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Truman State University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Truman State University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Truman State University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Truman State University reviews, or contribute your own Truman State University review if you're a current student there.

  • 18 out of 21 people found this review useful.

    Keara from Wildwood, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    There is a wide selection of classes to choose from and while it is sometimes difficult to get into a desired class there are many more options open. The smaller class sizes really allow you to interact better with your teacher and so get more out of a class.

    Am enjoying being here

    There is so much to do on campus, there is always an activity or club to join.

    Bang for the buck

    Truman is a very cheap for the education you receive there. The teachers are helpful and knowledgeable in their fields and if you feel you are not getting enough help from them, other teachers that you might not have are willing to assist.

    Tips for prospective students

    Truman is a small school, this makes the classes small also (about 20-30 people). Kirksville is not a big city however and this is off-putting for many people, but the campus makes up for this because there is so much to participate in. I doubt you will find yourself bored.

    Great for these types of students

    Students you like being able to have a closer relationship with their teachers will like Truman because of it's small classes. Those you are interested in various topics or might not be sure what they want to major in can take classes which will help them decide. There is very little pressure to be sure of your career immediately. The campus itself is not very large either, walking it takes about 10-15 minutes to get across, so getting to class on time if you don't have a car is hardly ever problematic.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Christopher from St. Louis, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The Academic Programs that Truman has are top of the line. The teachers here truly care more about the students than their paychecks. They are willing to work with students on an one-on-one basis to help you succeed. The Liberal Arts Education Program that Truman has, ensures that students will be well rounded, and learn from a multitude of disciplines.

    Am enjoying being here

    Although Truman is located in a Small town up north, it typifies the quote big things come in small packages. The campus life is so rich and involved with students being more than friendly.

    Bang for the buck

    For the quality of education you receive from Truman you'd think you'd be paying $15,000 or more per year, however Truman's tuition is currently under $7,000 per year for instate students.

    Tips for prospective students

    Apply for Scholarships, although Truman is typically generous in awarding incoming freshmen with scholarships, always apply for additional aid. I also advise students to prepare for rigorous coursework. Truman lives up to it's reputation as being the #1 public institution in the Midwest.

    Great for these types of students

    Students that like an academic challenge, apply here. Students that want a close student-teacher relationship would be excellent fit here. Also students who aren't quite sure what they want to do in school will succeed here due to the Liberal Arts Program having students take various courses in different disciplines.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Emily from Silex, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    It really hits home that this is not high school anymore. Truman is a college that expects you to work for your grade and that's something that I really like about it. The teachers are friendly and accessible. They reply to e-mails asking for help, have office hours where you can randomly drop by and ask questions, and will stop and talk to you if you pass them just walking around the campus.

    Am enjoying being here

    I love it here. Last year I lived in Ryle, the most recently renovated dorm, and I'm going to be back there again next year, only this time i will be right above the cafeteria. ^^ There are so many things that student activities board provides for the students, like a big concert each semester or comedian performances, in addition to the MANY student organizations. There are many things within walking distance, such as the movie theater, Hidden Treasures, hair salons, restaurants, etc., which is something that I miss quite a bit now that I am at home. The classes are also pretty small, about 20-30 people depending on the subject, so the professor-student interaction is great. Your professor is highly likely to remember your face and then recognize you after you have finished taking their course and sees you walking around.

    Bang for the buck

    Truman is extremely cheap. Depending what dorm you live in, total cost for living on campus is about $14,000. That includes a meal plan, air conditioning (depending on the dorm), and free use of the recreational center and the pool, if I remember correctly.

    Tips for prospective students

    Expect to work. This is not high school and your professor's will make sure you know that. However, that does not mean that they're not going to help you if you don't need it. You should talk to them if you're having issues in their class, and if you don't want to go to them for help, you can always go to one of the tutoring centers or find an upperclassman that has taken the class before.

    Also go to the Activities Fair. It is held around the second week of classes and you can see all of the organizations that are present at Truman. I can guarantee you will find one that attracts your interest.

    Great for these types of students

    It's a great school for students that want to be challenged academically. Your skills will improve whether you want them to or not. My writing has improved greatly since I started going to Truman.

    I love it up there.

  • 3 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Chelsea from Kansas City, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The academic programs at this school are so vast it’s almost hard to pick which class you want to take. That also means that when you don’t get into the class you wanted that there are still plenty other options to choose from. The professors are engaging and helpful and if you don’t understand something about the lesson they are more than willing to work with you after class hours. There are also programs set up to help you if you are struggling in a class or if you just want to get that A.

    Am enjoying being here

    You might think that a college located in a small town is not your ideal college setting. But you may be surprised by how many activities Truman provides for its students. There is always something happening. Truman wants you to be involved! Just because Kirksville is a small town doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do, on campus anyway.

    Bang for the buck

    Truman is a very reasonably priced school for the type of education you are receiving and the type of actives the school provides. It's the self proclaimed Harvard of the Midwest and it's affordable. Truman also provides students with plenty of scholarship opportunities before you even attend school there.

    Tips for prospective students

    Apply for scholarships!!

    Great for these types of students

    Students who are interested in getting a more rounded education.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Abigail from O'Fallon, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Truman State University has some of the best teachers I have had. I'm not saying they're all perfect (there are always a few slackers out there), but the vast majority of teachers here are very dedicated to what they do. When you're sitting in a class you'll easily be able to tell that these teachers are here wholeheartedly to teach you. They want you to understand what they're teaching, and they do everything they can to make sure that happens. In addition, if you're still struggling in the class almost all of them are available outside of class to meet with you to discuss any problems you may experience.

    Am enjoying being here

    Without a doubt. I love this school, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. I know a lot of people don't like the fact that Truman is located in Kirksville, MO (and some of you may not even know where that is) but I happen to love the small town feel. It definitely gives me a sense of home and a feeling of safety. In addition, the programs available on campus always have events throughout the week to keep students entertained. Not only that, but I love being here simply because of the people. I have yet to meet a person from Truman State University that I really don't like. Everyone I've met has been kind, respectful, and dedicated.

    Bang for the buck

    Oh yes. Truman definitely gives you a BANG for your buck. The price of tuition blew my mind when I first found out. I had heard such great things about the school that I expected the cost to be much higher than what it is. If you're even on the fence about this college, then take into account the price. The teachers are great, it has a beautiful small town atmosphere, the campus in beautiful, and the price was just the cherry on top for me.

    Tips for prospective students

    Immerse yourselves in this school! It's a fantastic school that will provide you with a very well-rounded education. However, getting involved on campus will make your college experience much more enjoyable. There are countless organizations, social fraternities, service fraternities, academic clubs, etc that are easy to join on campus. Getting involved is the fastest way to make friends and to really get the most out of college.

    Great for these types of students

    All types!

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Samantha from Iowa City, IA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    overall a very nice place! truman offers a variety of majors and minors. they also have a very prestigious honors program if you're interested in really stretching yourself.

    Tips for prospective students

    visit! it is so much more different when you're actually on the campus. a totally different perspective than the virtual tours on line.

    Academic Rigor

    like at any other college, truman allows their students to choose their difficulty (if you will) of the classes they sign up for.

    Dorm Life

    very quaint and older-looking on the outside but very modernistic and clean on the inside. different options and combinations of styles and set-ups. co-ed, but not in rooms!

    Food and Dining

    exceptionally good cuisine and friendly chefs. healthy meals and delicious at the same time!

    What to do for fun

    go for a run around town, work out in their gym and rec center, get tickets to events sponsored/hosted by truman, look through the art display, cook in the kitchens in the dorms, hang out with friends, go to the movies.

    Bang for the buck

    great school, great academics, crazy good at everything! and it's really reasonably priced!

    Great for these types of students

    rigorous in academics, sports, and those who want a great school with a surprisingly excellent staff.

    Clubs and Activities

    too many to count! make your own if it isn't already existing!

    Greek Life

    meh...not a big fan myself. all i know is that greek girls live on campus in sectioned part of dorm.

    Campus Safety

    there's nothing to worry about! and if something comes up, they have those emergency poles with buttons. you're covered!

  • Jessica from Maryland Heights, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Truman State University is a great university. You will enjoy your classes and never be bored. Truman State University is for those who are ready to work hard n to take their education to the next level.

    Tips for prospective students

    I have 3 tips.
    1. If you have an issue in a class, talk to your professor. Professor love getting to know their students.
    2. Join an organization or activity.
    3. Don't be afraid to meet people. That is how you make friends.

    Academic Rigor

    Some classes are hard and some classes are easier than the hard classes. Don't come here if you don't want to work for your education. No matter what, you will have time to do other activities.

    Dorm Life

    The dorms are great. You have 2 different types of dorms: Suite style bathrooms and Community style bathrooms. Then there is one dorm with a suite style bathroom, but you get your own living room. The dorms are great.

    Food and Dining

    There are 3 dining halls on campus, all located in residence halls. The food there is all you can eat for one swipe. Then there is the student union building which has 3 different fast food places, a coffee place, and a frozen yogurt/smoothie place. All of the food on campus is really good.

    What to do for fun

    If you join activities or organizations, you will always have something to do. As well as there is always something going on on campus at any time of the year. Free food, concerts, activities on the quad, sports games to go to, and many more. There is always something to do.

    Bang for the buck

    The is a free concert every semester. There a big activites to help you relax for finals including free back massages, henna tattoos, food, shirts, and more. Also, the school offers free tutoring if you need help with any of your classes.

    Clubs and Activities

    There are a bunch of activities and clubs that you can join on campus. There is something for everyone.

    Greek Life

    Greek life is great. There are 6 sororities and 14 fraternities. They tend to have the highest GPAs on campus and are always up to something good. Greek life organization join together for Homecoming and Greek Week.

  • Danielle from O FALLON, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The teachers are fantastic. It is a lot of hard work. It had a good atmosphere.

    Tips for prospective students

    College, especially Truman, is much more difficult than high school. It is a lot of work, you have to study.

    Academic Rigor

    The classes are difficult.

    Dorm Life

    Although Truman does not have much to do around it, the dorm life makes up for it, people are so friendly.

    Food and Dining

    The food is not great but the dining halls are nice.

    What to do for fun

    There is not much to do in Kirksville, however Truman provides many activities on the weekends and such, I have found enough to do.

    Bang for the buck

    For the amazing teachers and fantastic classes Truman is incredibly cheap.

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Train bridge-a bridge over train tracks.

    Great for these types of students

    Studious students that are there to work and have a little fun.

    Clubs and Activities

    There is so much to join at Truman from sports to student government.

    Greek Life

    I wouldn't know much about greek life.

    Campus Safety

    Campus is very safe there are safety phones throughout campus.

  • Jazmin from Lake St. Louis, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    A small campus.
    Great teachers.
    Amazing friends.

    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to do things on your own.

    Academic Rigor

    Very, if you had A's in high school be ready for a B or two.

    Dorm Life

    Always fun to meet people the first year in dorms.

    Food and Dining

    Home cooked meals will always be better!

    What to do for fun

    Go out with friends.

  • Damon from Kirksville, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The main reason I was drawn to Truman was the unique opportunities it provides. I have high hopes for how my diverse experiences at Truman will help me in the future because it has helped me in obtaining a strong chance of getting into vet school, and will give me a good chance to excel in my career. This school has a great reputation of producing many successful students, and I’m glad I chose to be one of them.

    Tips for prospective students

    Embrace the liberal arts program here. It allows you to make connections across seemingly opposite disciplines, and allows you to become a true intellectual. If you take your education seriously and really try to draw these connections among all the classes you take the intellectual reward you obtain is infinite.

    Academic Rigor

    Classes are hard but it is worth it if you have the right attitude. In general their are high quality professors that care about your learning and are very glad to help you outside of class.

    Dorm Life

    Depends on your Student Adviser (SA). This is for any college, but each hallway has a student that watches over you and guides you when needed. Some go on power trips, but others are very generous.

    Food and Dining

    Sedexo food is okay. They are on many campuses.

    What to do for fun

    Campus life has a lot to do! Kirksville life is simple, but can be fun when you want it to be. I like that it isn't extravagant because you stay on campus more often, and don't get distracted from studying.

    Bang for the buck

    Not expensive as it is, but academic scholarships are very important to Truman's Admission process. Incoming freshman and transfer students automatically are considered for these very high scholarships. If you have a good enough GPA and ACT score combo then much of your tuition and housing can be paid for.

    Great for these types of students

    Highly driven, academically oriented, have a high desire for knowledge, don't want a big or small school.

    Clubs and Activities

    Many are offered at Truman. They are a great way to make close friends, become a better leader, and apply classroom knowledge.

    Greek Life

    Pretty good Greek life system. I have enjoyed the time in my fraternity. It is a great way to make close friends, become a better leader, and apply classroom knowledge.

    Campus Safety

    Very safe. No problems. But this gives DPS a lot of time to write parking tickets.

  • Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Truman has a great small school atmosphere, where you are able to interact with your professors easily. Its easy to get involved and get to know awesome people from all over, Missouri, The United States and the World.

  • Coedy from Lee's Summit, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Bang for the buck

    Maybe too much bang . . .

    Tips for prospective students

    Have fun. No regrets

    Great for these types of students

    Cultured, open-minded, free-spirited, independent

  • Kallie from Hannibal, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Making students take math (trig) online did not help me learn it,

    Am enjoying being here

    Yes, nice campus.

    Bang for the buck

    Definitely challenging for any student at a very reasonable cost.

    Tips for prospective students

    Know going in that Truman is a very diverse group of people. Make sure you can go into calculus and skip trig so you can have a teacher.

    Great for these types of students

    Artsy people, students who want to get involved.

  • Ayush from Kirksville, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Yes, Truman is a great place for learning and I am learning a lot.

    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being in Truman. It is a wonderful experience.

    Bang for the buck

    As I pay out of state tuition it is very expensive for me.

    Tips for prospective students

    Truman is a good choice and improves one's overall perspective and the way one looks at things.

    Great for these types of students

    Its a liberal arts college and the student professor ratio is great. Professors are available to talk to most of the time and are very helpful. They make a very nice environment for the students.

  • Rose from Lebanon, IN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Coming from a small town outside of a big city, I felt like I knew the best of both worlds. A farming community outlook with a big city knowledge too. But after coming to Truman, I felt my horizons expand. The professors love to give a challenge and all the students here are eager to please and stick right back to the professors.

    Am enjoying being here

    Kirksville Missouri is a tiny town in the middle of no where, but the campus organizations and all the student involvement keeps everyone busy all the time. Students run the campus and the faculty love that such initiative is present. We get to plan our own programs, start our own clubs and participate with the organizations that we love. The community feel is always felt. I love Truman so much I am a current Student Ambassador (tour guide) and I have been since being a freshman.

    Bang for the buck

    Truman State University is always ranked within the top 5 in the US News and World Report and that is because Truman has one of the lowest in-state tuition for Public universities, and lowest tuition overall for a public university. Truman has been known for giving back more to the students than your typical cookie cutter university.

    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to visit the campus as many times as possible. Although it only took me one visit to fall in love, I would have become more smitten had I seen more of the great things Truman has to offer. Don't be put-off by the small town, because the large heart of the University makes up for anything lacking elsewhere.

    Great for these types of students

    Truman State University is perfect for motivated, involved, and liberal arts students. Every university allows for many types of people and the same applies to Truman. Truman is diverse in many aspects, but you'll find most students will be involved and active, daily, with all the things they love.

  • Amy from Chesterfield, MO

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Their academic record is great and I know many people who went here that loved it.

    Will enjoy being here

    From the time it took to complete my application to submitting my housing info, I received 3 phone calls from current Truman students making sure I was doing alright. They answered my questions and were very helpful. Truman has such a friendly atmosphere, I can tell it's going to be great.

    Bang for the buck

    With the scholarships Truman gives out and other sources, the tuition is extremely manageable.

  • Shawnah from Hillsboro, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Did you know that only 3 classes on campus have 50 students? And that most classes don't exceed 30 students? Even the larger classes I have been in, my preofessor knew my NAME. How amazing is that? And notice that I said professors. There are very few classes in which a grad student is teaching your class. Further, these professors LOVE their jobs, and it's obvious. they make learning fun! Beyond that, Truman believes in relating what you learn in one class to what you learn(ed) in another, not only strengthening your skills, but improving on them!

    Am enjoying being here

    Did you know that Truman students hail from nearly every state, and over 40 other countries as well? Talk about diversity! You are always meeting new people, doing new things, and having new experiences. there are over 200 clubs and organizations on campus, so there is always a place where you can feel right at home. The campus itself, though smaller and in a smaller town, is beautiful in any season, and the Student Activites Board works really hard to give students fun, free things to do. Last spring, we had a quidditch (from Harry Potter) tournament. There was Butterbeer, Fizzy Whizzing Pops, Chocolate Frogs, and Pumpkin Spice tea. And everything was FREE!

    Bang for the buck

    Truman, according to many websites, is ranked in the top 5 for best public Liberal Arts college in the nation, and even out of state students pay under 20,000 a year! Most college students pay more than that for in state. What's not to love about that deal? Further, Truman works hard to keep fees and tuition as low as possible. The president of Truman even took the time to eat with students and talk about their thoughts on Truman's costs and what might be done to keep them low. Truman is a cheap education, without a cheap experience.

    Tips for prospective students

    Remember, any time you visit any school, ask whoever is giving you tours to tell you about things they don't like just as much as what they do! it gives you a better idea of what you're getting into. At Truman, out professors expect alot out of us. To acheive good grades, we are expected to put in time studying. However, most students also have a full and fufilling social life and quickly learn to balance the two. Also, Truman gets alot of snow. let me say that again. Truman gets ALOT of snow. Some people are not ok with that, and so it's important to be aware that we get alot. We also get lots of rain, so remember to bring your rain boots and umbrella so that you and your friends can go playing in it! Least, that what my friends and I do.

    Great for these types of students

    On a personal note, I never really fot in anywhere. I was the weird smart kid who had trouble making friends. But Truman is home. I am among my peers. I have friends and activities and all sorts of support for anything I may need.
    Beyond that, truman definitly has a geeky streak, which I adore. We've got renaissance reenactors, anime clubs, computer gaming clubs, and of course, lots of people who like to play Quidditch.
    Truman is a wonderful school, great for anyone who is looking for a smaller college, with big personality. There is something for everyone here. So if you're willing to put up with a little hard work, the random Quidditch game, and alot of snow, Truman is a great fit for you!

  • Brit from Chicago, IL

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    The professors are always available for help if you need them. They provide office hours and love to interact with their students. If you need extra help, you can find tutors for nearly any class from Chemistry to English and anything in between.

    Did enjoy being here

    Despite the small town atmosphere, there is always something to do. Student organizations keep the campus abuzz. The library and rec center have flexible hours as well. Off campus there is not much to do, but the people around town are friendly.

    Bang for the buck

    Out of state tuition is $12,000 and room and board ranges from $3,000 to almost $5,000.

    Tips for prospective students

    Apply for scholarships. Truman offers many scholarships within the university, take advantage of them!

    Great for these types of students

    Intelligent students who enjoy small town atmosphere. The courses are rigorous and the classes are small but your teachers will know your name. You will see your professors around off campus and if you enjoy road trips for shopping, this is a great university for you!

  • Kathryn from Blue Springs, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The problem with freshman-level classes at Truman is that so many are taught by either brand-new professors or graduate students. My freshman year, I had some absolutely brilliant professors, and some extremely unqualified instructors, in more than one department.

    Am enjoying being here

    Truman has a very unique atmosphere. I visited several colleges, but nowhere were the students more friendly and accepting. Kirksville is a very small town where everyone smiles at you. I moved around a lot as a kid, and never made friends nearly as fast as I did here. There are also loads of fun events on campus every week, such as free movies, concerts, comedians, plays, sporting events, and cookouts. You can't be bored here. There are also hilarious special events throughout the year for [nerds like ME] to look forward to, such as 2 weeks of Humans Vs Zombies and an actual Quidditch tournament.

    Bang for the buck

    The website Parents & Colleges selected Truman as one of America's Best Colleges for 2010, listing the university 5th among the Top 10 Best Value Public Colleges and Universities. Truman is constantly recognized for its high-quality, private education for a public price.

    Tips for prospective students

    Take the ACT again- every point you can raise it will get you more scholarship money. Apply for lots of scholarships and grants. There is lots of free money available out there, you just have to find it!

    Great for these types of students

    Students with open minds, an interest in the world outside of Kirksville, and hard workers who also understand the importance of taking study breaks to watch a game of Quidditch on the Quad; Truman is for well-rounded, open-minded students.

  • Mallory from Kirksville, MO

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Truman is definitely a competitive school, with excellent academics. I am sure to learn a lot in the fall.

    Will enjoy being here

    Truman State is located in my hometown. So, I get to have the full campus experience and also get to go home to visit my family as much as I want.

    Bang for the buck

    Have you seen the cost of tuition? Compared to other schools' tuition, Truman is DIRT CHEAP! And it's rated #1, so you're definitely getting a good deal.

    Tips for prospective students

    Enjoy it! You only get 4 years of college. Have all the fun you can while learning all you can.

    Great for these types of students

    Hard workers. It's a hard school, so you have to be prepared to work.

  • Elisabeth from Wildwood, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    There is a wide variety of classes to choose from, and the liberal arts program let's you explore those options and spark your interest in a wide field of study.

    Am enjoying being here

    It is a pretty big adjustment from a large city to Kirksville, but the best thing a student can do is become involved. Participating in extracurricular activities allows you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and overall, makes the college experience much better.

    Bang for the buck

    It is extremely difficult to find another university to compare Truman's prices to. Truman State is infamous for rewarding a myriad of scholarships to prospective students; and including the overall quality of the university, your money goes much farther at Truman.

    Tips for prospective students

    First, apply for scholarships! Truman will most likely give you money already, but it doesn't hurt to try to receive more, plus your parents will appreciate it. Second, do not underestimate the workload at Truman. It is a difficult school and you will definitely have to work a lot, but it is so worth it. Third, get involved! Meet new people, make new friends, and just try to find a healthy thing to do during study breaks.

    Great for these types of students

    If you area hard-worker and truly appreciate your grades, then Truman is a great pick for you. It is totally motivating to be in a community where everyone feels the same way about their education. Also, with smaller class sizes, you can really get to know your professor, and they are extremely helpful if you need a little more help understanding a topic.