Missouri Southern State University Campuses

Missouri Southern State University in Joplin offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, emphasizing hands-on learning, research opportunities, and career preparation. The campus is known for its strong focus on liberal arts, professional studies, and health sciences, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for the workforce or further studies.

In the College of Arts and Sciences, students can pursue degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, English, history, political science, psychology, sociology, and modern languages. These programs foster critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework involving laboratory experiments, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary projects. For instance, biology majors engage in ecological studies of the nearby Ozark region, while history students explore regional archives.

• Biology: Courses cover cell biology, genetics, ecology, and microbiology, with labs on dissection and environmental sampling.
• Chemistry: Organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry, including advanced instrumentation techniques.
• English: Literature analysis, creative writing, and rhetoric, culminating in thesis projects.
• Psychology: Developmental, abnormal, and social psychology, with research methods and counseling practicums.

The College of Business and Professional Studies features programs in accounting, finance, management, marketing, computer science, and criminal justice. Business students participate in simulations, internships with local firms, and entrepreneurship challenges. Accounting courses prepare for CPA exams, while management emphasizes leadership and ethics.

• Accounting: Financial reporting, auditing, and taxation principles.
• Marketing: Consumer behavior, digital marketing, and market research strategies.
• Criminal Justice: Criminology, law enforcement, and forensic science, with simulations and field experiences.

The College of Education offers teacher preparation in elementary, secondary, and special education, along with health and human performance. Education majors complete student teaching and classroom management training. Nursing and allied health programs in the College of Health, Science, and Technology include associate and bachelor's degrees in nursing, radiologic technology, and dental hygiene, featuring clinical rotations in regional hospitals.

• Nursing: Anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and community health nursing.
• Education: Curriculum design, instructional technology, and diversity in education.
• Dental Hygiene: Oral anatomy, periodontology, and clinical practice.

Additionally, the university provides graduate programs in nursing, education, and criminal justice, focusing on advanced practice and leadership. Fine arts programs include music, theatre, and visual arts, with performance ensembles and gallery exhibitions. Overall, the curriculum integrates general education requirements with major-specific courses, totaling around 120 credit hours for bachelor's degrees, ensuring comprehensive skill development. Extracurricular ties, like study abroad and service learning, enhance the academic experience, making MSSU a hub for holistic education in the Midwest.