Overview
Missouri Southern State University was founded in 1937 as Joplin Junior College and evolved through several stages before becoming a four-year institution in 1965 and gaining university status in 2003. Located in Joplin, Missouri, the university has built a distinctive identity around global education, requiring students to fulfill an international component as part of its general education curriculum, a legacy of its designation by the Missouri legislature as the state's institution for international studies. MSSU is best known for its affordability, close-knit campus community, and programs in business, education, nursing, and technology.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Joplin, Missouri |
| Founded | 1937 |
| Total students | 4,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 77% |
| Graduation rate | 40% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,200 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $14,500 |
| Room & board | $9,200 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 88% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 900-1140 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Education
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.