Graduate Programs at Missouri Western State University

Missouri Western State University offers students at every life stage graduate programs that help them increase their potential and advance their careers. For example, the Master of Applied Science programs integrate advanced training in science and technology education with business and professional skills. Similarly, the Master of Applied Arts 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.

Master of Science (MS) in Information Technology Assurance Administration

The 36-credit MS in Information Technology Assurance Administration provides practical understanding about computer forensics, data protection, and network security. It also introduces students to policy, legal, and ethical issues regarding information security.

Master of Information Management

The Master of Information Management with a concentration in enterprise resource planning (ERP) trains students to apply ERP methods in a variety of business settings. Its 30-credit curriculum, which focuses on SAP software, and provides in-depth understanding of all business areas.

Master of Business Administration

The MBA will be offered as a new degree program beginning in the fall 2017, and is accredited by AACSB 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.

Master of Applied Science Programs

Missouri Western State University offers five Master of Applied Science (MAS) programs including the MAS in Chemistry. This 35-credit program provides advanced academic training in chemistry with cross training in business and communications. The 35-credit MAS in Industrial Life Science integrates biology and chemistry with skills-based coursework in business fundamentals, communications, economics, intellectual property, project management, and regulatory affairs.

The 33 to 36-credit MAS in Sport and Fitness Management prepares graduates to manage and lead in areas such as intercollegiate and professional sports, and sport and fitness facilities. The 33-credit MAS in Engineering Technology Management 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.

The 36-credit MAS in Human Factors and Usability Testing trains students to evaluate human-computer interfaces and interaction, conduct research, make analyses, and provide recommendations to design products, increase productivity, improve work settings, and reduce human error.

Master of Applied Science in Assessment

The online Master of Applied Science in Assessment includes three options: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and Writing.

The 33-credit Autism Spectrum Disorders option trains students to teach learners with the disorder in inclusive Pre-K through 12th grade classrooms. The 33-credit 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.

Master of Applied Arts in Digital Media

The Master of Applied Arts in Digital Media trains students for the digital workplace. Students strengthen their creative thinking skills and obtain hands-on and team-based experience. This 38 credit program allows students to successfully address the challenges businesses, digital artists, and media face in the 21st century business environment.

Master of Applied Arts in Written Communication

The interdisciplinary, 33-credit Master of Applied Arts in Written Communication has two options: Technical Communication and Writing Studies.

The Technical Communication option is ideal for individuals who want to advance their careers in business, government, and industry. It helps them 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 individuals interested in teaching at the post-secondary level. Students improve their knowledge about pedagogy and theory and their ability to use technology as a teaching tool.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The MSN prepares students for leadership roles in nursing practice. Its 32-credit curriculum has two tracks: Health Care Leadership and Nurse Educator. Both programs help graduates emerge as advocates for excellence and leaders in nursing and nurse education and training. Upon graduation, students demonstrate several abilities including the following:

- Create effective work environments

- Develop and lead teams

- Embrace organizational change

- Influence healthcare policy

- Manage resources effectively

- Promote evidenced-based practice

- Promote professional practice

Master of Applied Science (MAS) in Forensic Investigations

The 36-credit MAS in Forensic Investigations provides broad-based knowledge of the field and strengthens students' professional expertise in law enforcement investigation. It includes 18 credits of core and 18 credits of elective courses taught by forensic scientists and law enforcement professionals.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Offered through the University of Missouri, the online MSW program with a concentration in clinical practice prepares students for leadership roles in the field.

Its curriculum includes strategies for clinical intervention with disadvantaged individuals, families, and small groups within various health care and community settings.

Graduate Certificates

Missouri Western State University offers five graduate certificate programs, most associated with full masters level programs:

- Autism Spectrum Disorders

- Digital Media

- Forensic Investigations

- Professional Skills

- Teaching of Writing

- Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted 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 or additional admission materials (GRE, GMAT, examples of representative work, letters of recommendation). International students must earn a TOEFL score of 79 or better or an IELTS score of 6.0 or better for full admission.

Missouri Western State University

Missouri Western State University offers nearly 6,000 students high quality, student-centered education that emphasizes applied learning and community service. It provides 83 degree programs, 111 majors, and 51 minors.

It also has many co-curricula and recreational options including nearly 100 clubs and organizations, cultural events, and NCAA Division II athletics. Additionally, it provides extensive support services including the following the Center for Academic Support, Counseling Center, Disability Services, Student Health Center, Center for Multicultural Education, Career Development Center and International Student Services.

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, making access to the university an easy commute from the Kansas City metro area.

Financial Aid

Degree-seeking graduate students are generally eligible for scholarships and loans. Qualified educators may be eligible for Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) grants. A limited number of graduate assistantships are available, and these are offered by Individual graduate programs when available. Assistantships may include a stipend and tuition up to 18 credits per academic year (not including summers). More information on assistantships and scholarships can be found by visiting the Graduate School Website (www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate).

Housing

On campus housing is available for graduate students primarily in Griffon Hall's apartments. Each apartment consists of four single bedrooms, two bathrooms, a shared living space and a full kitchen. Each bedroom has built in closets and a desk. For added convenience only two people share a bathroom. Other housing options are available. For more information visit the Residential Life web site (www.missouriwestern.edu/reslife/).

• Missouri Western State University
• Program in Applied Science
• Program in Assessment
• Program in Business Administration
• Program in Integrated Media
• Program in Forensic Investigations
• Program in Information Management
• Program in Information Technology Assurance Administration
• Program in Health Care Leadership
• Program in Written Communication

• Tuition & Fees
• In-state tuition *$6,391
• Out-of-state tuition *$11,483
• International student tuition$11,483
• Financial Support
• Financial award applicants must submitNot Reported
• Application deadlines for financial awardsNot Reported
• Types of financial support availableNot Reported

• Gender
• Total Graduate Students232
• Female Percentage62%
• Male Percentage38%
• Participation
• Total Graduate Students232
• Part-time Percentage65%
• Full-time Percentage35%
• Race/Ethnicity
• Hispanic / LatinoNot Reported
• Black / African AmericanNot Reported
• White / CaucasianNot Reported
• American Indian / Alaskan NativeNot Reported
• AsianNot Reported
• Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific IslanderNot Reported
• Two or more racesNot Reported
• Unknown or International StudentNot Reported

• Faculty Breakdown
• Total Faculty49
• Full-time Percentage86%
• Part-time Percentage14%
• Female Percentage39%
• Male Percentage61%