Missouri Southern State University
Joplin, MO, USA

Reviews

Missouri Southern State University

MSSU student

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
My professors are all very respected in their fields and know what they are talking about. When I don't understand something, they take the time to explain it one on one.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful. I have made lots of friends with similar interests; there is really something for everyone. The international focus is great with lots of activities.
Bang for the buck
This is a small town university - few students, dry campus, small town values. I feel that I am getting a great education in a great atmosphere.
Tips for prospective students
Visit with the teachers and department heads. They will be more than happy to meet with you, and usually have great information and advice.
Great for these types of students
Students who focus on academics. There really isn't alot of partying on campus because it is dry. Students who are used to small class sizes and a small town feel will feel at home here.

Andrea from Neosho, MO

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Being a freshman, some of my classes so far have been common sense type classes (e.g. Oral Communication and the freshman orientation class), but classes that had some real substance (e.g. Sociology, Newswriting, American Literature) were great classes and I did feel like I was learning.
Am enjoying being here
I can't say MSSU was my first choice and I am planning on transferring. However, it has been nice staying home for an extra year. So far, my teachers have been pleasant and willing to help and the overall atmosphere is comfortable.
Bang for the buck
MSSU is definitely a bargain compared to others in the state. Some classes are not amazing, but for the real academics one can be pretty confident in landing a competent teacher.
Tips for prospective students
MSSU isn't exactly tough, but it's best not to slack off either. Go to class, study however much you need to and you'll be fine.
Great for these types of students
MSSU is great for students in the surrounding area — it's located in Joplin, MO — or those in Missouri without a lot of cash. One could even start at MSSU to get some general education classes done for a lower price before moving on to a different university if a community college is unappealing.

Megan from Joplin, MO

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A gorgeous place to learn, work, and grow with many opportunities to be involved. Missouri Southern is a place that will make you feel welcome and also make sure you can be successful after graduation.
Here, you can be involved on any level because they always have some sort of event going on whether it's athletics or a movie night or even stuffing a lion to take home with you for free one day, there's always something great going on at Missouri Southern.
Tips for prospective students
If I were a prospective student looking at Missouri Southern, I would say to build a strong work ethic now because once you get here you are expected to perform at a university level. These professors want you to succeed but they aren't going to do the work for you. Make sure you work hard now and keep working hard because the pay off will be fantastic if you keep going.
Academic Rigor
The academics at Missouri Southern are really great for a multitude of degrees, they offer so many options and the professors are really professional and many have worked in their field before. You work hard but you learn a lot and the professors want to help you succeed.
Dorm Life
Missouri Southern just built some new dorms that are really nice, they are so clean and updated and just really nice. The dorm atmosphere is great and having a competition between the dorms to get you involved with the campus activities which are really great because they're free and some have prizes too (grocery bingo is my favorite!).
Food and Dining
I love the Lion's Den at Missouri Southern because they have pretty much anything you would want from Pizza Hut personal pizzas and cinnamon rolls (pasta too!) to salads and wraps, they also serve breakfast and have hamburgers and french fries and chicken sandwiches! Their black bean burger is delicious too for when you don't want to have meat, seriously delicious! The prices aren't bad either especially compared to fast food and you can use your Lion Card anywhere! Even vending machines which is fantastic so you don't have to carry cash all the time.
What to do for fun
Joplin may not have much for fun but they do have a few things especially if you're creative. There's a place to paint, there's a movie theatre, and during holidays there are different events that take place pretty close to Missouri Southern's campus. Of course Missouri Southern has some great events too that they provide free to students some have prizes too! There's also a lot of churches in Joplin too that are close to Southern and have different events that are free as well!
Bang for the buck
MSSU is really low priced and you get a great education and have the opportunity to grow in many different ways. You can get involved in various clubs and activities which bring in potential employers to help for after graduation. There's also student work that you can get to make some money and be able to put what you're learning into practice before you graduate! Some student worker positions can even allow you to see other areas of your field that will help you to grow and be more marketable after graduation.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
One location on campus that is really cool and gorgeous is the biology pond. It has a lot of trees for shade, theres a pavilion with tables for use and the pond has turtles, fish, and geese to watch in their natural habitat. A beautiful bridge goes across the pond that has been used for a lot of pictures (prom, senior, family, wedding, etc.) and is really cool. A trail travels alongside the pond as well so you can explore the woods nearby.
Great for these types of students
Any student that wants a really great education that will get you involved with campus and make you feel a part of something all while stretching your horizons are the students that should choose Missouri Southern. An atmosphere that promotes involvement and learning with an international feel (really great food, music, and events!) and giving you great events to try in town makes MSSU a great place to learn and to live.
Clubs and Activities
Each department has it's own club, there are so many other clubs on campus as well as greek life. The clubs at Missouri Southern are really great because they try to bring in professionals in the field that you are studying so that you can get to know them and can learn from them as well as to the best way to go about getting job after graduation. Activities on campus range from really fun bingo games with prizes to calm movie nights to athletic events to professional preparation for students so that they can have the resources and practices to get into professional careers after they leave MSSU.
Greek Life
Missouri Southern has a handful of greek organizations that will help you with academics as well as getting you involved with the community. Greek organizations at MSSU create lasting friendships that will help you with networking when you go out into the job world of life.
Campus Safety
The campus police department at Missouri Southern patrols the campus every day and makes sure that people are following the rules and are behaving appropriately. They monitor the dorms very well and are quick to respond should they be called. Every officer on the campus police force care for their students and do all they can to protect them. The campus police department also have implemented various programs and tools to help the communication with students be as efficient as possible.

Brian from Joplin, MO

a past student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I have had a fantastic experience with the faculty here in that they were willing to work with me outside of class to make sure I was successful in my academic goals. The study abroad opportunities are fantastic too, allowing for once in a lifetime experiences and lifelong memories. It is a smaller student body, but that allows for a greater sense of student community.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you apply for scholarships and grants. Also if you are living in a state bordering Missouri or live in Texas, you can get some kind of in state tuition discount, but you would have to check on specifics for that.
Academic Rigor
The faculty know their stuff, and if you are willing to put in the effort, you are sure to come out with a great education. Don't be afraid to talk to your professor or adviser if you are struggling. They want you to succeed and they are super helpful in making that happen. There is also a great student success center that has great tutors.
Dorm Life
Living in the dorm is part of the college experience and you definitely get that at MSSU. There are also some new apartment style dorms that give you a bit more space and privacy if that is what you are looking for.
Food and Dining
There are several options for food on campus, both a traditional dining hall with lots of options and also a student center with a few restaurants. There are also a couple coffee shops on campus.
What to do for fun
Campus Activities always has something going on for students to do on campus. As far as Joplin, it is a fun smaller (50k people) town. Lots of restaurants to choose from and a movie theater, mall, shopping.... It is also close to some other larger cities for great day trip options.
Bang for the buck
I think it is one of the least expensive schools in Missouri. The idea of coming out of school with little to no debt compared to other universities is very enticing.
Great for these types of students
There a lots of evening and online options for those who have full time jobs, but it also has a very traditional university student feel. I know there are a lot of students in the military who are taking online courses too.
Clubs and Activities
There are always things going on and groups to be part of, so you won't be bored.
Greek Life
It's not huge but seems to be growing.
Campus Safety
Rarely heard of any issues on campus and would feel safe even walking around at night.

Jake from Joplin, MO

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
I really like all of my classes and teachers. Everything is hands on which is good for me, and I connect well with all my classmates. The teachers are easy to talk to, and actually learn about you as an individual student.
Dorm Life
Missouri Southern has these awesome new dorm rooms that just opened this fall! They have a kitchen, private bathroom, and own living space. It is an apartment style dorm, so I don't even feel like I am on campus most of the time.
Food and Dining
The food in the student life center is great! My favorite is steak and shrimp Fridays!
What to do for fun
Joplin itself doesn't have much. You are only an hour or so away from most of the fun stuff though.
Bang for the buck
GREAT value from MSSU.
Great for these types of students
Anyone. Joplin is an open campus. I have met so many students; traditional, non traditional, transfers, international. They are all great!
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs I don't have time to be apart of ALL the ones I want to.
Campus Safety
I always feel safe with our on campus security. They let us know that they are always here in case something happens. They have been fast responders when needed.

Austin from Seneca, MO

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
this college is great when it comes to benefits for students. every professor is always willing to help. on campus housing is one of the best in missouri.
Tips for prospective students
be sure to get your application in on time. mssu are very picky when it comes to deadlines.
Academic Rigor
mssu takes into consideration the importance of being a critical thinker and a global citizen.
Dorm Life
dorm life at mssu is amazing when it comes to space and maintenance.
Food and Dining
the food court just upgraded in 2012 by putting in a pizza hut express. overall the food is a little pricey.
What to do for fun
there seems to many things to do on campus. there is a movie theater on campus that shows movies every wednesday and friday night. there is laser tag on the oval once every three months or so and so much more.
Bang for the buck
this school when it comes to tuition is best. mssu has the lowest tuition rate compared to other 4-year universities. there is also a new book rental store where you can rent your books for ten dollars pure credit hour. for example: if there is a book that cost $120 dollars to buy you can rent it for $30 dollars. how cool is that!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
one of the unusual traditions that is celebrated every year would be building castles out of cardboard. literally life size castles. when i first seen this i was a little puzzled on how this became a tradition.
Great for these types of students
this university is great for all kinds of people. mssu stresses about the importance of being a global citizen. that's probably why there is a lot of international students here.
Clubs and Activities
there are to many clubs to even list. i am currently in two on my campus. koinania and psych club.
Greek Life
we have three fraternities here on campus.
Campus Safety
by far the safest campus in missouri. we have our own police force on campus!

Gabrielle from Joplin, MO

accepted here and planning to attend soon
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The professors are passionate about their subjects and want to impart that passion to their students. It is contagious.
Will enjoy being here
The campus is a mid size campus. Perfect transition for those from smaller schools or those that just want that kind of community.
Bang for the buck
Much cheaper than any other 4 year college in the 4 states.
Tips for prospective students
Get a head start on everything. The sooner you get something done the more likely that it will go the way you want it to. Especially with dorms.
Great for these types of students
Those that want a smaller college community but also want the diversity of an internationally associated university.

Olivia from Joplin, MO

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
MSSU is a wonderful university that has given me so many opportunities for my future. As a communications major, I have to frequently build connections with other and my classes have really taught me to socialize and network. I'm entering my last semester here and I know I am going to miss being on this campus and learning from such helpful and kind professors.
Academic Rigor
My classes and professors were tough but not so tough I couldn't learn. I was challenged to grow and develop new skills. My professors have been fun and have given me advise for after graduation and I am incredibly grateful for them.
Dorm Life
MSSU just built a new section of dorms that are incredible. They are like living in a nice apartment and are very modern.
Food and Dining
MSSU has great food in their Lion's Den. There are multiple options; either you can have healthier foods like sub sandwiches or flatbreads, and they also have hamburgers, fries, chicken, etc. There's even a Pizza Hut inside the Lion's Den and that is my favorite part.

Daya from Joplin, MO

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Missouri Southern State University is an excellent school to attend. I am a communication student at Southern and I have been offered countless opportunities. From studying abroad, and extra curricular activities to working in the Relations and Marketing office, I have gained so much experience in such a short amount of time!
Academic Rigor
Academics are great. Missouri Southern offers many different classes to students and the teachers are wonderful!

AshLeigh from Stella, MO

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Missouri Southern is a quality education at a fair price. The faculty are personally invested in the students' education and success. If you're open to it, the people here will become like your family.
Tips for prospective students
The professors here are great - but every professor is different. Not only should you ask the professors tests about their classes, but you should also ask people who have previously taken their classes before each semester starts if you can. They often have the most insight as to the best resources for studying, testing strategies, and possible surprises that could come up throughout the semester.
Academic Rigor
The class sizes here are relatively small compared to many universities. It makes it easier to form relationships with professors and fellow students, making the material easier to learn if you put in a moderate amount of effort. Some might think that we must not learn as much if the material is not as difficult to learn, but I have heard many doctors say that when they went to medical school they were grateful that they chose Missouri Southern; they were competitive because they were well-prepared.
Dorm Life
Currently, dorm life is a bit mediocre. But the entire administration is working towards improvements. The next big additions will be an entirely new apartment complex and a FEMA building for protection of the students in case of a tornado. There will be a small convenience store inside the building, and it will be used to host various activities. Students who live in the dorms often attend the numerous on-campus events or enjoy socializing at the sand-volleyball courts recently renovated by Student Senate.
Food and Dining
Many students, particularly dorm students, are less than satisfied with the food available in the dining hall. However, across campus the Lion's Den has a variety of choices, from healthy items to a Pizza Hut Express. We also have a wonderful little Starbucks on the 1st floor of the library.
What to do for fun
The Campus Activities Board hosts many, many activities during the semester - from movie nights to concerts. However, if you're looking for more, there is plenty to chose from. We have about thirty campus organizations students can join. The movie theater and the mall are both within walking distance. And if you have transportation, there are also other places to go in Joplin, such as museums, skating rinks, and bowling alleys.
Bang for the buck
Missouri Southern is the most affordable university in the area. The only cheaper place in the area to receive a college education is a local community college, where many students feel that their education is not as high-quality as Missouri Southern's.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Because Missouri Southern has an international mission, every Fall is themed based on a different country. During these themed semesters there are several events for students to attend and learn about that particular country. Guest speakers are invited to give presentations on movies, comics, government, music, food, etc. Themed movie nights and concerts are held. And there is usually at least one huge themed dinner during the semester.
Clubs and Activities
There is most likely at least one club for anyone on campus, if not more. These are always great for gaining experience, finding volunteer work, building your resume, networking, or just socializing with people with similar interests.
Greek Life
Greeks do not have their own housing on campus, but no one seems to mind. I've never heard of any outrageous hazing. The Greeks are typically great role models in the Missouri Southern community, and they also become small families within themselves. Not everyone joins, I myself chose to abstain. But everyone who does join falls in love with in.
Campus Safety
We have our own small police department on campus. Every year they reach out in several ways to teach students how to respond in emergency situations. Furthermore, the JPD is approximately 10 minutes away from campus. I've never seen JPD or state troopers on campus, but I've seen both drive by periodically checking the area. There has never been a violent crime committed on Missouri Southern's campus.