4525 Downs Drive, Saint Joseph, MO 64507, USA


Missouri Western State University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets established standards of quality and integrity in its educational offerings. This regional accreditation is a key consideration for prospective students, as it signifies that the institution adheres to rigorous criteria for academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services.
Additionally, several of the university's individual programs have earned specialized accreditation from professional organizations. These program-specific endorsements indicate that particular departments maintain standards aligned with industry or disciplinary norms, which can be important for certain career paths or licensure requirements.
For students evaluating Missouri Western State University, these accreditations collectively reflect the institution's commitment to maintaining educational quality and continuous improvement across both general academics and specific professional fields.
Missouri Western State University maintains an open admission policy, welcoming applicants who have completed a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students do not need to submit secondary school GPA, rank, or academic records for consideration. The university permits applicants to earn college credit through various means, including recognized credit transfers and Advanced Placement (AP) credits. While the institution does not require a personal computer for admission, computer leasing options are available for students if needed.
Admission test scores such as the SAT and ACT are not mandatory for all applicants, but available data shows that approximately 54.61% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores. Among these scores, 37.0% of admitted students had ACT scores below 17, 39.9% below 23, and 20.1% below 29, indicating a broad range of academic preparedness. The university does not offer dual credit admission programs.
The application fee at Missouri Western State University is set at $30 for undergraduate applicants. This fee is required to process the application and is non-refundable. Prospective students should plan to include this cost when preparing their submission.
Missouri Western State University offers fee waivers under certain circumstances to help alleviate financial barriers for prospective applicants. These waivers are typically available for students who demonstrate economic need or meet specific eligibility criteria determined by the university. Applicants seeking a fee waiver must submit appropriate documentation as part of the application process to be considered.
The university recommends that students contact the admissions office directly to inquire about eligibility for application fee waivers and to obtain detailed information on how to apply for such waivers. This ensures that all applicants have access to the resources needed to complete their college application without unnecessary financial burden.
Missouri Western State University does not have any ROTC branch units available on its campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs would need to explore options at other institutions or through external arrangements, as no on-site ROTC programs are offered.
Missouri Western State University welcomes transfer students for enrollment in fall, spring, and summer terms. Transfer credits are accepted, supporting students who have previously earned college-level coursework. The university recognizes both CLEP general and subject examinations, as well as DANTES credits, providing multiple pathways for credit recognition. Additionally, Missouri Western State University accepts recommendations from applicants, facilitating a broader approach to transfer admissions.
Missouri Western State University offers a variety of study abroad options designed to enhance the global perspective of its students. These opportunities include faculty-led short-term programs that combine travel with academic coursework, allowing students to earn credits while experiencing different cultures firsthand. The university also participates in semester-long exchange programs with partner institutions, enabling students to immerse themselves more deeply in a foreign academic environment.
In addition to these, Missouri Western State University provides customized internships abroad, which help students gain practical international experience in their chosen fields. Language study programs and cultural immersion experiences are also integral parts of the offerings, giving students the chance to develop language skills in native settings. The university supports students throughout the application and preparation process, ensuring alignment with individual academic goals and degree requirements.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
54.61%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesOpen admission policy
YesDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer