2012 – 13 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.
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SEEK KNOWLEDGE
You will have professors who really care and will go the extra distance for you. page 10
BE INSPIRED BY YOUR PROFESSORS
You’ll get an unbeatable value. Our cost is lower than state and national averages, plus we have lots of page 14 ENJOY THE VALUE ways to help you pay for school.
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. page 16 / 20
LIVE AND LEARN ON CAMPUS / BUILD YOUR SOCIAL LIFE
You’ll be encouraged to make the world a better place thanks to our public affairs mission. page 8 PARTICIPATE IN PUBLIC AFFAIRS
You’ll be prepared for a lifetime of success. There are lots of student services 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.
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PREPARE FOR YOUR CAREER
You’ll love our campus. Schedule your visit now! • www.missouristate.edu/visit • 417-836-6614 or 1-800-492-7900 (toll-free) page 18
VISIT CAMPUS
You will love Springfield, a cozy college town with big-city amenities. page 22
EXPERIENCE SPRINGFIELD
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JUST FOR FRESHMEN
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JUST FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS
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HOW TO APPLY
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CONTACT US
Follow your passion:
Seek knowledge Missouri State is known for quality academic offerings. We’re a major university with more than 150 undergraduate programs and nearly 50 graduate programs. Your classes will be stimulating and will cover a wide range of topics. Your hard work will pay off at graduation when you know you are prepared for your career.
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, educated person. You can even create an individualized major if you know what you want to study and the specific degree is not offered.
You will have help creating your schedule and making sure you’re on track to graduate on time. Each student is assigned an advisor who provides guidance.
You will have a mix of large and small classes — even though we’re a major university, some of your classes may have as few as 20 people.
You will take classes in buildings set up to help you reach your academic goals. We have labs, lecture halls, art studios and more to suit your needs.
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You may be able to get an advanced degree in fewer years thanks to our accelerated master’s programs. These allow some juniors and seniors to earn credit toward a master’s degree as an undergraduate.
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average ACT score for entering freshman
Your smartphone won’t be the smartest thing in class — that distinction goes to you and your classmates. The average ACT score among Missouri State freshmen is well above the national average. That means your classmates will be engaged and active, and you will have plenty of opportunities to form study groups or discuss assignments.
Watch professors in action on iTunes! 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/.
Need even more enrichment? Try Honors College Missouri State has an Honors College for exceptional students. Honors College students take enhanced courses and may live in Scholars House. To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements: • Earn an ACT score of 27 or higher (or SAT of 1220 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 be admitted to Missouri State University.
You will be trained for top-level graduate work. Our alumni have gone on to succeed in Missouri State’s Graduate College and at elite graduate and professional schools across the country.
Meet Johnny Tran Hometown: Branson, Mo. Major: Marketing with emphasis in advertising and promotion Active in: Asian-American Pacific Islander Organization; Student Government Association; Equity and Diversity Committee
Q: What is the best thing about your academic program? A: I am a marketing major, and the College of Business Administration has a great reputation. Also, I am thinking of doing the accelerated Master of Business Administration program. I can get through my master’s program about a year faster than a regular master’s program. It’s great that Missouri State offers that because you can take care of your senior year and your first year of your master’s at the same time!
Online extra! Read about Johnny’s involvement with the Asian-American Pacific Islander Organization and his advice to new students. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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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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Missouri State’s six academic colleges and one school of agriculture offer more than 150 areas of study. College of Health and Human Services » chhs.missouristate.edu
College of Arts and Letters » coal.missouristate.edu Art: Ceramics Computer Animation Digital Arts Drawing Metals-Jewelry Painting Photography Printmaking Sculpture
Electronic Arts: Audio Studies Computer Animation Studies Multimedia Studies Video Studies
Art and Design
German
Art History
Global Studies
Communication:* Communication Ethical Leadership Health Communication Intercultural Communication and Diversity Interpersonal Communication Organizational Communication Rhetoric
Journalism: Broadcast Journalism Print and Internet Journalism
English: Creative Writing Literature
Music:* Composition Instrumental Performance Jazz Performance Keyboard Performance Vocal Performance Musical Theatre
††
Professional Writing
French
Public Relations Socio-Political Communication
v
Mass Media: Digital Film Production Film Studies Media Production Media Studies
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
Spanish Technical Writing Theatre and Dance: Acting† Dance Design/Technology/Stage Management
Exercise and Movement Science: Health Studies Pre-Professional
Radiography:** Education Management Science
Gerontology
Recreation, Sport and Park Administration
Nursing†† Generic, 4-Year Program RN Completion Program Physical Education Psychology
Respiratory Therapy:** Education Management Science Social Work
Graduate: Audiology (doctorate), Cell and Molecular Biology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, 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
Design: Graphic Design Graphic Design and Illustration Illustration
Economics
Political Science
Graduate: Communication, English, Music, Theatre, Writing
College of Natural and Applied Sciences » cnas.missouristate.edu
Theatre Studies
Graduate: Applied Anthropology, Criminology, Defense and Strategic Studies, Global Studies, History, Public Administration, Religious Studies
College of Business Administration » coba.missouristate.edu Accounting Computer Information Systems Construction Management Entertainment Management Entrepreneurship 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
General Business Information Technology Service Management Interior Design
Risk Management and Insurance Technology Management
Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Early Childhood Education Elementary Education Middle School Education Special Education/Cross Categorical
Teaching of Classics-Latin Concentration† Teaching of Earth Science Education:† Categorical Science Unified Science
Teaching of Mathematics
†
Teaching of Music:† Instrumental Vocal/Choral Teaching of Physical Education† Teaching of Physics Education†
Teaching of English†
Teaching of Spanish†
Teaching of Art and Design†
Teaching of Family and Consumer Sciences†
Teaching of Speech and Theatre:† Communication Theatre
Teaching of French†
Teaching of Business Education†
Teaching of History†
Geology Geospatial Sciences
Planning: Community and Regional Planning Tourism Planning and Development
Engineeringu
Hospitality and Restaurant Administration Club Management Food and Beverage General Operations Lodging Senior Living Management Tourism
Physics
Wildlife Conservation and Management
Graduate: Biology, Chemistry, Geospatial Sciences in Geography and Geology, Materials Science, Mathematics, Natural and Applied Science
Teaching of Agriculture Education†
Teaching of Biology:† Categorical Science Unified Science
Chemistry:* Biochemistry Graduate School Industrial
Electrical
College of Education » education.missouristate.edu Teaching of Chemistry: Categorical Science Unified Science
Mathematics:* Actuarial Mathematics Applied Mathematics General Mathematics Statistics
Computer Science
Graduate: Accountancy, Business Administration, Business Education, Computer Information Systems, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Health Administration, Project Management
Child and Family Development
Geography:* Cultural and Regional Geography Environmental and Natural Resources Geotourism
Civil Engineeringu
Management: Administrative Management Human Resources Management International Business Administration Operations Management
†
Biology:* Botany Cellular Biology Environmental Biology and Evolution Microbiology and Biotechnology Wildlife Biology
Teaching of German†
Graduate: Counseling, 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
William H. Darr School of Agriculture » ag.missouristate.edu Agricultural Business: Enterprise Management Finance and Management Marketing and Sales
Environmental Plant Science Horticultural Crop Science
Animal Science
General Agriculture:* Agricultural Communication Agriculture
Natural Resources Wildlife Conservation and Management
Graduate: 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: 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. Four-year programs: Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Law, Pre-Med, Pre-Optometry, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Physician Assistant Studies, Pre-Veterinary Medicine Two-year programs: Pre-Engineering Four- or two-year programs: Pre-Chiropractic, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Pharmacy
* 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.
Global Studies is an interdisciplinary major administered through the department of modern and classical languages. 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. v
u †
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Follow your passion:
Participate in public affairs Missouri State has a public affairs mission. You might be wondering: What will that mean for my education? The mission makes the University and students like you stand out. It’s about helping the community, being a leader and being informed about the world and the people who live in it. The mission is everywhere on campus, from the classroom to special events. It helps you see how you can make a difference.
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, leadership, the economy and giving back to the community. We have a leadership program called Distinction in Public Affairs. About 50 students are selected each year for the program. They break into small teams that meet on a regular basis to learn about public affairs topics. They also complete a hands-on project about a community issue, which they will share at the Public Affairs Conference. Participants will be recognized at student awards events — but more importantly, they will know how to analyze social issues and how to take action when they want to improve their communities.
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SPRINGFIELD, MO
HAITI
The themes of the public affairs mission are community engagement, cultural competence and ethical leadership. You’ll be able to understand local, national and global issues and know how you can work to make a better world. For example, when the devastating earthquake hit Haiti, students leapt into action to run a campaign that raised $50,300 for relief efforts.
Meet Tara Hammer
Hometown: Springfield, Mo. Major: Economics Active as: Chairwoman of Public Affairs Week, member of student government elections commission and model United Nations Q: How would you explain the public affairs mission? A: The most important part of the mission is just understanding what is going on around you — on campus, in the community and the world. You see something wrong and say, “Hey, I should do something about that.” The mission helps you take that feeling and actually do something about it. For example, I have worked on a voter registration drive on campus to raise student awareness about elections.
An important part of public affairs is sustainability. The Missouri State campus 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 (above) run by students and other volunteers. They pull weeds, prepare the soil, plant the seeds and harvest the healthy foods, then get to eat the results of their hard work.
Online extra! Find out how Tara sampled different academic areas before finding a major she loves. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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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. Nearly 90 percent of them have the highest degrees in their field, and many have worked extensively in their areas of expertise. This means they are ready to prepare you for the job market by teaching you the skills you need to start a career.
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 advisor: She is the first contact for all biology majors. She helps them with class choices and matches them with permanent advisors. “We think advising is about way more than picking out your next class. We emphasize mentoring and a good personal relationship.”
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 camps (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.”
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19:1
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 truly care about their progress. Our professors are known for being friendly and accessible to students.
Meet Dr. Jerry Chin Head of the department of computer information systems How his department helps graduates get good jobs: Students in his field learn how companies can best use computers as business tools. “The professors make sure students are truly prepared. We also encourage students to do internships and help them find those opportunities. The trend is that companies hire people out of their internship pool, so it’s a dress rehearsal for real life. Students with good grade point averages who have completed an internship almost always get job offers.” Why business students should choose Missouri State: “Our students are well-rounded! First, they get the experience of being at a major university. Next, they are studying at our College of Business Administration, a respected business school. Finally, they get specialty training in their field. This gives them flexibility. They can also stay here to earn a master’s degree.”
Meet Deb Savinske Clinical assistant professor of nursing Why nursing students should choose Missouri State: A four-year degree is the best avenue for those who want to be leaders in the field. “You’ll be set up to get an advanced degree or a promotion. The University also gives you a diverse education since you will take classes outside of your major. Our job is to teach you what a professional is like, including attire and how you speak and write — you become a total package. Nurse managers tell me they love MSU graduates!” What cool experiences can nursing students expect? Students have participated in pediatric rotation at a camp for children, done volunteer work at hospitals and gone on studyaway trips to Ecuador. Missouri State also has mannequins that respond like a live person to medical stimulation. “We run scenarios so students will see in the classroom what they will see in the real world, but in a safe environment where they can make mistakes as they learn. The mannequins are a lot of fun!”
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Follow your passion:
Prepare for your career Our graduates get great jobs. That’s the bottom line of college, right? You’re here, after all, to start a meaningful career. We keep that in mind in everything we do for students. Missouri State will hand you the tools you need to build a résumé that stands out. Our reputation with employers is great — we really prepare you for what comes after college.
All students have access to the services of the Career Center. The center can help you pick a career path, teach you how to write a résumé, walk you through a mock interview, set you up with an internship and assist with your career search. Alumni can also use the center’s services — we continue to care about your career even after you leave school. 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.
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“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.” ~ Derek Sisel, construction management major 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.
Meet Ashleigh Eddelbuttel
Hometown: Bentonville, Ark. (born in Sydney, Australia) Major: Audiology Active as: Resident assistant in Woods House; member of Maroon Madness (student spirit organization of Missouri State athletics); Peer Leader Q: How is Missouri State helping you succeed? A: I started school with a different major but just did not feel connected to that field. I was going through an “I don’t know what to do” stage. I went to my advisor, who walked me through every possible major and helped me figure out what I like and don’t like. Then I took an Intro to Communication Disorders class and just loved it. My teachers all love what they do. They are excited and that makes me excited to learn from them. They want you to succeed! 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.
Online extra! Find out why Ashleigh loves the public affairs mission of MSU and what she would most like to tell new freshmen. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Follow your passion:
Enjoy the value 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, 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. We are ready to help you find out how to finance your education.
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/.
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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 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. Find out more at www.fafsa.gov/.
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
$3,299
$6,598
Non-Missouri Residents
$6,209
$12,418
Room and Board*
$3,291
$6,582
$450
$900
$7,040
$14,080
TOTAL Non-Missouri Residents*** $9,950
$19,900
Books and Supplies** Total Missouri Residents***
† Costs shown are for 2011– 2012 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 $194 per credit hour for Missouri residents. The fee for nonresidents is $388 per credit hour.
Room-style: $3,291 per semester Suite-style range: $3,474 – $4,289 per semester
Sample scholarships for entering freshmen/transfers Additional scholarship opportunities for freshmen and transfer students are available at www.missouristate.edu/scholarships Scholarship Amount
Minimum ACT/ Class Rank GPA / 4.0 Scale Application SAT equivalency DeadlineS***
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
Multicultural Leadership
$6,250 per year
No minimum
Top 50%
OR
3.00 or higher
December 1
Huthcens/SGA
$1,250-$2,500
20 / 950*
AND
Top 50%
OR
3.00 or higher
December 1
Out-of-State Fee Waiver/ $5,820 Midwest Student Exchange Program
24 (Freshman) N/A (Transfer)
OR
Top 20% 24 credits
OR OR
3.70 or higher 3.25
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
* 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.
Meet Haley Luedloff Hometown: O’Fallon, Mo. Major: Cell and molecular biology Campus activities: Honors College member; Xi Omicron Iota social sorority; Rho Lambda International Panhellenic Leadership Recognition Society; secretary of Pre-Physician Assistant Society; Missouri State’s trap and skeet team
Q: Do you think Missouri State is a good value? A: Oh, yes. It is super-affordable to start with, and the school also gives good financial aid. I have a scholarship and almost everybody I know has some sort of aid. You hardly have to pay for anything on campus, like tutoring or computer services. And there are plenty of fun things to do for free. Students get in free to most Bears games, and of course we can use the athletics facilities to work out.
Online extra! Read how Missouri State helps Haley succeed academically and why she recommends you pack rain boots before coming to campus. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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Find your place:
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 free shuttles. Here’s a bit more about the campus.
Academic buildings Classes take place in many buildings 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 campus 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. As you can tell, there’s a building to suit each academic need.
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Residence halls and dining centers It’s fun to live in one of our nine residence halls. You’ll have everything you need, from furniture and Internet access to study areas and fitness centers. Living on campus means you’ll always have something to do with your new friends from your hall. It also may mean better performance in class: Studies have shown you’re more likely to earn a higher GPA if you live on campus. When you’re hungry, head to one of our three dining centers. Each offers something different every day, and no matter your dietary preferences you can be sure you will come away full. Don’t have time to sit for dinner? There are grab-and-go food options and coffee shops throughout campus.
Shuttle service 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 or Android application called MSU Mobile, available at www.missouristate.edu/mobile/.
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 excellent medical care for students. Your prepaid student health fee covers the cost of your basic office visits. You also get reduced charges for extended office visits, laboratory tests, X-rays, prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, appointments with specialists and more.
Safety Safety is one of the top priorities at Missouri State. We have a city police substation right on campus. We also have well-lit walkways, 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.
University Recreation Center: You will be able to get fit at this facility, opening in 2012. It will feature an indoor jogging track, basketball courts, cardio and weight-training equipment, rock-climbing walls and a tricked-out pool. You may also unwind in the sauna and lounge areas.
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Be sure to take a tour!
Many students say their campus tour was the deciding factor that helped them select Missouri State for their college career. A visit with us is important: It will give you a real feel for the University and help you decide if we’re right for you. 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.
To set up your tour, 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.
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Campus hot spots 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. Level 1 Game Center: This fun hangout in the Union has a bowling alley, billiards and table tennis.
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 to read — 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) in the library to get tutoring and other kinds of academic assistance.
Carrington Hall: This was the first building on the Missouri State campus. You will find admissions, financial aid, the registrar and many other important offices here.
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 complex and an outdoor track.
JQH Arena: Head here to cheer for the basketball Bears and Lady Bears. The 11,000-seat arena has a section reserved for students. Major concerts are held here, too — performed by artists including Michael Bublé, the Eagles, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood and Elton John.
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.
Missouri State Bookstore: The bookstore has everything from textbooks and computer software to Bear Wear clothing and a Clinique cosmetics counter.
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Find your place:
Build your social life University life means having fun in addition to studying! We’ve got the extracurricular activities you want. You’re sure to feel welcome and find others who want to participate in your kind of entertainment, whether that’s hearing a band, laughing at a comedian or cheering on a Bears team.
NCAA athletics teams 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: • 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)
Student organizations
300+ student organizations
You can get involved and become a leader at Missouri State in so many ways! Students can choose from approximately 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.
Student Activities Council This student-run group brings awesome events and famous people to campus. You will be invited to free bowling nights, comedy shows, concerts, hypnotism displays, movies and much more.
Meet Shelby Holmes
Hometown: Willard, Mo. Major: Elementary education Campus activities: Campus ministry; employed at University bookstore
Q: How would you describe Missouri State? A: I love the atmosphere. The students here are really spirited. Freshman year, all the campus organizations hustle you to be in their groups — it shows they really want you to be involved. … 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.
Campus Recreation office You can stay moving thanks to this office. It offers fitness classes ranging from ballroom dance to power yoga. Campus Rec offers plenty of intramural activities, so any student can participate in a competitive sport. The office also 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!
Online extra! Read about Shelby’s advice on managing money and what she found to be the most surprising thing about being in college. 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 be during your college years because it’s laid-back, 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. Here is a sample of the great things going on around town. Almost everything is within 20 minutes of the Missouri State campus.
What is the area around campus like? 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 before you visit your favorite local coffeehouse.
Where do students hang out? We have plenty of movie theaters, including a multiplex and an independent cinema both in walking distance from campus. There are also several places to catch live bands and traveling music acts. There are lots of coffeehouses, which are chilled-out places to spend a day studying or talking to friends. And you can easily find a place to worship in Springfield, no matter your religious background.
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Chicago
Missouri
3 hours Topeka
3.5 hours
Illinois
Kansas City
Kansas
St. Louis
Springfield Oklahoma
Tulsa
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 a well-deserved spring break — the Springfield-Branson National Airport can oblige.
Fayetteville
3 hours
Arkansas
What kind of food will I find? Springfield has everything from Italian to Indian, Thai to tortillas, sushi to steak. You can go simple with burgers or try some fancy cuisine by one of our noted chefs. We’re especially known for Chinese food — did you know this is the place where Springfield-style cashew chicken was invented?
What if I am a sports nut? This is definitely the town for you — we’re the home of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. You can play or watch sports around the campus or city. The basketball Bears and Lady Bears take to the court at JQH Arena on campus. We have baseball: Both our Bears team and the Springfield Cardinals (the minor-league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals) play at Hammons Field. There’s ice-skating and hockey at the city’s Mediacom Ice Park. Springfield is also home to the Lasers professional tennis team; you can play a match at their home stadium, Cooper Tennis Complex. Soccer fans can play or watch at Lake Country Soccer, which has outdoor and indoor fields.
Where can I shop? We have it all: budget-friendly supercenters, big-box stores and independent retailers. The main shopping center is Battlefield Mall, which has many popular stores including American Eagle, Forever 21, Old Navy and Hollister & Co.
What if I love to explore 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.
How can I get some culture? You will find a strong commitment to the arts in Springfield. There’s an art museum, symphony orchestra, ballet and more. In addition, First Friday Art Walk is held downtown every month. It’s free to walk around and look at the venues displaying photography, pottery, painting and more. Also, 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.
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Just for freshmen Congratulations on entering college! Get ready for some of the best times of your life. Here’s some information just for you. If you have any questions, feel free to call or email the Office of Admissions. Orientation program
College credit earned in high school
You will get a great introduction to Missouri State thanks to the Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration program (SOAR for short). 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/.
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/.
Freshmen Learning Communities These are small groups of students who take
University housing
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 Freshmen Learning Community during orientation.
All single students younger than 21 with fewer than 30 hours of transferable credit are required to live in University housing. That’s a good thing! If you live in one of our residence halls you are more likely to get involved on campus and have a higher grade point average. Plus, it’s hard to be lonely: There are lots of people to meet and things to do.
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.
Meet Nii Abrahams Hometown: Joplin, Mo. Major: Communication and ethical leadership Minor: Sociology Campus activities: Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship; Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration (SOAR) leader; resident assistant in Wells House
Q: What is your advice to incoming freshmen? A: Remember all the people in your class are also freshmen, so they are just as nervous as you even if they are hiding it. Just talk to them and you will start making friends who will make your college experience incredible. Reach out — it makes everything better!
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Online extra! Read about why Nii loves the public affairs mission and what he does for fun. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
Just for transfer students MSU welcomes more than 2,000 transfer students each year. 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.
Missouri State-West Plains transfer students
Frequently asked questions Q: How do I start the transfer process? A: Apply online at www.missouristate.edu/apply/ up to one year prior to transferring to Missouri State. Community college students should speak with their advisors about transferring to MSU.
The West Plains and Springfield campuses of Missouri State enjoy a special relationship as part of the same system. To transfer to the Springfield campus, the first step is to apply for admission. You do not need to pay another application fee. For information, check our West Plains transfer website at www.missouristate.edu/wptransfer.
Q: How will my credits transfer? A: We keep a database online 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. Q: What do I need to apply? A: A one-time $35 application-processing fee and transcript(s) from all colleges and universities from which you have earned academic credit, including dual credit.
More online!
Q: What if I have questions? A: Call 417-836-5517 or 800-492-7900 (toll-free), or email admissions@missouristate.edu.
We have lots of details, including a transfer student to-do list and transfer equivalencies. See the transfer student section at www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu.
Meet John Dean Hometown: Blue Springs, Mo. Major: Cell and molecular biology Campus activities: National Society of Collegiate Scholars; Phi Eta Sigma honors fraternity; intramural sports
Q: How was your transfer process? A: I transferred from a small school because I wanted more opportunities. It was smooth — almost all of my credits transferred easily. There was just one we were not sure about, but my advisor helped me find a similar class here and we were able to have it fulfill that requirement. When I got to campus I was shocked because my advisor had my credits organized and had suggestions for what to take. That was great; it left me time to focus on other things!
Online extra! Read about how John made friends after his transfer and why he says transferring to Missouri State was a good financial decision. www.undergraduate.missouristate.edu/spotlights
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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 the application at the above website. 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, please contact your high school counselor or the Missouri State Office of Admissions or visit www.missouristate.edu/admissions/admpolicy.htm.
Freshman admission alternatives 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. Missouri high school graduates who have completed 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.
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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
75 or higher
or
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
3.50 or higher
No minimum test score required for admission
or
SAT Total †
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
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980
40 to 47
2.63 to 2.84
22
1020
34 to 39
2.48 to 2.62
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1050
Below 34
Below 2.48
24
1090
† Sum of critical reading and math scores
Transfer student admission policy 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, you must also meet the 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
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Blogs
Office of Admissions 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897
www.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
20,949
75 4,000+
percent of students receive some form of financial aid
students live in University housing
This FSC logo is for placement only. Please place the logo reversed out as shown with your coc number.
students enrolled on Springfield campus
100,000+
300+
student organizations
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: 16 trees preserved for the future 47 pounds water-borne waste not created 6,884 gallons wastewater flow saved
1,500 pounds greenhouse gasses prevented 762 pounds solid waste not generated 11,478,740 BTUs energy not consumed
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 050 11 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 Lake Printing, Osage Beach, Missouri