| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
Founded: 1915
Type: Public University
Campus Size: ~720 acres
Motto: "Discover Gold"
MWSU offers more than 120 undergraduate programs and several graduate degrees, including:
Business Administration
Computer Science
Nursing
Biology/Pre-Med
Criminal Justice
Engineering Technology
Cybersecurity
Education
Health Sciences
Visual & Performing Arts
Bachelor’s Degrees (BA, BS, BFA, etc.)
Master’s Degrees (e.g., MBA, Master of Applied Science, Nursing, etc.)
Certificate and Pre-Professional Programs
MWSU welcomes students from around the world and offers:
Support with visa, orientation, and housing
Scholarships for international students
On-campus employment opportunities
Cultural events and international clubs
Undergraduate (International): $15,000–$16,000 per year (tuition only)
Graduate Programs: Around $13,000–$15,000 per year
Housing + Meals: $7,000–$9,000 per year
Total Estimated Cost: ~$22,000–$25,000 per year for international students
Modern residence halls & apartments
Student union, dining hall, library, and recreation center
Over 80 student organizations and clubs
NCAA Division II athletics – MWSU Griffons
St. Joseph is a safe, historic city with a lower cost of living
About 1 hour north of Kansas City
Offers both urban access and a quiet campus environment
Accounting
Business Administration (with concentrations like Finance, Marketing, Management)
Economics
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Management Information Systems
Engineering Technology
Biology (Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, etc.)
Chemistry
Nursing (BSN)
Health Information Management
Exercise Science
Physical Education
Medical Laboratory Science
Psychology
Sociology
Criminal Justice
Political Science
Social Work
Art (Graphic Design, Studio Art, Art Education)
Music (Education, Performance)
Theatre and Cinema
Communication Studies
Journalism and Public Relations
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
General Studies
International Studies
Sport Management
Legal Studies
Wildlife Conservation and Management
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Applied Science (Technology Management, Chemistry)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Master of Interdisciplinary Studies
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Law
Pre-Engineering
Certificates in Data Analytics, Project Management, and more
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Business Administration |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Biology |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Education |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
|
Bachelor of General Studies |
4 years |
~$15,300 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1–2 years |
~$13,000 |
|
Master of Applied Science (Technology Management/Chemistry) |
1.5–2 years |
~$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
~$13,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) |
2 years |
~$13,000 |
|
Master of Interdisciplinary Studies |
2 years |
~$13,000 |
Missouri Western State University is a welcoming, student-focused public university that offers a supportive and affordable education for international students from around the world.
International students can choose from a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like:
Business Administration
Computer Science & Cybersecurity
Biology, Chemistry, and Pre-Med
Nursing
Education
Engineering Technology
Visual Arts, Communication, and more
Affordable Tuition: Lower tuition compared to many U.S. universities
Scholarships Available: Merit-based scholarships for eligible international students
Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention and strong faculty support
Diverse Community: Students from over 30 countries
Hands-On Learning: Internships, research, and career readiness programs
International Student Services Office (ISSO) – helps with visas, orientation, and cultural adjustment
Academic Advising
Career Development Center
Writing and Tutoring Centers
Health and Counseling Services
Cultural and Social Events
On-campus housing in residence halls and apartments
Meal plans and dining services
Student clubs, sports, and organizations
Fitness center and recreational sports
Tuition & Fees: ~$15,300
Housing & Meals: ~$7,000–$9,000
Books, Insurance, Personal Expenses: ~$2,000–$3,000
Total Estimated Cost: ~$22,000–$25,000/year
Completed online application
High school or college transcripts (translated to English)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.)
Financial support documents (bank statement showing ~$25,000)
Copy of passport
Application fee (usually $50)
Decide whether you're applying for:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Graduate (Master’s)
English Language Preparation (if needed)
Apply through the Missouri Western online application portal
Pay the $50 non-refundable application fee
For Undergraduate Applicants:
High school transcripts (translated into English)
Proof of English proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 68+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo: 95+
Copy of valid passport
Bank statement (showing at least $25,000 USD)
Financial affidavit of support (if sponsored)
For Graduate Applicants:
Bachelor’s degree transcripts (translated & evaluated, if outside the U.S.)
English proficiency (same as above)
GRE/GMAT (only for certain programs like MBA)
Resume or statement of purpose (program-dependent)
Letters of recommendation (if required)
Passport, bank statement, and financial affidavit
If accepted, you'll receive an official admission letter and a Form I-20 (for your F-1 visa application)
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350)
Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Bring your:
I-20
Admission letter
Passport
Financial documents
Book your travel to Missouri, USA
Attend International Student Orientation upon arrival
Get your student ID, register for classes, and move into housing
Fall Semester (August start): Apply by June
Spring Semester (January start): Apply by October
Some flexibility for document submission may apply
MWSU offers two main intakes for international students:
Intake |
Start Month |
|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
August |
|
Spring Semester |
January |
Note: Some graduate programs may offer limited summer intake or have different deadlines.
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent (transcripts in English)
No specific GPA requirement, but strong academic background preferred
English Language Proficiency (any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 68+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 95+
PTE Academic: 47+
OR completion of English programs from approved institutions
Academic Requirements:
Recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (transcripts evaluated if not U.S. based)
Program-specific requirements (e.g., background in related field)
English Proficiency:
Same as above (TOEFL 68+, IELTS 6.0, etc.)
Some graduate programs may have higher English score requirements
Additional Requirements (for certain programs):
GRE/GMAT scores (only for selected graduate programs like the MBA)
Resume or Statement of Purpose
Letters of recommendation
Scholarship Name |
Amount (USD) |
Eligibility Criteria |
Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Global Griffon Guarantee Scholarship |
Up to $4,000 per year |
Automatically awarded based on GPA (2.5 or higher) |
No (Automatic) |
|
Western Frontier Scholarship |
Up to $9,100 (one-time) |
New international freshmen; based on academic achievement |
Yes |
|
Graduate Assistantships (for Master’s) |
Partial to full tuition + stipend |
Graduate students; based on merit, availability, and department needs |
Yes + Application |
|
Foundation Scholarships |
$500 – $1,500 (varies) |
Enrolled students; merit, financial need, or program-specific awards |
Yes (Annual) |
|
On-Campus Employment (F-1 students) |
$13–$16/hour (not a scholarship) |
Up to 20 hrs/week during semester |
Apply on campus |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
St. Joseph, Missouri, USA |
|
Campus Type |
Suburban, 720-acre campus |
|
On-Campus Housing Options |
Residence halls and apartment-style housing |
|
Popular Halls |
Scanlon Hall, Beshears Hall, Griffon Hall, Vartabedian Hall (Vart) |
|
Room Types |
Double, Single, Apartment-style (2-4 students per unit) |
|
Room Features |
Fully furnished, Wi-Fi, cable, air conditioning, study areas |
|
Shared Facilities |
Laundry, study lounges, kitchenettes, fitness rooms, computer labs |
|
Meal Plans |
Multiple options; required for residents in traditional dorms |
|
Cost of Housing & Meals (Yearly) |
Approx. $7,000 – $9,000 USD/year (depending on room & meal plan) |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Available in St. Joseph; university provides housing support resources |
|
Security & Support |
24/7 campus police, secure access, RA support, student life programming |
Missouri Western offers a close-knit and friendly community, making it especially welcoming for international students. You’ll find a balance of academics, social life, and cultural engagement.
Students live in modern residence halls or apartment-style housing with easy access to dining, study lounges, and campus events. The campus is walkable and safe, with 24/7 campus security and RA support in housing.
Classes are small, so you’ll get personal attention from professors. The campus offers:
Study lounges
Free tutoring centers (writing, math, science)
Career counseling and internship help
Computer labs and library resources
MWSU welcomes students from 30+ countries. International students can join:
The International Student Club
Cultural events and festivals (like International Education Week)
Student leadership and mentoring programs
There are over 70 student clubs and organizations, including:
Academic clubs (STEM, business, pre-health)
Cultural and language clubs
Art, drama, and music groups
Volunteer and service clubs
Honor societies
If there’s not a club for your interest, you can start your own!
Home of the Griffons, MWSU has strong NCAA Division II sports teams. Even if you’re not on a team, you can enjoy:
Fitness and recreation center
Intramural sports (basketball, soccer, volleyball, etc.)
Outdoor activities and local parks
Student life is active with:
Movie nights, concerts, and talent shows
Campus fairs and themed events
Guest speakers and academic workshops
Trips to nearby cities like Kansas City
On-campus health clinic
Mental health counseling
Wellness and fitness programs
Stress relief and mindfulness events
MWSU is focused on career readiness. You can get help with:
Resume writing
Interview prep
Internship placement
Job fairs and employer networking events
While U.S. universities generally don't guarantee “placement” after graduation, Missouri Western provides strong career support to help students find internships, jobs, or transfer to graduate programs.
MWSU’s CDC offers:
Resume & cover letter workshops
Interview preparation and mock interviews
Career advising & job search coaching
Access to on-campus job fairs
Internship assistance and employer connections
Handshake platform for job listings and internships
Many programs at MWSU include hands-on experience through internships or practicum, especially in:
Business
Computer Science & Cybersecurity
Nursing & Health Sciences
Criminal Justice
Education
Students often intern at local businesses, schools, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and tech companies.
Eligible for on-campus jobs (up to 20 hrs/week during semesters)
Can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during studies (for internships)
Eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 12 months post-graduation
STEM students may get a 24-month OPT extension
Graduates from MWSU have gone on to work at companies like:
Cerner (health IT)
Garmin (tech)
Mosaic Life Care (healthcare)
Local school districts, law firms, and public sector organizations
Some also pursue graduate programs in the U.S. or abroad.
The acceptance rate at Missouri Western State University (MWSU), USA is approximately 96%.
MWSU is a moderately selective university but is very accessible, especially for students who meet the academic and English language requirements.
It follows a student-centered admissions process, aiming to provide opportunities to a wide range of students, including international applicants.
As long as you:
Meet the academic eligibility
Provide valid English proficiency scores
Submit your financial documents
And complete the application requirements
You have a very high chance of being accepted.
Missouri Western State University
Address: 4525 Downs Drive
City: St. Joseph
State: Missouri
ZIP Code: 64507
Country: United States
St. Joseph is a historic and peaceful city in northwest Missouri
About 50 minutes north of Kansas City, offering access to a larger metropolitan area
Lower cost of living compared to big cities
Safe, student-friendly environment with parks, museums, shopping, and cafes