4525 Downs Drive, Saint Joseph, MO 64507, USA


Missouri Western State University began as a junior college in 1915, originally serving the local community with two-year degree programs. Over time, it expanded its academic offerings and infrastructure, responding to growing educational demands. In 1969, the institution transitioned to a four-year college, marking a significant milestone that allowed it to award bachelor's degrees for the first time.
The development of Missouri Western State University continued steadily, and in 1977, it achieved university status, reflecting a broader curriculum and a commitment to higher education beyond undergraduate studies. Throughout its history, the university prioritized accessibility and regional service, aiming to provide quality education tailored to the needs of students in the northwest Missouri area.
Missouri Western State University has also been noted for adapting to changing educational trends and community requirements while maintaining a focus on comprehensive liberal arts and professional programs. Its growth from a local junior college to a university illustrates a progression reflecting both educational ambition and responsiveness to the population it serves.
Missouri Western State University offers a diverse range of academic faculties and departments tailored to meet the varied interests and career goals of prospective students. Those seeking a comprehensive education can explore disciplines across the arts, sciences, business, education, and health professions.
The university houses several distinct schools that organize its academic offerings. The School of Arts and Letters includes programs in communication, fine arts, history, and languages, providing students with a foundation in liberal arts and humanities. The School of Business, recognized for integrating practical experience with theoretical knowledge, delivers degrees in areas such as management, marketing, and finance.
Science and technology fields are supported by the School of Science and Technology, which encompasses departments like biology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics, aimed at preparing students for careers in research, industry, and education. For those interested in teaching and educational leadership, the School of Education offers programs focused on teacher preparation and professional development.
The university also emphasizes health-related fields through dedicated departments that prepare students for roles in health sciences and related services. Overall, Missouri Western State University structures its academic programs within these faculties to offer coherent pathways aligned with student ambitions and workforce demands.
Missouri Western State University is situated in Saint Joseph, Missouri, a city in the Midwest region. The university's campus is located at 4525 Downs Drive, within the 64507 postal area. Saint Joseph offers a setting that is both accessible and practical for students considering their educational environment. Prospective students will find the city provides a Midwestern atmosphere that complements campus life, blending community and academic opportunities.
Missouri Western State University commits to providing a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning. The university emphasizes the development of knowledge, skills, and values essential for success in a dynamic and diverse society. It aims to foster an inclusive environment where critical thinking, creativity, and ethical responsibility are encouraged across all disciplines.
The institution's vision highlights a future where it serves as a catalyst for personal growth and community advancement through accessible, quality education. Missouri Western State University focuses on cultivating a supportive atmosphere that nurtures academic excellence alongside practical, real-world applications, ensuring students are well-equipped to contribute positively to their professions and communities.
Name of the institution
Missouri Western State UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PublicSetting type
City: SmallInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
1,000 - 4,999School type
Comprehensive higher education institutionMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1915
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$39,358Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Data not availableBiology, General
$24,121Biotechnology
Data not availableBusiness Administration, Management and Operations
$40,262Chemistry
Data not availableClinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
Data not availableCommunication and Media Studies
$35,012Computer and Information Sciences, General
$52,160Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
Data not availableComputer Science
Data not availableConstruction Engineering Technologies
Data not availableCriminal Justice and Corrections
$33,540Design and Applied Arts
Data not availableDrama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Data not availableEconomics
Data not availableElectrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableFilm/Video and Photographic Arts
Data not availableFinance and Financial Management Services
$44,124Fine and Studio Arts
Data not availableGraphic Communications
Data not availableHealth and Medical Administrative Services
$32,272Health and Physical Education/Fitness
$33,429History
Data not availableIndustrial Production Technologies/Technicians
Data not availableInternational/Global Studies
Data not availableLinguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
Data not availableMarketing
$40,378Mathematics
Data not availableMulti/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
$28,876Music
Data not availableParks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
Data not availablePhilosophy
Data not availablePolitical Science and Government
Data not availablePsychology, General
$29,656Public Health
Data not availablePublic Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Data not availableRegistered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$57,395Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Data not availableSocial Work
$30,966Sociology
Data not availableSpecial Education and Teaching
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
$31,653Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
Data not availableWildlife and Wildlands Science and Management
$26,250