |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Entrepreneurship |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Computer Information Science |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Environmental Health |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Engineering Technology (Electrical) |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Engineering Technology (Manufacturing) |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Engineering Technology (Mechanical) |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Health Sciences & Nursing |
|
|
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Dental Hygiene |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Radiologic Technology |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Respiratory Therapy |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Health Science |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Social Sciences & Humanities |
|
|
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Communication |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
|
|
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Secondary Education (Various Subjects) |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Arts & Media |
|
|
|
Mass Communication |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Public Relations |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Theater & Drama |
4 years |
$15,000 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$15,000 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) (Estimated for International Students) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Management (MSM) |
1-2 years |
$15,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Education (MSE) |
1-2 years |
$15,000 |
|
Criminal Justice & Law |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) |
1-2 years |
$15,000 |
Affordable Tuition – Lower tuition costs compared to many other U.S. universities.
International Student Support – Assistance with visas, housing, and cultural adjustment.
Small Class Sizes – More personalized learning experience.
Strong Business, STEM, and Health Programs – Popular among international students.
Scholarships Available – Financial aid for eligible students.
Student Organizations – Cultural clubs, academic societies, and recreational activities.
On-Campus Housing – Dorms and apartments available.
Dining Facilities – Variety of meal plans available.
Sports & Fitness – Gym, sports teams, and recreation center.
International Student Support Services – Orientation, visa assistance, and cultural events.
Visit the MSSU website and select your desired program (Bachelor’s or Master’s).
Check program-specific admission requirements.
Apply through the MSSU Admissions Portal:
Pay the non-refundable application fee:
Undergraduate: $50
Graduate: $50
After applying, upload the following documents:
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Applicants:
High school transcripts (translated into English)
English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.)
Copy of passport
Proof of financial support (Bank statement showing funds for at least one year of tuition & living expenses)
For Graduate (Master’s) Applicants:
Bachelor’s degree transcript (translated into English)
English proficiency test scores
Resume (for some programs)
Statement of Purpose (for some programs)
Letters of Recommendation (if required)
MSSU will review your application and send an admission decision via email.
If accepted, you will receive an I-20 form (required for a student visa).
Processing Time:
Typically takes 2-4 weeks after submitting all documents.
Once you receive the I-20 form, follow these steps:
1 Pay SEVIS Fee ($350) at.
2 Schedule a visa appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
3 Attend the visa interview and present:
I-20 Form
MSSU Admission Letter
Proof of financial support
Valid passport
SEVIS fee receipt
On-Campus Housing: Apply for dormitories if needed.
Book your flight to Joplin, Missouri.
Attend MSSU’s International Student Orientation upon arrival.
Semester |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall (August start) |
June 1 |
|
Spring (January start) |
November 1 |
|
Summer (May start) |
March 1 |
Tip: Apply early to secure scholarships and housing options!
Academic Requirement:
Completion of high school (12th grade) or equivalent.
Minimum GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
English Language Requirement (Choose one):
Test |
Minimum Score (Undergraduate) |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
68 |
|
IELTS |
6.0 |
|
Duolingo |
95 |
|
PTE |
47 |
Other Documents:
High school transcripts (translated into English)
Copy of passport
Proof of financial support (Bank statement showing funds for at least one year of tuition & living expenses)
Academic Requirement:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.
English Language Requirement (Choose one):
Test |
Minimum Score (Graduate) |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
79 |
|
IELTS |
6.5 |
|
Duolingo |
105 |
|
PTE |
53 |
Other Documents:
Bachelor’s degree transcript (translated into English)
Resume (for some programs)
Statement of Purpose (for some programs)
Letters of Recommendation (if required)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Student Scholarship |
Minimum GPA 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) |
Up to $4,000 |
Renewable with 2.75 GPA |
|
Honors Program Scholarship |
High academic achievement & admission into Honors Program |
N/A |
Renewable if maintaining Honors status |
|
MSSU Presidential Scholarship |
Minimum GPA 3.5 |
Up to $6,000 |
Renewable with 3.5 GPA |
|
MSSU Foundation Scholarships |
(Merit-based & Need-based) |
$500 - $3,000 |
N/A |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Based on athletic ability & coach recommendation |
N/A |
Renewable if meeting athletic & academic requirements |
|
Performance-Based Scholarships |
For students in music, theater, or other performing arts |
N/A |
Renewable if participating in performances |
Residence Hall / Apartment |
Room Type |
Meal Plan Included? |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lion Village |
Double Occupancy |
Yes |
$8,010 |
|
Quads (Suite-Style Living) |
Single Occupancy |
Yes |
$9,010 |
|
Quad Apartments |
2-Bedroom Apartment |
No |
$6,500 |
|
McCormick Hall |
Double Occupancy |
Yes |
$7,600 |
|
East Hall |
Single Occupancy |
Yes |
$8,800 |
Furnished Rooms (Bed, Desk, Chair, Closet)
Free Wi-Fi & Cable TV
Secure Access & 24/7 Security
Utilities Included (Electricity, Water, Heating, Cooling)
Meal Plans Available (Required for some dorms)
Recreational Areas (Game Rooms, TV Lounges)
Laundry Facilities (Free or minimal cost)
Students can also choose to live off-campus in apartments near MSSU. Estimated costs:
Accommodation Type |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
$5,000 - $7,000 |
|
Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment |
$6,500 - $9,000 |
|
Meal Costs (if living off-campus) |
$2,000 - $3,500 |
Tip: Off-campus housing may require a lease agreement, and students need to budget for utilities, internet, and groceries.
MSSU provides a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere with various clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities:
Student Organizations & Clubs – Over 70 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, honor societies, and professional associations. Popular clubs include the International Club, Business Club, and Pre-Med Society.
Events & Festivals – MSSU hosts various cultural, social, and academic events throughout the year, such as the International Film Festival, Homecoming Week, and Spring Fest.
Community Engagement – Students can participate in volunteer programs, internships, and leadership activities to gain real-world experience and give back to the community.
MSSU has a strong athletics program and excellent recreational facilities:
NCAA Division II Sports – MSSU competes in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) with sports like football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and track & field.
Intramural & Club Sports – Students can join intramural teams in sports like volleyball, basketball, soccer, and more.
Fitness & Wellness – The Beimdiek Recreation Center offers a gym, swimming pool, fitness classes, and wellness programs to help students stay active.
On-Campus Housing – Modern residence halls with furnished rooms, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security. Options include Lion Village, East Hall, and McCormick Hall.
Dining Options – MSSU provides various meal plans with on-campus dining halls, cafes, and grab-and-go options. Popular spots include the Lions Den Dining Hall and Lion's Roar Café.
MSSU has a dedicated International Student Office to assist with:
Visa and immigration support
Cultural adjustment programs
International student orientation
Peer mentoring and academic advising
The International Club also organizes cultural exchange programs, trips, and networking events to help students feel at home.
Library & Study Spaces – The George A. Spiva Library provides research resources, study rooms, and academic support.
Tutoring & Writing Center – Free tutoring services for subjects like math, writing, and science.
Career Services – Helps students with resume building, internships, job placements, and career counseling. MSSU also hosts career fairs to connect students with employers.
Campus Shuttle – Free transportation within campus for students.
Nearby Cities – Joplin is close to Kansas City, Tulsa, and St. Louis, offering entertainment, shopping, and travel opportunities.
Outdoor Activities – Students can explore Grand Falls, Wildcat Glades, and Route 66 for hiking, sightseeing, and adventure.
Career Services Office – Helps students with resume writing, interview preparation, career counseling, and job search strategies.
Internships & Co-op Programs – MSSU has partnerships with local, national, and international companies to provide internship and work opportunities for students.
Job & Career Fairs – MSSU organizes career fairs, networking events, and employer meetups where students can connect with potential recruiters.
Handshake Platform – MSSU uses Handshake, an online job portal where students can find internships, part-time jobs, and full-time career opportunities.
Alumni Network & Employer Connections – MSSU’s alumni and employer connections help students build professional relationships and gain referrals in their respective industries.
MSSU graduates find job opportunities in various industries, including:
Business & Management – Accounting, Marketing, Finance, Human Resources
Healthcare & Nursing – Hospitals, Clinics, Public Health Organizations
Engineering & Technology – IT Companies, Manufacturing, Environmental Firms
Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement – FBI, Police Departments, Legal Firms
Education & Teaching – Schools, Colleges, Special Education Programs
Media & Communications – Public Relations, Journalism, Digital Marketing
Some well-known companies and organizations that recruit MSSU graduates include:
Leggett & Platt
Freeman Health System
Mercy Hospital
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
KPMG, PwC, and other accounting firms
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
CoxHealth
T-Mobile
Amazon
City of Joplin (Public Sector Jobs)
On-Campus Jobs – International students can work up to 20 hours per week on campus.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – After graduation, students can work in the U.S. for up to 12 months (or 36 months for STEM graduates).
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Internships related to a student’s field of study are available during the course.
MSSU’s Career Services team helps international students find job opportunities that align with their visa regulations.
Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) has an acceptance rate of approximately 94-98%, making it a highly accessible and student-friendly university.
MSSU has a lenient admission policy, meaning most students who meet the minimum eligibility criteria are admitted.
The university focuses on academic potential rather than competitive selection, making it an inclusive choice for both domestic and international students.
Since MSSU has a high acceptance rate, it is considered a moderately selective university. As long as applicants meet the GPA and English proficiency requirements, they have a strong chance of getting admitted.
Minimum GPA Requirement:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): 2.25+ on a 4.0 scale
Graduate (Master’s): 2.75+ on a 4.0 scale
English Proficiency Requirement: (For international students)
TOEFL iBT: 68+ (Undergraduate) / 79+ (Graduate)
IELTS: 6.0+ (Undergraduate) / 6.5+ (Graduate)
Duolingo: 95+ (Undergraduate) / 105+ (Graduate)
Address:
Missouri Southern State University (MSSU)
3950 E. Newman Road,
Joplin, Missouri 64801,
United States