Missouri State University: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

Missouri State University (MSU) and Missouri S&T offer a joint, ABET-accredited Bachelor’s program in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering. Students attend all classes on MSU’s Springfield campus, taught by Missouri S&T faculty, earning a Missouri S&T degree. Missouri S&T ranks #196 for Engineering (U.S. News 2025), ensuring top-quality education without leaving Springfield.

Missouri State University (MSU) has an acceptance rate of 91–94%, reflecting an inclusive admissions approach. While entry is accessible, applicants must still meet academic standards and deadlines.

Additionally, MSU reported a 66.5% knowledge rate for 2020–2021, lower than its usual 91% average, indicating a dip in post-graduation outcome data collection for that year.

Missouri State University (MSU) boasts a strong track record in graduate outcomes. According to the university, 90% of its graduates are employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation. This success is attributed to MSU's emphasis on real-world skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Graduates find opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and major corporations like Amazon and Boeing.

Missouri State University (MSU) hit a record enrollment of 25,038 students in Fall 2024. Freshman enrollment surged 22.1% to 2,782, graduate students reached a new high of 4,295, and underrepresented student numbers grew by 9.3% to 3,983. These increases highlight MSU’s ongoing commitment to diversity, academic excellence, and effective student recruitment and retention in the Midwest.

Missouri State University (MSU) is recognized as one of the top U.S. institutions for academics, community service, and research. In 2025, it was classified as a "Research College and University" by the Carnegie Classification, reflecting its annual research spending of over $2.5 million. MSU also achieved a record $63.2 million in external funding in 2024. Additionally, the Carnegie Foundation reclassified MSU as a "Community-Engaged University," highlighting its focus on civic engagement and addressing public issues. MSU’s academic diversity and commitment to leadership and cultural awareness further solidify its position as a leading institution.

Missouri State University (MSU) is recognized for its commitment to excellence and innovation in academics. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked MSU's online business bachelor's degrees 50th nationwide, reflecting its focus on affordable, high-quality education. MSU's Master of Accountancy program, accredited by AACSB International, is also highly regarded for its affordability and career success. Additionally, EduMed ranked MSU’s Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health programs among the best, showcasing the university's strength in health education. These accolades highlight MSU's academic excellence.

Missouri State University (MSU) boasts a 91.9% employment or continued education rate within six months of graduation, with alumni working at companies like Apple, Boeing, and Amazon. The university's Career Center supports job searches and on-campus interviews. Similarly, Sydney University ranks 4th globally and 1st in Australia in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings. With strong industry connections, graduates are hired by companies like Adobe, Airbus, and Google, and the Career Center helps students pursue job opportunities.

Missouri State University's (MSU) computer science program is ABET-accredited, ensuring high academic and career standards. The curriculum focuses on algorithms, data structures, and programming languages, with a software development track and an expedited master's degree option. MSU emphasizes real-world experience through internships and projects, helping all computer science graduates secure jobs. This program prepares students well for careers in computing with rigorous academics and hands-on learning.

Missouri State University (MSU) has earned recognition for its expanding research initiatives, with external funding hitting a record $63.2 million in fiscal year 2024, marking a 40% increase from the previous year. This achievement led to MSU being designated as a "Research College and University" by the Carnegie Classification, a status granted to institutions investing over $2.5 million in research. Although MSU may not rival top research institutions, its steady progress and commitment to research excellence highlight its dedication to academic growth and innovation across various fields.

Missouri State University (MSU) excels in arts and humanities, offering a diverse curriculum through the Judith Enyeart Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities. Programs include music, theater, dance, art, design, English, communication, and political science. MSU’s pre-Broadway musical theater program is among the best in North America. The Department of Media, Journalism, and Film earned top honors in scriptwriting from the Broadcast Education Association. Additionally, graduate students in the Department of Religious Studies have won awards for their theses, showcasing MSU's commitment to a well-rounded, creative education.

Missouri State University’s inclusion in the QS Sustainability University Rankings highlights its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. While specific rankings aren’t listed, MSU actively promotes sustainability through its Green Advisory Committee. The university also supports the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, evidenced by its membership in the U.S. Sustainable Development Solutions Network. These efforts demonstrate MSU's dedication to fostering a socially responsible and sustainable campus.