Graduate Programs at Missouri Western State University
Missouri Western State University offers students at every life stage graduate programs to help advance careers and increase earning potential. For example, the Master of Applied Science (M.A.S.) programs integrate advanced training in science and technology education with business and professional skills. Similarly, the Master of Applied Arts (M.A.A.) programs focus on the skills in writing and the arts that employers need and value. Most graduate programs are designed to be completed in two years, and graduate certificates can usually be completed within one year. Classes are offered primarily in the late afternoon and evenings to help accommodate working professionals. Online programs are also available in some areas.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The MBA is a professional degree that offers students, of all educational and professional backgrounds a broad business education to help launch or advance their professional careers. The 30-credit program focuses on applied academic education to develop a student's analytical and decision making abilities. The MBA program is offered in both on campus and online formats and is accredited by AACSB.
Master of Science (MS)
Information Technology Assurance Administration: The Information Technology Assurance Administration program provides practical understanding about computer forensics, data protection, and network security. It also introduces students to policy, legal, and ethical issues regarding information security. (36 credits)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN program prepares students for leadership roles in nursing practice, and the curriculum has two tracks: Health Care Leadership and Nurse Educator. Both programs help graduates emerge as advocates for excellence and leadership in nursing and nurse education and training. (32-credits)
Master of Applied Science (MAS) Programs
The Assessment degree programs are designed for educators and includes three option areas. Each program is 33-credits, and all are offered 100% online.
The K-12 Cross Categorical Special Education option trains teachers with strategies for teaching learners with mild to moderate disabilities in inclusive kindergarten through 12th grade classrooms.
The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) option provides students with the specific skill set and knowledge to teach English language learners and advocate for TESOL educational programs.
The Writing option helps teachers improve their abilities to teach writing. Focus areas include applying innovative methods to writing, evaluating writing, developing writing assignments, and integrating writing into curricula.
The Chemistry master’s degree provides advanced coursework in chemistry with cross training in business and communications. The MAS in Chemistry program is approved by the Professional Science Masters Association. (35 credits)
The Engineering and Technology Management program focuses on applied research and hands-on experience to prepare students for a variety of positions including assembly line supervisor, plant manager, and secondary or post-secondary teacher. (33 credits)
The Forensic Investigation master’s degree provides broad-based knowledge in the field of forensic investigation and strengthens professional expertise in law enforcement investigation and investigative methods taught by forensic specialists and law enforcement professionals. (32 credits)
The Industrial Life Science program integrates advanced biology and chemistry with skills-based coursework in business and management fundamentals. (35 credits)
The Sport and Fitness Management graduate degree prepares graduates to manage and lead in areas such as intercollegiate and professional sports, and sport, fitness, and recreation facilities. (33-36 credits)
Master of Applied Arts Programs
Digital Media: This Digital Media program trains students for the digital workplace. Students strengthen their creative thinking skills and obtain hands-on and team-based experiences. This program allows students to successfully address the challenges businesses, digital artists and media face in the 21st century environment. (38 credits)
The Written Communication program is an interdisciplinary degree with two option areas: Technical Communication and Writing Studies. (33-credits each)
The Technical Communication option area is ideal for individuals who want to advance their careers in business, government, and industry. The program helps students improve their writing, supervisory, training, and technical communication skills.
The Writing Studies option is designed for educators who want to strengthen their writing as a content area and for individuals interested in teaching at the post-secondary level. Students will improve their knowledge base in pedagogy and theory and their ability to use technology as a teaching tool
Graduate Certificates: Missouri Western State University offers seven graduate certificate programs, with most associated with full master’s-level programs: Digital Media, Forensic Investigation, Nurse Educator, Professional Skills, Teaching of Writing, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and Technical Communication. All certificates are 15-16 credits.
Cost of Study
Tuition for the 2018–19 academic year is $341 per credit for in-state students and $611 per credit for out-of-state and international students. Accepted students who are U.S. citizens from Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming are eligible for in-state tuition under the Griffon Rate.
Financial Aid
Degree-seeking graduate students are generally eligible for scholarships and loans. A limited number of graduate assistantships may be offered by individual graduate programs when available. Assistantships may include a stipend and in-state tuition for up to 18 credits per academic year (not including summers). International students who are fully admitted may be eligible for International Excellence Scholarships. More information can be found by visiting the Graduate School Website (www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate).
The University
Missouri Western State University offers nearly 6,000 students high quality, student-centered education that emphasizes applied learning and community service. The university's main campus is located on more than 700 wooded acres in historic St. Joseph, Missouri. This bustling city of approximately 76,000 residents offers many amenities including arts and culture, entertainment and nightlife, restaurants and shopping, and sports and recreation. St. Joseph is 35 minutes north of the Kansas City International Airport, providing convenient access to the university and an easy commute from the Kansas City metro area.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted electronically directly through the Graduate School website http://www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for admission to the Graduate School; however, many programs require a 3.0 GPA and/or additional admission materials (GMAT, examples of representative work, a personal statement, letters of recommendation or other items for review). International students must have a TOEFL score of 79 or better or an IELTS score of 6.0 or better for admission. All international transcripts must be evaluated for U.S. equivalencies.
The application deadline for fall admission is July 15; for spring admission, November 1; and for summer admission, April 29. It is recommended that international students apply by May 15 for fall admission and October 15 for spring admission.
Correspondence and Information
Dr. Ben Caldwell, Graduate School Dean
Tina Washburn, Admissions Coordinator
Missouri Western State University Graduate School
4525 Downs Drive
St. Joseph, Missouri 64507
United States
Phone: 816-271-4394
E-mail: graduate@missouriwestern.edu
Website: http://www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate
