== Springfield ==
2011 – 12 undergraduate
ADMISSIONS GUIDE www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu
Why you should join us at Missouri State University You can follow your passion. Because we’re a major university, you will have endless possibilities when it comes to topics you can study, groups you can join and activities outside of class. You will find your place. Our student body is known for being warm and welcoming. It’s easy for you to be who you are and find a niche that is right for you.
You’ll get an unbeatable value. Our cost is lower than state and national averages, plus we have lots of ways to help you pay for school. You’ll be encouraged to make the world a better place thanks to our public affairs mission.
You will have teachers who really care and will go the extra distance for you. You’ll be prepared for a lifetime of success. There are lots of student services, like the Career Center, to put you on the right path to getting a great job. When you have a degree from Missouri State, employers appreciate you because we give you skills that translate to the real world.
Follow your passion 4 Participate in public affairs ::: 6 Explore majors ::: 10 Be inspired by your professors 12 Prepare for your career ::: 14 Enjoy the value
Find your place 16 Live and learn on campus ::: 17 Visit campus 18 Discover the hot spots ::: 20 Build your social life ::: 22 Experience Springfield
24 Just for freshmen ::: 25 Just for transfer students 26 How to apply ::: 27 Contact us 27 Online communities
Missouri State University
Follow your passion:
Participate in public affairs Missouri State has a public affairs mission. So what does that have to do with your education? The mission makes our University stand out. It’s about helping the community, being a leader and being informed about other cultures. The mission is everywhere on campus, from the classroom to special events. It helps us see how we can make a difference.
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The themes of the public affairs mission are community engagement, cultural competence and ethical leadership. With our mission, you’ll be able to better understand issues that affect your local community, the world at large and the environment.
Meet Danielle Cole
Students are encouraged to give back to their communities. Many do volunteer work through social organizations, and some classes even give credit while you are helping in the community. We also have Alternative Spring Break — our students are so great that many give up time on the beach to help others instead.
From: Lexington, Mo. Major: Cell and molecular biology Wants to: Be a pediatrician
The public affairs mission is my favorite part of being a student here. It helps me become a better person inside and outside of the classroom. Even when I leave school I will still live by the mission because I want to be able to connect to every patient once I’m a doctor. I just really want to help people!
Online extra! Read Danielle’s story to learn her favorite places on campus. www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights
We have a Public Affairs Week and a Public Affairs Conference every year. Amazing speakers who are national and international experts talk about topics like citizenship, democracy, diversity, the economy and sustainability.
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Follow your passion:
Explore majors Missouri State is a major university that offers you more than 150 undergraduate programs and nearly 50 graduate programs. Not sure what you want to do yet? That’s OK! It’s fine to be undeclared. We have so many programs, you can try courses ranging from animation to zoology before you find the path that is right for you.
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You will take classes outside of your major in order to fulfill general education requirements. This helps you explore fields you never considered and makes you a well-rounded, fully educated person. You can even create an individualized major if you know what you want to study and the specific degree is not offered.
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Missouri State’s six academic colleges, listed below, offer more than 150 areas of study. College of Arts and Letters » Antiquities: Classical Studies Near Eastern Studies New World Studies
coal.missouristate.edu
Dance: Dance Studies Performance Design: Graphic Design Graphic Design and Illustration Illustration
Art: Ceramics Computer Animation Digital Arts Drawing Metals-Jewelry Painting Photography Printmaking Sculpture
Electronic Arts: Audio Studies Computer Animation Studies Multimedia Studies Video Studies English: Creative Writing Literature
Art and Design Art History Communication:* Communication Studies Ethical Leadership Health Communication Intercultural Communication and Diversity Interpersonal Communication Organizational Communication Rhetoric
Mass Media: Digital Film Production Film Studies Media Production Media Studies
Athletic Training
Dietetics
Cell and Molecular Biology
Music:* Composition Instrumental Performance Jazz Performance Keyboard Performance Vocal Performance
Exercise and Movement Science: Health Studies Pre-Professional
Communication Sciences and Disorders: Audiology Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Speech-Language Pathology
Professional Writing Socio-Political Communication Spanish
German Global Studies
v
Journalism: Broadcast Journalism Print and Internet Journalism Latin
††
Clinical Laboratory SciencesMedical Technology**
Musical Theatre†† Public Relations
French
College of Health and Human Services »
Theatre: Design/Technology/Stage Management Acting† Theatre Studies
chhs.missouristate.edu
Gerontology
Radiography:** Education Management Science Recreation, Sport and Park Administration
Nursing†† Generic, 4-Year Program RN Completion Program
Respiratory Therapy:** Education Management Science
Psychology
Social Work
Graduate: Audiology (doctorate), Cell and Molecular Biology, Communication Sciences and Disorders–Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Health Promotion and Wellness Management, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing, Physical Therapy (doctorate), Physician Assistant Studies, Psychology, Public Health, Social Work
College of Humanities and Public Affairs »
chpa.missouristate.edu
Anthropology
History
Religious Studies
Criminology
Philosophy
Sociology
Economics
Political Science
Graduate: Communication, English, Music, Theatre, Writing
Graduate: Applied Anthropology, Criminology, Defense and Strategic Studies, Global Studies, History, Public Administration, Religious Studies
College of Business Administration »
College of Natural and Applied Sciences »
Accounting
coba.missouristate.edu
Computer Information Systems
Finance: Finance Financial Planning Real Estate
Construction Management
General Business
Entertainment Management
Housing and Interior Design
Entrepreneurship
Information Technology Service Management
Fashion Merchandising and Design: Fashion Design and Product Development Fashion Merchandising and Management
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Management: Administrative Management Human Resources Management International Business Administration Operations Management
Agricultural Business: Enterprise Management Finance and Management Marketing and Sales
Marketing: Advertising and Promotion Marketing Management Marketing Research Retailing/Merchandising Sales/Sales Management
Biology:* Ecology Environmental Biology and Evolution Microbiology and Biotechnology Wildlife Biology
Risk Management and Insurance
Chemistry:* Biochemistry Graduate School Industrial
Technology Management Graduate: Accountancy, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Health Administration, Project Management
College of Education » Child and Family Development Early Childhood Education Elementary Education Middle School Education Special Education/Cross Categorical
education.missouristate.edu
Teaching of Chemistry:† Categorical Science Unified Science
Teaching of Music:† Instrumental Vocal/Choral
Teaching of Earth Science Education:† Categorical Science Unified Science
Teaching of Physical Education†
Teaching of English
†
Teaching of Family and Consumer Sciences†
Teaching of Agriculture Education† Teaching of Art and Design
Teaching of French†
Teaching of Biology:† Categorical Science Unified Science
Teaching of German†
†
Teaching of Business Education†
Teaching of History†
Teaching of Physics Education† Teaching of Spanish† Teaching of Speech and Theatre:† Communication Theatre Teaching of Technology Education†
Teaching of Latin
†
Teaching of Mathematics†
Graduate: Counseling, Early Childhood and Family Development, Elementary Education, Educational Administration, Instructional Media Technology, Teaching, Reading, Secondary Education, Special Education, Student Affairs in Higher Education
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Agronomy Animal Science
Electrical
Engineeringu
Engineering Physics: Computer Engineering Materials Science Personalized General Agriculture:* Agricultural Communication Agriculture Food Plant Management Geography:* Cultural and Regional Geography Environmental and Natural Resources Geotourism Geology
Civil Engineeringu
Geospatial Sciences
Computer Science
Horticulture
cnas.missouristate.edu
Hospitality and Restaurant Administration Club Management Food and Beverage Lodging Senior Living Management Tourism Mathematics:* Actuarial Mathematics Applied Mathematics General Mathematics Statistics Physics Planning: Community and Regional Planning Tourism Planning and Development Wildlife Conservation and Management
Graduate: Biology, Chemistry, Geospatial Sciences in Geography and Geology, Materials Science, Mathematics, Natural and Applied Science, Plant Science Accelerated master’s degrees: These programs allow qualified students to begin earning credit toward a master’s degree while completing their requirements for a bachelor’s degree. Graduate programs: Administrative Studies (This is a cross-disciplinary program that is housed within the Graduate College.), Library Science (in collaboration with University of Missouri-Columbia) Pre-professional programs: Pre-Chiropractic Medicine, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Engineering, Pre-Law, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Optometry, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Physician Assistant Studies, Pre-Veterinary Medicine. (These are not majors but are advisement programs that prepare students for admission to professional programs. Most students pursue one of the majors listed on this page while receiving pre-professional advisement.) * Offered as a free-standing major (e.g., mathematics) or as a major with a specialization (e.g., mathematics with an option in statistics).
** Offered in cooperation with professional schools. Admission to Missouri State does not guarantee admission to the
professional school. See catalog for details on program requirements. v Global studies is an interdisciplinary major administered through the department of modern and classical languages. u Offered in cooperation with Missouri University of Science and Technology. Limited admission program; contact Dr. Doug Carroll, cooperative engineering program director, at 417-836-6208 or engineering@missouristate.edu. † These programs are housed in the department of the subject area. †† A competitive admission program. See catalog for details on admission requirements.
Your smartphone won’t be the smartest thing in class — that distinction goes to you and your classmates. The average for ACT scores among Missouri State freshmen is well above the national average.
Meet Adam Murphy
From: O’Fallon, Mo. Majors: Speech and theatre education; theatre and acting Wants to: Teach high school drama, speech and debate
Missouri State has it down when it comes to teaching the arts. The professors are honest about what you need to do to develop. We get visits from professionals, from movie-star alumni (like Kathleen Turner) to casting agents and stunt men. They tell you what to really expect from the business.
Missouri State has an Honors College for exceptional students. Honors College students can take enriched courses and may live in Scholars House. To be eligible, you must do the following: • Earn an ACT score of 27 or higher (or SAT of 1210 or higher), • Graduate in the top 10 percent of your high school class or graduate with a 3.9 cumulative grade point average, and • Apply and become admitted to Missouri State University.
Online extra!
Watch professors in action on iTunes!
Read Adam’s story to learn why he chose Missouri State. www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights
Missouri State has a site on iTunes U with dozens of entire courses online. For more about iTunes U and how to access our content, see itunesu.missouristate.edu/.
You will have help creating your schedule. Each student is assigned an adviser who provides guidance when it comes to choosing classes. This helps you make sure you’re on track to graduate on time.
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Follow your passion:
Be inspired by your professors Many students say their professors are one of the best things about Missouri State. Instructors get to know students and care about their progress. Your professors will be experts because nearly 90 percent of them have the highest degrees in their field. We have an average student-to-teacher ratio of 20-to-1, a great number for a major university.
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Meet Lora Hobbs Senior instructor in the religious studies department Why it’s great to be in her class: She adapts to fit students’ interests. “If the class gets into a great discussion, I am not going to interrupt them to say that I only planned on 10 minutes of talk. Instead, I am there to make sure the conversation is productive and interject with ‘that’s what this philosopher says’ or ‘that’s how Hinduism would respond.’ I love to see the students get engaged.” Why she loves this field: “Religion explores what it means to be human. When students study religion it helps them understand different cultures and world events, both current and historic. It helps them clarify their personal values. This equips you for any career field.”
Meet Dr. Joe Hughes Professor of classics in modern and classical languages department Why it’s great to be in his class: He blows away the image of a boring professor. Sit in his office, and you will see student after student drop by to discuss things like translating rock ’n’ roll songs into Latin. He’s on Facebook, he uses words like “dude” and he has a class on iTunes U. “I have to keep learning new things, just like the students do. It’s hard to get them excited about classical mythology if it’s clear I haven’t learned anything new for the last 20 years. The bottom line is, am I getting across to them in a meaningful way?” He must be: In 2009, students voted him Ultimate Professor in an online poll. Why you should come here: “The student comes first, and not every university can say that.”
Meet Dr. Todd Payne Associate professor of music who specializes in voice Why it’s great to be in his class: He is a professional opera singer who has toured with prominent groups, so he knows what it takes to succeed. “This field is extremely competitive, so I’m going to push my students hard. ... Eventually, they will take responsibility for themselves and want to be their best.” Where you will see him on campus: He has performed the national anthem at sports events and has spoken to the football training camp (he used to play). You may also see him in the Multicultural Resource Center. “I love hanging out with students from different ethnic backgrounds. I also love meeting students from backgrounds similar to my own because they haven’t seen too many African-American men who are both a college professor and a professional opera singer. I want them to blaze trails of their own.”
Meet Angela Plank Laboratory supervisor/advisement coordinator for biology department Why it’s great to be in her lab: “We do all kinds of fun things. We grind up hamburger meat and see what kinds of organisms are in it. We work with soil. We work with viruses. If it sits still long enough, we’re swabbing it — we swab water fountains, our throats, our noses. I turn my students into compulsive hand washers!” On being an adviser: She is the first contact for all biology majors. She helps them with class choices and matches them with permanent advisers. “We think advising is about way more than picking out your next class. We emphasize mentoring and a good personal relationship.”
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Follow your passion:
Prepare for your career College is a journey with a definite destination — and not just the dessert line at a dining center (although that’s a pretty good target, too). You’re here, after all, to graduate and get a great job. We keep that in mind in everything we do for students. Missouri State will hand you the tools you need to build a resume that stands out.
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All students have access to the services of the Career Center. The center can help you pick a career path, set you up with an internship and assist with your search for a full-time job. Alumni can also use the center’s services — we continue to care about your career even after you leave school.
You will have the opportunity to get hands-on experiences through internships or job shadowing. Missouri State emphasizes these applications of your skills to give you a glimpse of the future you think you would like to have. Employers tell us these experiences set you apart.
Meet Derek Sisel
From: Kansas City, Mo. Majors: Construction management Wants to: Own a home-building and remodeling business
Missouri State gives students a solid professional background. You learn leadership, organizational and problem-solving skills. I got an internship with a Chicago business after my first year here. Now I know what to expect in the workplace. The emphasis at Missouri State on real-life experience is good because internships show prospective employers that you know what you are talking about and that you are driven.
You will have the chance to continue your education as a graduate student since Missouri State has options for master’s and doctoral degrees. Some majors even let you earn credit toward a graduate degree starting your junior year of college.
You will get to meet lots of recruiters from top companies thanks to frequent career fairs. Potential employers include representatives from business and industry, nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
Online extra! Read Derek’s story to learn more about his career preparation. www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Follow your passion:
Enjoy the value We believe going to school is something all students should be able to experience, so we make every effort to keep our prices down. Our cost is lower than state and national averages. We also provide an extra financial boost through federal, state and institutional aid. In fact, about 75 percent of our students receive some sort of aid. We are ready to help you find out how to finance your education.
Missouri State is known for being a great educational value. Our fees are below the average for public institutions in the state and the nation. Our room and board rates are among the lowest in the state and much lower than the national average.
Types of financial assistance Scholarships: These are gifts of money you don’t pay back. They may be offered by Missouri State or other organizations. Some are merit-based, which means they are awarded based on academic achievement or accomplishments. Others are based on financial need. Missouri State has many scholarships, including ones just for freshmen or transfer students.
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Grants: This is money you won’t have to pay back. Grants are usually based on financial need. They may also be given to students who are entering fields that are in great need of professionals.
Loans: This is money you borrow and promise to pay back over time with interest. Most student loans don’t need to be repaid until after you leave college, and many have low interest rates.
Work study: You can offset the cost of your education by working on campus or in the community. The Office of Student Employment Services can help you find a job that fits into your school schedule.
Here is information on tuition, room/board and books/supplies. A full-time undergraduate student living in a residence hall will also spend an estimated $3,500 per year on transportation, recreation, clothing and other personal expenses. Required student fees †
per semester
per year
Missouri Residents
$3,138
$6,276
Room and Board*
$3,137
$6,274
$450
$900
Total***
$6,725
$13,450
Non-Missouri Residents
$5,928
$11,856
Room and Board*
$3,137
$6,274
$450
$900
$9,515
$19,030
Books and Supplies**
Books and Supplies** Total***
Room-style range: $3,114– $3,197 per semester Suite-style range: $3,289 – $4,149 per semester Apartment-style range (no meal plan): $1,829 – $2,256 per semester
Missouri State has several payment plans that make our cost predictable for students and their families. For more about payment options, see www.missouristate.edu/registrar/capit.htm.
† * **
Costs shown are for 2010– 2011 and are subject to change. Costs are based on 15 credit hours per semester (includes student services fees). Current costs are available at www.missouristate.edu/costs/. The rate for room-style residence halls with a 19-meal plan. The actual cost of books will vary based on your major, course load and availability of used textbooks. The total cost can be reduced if you resell used books. *** The basic fee is $186 per credit hour for Missouri residents. The fee for nonresidents is $372 per credit hour.
Missouri State is a really affordable school, especially for what it offers — you get a great education and great experiences. I have a scholarship and a loan so I won’t owe very much money by the time I leave school. ›› John Bollinger, entertainment management major
I came from a private college. The cost difference between here and there was immense. The ironic part is that I am getting a better education here. ›› Helen Bailey, psychology major Sample scholarships for entering freshmen/transfers Scholarship Amount
Minimum ACT (or SAT equivalency)
Presidential
$12,500 per year
30 / 1330*
AND
Top 10%
OR 3.90 or higher
December 1
Board of Governors
$5,000 per year
28 / 1250*
AND
Top 10%
OR
3.90 or higher
January 15
Provost**
$2,500 per year
26 / 1170*
AND
Top 20%
OR
3.70 or higher
January 15
Deans’
$1,500 per year
24 / 1090*
AND
Top 10%
OR
3.90 or higher
January 15
Transfer Academic $1,500 per year
Class Rank
GPA / 4.0 Scale
completed (or will have completed prior to first semester at MSU) at least 45 transferable credit hours at a community college with a 3.60 cumulative GPA
Application Deadline
Summer/Fall: March 1 Spring: October 1
* SAT score reflects the sum of the Critical Reading and Math portions of the SAT only. ** Also available to students ranked first or second in their high school graduating class after the 6th or 7th semester.
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Find your place:
Live and learn on campus Missouri State is known for having a compact, attractive, safe campus. Students get around easily thanks to a smart layout, bike paths and free shuttles. Here’s a bit more about our classroom buildings, residence halls and recreational buildings.
Academic buildings Classes take place in about 20 buildings on the main campus and downtown. Each building has its own personality. In Strong Hall, you can watch the sunlight flood in through a glass wall as you’re on the way to a political science lecture. Siceluff Hall will give you an example of 1920s architecture, updated with hightech renovations, as you head to English literature. You may hear the sound of music coming out of Ellis Hall, which has a recital hall. As you can tell, there’s a building to suit each academic need.
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Safety
Shuttle service
Safety is one of the top priorities at Missouri State. We have a city police substation right on campus. We also have lots of lights everywhere, safety phones throughout campus, security cameras in parking lots and swipe-card access to the residence halls. You can also sign up for the Missouri State Alert, a system that’s used to contact students, faculty and staff in the event of an emergency or school closing due to bad weather. You can be notified through text message, email, instant message, phone or pager.
Bear Line shuttles can get you just about anywhere. Just jump on at any of the convenient stops throughout campus and downtown. You can track the shuttles’ progress in real time using an iPhone and Android application called MSU Mobile, available at www.missouristate.edu/mobile/.
Schedule a visit There’s nothing like seeing the campus. To set up a visit, go to www.missouristate.edu/visit. You may also call 417-836-6614 or 1-800-492-7900 (toll-free). Can’t make it here? We also offer virtual and video tours from the link above. We wish you safe travels and can’t wait to see you!
Residence halls Our 10 halls have everything you need. Each room has furniture, and each hall has in-room Internet access, basic cable, laundry facilities, study areas and fitness centers. They are all tobacco-free. Special living environments include quiet lifestyle, international experience and public-affairs emphasis. Living on campus means you’ll always have something to do. There are movies, club meetings and more. While you’re stretching your wings like a social butterfly, you’ll be getting an added academic benefit: Studies have shown you’re more likely to earn a higher grade point average if you live on campus.
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Find your place:
Discover the hot spots
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1. Plaster Student Union:
This is the “living room� of campus. The union includes a movie theater, television lounges, a food court, convenience store, bank, post office and more.
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2. Level 1 Game Center:
This fun hangout in the PSU has a bowling alley, billiards and table tennis. 3. Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts:
Touring Broadway productions and internationally known entertainers are frequently booked at this 2,220-seat center. Missouri State music and theatre students get to perform here as part of their course work.
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4 4. Missouri State Bookstore:
The bookstore has everything from textbooks and computer software to Bear Wear spirit clothing and a Clinique cosmetics counter.
5. Meyer Library:
6. Bear CLAW:
This is the campus hub for information with books, magazines, study rooms and computer labs on several levels. There are comfy chairs where you can curl up to read — and if you get too drowsy, you can pick up a caffeine boost from the Kaldi’s coffee kiosk.
The Bear CLAW (Center for Learning and Writing) in the Meyer Library is a place where you can get tutoring and academic assistance.
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7. Hammons Student Center:
This is one option for when you need a workout. The center has fully equipped gyms, an indoor pool and racquetball courts. It’s home to the swimming and volleyball Bears.
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8. Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex:
This indoor/outdoor center devoted to athletics is home to the football, field hockey, track and soccer Bears and has 12 racquetball courts, a fitness and aerobics complex and an outdoor track. 9. West Mall Fountain:
This water feature is a beautiful campus showpiece. It’s a popular place to relax when the weather is warm. 10. JQH Arena:
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Head here to cheer for the basketball Bears and Lady Bears. The 11,000-seat arena has an entire section reserved for students. Major concerts are held here, too — including rock band the Eagles and country star Carrie Underwood.
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Find your place:
Build your social life University life doesn’t start with your morning class and end with your afternoon lecture. We’ve got the extracurricular activities you want. You’re sure to feel welcome and find your place with others who want to participate in your kind of entertainment — whether that’s scholarly discussions, video games, workouts in the gym or midnight snacks.
Do you love to watch college sports? At Missouri State, you get a seat in the thick of the action! We have NCAA Division I teams, and students get in free to almost all home athletic events in the regular season. Join Maroon Madness, one of the largest student organizations on campus, to be the ultimate Bear booster. Missouri State has the following six men’s and 10 women’s sports: • Baseball (men) • Basketball (men/women) • Cross Country (women) • Field Hockey (women) • Football (men) • Golf (men/women)
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• Soccer (men/women) • Softball (women) • Swimming (men/women) • Track (women/indoor and outdoor) • Volleyball (women)
You will be invited to bowling nights, comedy shows, concerts, hypnotism displays, movies and more thanks to the Student Activities Council, a student-run group devoted to making college life fun. This group brings awesome events and famous people to campus. You can stay moving thanks to the Campus Recreation office. It offers a variety of fitness classes ranging from ballroom dance to power yoga. Campus Rec is in charge of intramurals — any student can participate in a competitive sport. The office also oversees the Outdoor Adventures program that lets you play in the beautiful Ozarks. You can try backpacking, caving, rock climbing, skiing and more. Need equipment like tents or canoes? You can rent it there!
Meet John Bollinger
You can get involved and become a leader at Missouri State in so many ways! Students can choose from approximately 300 organizations. There are social groups, multicultural associations, groups based on religion and politics, intramural sports, organizations based on academic interest and more. Missouri State
From: St. Louis, Mo. Major: Entertainment management Wants to: Work in sports management for a professional team
The opportunities to be a leader and get connected are my favorite things about Missouri State. I work in the Office of Student Engagement, which helps promote student organizations. I am also in a fraternity and we do volunteer work. I did an internship with the Springfield Cardinals minor league baseball team as part of my major. There are huge extracurricular resources for students at Missouri State that just aren’t available at some other places. I can look back and say, ‘Wow, I really enjoyed my college years.’
also has more than 25 Greek fraternities and sororities. Online extra! Read about John’s experience with the Springfield Cardinals. www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Find your place:
Experience Springfield Home, sweet home. That is what Springfield, Mo., is to tens of thousands of students. Springfield is a great place to get a degree because it’s safe and there’s a lot to do. It’s the third-largest city in Missouri, so it has a great blend of small-town coziness and big-city amenities.
What is there to do? Here is a sample of the great things going on in Springfield. Almost everything in town is within 20 minutes of the Missouri State campus. • Movie theaters (including a multiplex and an independent cinema both in walking distance from campus) • Hammons Field (home to our Baseball Bears and the Springfield Cardinals minor league team) • Missouri Sports Hall of Fame • Battlefield Mall — everything from Starbucks to Sephora • Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World (one of Missouri’s largest tourist attractions) • Dickerson Park Zoo • Mediacom Ice Park (skating and hockey) • Springfield Symphony Orchestra • Springfield Ballet • Springfield Art Museum • Springfield Regional Opera • Springfield Conservation Nature Center • Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Missouri State is minutes from downtown Springfield, a vibrant area with boutiques, cinemas, theaters, pubs, restaurants and other attractions. MSU owns some buildings in the area, so a Bear Line shuttle can transport you to your downtown classes or to your favorite local coffeehouse. You can easily find a place to worship in Springfield, no matter your religious background. There are churches of many Christian denominations, an Islamic center, a Jewish synagogue and many other facilities.
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Meet Helen Bailey
Road trips! Springfield is only 45 minutes from Branson, 3 hours from Kansas City, 3.5 hours from St. Louis and 3 hours from Tulsa, Okla. If you need to get way out of town — say, to a beach for spring break — the Springfield-Branson National Airport can oblige.
From: St. Louis, Mo. Major: Psychology Minor: Spanish Wants to be: Counselor who works with children
Springfield is awesome. I love to go downtown to a latenight coffeehouse or the movie theater. It’s great that it’s close enough to walk from campus. The students at Missouri State have a good relationship with the people of Springfield; the school is prominent and MSU works with local businesses to get opportunities for students.
You will find a strong commitment to the arts in Springfield. First Friday Art Walk is held downtown every month. Venues display photography, pottery, painting, blown glass and more. The annual Artsfest is held on historic Walnut Street, just a short walk from campus.
Online extra! Watch a video of Helen as she shares more fun stuff about Springfield. www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights
You can experience the beautiful Ozarks in so many ways. Springfield has tons of parks, each with a different personality. There’s a Japanese stroll garden, bike trails, a dog park and more. Serious outdoor types can find campgrounds and state parks within easy driving distances.
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Just for freshmen Congratulations! You’re going to be a college student! Get ready for
Meet Shelby Holmes
some of the best and most inspiring times of your life. Here’s some information just for you. If you have any questions about what to expect, feel free to call or email the Office of Admissions.
Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration From: Willard, Mo. Major: Elementary education Wants to be: Elementary teacher
My first semester at Missouri State I learned a few things, like how weird it is not to see your parents every day. I would tell freshmen to get involved: I can’t stress this enough! It definitely makes you feel at home to meet people who share your interests and it makes campus not intimidating.
Online extras! Shelby has a blog that covers all kinds of topics important to first-year students. See a link to her blog and read her full story at www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights.
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You will get a great introduction to Missouri State thanks to the Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration program (SOAR for short). During SOAR you will meet other freshmen, make friends, plan your schedule with an adviser, register for classes and buy books. You’ll get information about signing up for a SOAR session after you are accepted to MSU. You can also see www.missouristate.edu/soar/.
Freshmen Learning Community These are small, tight-knit groups of students who take two or three core classes together during their first semester. The teachers of these classes work together to plan their assignments, so the courses explore common materials or themes. Students who agree to be part of a Learning Community often form bonds and are more likely to do well in school. You can sign up for a Freshmen Learning Community on a first-come, first-served basis during orientation.
Checklists for high school juniors, seniors Want to know if you’re on track to join us at Missouri State? We have lists that tell you when you should take the ACT, apply for admission and scholarships, fill out housing applications, visit campus and other important activities. See www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu.
College credit earned in high school
University housing
You may have earned some college credits even before you step foot on campus. Missouri State gives credit for work from several programs: Advanced Placement, College Level Examination Program and International Baccalaureate. We also grant credit for certain military experiences. Credits earned through these programs may count toward your degree and allow you to take advanced courses earlier in your college career. To find out more, see www.missouristate.edu/creditbyexam.
All single students younger than 21 with less than 30 hours of transferable credit are required to live in University housing. That’s a good thing! If you live on campus in one of our award-winning residence halls you are more likely to get involved in extracurricular activities and learn study skills. Statistics show on-campus residents have higher grade point averages. Plus, it’s hard to be lonely in a residence hall: There are lots of people to meet and things to do.
Just for transfer students So you started your education at another institution, but have decided Missouri State is the right place for you. Great! MSU welcomes more
Meet Ana Tapia
than 1,800 transfer students each year. We go the extra mile to make sure your transition is as smooth as possible. We have special admission, advisement and programs set up for transfer students. Frequently asked questions Q: How do I start the transfer process? A: Call 417-836-5517 or 800-492-7900 (toll-free), or email us at admissions@missouristate.edu. Community college students should speak with their current adviser about transferring to Missouri State. Q: How will my credits transfer? A: We keep a database online of the classes at many other colleges and universities and what classes they are equivalent to at Missouri State. You can see it at www.missouristate.edu/transfercredit. If you don’t see what you are looking for, just call the Missouri State Office of Admissions. There is no limit to the number of credit hours you may transfer. Q: When should I apply? A: You may apply up to one year prior to transferring to Missouri State. We encourage you to apply early in your last semester at your current institution. You may apply online at www.missouristate.edu/apply/. Q: What do I need to apply? A: • A one-time $35 application-processing fee; • Transcript(s) from all colleges and universities from which you have earned academic credit, including dual credit.
From: Kennett, Mo. Major: Speech pathology Wants to be: Speech pathologist working with bilingual students or students from low socioeconomic backgrounds
I transferred from a small community college and it was very smooth. I have a lot of praise for the school, especially the professors. They really know what they are talking about. Also, MSU is so helpful. They really want you to come to school here.
Missouri State-West Plains transfer students
More online! We have lots of details, including a transfer student to-do list and class schedules. See the transfer student section at www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu.
The West Plains and Springfield campuses of Missouri State enjoy a special relationship as part of the same University system. To transfer to Missouri State-Springfield, the first step is to apply for admission. You do not need to pay another application fee. For more information, check our West Plains transfer website at www.missouristate.edu/wptransfer.
Online extras! Ana’s blog covers topics important to transfer students. See a link and read her story at www.undergraduate. missouristate.edu/spotlights.
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How to apply So you want to be a Bear. We can’t wait to have you on campus. We encourage students to apply online — it speeds up the process and helps us go green by cutting down on paper. Find everything you need at www.missouristate.edu/apply. If you have a situation that would keep you from applying online, you may download the application at the above website. You may also contact the Office of Admissions to request a paper application. Undergraduate admission policy Fall 2011 through Summer 2012
Admission to Missouri State If you successfully complete the core curriculum before graduating from high school and meet any one of the following criteria, you will be automatically admitted to Missouri State University: • ACT score of 24 or higher (SAT 1090) • 3.5 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale • Rank in the top 25 percent of your graduation class
This high school core curriculum was established by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and is required of all students except those who graduated from high school prior to 1996. ENGLISH: Four units, two of which must emphasize composition or writing. One unit may be speech or debate.
Applicants who do not meet one of the automatic admission criteria but have successfully completed the core-curriculum requirement before graduating from high school can still be admitted if they meet the requirements in the sliding scale below:
MATHEMATICS: Three units. High school algebra and beyond, including algebra II. SOCIAL STUDIES: Three units. Must include American history and at least one semester of government.
STEP 2: Follow the line you identified in Step 1 across the scale to determine the minimum ACT or SAT score you must have. Using the same example from Step 1, a student with a class-rank percentile of 60 and a GPA of 3.30 would need either an ACT composite of 19 or higher or an SAT total of 900 or higher.
Class Rank Percentile
GPA
ACT Composite
75 or higher
SCIENCE: Three units, not including general science. One unit must be a laboratory course. FINE ARTS: One unit. Graduates of accredited Missouri high schools meet this through completion of the fine-arts requirement for graduation. ACADEMIC ELECTIVES: Three units. Must be selected from foreign language and/or two or more of the areas listed above. Two units of a foreign language are strongly recommended. ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES: Additional elective credit to bring total to 24 units (required of Missouri high school graduates). For additional details and examples of core-curriculum courses, please contact your high school counselor or our office.
How to use this scale STEP 1: Using your class-rank percentile and grade point average, determine which will place you higher on this scale. For example, if your class rank percentile is 60 and your GPA is 3.30, you would use the line based on your GPA. If your school does not rank, your GPA will be used to determine your eligibility.
or
or
SAT Total †
3.50 or higher
No minimum test score required for admission
73 to 74
3.48 to 3.49
18
860
64 to 72
3.25 to 3.47
19
900
56 to 63
3.04 to 3.24
20
940
48 to 55
2.85 to 3.03
21
980
40 to 47
2.63 to 2.84
22
1020
34 to 39
2.48 to 2.62
23
1050
Below 34
Below 2.48
24
1090
† Sum of critical reading and math scores
Transfer student admission policy Admission alternatives As an institution with selective admission, our objective is to admit students with demonstrated potential for academic success. We recognize that some students have potential for success not made evident through measures of class rank, grade point average and test scores. If you do not meet the requirements listed above, please go to www.missouristate.edu/ admissionalternatives to review our admission alternatives.
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You are eligible for admission if you have completed at least 24 hours of transferable credit following your graduation from high school and you have a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or higher on your transferable credit. If you have completed less than 24 hours of transferable credit following your graduation from high school, then you must have a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher on transferable credit you have completed and you must also meet our freshman admission requirements.
Contact us Web: www.missouristate.edu/admissions
Toll-free telephone: 1-800-492-7900
Email: info@missouristate.edu
TTY (assistive-technology service): 417-836-4770
Telephone: 417-836-5517
Relay Missouri (assistive-technology service): 1-800-735-2966
You Tube
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iTunes Be our fan or subscribe to our services to socialize with other Bears, find out about life iTunes onTube campus, watch videos and get all the latest news. You
Facebook Facebook: www.missouristate.edu/facebook Twitter
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YouTube: www.youtube.com/missouristate You Tube Blogs
Facebookwww.blogs.missouristate.edu Blogs: Blogs
iTunes Twitter Twitter: www.twitter.com/missouristate
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Blogs
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Office of Admissions 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897
www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu
Missouri State by the numbers 4
physical campuses (Springfield, West Plains and Mountain Grove, Mo.; Dalian, China)
150+/45+ undergraduate majors / graduate programs
20,842
students enrolled on Springfield campus
75 percent of students receive some form of financial aid
300
student organizations
4,000+ students live in University housing
100,000+
hours of community service provided by Missouri State students each year
This book is printed on paper that has been manufactured in the USA. The pulp used in this paper was harvested using responsible forest management which allows the forest lands we procure from to remain sustainable. The following is a breakdown of the environmental impact of using 10 percent post-consumer waste paper in place of virgin fiber: 18 trees preserved for the future 52 pounds water-borne waste not created 7,657 gallons wastewater flow saved 1,668 pounds greenhouse gasses prevented 847 pounds solid waste not generated 12,767,680 BTUs energy not consumed
Missouri State University is a community of people with respect for diversity. The University emphasizes the dignity and equality common to all persons and adheres to a strict nondiscrimination policy regarding the treatment of individual faculty, staff, and students. In accord with federal law and applicable Missouri statutes, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, or veteran status in employment or in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. In addition, the University does not discriminate on any basis (including, but not limited to, political affiliation and sexual orientation) not related to the applicable educational requirements for students or the applicable job requirements for employees. This policy shall not be interpreted in a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or military organizations associated with the Armed Forces of the United States of America. The University maintains a grievance procedure incorporating due process available to any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against. Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Inquiries concerning the grievance procedure, Affirmative Action Plan, or compliance with federal and state laws and guidelines should be addressed to Jana Estergard, Equal Opportunity Officer, Park Central Office Building Ste. 111, 901 South National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65897, 417-836-4252. This guide is published for informational purposes only. Requirements, curricula, regulations, policies, fees, course and other matters described in this publication are subject to change. In compliance with the Student Right to Know/Campus Security Act, Missouri State provides information upon request to prospective students regarding campus security policies, crime statistics and graduation rates. To request this information, contact the Office of Admissions, 204 Carrington Hall, Springfield, MO 65897 or 417-836-5517. The annual security report prepared by the Office of Safety and Transportation is available on the Web at www.missouristate.edu/safetran/SafetyFolder/safety/annual-security.html. ADM 107 10 7/10 Written, designed and produced by the Missouri State Offices of Publications and Admissions Photography and photo illustrations by Missouri State Office of Photographic Services Printing by Lake Printing, Osage Beach, Missouri