2013 – 14 Undergraduate Admissions Guide
www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu
contents Follow your passion
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Seek knowledge
Explore majors
Be inspired by your professors
Participate in public affairs
Expect career success
Enjoy the value
Find your place
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Get a great first impression
Live and learn on campus
Build your social life
Experience Springfield
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Transfer students
How to apply
Connect with us
Missouri State University by the numbers
physical campuses (Springfield, West Plains and Mountain Grove, Mo.; Dalian, China)
students enrolled on Springfield campus
students live in University housing
of students receive some form of financial aid
undergraduate academic options
graduate degrees
hours of community service provided by Missouri State students each year student organizations
Your passions motivate you all day, every day. They help you find your true friends, your career path, your calling.
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Missouri State will help you find and follow your passion — no matter what it may be. You can explore endless academic possibilities thanks to our many strong majors and programs. You will find your passion for learning because we have advisors and professors who will go the extra distance. Thanks to career services, you’ll be on the right path to getting a great job that matters to you. You can follow your passion outside of class, too. We have hundreds of student organizations, and students say it’s so easy to get involved and make a difference. Speaking of making a difference, we have a University-wide public affairs mission that helps you understand the world and make it a better place. If your passion leads you to a trip abroad or a graduate degree, you might like to have some money in savings. At Missouri State, we offer you an unbeatable value. Our cost is lower than state and national averages, plus we have numerous ways to help you pay for school. Missouri State seeks to be inspiring, elevating, encouraging and helpful. Get excited, because college is a time for more learning, more growing, more fun and more opportunities than you have ever experienced.
Ultimately, your passions become your purpose in life. Your life starts in college. Your college should be Missouri State University.
Follow your
passion
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+++ online extras +++ Read Christina’s full story and see a video of her talking about the University’s public affairs mission. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
“I enjoy learning foreign languages; I currently can speak both French and Chinese. I added hospitality as another major because I want to work internationally, and thought I might be interested in the hotel or restaurant business.”
» » Christina Adams, double major in French and hospitality and restaurant administration from Winthrop Harbor, Ill.
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“I have wanted to be a comedian since I was little. I am in charge of comedy for Student Activities Council. I research comedians, then book them for MSU students to watch. I also run a few open-mic nights each semester.” » » Nick Saverino, media production major from St. Joseph, Mo.
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+++ online extras +++ Read Nick’s full story and see a video of him talking about what it’s like to live and learn on our campus. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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MY PASSION :
“I wanted a good business school. I have heard Missouri State’s College of Business is one of the best. … When I get into business as a career, I know I’m going to be just as good as the best.”
» » Jake Lamkins, management major from Lebanon, Mo.
Seek knowledge Missouri State is known for quality academic offerings. We’re a major University with almost any program you could want.
Not sure what your passion is yet? That’s OK with us!
You may be able to assist faculty with research.
You may sign up to take classes with the same group of students.
It’s fine to be undeclared. We have so many choices that you can try courses ranging from animation to zoology before you find the path that best suits you.
Our instructors are known for doing research that advances knowledge in their fields. They often have student researchers who help in a number of ways.
Curricular learning communities are groups of students who take two or three 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 in these groups often form bonds and are more likely to do well in school. You can sign up for a curricular learning community during orientation.
You will have a mix of large and small classes, and can take online classes. Even though we’re a large University, many of your classes in your major will be smaller and some may have as few as 20 people. You’ll have plenty of chances to interact with fellow students and your professors.
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Average ACT score for entering freshmen The average ACT score among Missouri State freshmen is well above the national average. That means your classmates will be engaged and active. That’s just what you want when it’s time to form a study group or discuss assignments.
You can be assured you’re on track to graduate.
Want a sneak preview? See professors on iTunes.
Each student is assigned an advisor. Advisors help students create schedules and also provide guidance about careers and opportunities.
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 may earn credit toward a master’s degree. You may be able to get an advanced degree in fewer years with our accelerated master’s programs. These allow some juniors and seniors to earn credit toward a master’s degree. You will be trained for top-level graduate work. Our alumni have gone on to succeed in Missouri State’s graduate programs and at elite graduate and professional schools across the country.
For even more enrichment, try Honors College Students in the Honors College take enhanced courses and may live in Scholars House. To be eligible for admission into Honors College, students must have done the following: • Applied to Missouri State University and been admitted; • Earned an ACT score of 27 or higher (or SAT of 1220 or higher); and • Graduated in the top 10 percent of their high school class, OR graduated high school with a 3.9 cumulative grade point average. Learn more: www.missouristate.edu/honors
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Explore majors You will be able to find your major — or create one of your very own. Missouri State undergraduate students can choose from more than 85 majors that lead to more than 185 academic options. You can even create an individualized major if you know what you want to study but the specific degree is not offered.
College of Arts and Letters
College of Business
College of Education
coal.missouristate.edu
business.missouristate.edu
education.missouristate.edu
Art: Ceramics Computer Animation Digital Arts Drawing Metals-Jewelry Painting Photography Printmaking Sculpture Art and Design Art History Communication: Communication Studies Ethical Leadership Health Communication Intercultural Communication and Diversity Interpersonal Communication Organizational Communication Rhetoric Classics – Latin Concentration Design: Graphic Design Graphic Design and Illustration Illustration Electronic Arts: Audio Studies Computer Animation Studies Multimedia Studies Video Studies English: Creative Writing Literature
French German Global Studies
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Journalism: Broadcast Journalism Print and Internet Journalism Mass Media: Digital Film Production Film Studies Media Production Media Studies Music:* Composition Instrumental Performance Jazz Performance Keyboard Performance Vocal Performance Musical Theatre †† Professional Writing Public Relations Socio-Political Communication Spanish Technical Writing Theatre and Dance: Acting† Dance Design/Technology/Stage Management Theatre Studies
Graduate: Communication, English, Music, Theatre, Writing
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Accounting
General Business
Computer Information Systems
Information Technology Service Management
Construction Management
Child and Family Development
Teaching of English†
Early Childhood Education
Teaching of Family and Consumer Sciences †
Interior Design
Elementary Education
Teaching of French †
Entertainment Management
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Middle School Education
Teaching of German †
Entrepreneurship
Management: Administrative Management Human Resources Management International Business Administration Operations Management
Special Education/Cross Categorical
Teaching of History †
Facility Management Healthcare Hospitality Industrial/Production Property Management Fashion Merchandising and Design: Fashion Design and Product Development Fashion Merchandising and Management Finance: Finance Financial Planning Real Estate
Marketing: Advertising and Promotion Marketing Management Marketing Research Sales/Sales Management Risk Management and Insurance Technology Management
Graduate: Accountancy, Business Administration, Business Education, Computer Information Systems, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Health Administration, Project Management
Teaching of Agriculture Education† Teaching of Art and Design† Teaching of Biology: † Categorical Science Unified Science Teaching of Business Education† Teaching of Chemistry: † Categorical Science Unified Science Teaching of Classics-Latin Concentration†
Teaching of Mathematics † Teaching of Music: † Instrumental Vocal/Choral Teaching of Physical Education † Teaching of Physics Education † Teaching of Spanish † Teaching of Speech and Theatre: † Communication Theatre
Teaching of Earth Science Education: † Categorical Science Unified Science
Graduate: Counseling, Counseling and Assessment – Specialist in Education, Early Childhood and Family Development, Educational Administration-Specialist in Education, Educational Leadership, Elementary Education, Educational Administration, Educational Technology, Teaching, Literacy, Secondary Education, Special Education, Student Affairs in Higher Education
MY PASSION :
“I thought I was going to be pre-med. I came in undeclared but took science classes to get ready. Then I took Political Science 101, a general education requirement everyone takes. I was shocked by how much I enjoyed it. At that point, I knew I was interested in law school. I had heard political science will teach you to read, write and think critically — I thought, what better major for someone wanting to go to law school? I have been in the major for a year and a half and I just love it.”
» » Leena Shadid, political science major from Kansas City, Mo.
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College of Health and Human Services
College of Natural and Applied Sciences
chhs.missouristate.edu
cnas.missouristate.edu
Athletic Training †† Cell and Molecular Biology Clinical Laboratory SciencesMedical Technology** Communication Sciences and Disorders: Audiology Education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Speech-Language Pathology Dietetics Exercise and Movement Science: Health Studies Pre-Professional
Nursing: †† Generic, 4-Year Program RN Completion Program Physical Education Psychology
Biology:* Environmental Biology and Evolution Microbiology and Biotechnology Wildlife Biology
Radiography:** Management Science
Chemistry:* Biochemistry Graduate School Industrial
Recreation, Sport and Park Administration
Civil Engineeringu
Respiratory Therapy:** Management Science Social Work ††
Gerontology
Hospitality and Restaurant Administration Club Management Food and Beverage General Operations Lodging Senior Living Management Tourism
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Geography:* Cultural and Regional Geography Environmental and Natural Resources Geotourism
Planning: Community and Regional Planning Tourism Planning and Development
Geology
College of Humanities and Public Affairs
Graduate: Biology, Chemistry, Geospatial Sciences in Geography and Geology, Materials Science, Mathematics, Natural and Applied Science
Anthropology
Philosophy
Criminology
Political Science
Geospatial Sciences
Two-year programs: Pre-Engineering Four- or two-year programs: Pre-Chiropractic Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Pharmacy
Wildlife Conservation and Management
William H. Darr School of Agriculture
Economics
Religious Studies
ag.missouristate.edu
History
Sociology
Agricultural Business: Enterprise Management Finance and Management Marketing and Sales
Graduate: Applied Anthropology, Criminology, Defense and Strategic Studies, Global Studies, History, Public Administration, Religious Studies
Four-year programs: Pre-Dentistry Pre-Law Pre-Medicine Pre-Optometry Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Physician Assistant Studies Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Physics: Astronomy and Astrophysics Engineering and Applied Physics Graduate Prep Physics Materials Physics
Graduate: Athletic Training, Audiology (doctorate), Cell and Molecular Biology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Health Promotion and Wellness Management, Nurse Anesthesia, Nursing, Nursing Practice (doctorate) Physical Therapy (doctorate), Physician Assistant Studies, Psychology, Public Health, Social Work
chpa.missouristate.edu
Pre-professional programs: These are not majors but are advisement programs that prepare students for admission to professional programs. For four-year programs of study, students pursue one of the majors on this page while receiving pre-professional advisement, and then apply to the post-bachelor program of study. For the two-year programs of study, students will take general education and other courses to prepare them to transfer to another university to complete their bachelor’s degree. A small number of pre-professional programs could be done as either a four-year or two-year program of study.
Mathematics:* Actuarial Mathematics Applied Mathematics General Mathematics Statistics
Computer Science Electrical Engineering
Additional graduate programs: Administrative Studies (a cross-disciplinary program housed within the Graduate College), Library Science (offered in collaboration with the University of Missouri-Columbia)
Animal Science Environmental Plant Science Horticultural Crop 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. * 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
General Agriculture:* Agricultural Communication Agriculture
Missouri State does not guarantee admission to the professional school. See catalog for details on program requirements. Global Studies is an interdisciplinary major administered through the department of modern and classical languages. v
Offered in cooperation with Missouri University of Science and Technology. Admission limited to students from following Missouri counties: Christian, Dade, Dallas, Greene, Lawrence, Polk, Stone, Taney and Webster. Contact Dr. Doug Carroll, cooperative engineering program director, at 417-836-6208 or engineering@ missouristate.edu. u
Natural Resources Wildlife Conservation and Management
†
These programs are housed in the department of the subject area.
†† A
competitive admission program. See catalog for details on admission requirements.
Graduate: Plant Science
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Be inspired by your professors Many students say their professors are one of the best things about Missouri State. We have more than 700 full-time faculty members, and nearly 90 percent of our ranked faculty have the highest degree in their field. Many also have worked in their areas of expertise. This means they help you follow your passion in class and prepare you to find your place in the workforce.
Meet Dr. Sue George
Meet Dr. Arbindra Rimal
Professor of early childhood education
Professor of agribusiness
You have been in the education field for decades. How does that help you teach University students? I can be honest with students about my own experiences, giving them real examples instead of what’s in a textbook. But I certainly don’t think I know it all. They may be seeing things in the schools when they do their student-teaching that I never saw. New problems, solutions and teaching techniques arise all the time, so it’s important for me to be adaptable.
What do you think makes a teacher great? I try to put difficult concepts in terms anyone can understand. I use real examples from the news and from agriculture professionals to show them how their studies will come up in their careers. I also try to challenge them. Maybe they have only heard one side of an argument; I want them to think more deeply.
What is the best thing about your job? Working with the students —I get to know all of them. They mature so much between the time they start and finish this program. When they’re finishing their student teaching and getting ready to graduate, they are mature professionals. Probably the greatest joy I have is seeing how they have changed.
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How do you give students great experiences? I offer ways for students to connect with working professionals on projects or case studies. … Each year I take a class to either St. Louis or Kansas City to meet with representatives from major agribusinesses. Many students end up getting internships or even jobs from trips like these. What is the best part of your job? To hear from students who say they got career opportunities because of what we taught them. … It makes me feel good because my legacy can be helping others.
Videos online! See videos and read longer stories about each of these professors: www.missouristate.edu/beinspired
We have an average student-to-teacher ratio of 19-to-1, a great number for a major university. Instructors really get to know their students and care about their progress.
Meet Dr. Christopher Barnhart
Meet Dr. Bethany Walker
Professor of biology
Associate professor in history
What do you think makes a teacher great? I think students respond to a teacher’s level of motivation — if a teacher clearly wants to be there then the students will, too. I love biology and I love the things I study; it’s endlessly fascinating to me. I’m just interested in biology so it comes naturally to want to share that.
How do you make history come alive for your students? I try to make things that happened a long time ago tie back to something happening today. … I ask them questions to put them there: If you were a military leader, how would you have handled that situation? In that time period and community, what would have been the challenges for your family? In other words: Put them in the shoes of the people we’re talking about.
Do students get to assist with biology research? It’s necessary to include students in research. I would never get to do the types of projects I want to do without helping hands. How are MSU students prepared for the real world? The real world starts here! We have close working ties with conservation and resource-management professionals. These professionals may involve students with their projects, and provide internships on campus. Because many biology students end up working for state or federal agencies, these professionals show students what the work is really like and may serve as career role models.
Talk about your research in the Middle East. I’ve got two archeological projects in Jordan. One is a medieval site with a 14th-century castle; it’s called Tall Hisban. I have a separate project in northern Jordan, in the lush green hills near the Sea of Galilee. Do undergraduate students participate in the research? All the time! Students may be involved in everything from the excavation of the objects in Jordan to studying objects once we bring them home and contributing to research that is published.
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Participate in public affairs Missouri State has a public affairs mission. You might be wondering: What will that mean for my education? The mission is everywhere on campus, from the classroom to special events. Its three themes are community engagement, cultural competence and ethical leadership.
Community engagement
Cultural competence
Citizenship and Service-Learning classes
Celebrating culture and diversity
These classes allow you to participate in community service directly related to an academic course. You get college credit for helping others while gaining experience in your field. Students have volunteered at schools, museums, the zoo, fitness centers, the medical examiner’s office, homeless shelters, senior centers, libraries, parks and more. They have done activities such as preparing tax returns, designing computer software, creating landscape designs, taking care of animals, teaching art, leading exercise classes, writing public relations plans and much more.
Missouri State knows diversity strengthens any academic experience. Diversity comes in many forms, including differences in abilities, backgrounds, ideas, religious beliefs, gender, age, sexual orientation and ethnicity. MSU has an Office for Diversity and Inclusion on campus, and we hold events throughout the year dedicated to exploring different heritages and cultures. Studying abroad and international students
2,130 = 58,734.25 students participating in Citizenship and Service-Learning classes (2010-11)
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total volunteer hours from those classes (2010-11)
Missouri State is committed to attracting international students and sending American students abroad. Studying away is a life-changing experience — after all, would you rather learn about the wildlife of Botswana, the ecosystems of Costa Rica and the glaciers of Australia in the classroom or in the actual environments? These are just a few of the places our students have studied around the world. We also get a global perspective from the more than 1,500 international students on the Springfield campus: We have an International Education Week that showcases the cultures of these students.
MY PASSION :
“My five incredible months abroad has been the adventure of a lifetime. ... As great as the people are, the island itself is the real draw. Imagine an active volcano, miles upon miles of coastline, a 10,000-feet peak and three natural amphitheaters as the backdrop to your weekend entertainment. With all my traveling, language-learning, friend-making, obstacleclimbing, fun-having, and all the prayer, patience, determination and flexibility this semester has taken, I am settling down to a few conclusions and impressions, the most precious of which is the overwhelming appreciation for what I’ve always taken for granted: home.”
» » Edited excerpts from a blog by Laura Pearson, who studied on the island of La Réunion in the Indian Ocean
Countries where our international students come from
i Countries visited by study-away students during 2011-12
Ethical leadership Annual events on campus Every year, we have both a Public Affairs Week and a Public Affairs Conference. Amazing speakers who are national and international experts talk about topics like citizenship, democracy, leadership, the economy and giving back. Sustainability on campus Missouri State seeks to be as green as possible by recycling, taking care of our surroundings, reducing pollution and using resources in a smart way. We even have a campus garden run by students and other volunteers. They pull weeds, plant seeds and harvest the healthy foods, then get to eat the results of their hard work. Leadership programs and awards
1,500+
students from other countries on the Springfield campus
70+
countries to choose from when deciding on a study-away program
About 50 students are selected each year for the Distinction in Public Affairs leadership program. They learn about public affairs topics and complete a project about a community issue, which they share at the Public Affairs Conference. We also give prestigious Citizen Scholar awards each year to six students who have significantly advanced the University’s public affairs mission. 15
Expect career success Our graduates get great jobs around the nation and the world. That’s the bottom line of college, right? You’re here, after all, to start a meaningful professional life. We keep that in mind in everything we do. Here’s how we set you up for success.
You can participate in the largest internship program in the state. Missouri State can match you with many employers who offer you opportunities to get hands-on experience in your field of study. Internships give you a glimpse of the future you think you would like to have. They also can help you get a great job! Employers tell us these real-world experiences set our graduates apart. In addition, many students go on to receive job offers from businesses where they have completed internships.
“The College of Business at Missouri State was a life-changing decision for me. It opened many doors of opportunity and helped me dream to be more than I thought I could be. Missouri State is one of the best business schools in the Midwest. I saw firsthand the extraordinary faculty and first-class education, all in a fun environment. From Missouri State, you can truly go anywhere and do anything! Following graduation, I went to work on Wall Street at J.P. Morgan in New York City. … (Next) I started the two-year MBA program at Harvard Business School. Missouri State prepared me for the challenges and opportunities I faced both on Wall Street and at Harvard.” » » Kelli Wolf Moles, ’06, bachelor’s in accounting, associate at McKinsey & Company management-consulting firm
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You will have career guidance. All students have access to the services of the Career Center. The Career Center can help you choose a professional path, teach you how to write a résumé, walk you through a mock interview, set you up with an internship, assist with your career search and much more. Alumni can also use the center’s services — we care about your career even after you graduate.
“(As a finalist in the Rhodes Scholar competition), it was nice for me to learn that students at Missouri State could compete with the best of the best at universities across the country. The five-year accelerated master’s program made me especially
You can network with potential employers. You will get to meet recruiters from top companies thanks to frequent career fairs. Potential employers include representatives from business and industry, nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
You may continue your education with us. You will have the chance to continue your education as a graduate student because Missouri State has options for master’s and doctoral degrees or graduate certificates. Some majors even let you earn credit toward a graduate degree starting in your junior year of college.
well-prepared for graduate school. I received a strong foundation from Missouri State.” » » David Vinyard, ’07, bachelor’s in chemistry and agriculture; ’08, master’s in chemistry; PhD candidate at Princeton University; works in a lab at Rutgers Energy Institute
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Enjoy the value Missouri State is known for being a great value. Our fees are below the average for public institutions in the state and the nation, and our room and board rates are among the lowest in the state and much lower than the national average. 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. You can finance your education, and we can help! Here is information on tuition, room/board and books/supplies. A full-time undergraduate student living in a residence hall could also spend an estimated $3,850 per year on transportation, recreation, clothing and other personal expenses.
Required student fees †
per semester
per year
Missouri Residents
$3,396
$6,792
Non-Missouri Residents
$6,569
$13,138
Room and Board*
$3,602
$7,204
$500
$1,000
$7,498
$14,996
TOTAL Non-Missouri Residents*** $10,671
$21,342
Books and Supplies** Total Missouri Residents***
† Costs shown are for 2012– 2013 and are subject to change. Costs are based on 15 credit hours per semester (includes student services fees). Online classes cost more than seated courses. Current costs are available at www.missouristate.edu/costs/. * The rate for room-style residence halls with a 19-meal plan plus Boomer Meals. ** 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 $200.48 per credit hour for Missouri residents. The fee for nonresidents is $412 per credit hour.
Room-style: $3,602 per semester Suite-style range: $3,792 – $4,640 per semester
Sample scholarships for entering freshmen/transfers
AUTOMATIC
COMPETITIVE
Additional scholarship opportunities for freshmen and transfer students: www.missouristate.edu/scholarships Scholarship Amount
Minimum ACT/ Class Rank GPA / 4.0 Scale SAT equivalency
Presidential
30 / 1330*
$12,500 per year
AND
Top 10%
OR
December 1
Multicultural Leadership
$5,000 per year
No minimum
Top 50%
OR
3.00 or higher
December 1
Hutchens/SGA
$1,250-$2,500
20 / 950*
AND
Top 50%
OR
3.00 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*
3.70 or higher
Out-of-State Fee Waiver/ $6,345 24 (Freshman) Midwest Student Exchange N/A (Transfer) Program
AND
Top 20%
OR
OR
Top 25% 24 credits
OR 3.50 or higher OR 3.25
January 15 None None
Transfer Academic $1,500 per year
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
Summer/Fall: March 1 Spring: October 1
A+ Recognition
Entering freshmen meeting regular admission to MSU and A+ requirements.
January 15
$500 per year
* 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 classes after their sixth or seventh semester *** Must apply for admission and meet scholarship requirements on/before scholarship deadline to qualify
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3.90 or higher
Application Deadline***
MY PASSION :
“The good value was another reason I came here. I am from another state, and even the out-ofstate fees here are cheaper than in-state fees at many schools I considered. And there are tons of different scholarships.”
» » Christina Adams, double major in French, hospitality and restaurant administration from Winthrop Harbor, Ill.
See the net price of attending Missouri State We have a Net Price Calculator online that allows you to see the cost of attending MSU as well as estimates of federal, state and institutional aid: https://missouristate.studentaidcalculator.com
Types of financial assistance Scholarships: These are gifts of money you don’t pay back. Some are awarded based on accomplishments, others on financial need. Missouri State has many scholarships, including ones just for freshmen or transfer students. The University has a “one-stop shop” online where you can check your eligibility for scholarships and apply for donor-funded aid; see www.missouristate. edu/scholarships/. 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 careers in great need of professionals.
Loans: This is money you borrow and promise to pay back over time with interest. Most student loans have low interest rates and don’t need to be repaid until after you leave college. 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.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) It’s important to fill out the FAFSA if you want to have federal, state or institutional financial aid. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible in order to be considered for the maximum amount of financial assistance. The MSU federal code is 002503, and our priority deadline is March 31. Online: www.fafsa.gov
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“PLACE” means more than a spot on a map. It is a state of mind tied to the way an environment makes you feel. When you’re in a place that’s right for you, you just know it in your head and heart. Missouri State wants to help you find that feeling on our campus. First, you should come see our place! A tou r is the best way to experience all we have to offer. Students say when they see our campus, they know this is the place for them. At Missouri State, it’s easy for you to be who you are and find a niche right for you. You’ll get the most out of college life thanks to a student body known for being warm and welcoming. We have more than 300 student organizations that celebrate the many academic and extracurricular interests of the diverse students on our campus. Most people make friends for life in college, and Missouri State is a great place to find those who will be with you during your late-night study sessions, your backpacking tour around the globe, your wedding, your store’s grand opening, your presidential inauguration and all of the other milestones people may experience after getting a great education. You will also love S p r i n g f i e l d , a cozy college town with big-city amenities. It’s located in the Ozarks, a place known for natural beauty and a laid-back lifestyle.
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Your place — and all of the exciting possibilities that go along with it — is waiting here at Missouri State University. Come claim it.
Find
your
place 21
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+++ online extras +++ Read Alonzo’s full story and see a video of him talking about Missouri State’s outstanding value. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
“I live in Woods House, which is really enjoyable. I am in a living-learning community for undeclared majors, and resident assistants are always putting on activities for our floor. When I hang out with friends we go to the free movies in the Student Union theater on Wednesday and Sunday nights. They show movies that haven’t even gone to DVD yet. I also like to meet up for late-night dining at Garst or Blair-Shannon dining centers.” » » Alonzo Perez, marketing major from Monett, Mo.
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“To some people Springfield is big, to some people it is small — it has a bunch of stuff but it’s easy to get around. It’s a great place to start out on your own as a college student or young professional. I love all the local shops, such as the cupcake places and great flea markets.” »» Arianna Johnson, double major in psychology and gerontology from Kansas City, Mo.
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+++ online extras +++ Read Arianna’s full story and see a video of her talking about the amazing experiences she has had at Missouri State. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Get a great first impression The only way to get a true feeling for campus life is to take a tour. When you’re here, you can experience the smiles on the faces of students. You can see just how close your residence hall will be to your classes. You may meet the professors who are likely to become your role models. You can visit the bookstore to pick out your first BearWear. In short, a tour can be the single most important factor in deciding if Missouri State is right for you.
How to set up a tour When you set up a tour you can customize it for your needs. You will have the chance to see where you would be learning, studying, living, eating and hanging out. We can even set up visits with professors in your areas of interest. We’d love to welcome you and show you our campus.
www.missouristate.edu/visit 417-836-6614 800-492-7900 (toll-free)
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MY PLACE:
“I came here and took a tour, and fell in love right there. I liked how the campus was set up. But the decision was especially set when I met with one of the heads of the media production department. He gave me the feel of the whole department. It was so interesting that I just had to be here.”
» » Nick Saverino, media production major from St. Joseph, Mo.
School spirit • Colors: Maroon and white • Athletic teams: Bears • Mascots: Boomer Bear and Growl Bear • Our GoMaroon website, at www.gomaroon.missouristate.edu, has free spirit items such as ringtones, posters and more
Just can’t make it here? Try a virtual tour! Our virtual tour offers a quick taste of what a “live” tour might feel like, showing you 10 important stops around campus. Your guides, Missouri State University student ambassadors, will give personalized descriptions based on their backgrounds and majors. The virtual tour is even offered en Español. To get started on your virtual tour: www.missouristate.edu/tour
SOAR will officially welcome you After you’ve toured, applied and been admitted, SOAR — which stands for Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration — will give you a great introduction to college life. All first-time freshmen are required to attend a SOAR session before registering for classes. During SOAR, you will learn about the University and campus life, speak with an academic advisor, register for your first semester and meet faculty, staff and other students. But most of all, you will have fun and feel confident about choosing Missouri State! 27
Live and learn on campus Missouri State is known for having a compact, attractive and safe campus. Students get around easily thanks to a smart layout, bike paths and shuttles. Here’s a bit more about the campus.
Academic buildings
Shuttle service
Classes take place on the main campus and downtown. Each building has its own personality. For example, Siceluff Hall will give you a glimpse of 1920s architecture blended with high-tech classrooms as you head to English literature. The smell of coffee and the sounds of the television studio will wake you up as you enter Strong Hall for your politics class. You can use the light flooding into the art studios downtown at Brick City as you make your masterpiece. At Missouri State, there’s a building for each academic need.
Bear Line shuttles, which don’t cost extra for students to ride, can get you just about anywhere. Simply jump on at any of the convenient stops throughout campus and downtown. You’ll love to ride the Bear Line when it’s snowing or raining!
MY PLACE:
“The library is my favorite place to study. It’s set up so you can have your own space and focus on what you’re doing. I love relaxing and reading a book on the top floor because it has such a pretty view of campus.”
» » Leena Shadid, political science major from Kansas City, Mo.
+++ online extras +++ Read Leena’s full story and see a video of her talking about our excellent academic options. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Residence halls Almost all students younger than 21 with fewer than 30 hours of transferable credit will be required to live in one of our residence halls. That’s a good thing! You’ll have everything you need, from furniture and Internet access to study areas and laundry facilities. If you live on campus you are more likely to get involved because there are lots of people to meet and things to do. Lastly, living in a hall may mean better performance in class: Studies have shown you’re more likely to earn a higher GPA if you live on campus.
Dining centers and food options
Safety
You can choose from three dining centers. Each offers something different every day, and no matter your dietary needs you will come away full. You can even check each center’s menu online before choosing where to eat. Don’t have time to sit? There are grab-and-go food options and coffee shops throughout campus.
Safety is a priority at Missouri State. We have a city police substation on campus. We also have well-lit walkways, safety phones throughout campus, 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, staff and even parents in the event of an emergency or school closing due to bad weather.
Health care You won’t have far to go if you need some TLC. Taylor Health and Wellness Center is right in the middle of campus. Taylor, which has doctors, nurses and pharmacists on staff, is dedicated to providing medical care for students. Your prepaid student health fee covers the cost of your basic office visits. You also get reduced charges for laboratory tests, X-rays, prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, appointments with specialists and more.
Living-learning communities In these communities, students with similar educational interests choose to live on the same floor and participate in social and academic activities. These communities may make it easier for students to find friends in their classes and study partners in their living areas. There are living-learning communities for first-year students, future health-care professionals, students who are undecided about a major, students in science and more.
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Build your social life University life means having fun in addition to studying! We’ve got the extracurricular activities you want.
300+ student organizations
Choose from hundreds of clubs You can get involved and become a leader at Missouri State in so many ways! Students can choose from more than 300 organizations. There are groups based on culture, religion, politics, socializing, intramural sports, academic interests and more. Missouri State also has more than 25 fraternities and sororities. Don’t see what you want? You can start your own organization!
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Cheer for the Bears!
Enjoy events for students, by students
At Missouri State, you get a seat in the thick of the action! Students get in free to almost all home athletic events during 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 NCAA Division I sports:
Student Activities Council is dedicated to bringing awesome events to campus, open to the entire student body. You will be invited to bowling nights, comedy shows, concerts, movies and much more. Recent headliners brought to campus by SAC include Ben Folds, Daniel Tosh, Donald Glover, Jack’s Mannequin, Michael Showalter and Wiz Khalifa.
• Baseball (men) • Basketball (men/women) • Cross Country (women) • Field Hockey (women) • Football (men) • Golf (men/women) • Soccer (men/women) • Softball (women) • Swimming (men/women) • Track (women/indoor and outdoor) • Volleyball (women)
Get fit, stay well with fun activities You can get moving with help from the Campus Recreation office. It offers classes ranging from ballroom dance to power yoga. Campus Rec also offers plenty of intramural activities so any student can participate. The office oversees the Outdoor Adventures program that lets you play in the beautiful Ozarks. Need equipment like tents or canoes? They can rent it to you!
Where students gather 1
Plaster Student Union This is the “living room” of campus. The PSU includes a movie theater, television lounges, a food court with restaurants such as Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, Papa John’s and Subway, a bank, post office and more. Level 1 Game Center in the PSU has a bowling alley, billiards and table tennis.
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JQH Arena Head here to cheer for the
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Meyer Library This is the campus hub for information. It has books, magazines, study rooms and computer labs on several levels. There are comfy chairs where you can curl up — and if you get too drowsy, you can pick up a caffeine boost from the Starbucks kiosk. Visit the Bear CLAW (Center for Learning and Writing) to get tutoring and academic assistance.
basketball Bears and Lady Bears. The 11,000-seat arena has a section reserved for students. Major concerts are also held here by artists such as the Eagles, Michael Bublé, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, Elton John and James Taylor.
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University Recreation Center Get fit at this new facility, which has an indoor jogging track, basketball courts, cardio and weight-training equipment, rock-climbing walls and a tricked-out pool. Unwind in the sauna and lounge areas.
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Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex This indoor/outdoor center devoted to athletics is home to the football, field hockey, track and soccer Bears teams and has 12 racquetball courts, a fitness complex and an outdoor track.
Missouri State Bookstore The bookstore has everything from textbooks and computer software to BearWear clothing and a Clinique cosmetics counter.
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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 may get to perform here as part of their course work.
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Experience Springfield Home, sweet home: That is what Springfield, Mo., is to thousands of students. Springfield is the third-largest city in Missouri. It is a great place to be during your college years because it’s laid-back, safe and there’s a lot to do — and almost everything is within 20 minutes of the Missouri State campus.
Chicago
Missouri
2.5 hours Topeka
3.5 hours
Illinois
Kansas City
Kansas
St. Louis
Springfield Oklahoma
Tulsa
Fayetteville
3 hours
Arkansas
Weather from snow to sunshine Springfield has all four seasons, so when you come to campus pack your shades and shorts, rain boots and umbrellas, scarves and winter coats.
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Road trips! Springfield is about 45 minutes from Branson, 2.5 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 a well-deserved spring break — the Springfield-Branson National Airport can oblige.
MY PLACE:
“The downtown area is great; it has lots of stores and activities geared toward college students like First Friday Art Walks and cute boutique shops. Springfield also has tons of good restaurants. It’s fun to find your favorite.”
» » Leena Shadid, political science major from Kansas City, Mo.
What is the area around campus like? Missouri State is minutes from downtown Springfield, a vibrant area with boutiques, cinemas, theaters, restaurants and other attractions. MSU owns some buildings in the area, so a Bear Line shuttle can transport you to your downtown classes before you visit your favorite local coffeehouse. Where do students hang out? We have plenty of movie theaters, including an independent cinema. There are places to catch live music. There are coffeehouses and pubs. And you can easily find a place to worship in Springfield, no matter your religious background.
What kind of restaurants will I find? Everything from Italian to Indian, Thai to tortillas, sushi to steak. We’re especially known for Chinese food — did you know this is where Springfield-style cashew chicken was invented? We also have a sweet tooth — check out all the frozen-treat places, or get a cupcake or crêpe. What if I love sports? This is the town for you — we’re the home of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. The basketball Bears and Lady Bears take to the court at JQH Arena. We have baseball: Both our Bears team and the Springfield Cardinals (affiliate of the St. Louis team) play at Hammons Field. There’s ice-skating, hockey, a professional tennis team and a soccer complex. Where can I shop? Fashionistas can find it all: A large mall, big-name stores and independent boutiques. The main shopping center is Battlefield Mall, which has many popular stores including American Eagle, Forever 21, Old Navy and Hollister & Co. There are many independent boutiques downtown and on the city’s south side. What if I love the outdoors? Springfield has tons of parks, each with a different personality. There’s a Japanese stroll garden, bike paths, a dog park and more. If you want to hike a trail, try the Springfield Conservation Nature Center or Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. Serious outdoor types can find campgrounds, state parks and a national forest within easy driving distances. What is the local arts scene? There’s an art museum, symphony orchestra, ballet and plenty of live theatre and music. First Friday Art Walk is held downtown every month. It’s free to walk around and look at photography, pottery, paintings and more. The annual Artsfest is held on historic Walnut Street, just a short walk from campus. If you love live theater or music performances, check out the offerings at Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts on campus. There are also several theater venues downtown. 33
Make a seamless transfer MSU welcomes thousands of transfer students each year from community colleges, private schools and public universities, and you don’t have to be done at your current institution to be admitted to Missouri State. We go the extra mile to make sure your transition is as smooth as possible. We have special admission and advisement programs set up for transfer students.
Transferring to Springfield from Missouri State-West Plains
Frequently asked questions
The West Plains and Springfield campuses of Missouri State enjoy a special relationship as part of the same system. To transfer to Springfield, the first step is to apply for admission. You do not need to pay another application fee.
Q: How do I start the transfer process?
Q: What do I need to apply?
A: Apply online at www.missouristate.edu/apply/ up to one year before transferring to Missouri State. Community college students should speak with their advisors about transferring to MSU.
A: A $35 application-processing fee and transcript(s) from all colleges and universities from which you have earned academic credit, including dual credit.
Q: How will my credits transfer?
Q: What if I have questions?
A: We keep a database of the classes at many other institutions 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.
A: Call 417-836-5517 or 800-492-7900 (toll-free), or email admissions@missouristate.edu.
See the West Plains transfer website: www.missouristate.edu/wptransfer
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More online! We have lots of details, including a transfer student to-do list and transfer equivalencies. See: www.missouristate.edu/admissions/transfer
Meet a transfer student You earned an Associate of Arts degree from Ozarks Technical Community College. What was the transfer process like to come to Missouri State? A lot easier than I thought it was going to be. Every one of my credits transferred. It worked out great for me. My transfer representative answered all of my questions — and I was there a lot. If I annoyed her, she didn’t show it at all! As soon as I got to the Missouri State campus, I was assigned an advisor who has been great. She talked me through major choices when I was considering several areas. She helped me see what it was I really want to do rather than jumping into something I wasn’t sure about. Do you think Missouri State is a good value? Yes, I do. I haven’t had to pay a dime so far, really. I got a great Pell grant, and Missouri State offers scholarships for transfer students who were in Phi Theta Kappa honor society (for two-year college students).
+++ online extras +++ Read Jake’s full story and see a video of him talking about his transfer process. undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
Jake Lamkins Administrative management major from Lebanon, Mo.
How to apply It’s great that you want to be a Bear — we can’t wait to have you on campus! We encourage students to apply online because 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 keeps you from applying online, you may download a paper application at the website as well. You may also contact the Office of Admissions to request a paper application.
Undergraduate admission policy
Admission to Missouri State
The following high school core curriculum was established by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and is required of all students.
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
ENGLISH: Four units, two of which must emphasize composition or writing. One unit may be speech or debate. MATHEMATICS: Three units (algebra I or higher, to include algebra II). If algebra I is taken in eighth grade, three acceptable units of math must be completed in high school.
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:
SOCIAL STUDIES: Three units (must include American history and at least one semester of government). Personal finance is NOT acceptable. SCIENCE: Three units, not including general science. One unit must be a laboratory course.
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS: One unit (graduates of accredited Missouri high schools meet this through completion of the fine arts requirement for graduation). ACADEMIC ELECTIVES: Three additional units of core electives selected from any combination of two or more of the above subject areas and/or foreign language. Computer science may also be used if it has a prerequisite of algebra I or higher. ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES: Must bring total to 24 units (required of Missouri high school graduates. Missouri high school graduates must have one unit each of practical arts and physical education and one-half unit each of health education and personal finance). For additional details and a list of acceptable courses, contact your high school counselor or the Missouri State Office of Admissions, or visit www.missouristate.edu/admissions/admpolicy.htm.
Freshman admission alternatives
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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.
Class Rank Percentile
or
75 or higher
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.
GPA ACT Composite
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
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† Sum of critical reading and math scores
As a selective-admission institution, our objective is to admit students with demonstrated potential for academic success. We recognize that some students have potential for success not clearly evident through standard measures of class rank, grade point average and test scores. If you do not meet the requirements listed above, please visit www.missouristate.edu/admissions/admissionalternatives.htm for information on our individual review option and other options available to you. Some of these options have additional deadlines.
Transfer student admission policy
Students currently in high school who will complete the core curriculum, but who do not meet the selection index requirement, may be admitted for the summer session (beginning in early June) without going through the individual review option.
College credit earned in high school
1090
You will qualify for admission to Missouri State if you have completed 24 or more hours of transferable college credit after graduation from high school, with a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or higher. If you will have fewer than 24 hours of college credit completed after high school, you must also meet the freshman admission requirements.
Missouri State gives credit for work from several programs: Advanced Placement, College Level Examination Program and the International Baccalaureate program. We also grant credit for some military experiences. To find out more, see www.missouristate.edu/creditbyexam/.
Checklists for high school juniors and 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, take a tour of campus and other important activities. See www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu.
Contact us Web: www.missouristate.edu/admissions
Toll-free telephone: 800-492-7900
Email: info@missouristate.edu
TTY (assistive-technology service): 417-836-4770
Telephone: 417-836-5517
Relay Missouri (assistive-technology service): 800-735-2966
You Tube
Twitter You Tube
Online communities
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
Facebook U: www.itunesu.missouristate.edu iTunes iTunes
YouTube: www.youtube.com/missouristate You Tube Blogs
Facebookwww.blogs.missouristate.edu Blogs: Blogs
iTunes Twitter Twitter: www.twitter.com/missouristate
Facebook You Tube
Blogs
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Office of Admissions 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897
www.missouristate.edu
Every Friday is BearWear Friday at Missouri State. Students, professors, staff and even community members show their pride by wearing MSU gear, also known as BearWear.
Missouri State University adheres to a strict nondiscrimination policy and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, or on any basis (including, but not limited to, political affiliation and sexual orientation) not related to the applicable educational requirements for students in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. 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 064 12 7/11 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 MWM Dexter, Aurora, Mo.