Frequently Asked Questions - Current Students

In reality, the college store doesn't make much on textbooks. On average, 65.1% of the sticker price on new books goes back to the publisher. The author gets about 11.7% in royalties. The freight company that shipped the book gets 1%. The rest goes to the store to pay for staff wages and benefits, insurance, taxes, rent on building, electricity, heat, water, security, cleaning and repairs, software on systems, supplies and other expenses.

Why should I shop at the Drago College Store?

The Drago College Store offers used textbooks when available, some rentals and offers a convenient textbook reservation service for students. Additionally, students can charge their required course materials to their student account during the charging period. The store has competitive prices on computers/laptops, software, school supplies, convenience food and drinks, Grizzly sportswear and souvenir items. Any profits made by the store help to support other services offered at the University.

How do students get tickets to the games?

Tickets are provided free to all students enrolled at the campus. Pick up tickets at either the Drago College Store or the office of student life and development, (417) 255-7233, in Hass-Darr Hall. Also, please consider joining the student spirit club. Contact the director of student life and development for details, (417) 255-7233.

What about cheerleading?

The Grizzly cheer team is among the very finest in the Midwest United States. Previous experience is preferred, but not required. A scholarship is provided. Interested students should contact Rusty Laverentz, (417) 255-7990, in the office of admissions located in Cass Hall.

May I try out for one of the Grizzly teams?

Yes, you may, but keep in mind that exceptional athletic talent is required. Although the coaches recruit worldwide, preferential recruitment begins right here at home. Contact the head coach of the team you wish to consider. The coaches' offices, (417) 255-7993, are in the West Plains Civic Center.

Does Missouri State University-West Plains offer sports?

Yes, the University offers men’s basketball, women’s volleyball, softball, and ESports. These sports are affiliated with the National Junior College Athletic Association. The Grizzlies play full schedules each year against teams throughout the state and nation. Home contests for basketball and volleyball are played in the West Plains Civic Center, softball home contests utilizes the City Evans Complex and ESports can be viewed using twitch.tv/wpgrizzlies.

How can I get help with English?

Go to the Grizzly writing lab, (417) 255-7277 or (417) 255-8082, in Hass-Darr Hall or chat with a tutor at Chat Central.

How can I get help with math?

Go to the Grizzly tutoring lab, (417) 255-7277 or (417) 255-8082, in Hass-Darr Hall or chat with a tutor at Chat Central.

Where do I get tutors? How much does tutoring cost?

Tutoring is free and can be obtained at the Grizzly tutoring lab, (417) 255-7277 or (417) 255-8082, located in Hass-Darr Hall or through Chat Central.

When can I sell back my books? How much will I get?

The best time to sell books back is during the week of final examinations each semester. This is a time when the Drago College Store is in the process of purchasing books for the upcoming semester. The store pays up to 50% of retail price for books needed for resale at Missouri State University-West Plains in the upcoming semester. At other times during the semester, the store buys books, but can only offer wholesale buyback prices, and the buy-back value at that time could be from 3% to 30% of the original retail price. The first day of finals will be a priority date for the customers to sell back textbooks purchased from the Drago College Store.

Check the book buyback page on the Drago College Store website for the latest information.

Where's the best place to buy a computer and computer software?

Drago College Store sells Dell Computers and can provide the website or toll-free number to check on prices. In addition, the store purchases many software editions at substantial discounts offered to institutions of higher education and passes these discounts along to students. For more information, visit the bookstore website.

When and where do I register?

Please refer to the class schedule or confer with the office of advising and academic support center, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall 107 regarding when and where registration will occur.

Where do I get a copy of my class schedule?

You can print a copy of your schedule directly from My Grizzly Den or you may request a copy from the student services administrative assistant, (417) 255-7255, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center 207, the office of advising and academic support (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall 107 or the office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall.

Where can I get a semester schedule of all courses taught at Missouri State University-West Plains?

Access the online schedule. Or pick up a copy at the office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall; student services administrative assistant, (417) 255-7255, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center 207; the office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall 107 or many other offices throughout the campus.

Where do I add or drop a class?

Adding and dropping courses are done online through My Grizzly Den. You can drop all of your classes online to be completely withdrawn from the University. For any schedule change you should initiate the process by visiting your academic advisor. Be aware, however, that there may be some financial consequences for dropping a class. Students who withdraw from the University or drop a course prior to the 41st day of the fall or spring semester will receive a partial refund of the required student fees (or a change in their fee assessment if all fees have not been paid) provided they complete the formal withdrawal or drop process. Students who are enrolled in the My Payment Plan are responsible for any unpaid fees after the refund or reassessment. The full refund policy is in the Missouri State University-West Plains Catalog.

If I stop attending all of my classes, will my instructors just automatically drop me?

No. You must initiate the withdrawal process through My Grizzly Den or in the office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall; otherwise, you will receive 'F' grades. Student eligibility for federal financial aid can be affected by non-attendance of classes for with federal funds were awarded and may result in student repayment of some of those programs.

I dropped classes (or withdrew from the University), so why do I still owe money?

In compliance with various laws and procedures, the University established a refund policy that determines amounts owed at various times during the semester even though a student may drop a class or withdraw from all classes.

What should I do if an instructor takes roll and doesn't read my name?

Please notify the instructor immediately of this situation and also contact the office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall.

I don't like my instructor. What should I do?

Talk to your academic advisor about coping strategies for different teaching styles. Realize you will not like all instructors, but you can learn from any instructor if you put your mind to it. However, if you feel your instructor is being unethical or treating you unfairly, you have the right to file a complaint with the department head or division chair.

What will happen to my financial aid if I drop a class?

Depending on the drop date and the financial aid program, changes in credit hours could affect your financial aid. If you receive a scholarship, grant or loan from the University, any refund resulting from dropping a class is used to repay the scholarship, grant or loan. A refund is made to you only if the refund exceeds the amount of the award from the University. For students who are recipients of Federal Title IV student aid, refunds will be made in accordance with all applicable federal regulations. Before dropping a class, therefore, check with the office of financial aid, (417) 255-7243

Where do I pay my fees?

Online through My Grizzly Den or the business office, (417) 255-7260, in Cass Hall. Missouri State University has contracted with a third party to process credit card payments to pay balances on accounts for charges. American Express,Master Card, Discover and Visa are the approved credit cards that will be accepted. The third party processing company will charge a separate convenience fee of 2.75% which will apply to all credit card payments. The University does not share in this fee. Payments made by check or electronic check will not have a fee.

When are my fees due?

Fees are due at the time of registration. However, a deferred payment plan is available that allows three payments for fall semester (September 15, October 15 & November 15), three payments for spring semester (February 15, March 15 & April 15), and two payments for summer semester (June 15 & July 15). A 1% finance charge will be assessed monthly on the unpaid balance. Students may contact the business office in Cass Hall, (417) 255-7260, if they have questions. All students are automatically enrolled in the My Payment Plan.

How do I get financial aid?

Apply for most forms of government-sponsored financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Missouri State University-West Plains office of financial aid can assist in learning more about Scholarships and Financial Aid available, (417) 255-7243, in Cass Hall. They will explain the FAFSA, scholarship application and other forms of aid. Because application for financial aid can be reasonably complicated, students are encouraged to begin the process early and provide all requested documentation as quickly as possible.

I gave all of my financial aid information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Why do I have to have my income data verified?

The federal government verifies (audits) many applications each year for accuracy. Additionally, some special circumstances may prompt the office of financial aid to ask for more information in order to properly process an application.

Where do I get a parking permit?

The business office, (417) 255-7260, in Cass Hall. Bring your license plate number for the permit.

Where is the office that helps students fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online?

Students can receive assistance wtih the FAFSA in the office of financial aid, (417) 255-7243, in Cass Hall.

When and where do I pick up my financial aid?

Refund amounts will be direct deposited if banking information is in the system. The form for direct deposit is available in the business office, (417) 255-7260, in Cass Hall. If not, a check will be mailed from the Missouri State University-Springfield campus. It is very important that students keep their address information current for this purpose.

I need to get my financial aid, but it isn't ready yet. What do I do?

Visit with the office of financial aid, (417) 255-7243, in Cass Hall about the possibility of an emergency grant.

How does the Missouri A+ program work?

Qualified high school graduates may receive funding from the State of Missouri to pay for tuition and fees at eligible two-year institutions of post-secondary education in Missouri. Personnel in the Missouri State University-West Plains office of financial aid, (417) 255-7243, in Cass Hall can answer questions about the Missouri A+ program.

I live on my own. My parents say they can't help me with school expenses. So why do my parents have to supply information?

The federal government has very specific rules for determining whether or not a student is dependent upon his or her parents for college assistance purposes. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) accurately will allow government officials to make the appropriate determination.

What's the difference between a grant, a loan and a scholarship?

A grant is received and does not need to be paid back. A loan must be paid back. A scholarship is usually a gift awarded due to academic excellence or some other qualification and is not paid back unless it is misused.

How do I accept a loan, a grant or a scholarship?

You accept a loan, a grant or scholarship by notifying the appropriate person or agency.

How do I get information about University housing?

University housing is a year-long (fall/spring) contractual obligation between a resident and the University. Reservations for University housing are confirmed on a first-come, first-serve basis with contracts becoming available in January for the following year. A full description of University housing and the application process can be found at the housing website. Contact the office of student life and development, (417) 255-7233, in Hass-Darr Hall.

What should I do if I'm not getting along with my roommate?

Roommate assignments are made by the coordinator of residence life based on applicant answers to questions listed on the housing contract. It is understood that roommate conflicts occur; however, if a resident and his/her roommate cannot work out differences between themselves they are asked to contact their resident assistants for assistance. The coordinator of residence life may also become involved to help determine a solution that is beneficial to all parties. If there is no resolution to be found, and if space is available, then a move may be possible.

Where do I apply for student employment or work-study placement?

On-campus jobs at Missouri State University-West Plains are posted on the employment opportunities website. Job announcements are coordinated through the human resources office, (417) 255-7265, in Kellett Hall room 202.

Where do I apply for off-campus employment?

Off-campus jobs with employers in the West Plains community are posted on the employment opportunities website. Job announcements are coordinated through career services, (417) 255-7230, in Lybyer Hall room 210.

When can I start working?

You may begin working as soon as the employment process is finalized. New student employees are required to complete the W-4, I-9 and Direct Deposit forms. These forms are available in human resources office, Kellett Hall, 202 (417) 255-7265, and must be completed before working. Students should be prepared to complete the I-9 form by bringing their proper identification and proof of eligibility to work. No faxes or copies of these documents will be accepted. A current voided blank check must accompany the Direct Deposit Form.

What is minimum wage?

$11.15 per hour.

How many hours am I allowed to work?

Student workers are generally limited to 20 hours per week. Students may not work more than a combined total of 1,000 hours for any given 12-month period for any campus departments.

How do I enter my hours worked?

Access to the Time Entry System is through My Missouri State under the Work Resources tab.

When do I get paid?

Student employees are paid twice a month and receive hourly wages according to the classification of their positions. Paydays are based on the published payroll calendars. Pay periods begin at 12:01 AM Monday and end at midnight the following Sunday. Payment will be direct deposited.

Where can I view my earnings statement?

Payroll Earnings Statements are available at My Missouri State under the Work Resources tab, Banner Self-Service folder, Employee folder, Pay Information folder. Students may print copies of their Earnings Statement for their records.

How do I change my direct deposit account for payroll?

Direct deposit changes made in financial aid will not affect direct deposit information for payroll. A separate form needs to be completed with human resources office, (417) 255-7265, Kellett Hall, 202.

Where do I find out about internship?

Internship opportunities may be explored through the office of career services, (417) 255-7230, in Lybyer Hall, 210. Additionally, you can discuss with a faculty member in your degree program for assistance and guidance with an appropriate internship opportunity.

What do I do if I can't get my faculty advisor to return my call or email?

Should you need assistance with registration, the advisors in the office of advising and academic support can assist you. However, if you desire to bring the lack of response to someone's attention you should contact the office of academic affairs, (417) 255-7272, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center 206 for assistance.

If I get a 'C' in a class I need for my major, will I have to retake it?

No, this is considered a passing grade, as long as it is not a prerequisite for another class that is required in the major and doesn't drop your GPA below 2.0. If it is, the course will have to be retaken to achieve at least a 'C' and put your GPA average at 2.0 or above.

How can I enroll in a Springfield class when it is closed?

You can contact the instructor via email and ask for permission to be admitted to the course by getting a "closed level" override form, available from the office of the registrar, (417) 836-5520, in Springfield.

Can I be enrolled as a West Plains student and a Springfield student?

Yes, this is allowed for all majors and degrees that overlap the two campus programs.

What happens when I repeat a course in which I received an 'F'?

You receive credit for the course if passing it on the second try. The original 'F' will not be counted against your grade average but will still appear on the transcript.

What is the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP)?

A program for students who placed in writing 100 but would like to try to do both 100 and 110 in one semester.

What are the MathLab classes about?

They are math classes using a computer mediation to facilitate students' learning. MathLab classes offer support for varying levels of math preparation and learning styles. During class time, the instructor individually assists students as they work through personalized math lessons via MyMathLab on the computer.

What kind of support can I get at the Veteran's Incentive Program (VIP) Center?

Academic guidance, encouragement, a place to meet other veterans and relax in a very nice environment, as well as a room where you can interact with others who understand your past and how it is currently affecting you. The VIP center, (417) 255-7720, is located in Hass-Darr Hall, 104.

What is the difference between the West Plains and Springfield programs?

The West Plains campus offers associate's (two-year) degrees. The Springfield campus offers a number of bachelor's (four-year) and master's (graduate) degrees on the West Plains campus, as well as courses leading to several additional degrees, including the Specialist of Education in Educational Administration. These programs are available without leaving West Plains. Degrees and programs offered are listed on the academics website.

Where do I go to get information about and conduct University business if I am in the Springfield program?

Contact the Missouri State Outreach office, (417) 255-7931 or visit the staff at Gohn Hall, 603 West Main.

How can I get help choosing a major?

Personnel in the office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall, 107 or the office of career services, (417) 255-7230, in Lybyer Hall, 210 will assist students in selecting a major and understanding where this academic program might lead in the career world following graduation from college. You may also talk to faculty members about career opportunities within their academic disciplines.

Where do I declare my major (or area of academic emphasis)?

The office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall.

Who is my advisor?

Every student is assigned an advisor. Students can find out who their advisor is by logging into My Grizzly Den. Inside the "Student Resources" card click on "My Advisor." There you will see your advisor's name and contact information. Students may also visit the office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall, 107 for further assistance.

Why do I have to take the ACT? IDS 110? IDS 112? ENG 100? RDG 125? MTH 020? MTH 030?

The ACT test is not required for admission, but is required for registration and course placement for all degree seeking students. Transfer students with over 24 hours are not required to take the ACT.

IDS 110, IDS 112, RDG 125, ENG 100, MTH 020, and MTH 030 are designed to help students be successful academically.

IDS 110 is a degree requirement for all students except those already admitted into the nursing program. Transfer students with over 24 hours may appeal to waive this requirement.

IDS 112 is required of all students with a composite ACT of 17 or lower.

RDG 125 is required of all students with a reading ACT score of 17 or below.

ENG 100 is required of all students placing into this class based on the evaluation of the writing sample.

MTH 020 is required of all students with a Math ACT score of 15 and below. Students must enroll in MTH 030 upon successful completion of MTH 020.

MTH 030 is required of all students with a Math ACT score of 16, or a Math ACT score of 17 and no Algebra 1 on high school transcripts.

When does school start? When does it end?

Important dates such as these are printed in the Missouri State University-West Plains Catalog and the semester schedule. The dates may also be accessed on the campus master calendar.

What degrees are offered at Missouri State University-West Plains?

Missouri State University-West Plains offers:

Associate of Applied Science degrees in several allied health, business and technical disciplines
Associate of Arts in General Studies degree with 15 emphasis areas from which to choose
Associate of Arts in Teaching
Associate of Science in Agriculture
Associate of Science in Business
Associate of Science in Nursing
Associate of Science in Pre-Engineering

Missouri State University-West Plains also offers a variety of certificate programs.

View the academics website for more information.

Can I get a bachelor's or master's degree at Missouri State University-West Plains?

Yes, Missouri State University-Springfield offers the following programs on the West Plains campus:

Bachelor’s in Elementary Education
Bachelor's in Child and Family Development
Bachelor's in General Agriculture
Bachelor’s in General Business
Bachelor’s in Nursing
Bachelor’s in Technology
Master’s in Business Administration
Master’s in Educational Administration
Master’s in Counseling (Options: Elementary School; Secondary School)
Master's in Teaching
Specialist's in Educational Administration

View the academics website for more information.

Who can sign my registration form if I can't find my advisor?

If your advisor is a faculty member, please contact the office of advising and academic support at ((417) 255-7222 or in Hass-Darr Hall, 107 and they will be able to assist in completion of the form. If your advisor works in the office of advising and academic support, one of the other advising professionals in that office will be able to assist.

I have taken classes in the past and I want to get started again. Where do I need to go?

The first step is to be readmitted to the University. The readmission application and information is available on the returning students page or by contacting the office of admissions, (417) 255-7955, in Cass Hall.

Where do I find out about testing dates and testing fees?

Visit the office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall, 107 or locate information on the Advising website.

How do I find out about studying abroad in China?

Contact the office of academic affairs, (417) 255-7272, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center room 206.

How do I get admitted to Missouri State University-West Plains?

New degree-seeking students should submit an application to the office of admissions. Go to admissions website to apply online or for a printable application. Applications are also available from the office of admissions, (417) 255-7955, located in Cass Hall. Request your official high school or GED and all college transcripts be sent directly to the office of admissions. Approximately two weeks after the above documentation is received, you will receive an admission letter with information regarding registration.

There are several admission categories for students who wish to take courses but are not pursuing a degree through Missouri State University-West Plains. Additional information can found on the nondegree-seeking students page or by calling the office of admissions, (417) 255-7955.

What is the next step after admission?

Schedule an appointment in the office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, in Hass-Darr Hall, 107 to proceed with registration and be advised of other necessary procedures.

Where do I get information about attending Missouri State University-West Plains?

The office of admissions, (417) 255-7955, in Cass Hall or the campus website.

How do I get permission to use the pool and fitness center at the West Plains Civic Center?

Students who are enrolled full-time at the University may use the pool and fitness center any time during normal operating hours. There is no additional charge beyond the activity fee included in the common fee paid by all students. Note: students enrolled exclusively in dual credit courses are not charged the activity fee.

What should I do if I feel I have been sexually harassed or discriminated against?

All University employees and students are free to seek relief from discriminatory grievances or complaints without fear of restraint, reprisal, interference or coercion. If you feel you have a complaint, you are advised to consult with the Affirmative Action Liaison Officer, (417) 255-7265.

Where do I get an email address?

See the computer lab assistants in the open lab, (417) 255-7995, in the Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center or chat with an assistant at Chat Central.

Where do I go if I'm sick?

Students may seek medical attention at any of the clinics affiliated with Ozarks Healthcare. Full information is listed on the professional services page. There is no charge for a basic office visit. Charges are made for additional services.

Where can I get information about health insurance for students?

Students interested in health insurance have a variety of options available to them. Information is also available on the professional services page. Students wanting to talk through the options can visit with the office of student life and development, (417) 255-7233, in Hass-Darr Hall, 102 or Student Services at (417) 255-7255, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center room 207.

What is the difference between Health Services and Health Insurance?

A Student Health Services program is provided as part of your student fees. Qualified students who may be sick or hurt and need to see a medical professional may to certain clinics affiliated with Ozarks Healthcare. There is no charge for a basic office visit. A Student Health Insurance plan pays benefits for covered expenses, but students must pay the premium for that coverage. The insurance is available to all students enrolled in the Missouri State University System.

Where do I get a student ID card?

See the computer lab assistants in the open lab, (417) 255-7995, in the Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center.

Where do I buy a meal plan?

A non-residential meal plan may be purchased by turning in a completed form, available on the food services website, to the business office, (417) 255-7260, in Cass Hall.

Where do I go to request accommodations for a disability?

The office of advising and academic support, (417) 255-7222, located in Hass-Darr, 107.

I don't quite fit in here. What can I do to meet some people who have similar interests to mine?

It is very easy to meet other people at Missouri State University-West Plains. There are clubs and organizations, activities and a student center that are all geared to showing students that there is more to college than just classes. A visit to the office of student life and development, (417) 255-7233, in Hass-Darr Hall, 102 will open doors for a student to meet other students. Students who are involved in clubs and activities often experience greater academic success. Many examples about how to become more involved can be found at the student life website.

Where do I find a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a person appointed by a state official to serve as a disinterested witness and verify that a signature is authentic. Many types of documents require signatures to be "notarized." All documents presented for notarization must have the correct form of notary certificate on them. Identification is required. The best form of identification is one that includes a photograph and signature (such as a valid driver's license). Do not sign the document until you present it to the notary. Some documents, such as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees and school documents, (i.e., diplomas, transcripts), cannot be notarized. Notary services are available to students at the student services reception desk, (417) 255-7225, in Lybyer Enhanced Technology Center room 207 and in the veteran's services center, (417) 255-7223, in Hass-Darr Hall, 104.

How do I find out about getting involved in a student organization?

There are several ways to join or find information about a particular organization. One way is to visit the student organization's website and contact the advisor or president. Information about all student organizations can be found at the student organizations website. The office of student life and development, (417) 255-7233, also sends an electronic Student Bulletin to all students on a weekly basis. By checking their University email account students can also find out when organizations are meeting and what activities they have planned. All students are welcome to join any organizations.

Where do I change my local or permanent address?

The office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall is the primary office that actually makes the changes. Fill out the Change of Student Information Form. You can also make these changes through My Grizzly Den.

Where do I get a copy of my Missouri State University-West Plains transcript?

Transcripts can be requested through My Grizzly Den if you still have access to your BearPass login. Once logged into My Grizzly Den, using the search inside the top right menu find the Degree Information card . Once inside the Degree Information card, click the Transcript link.

If you do not have access to your My Grizzly Den account, you can order your transcript directly from Parchment. You will need your contact information, social security number, date of birth, and approximate years of attendance.

How much does a transcript cost?

Transcript fees will range from $7.50 - $10.00 depending on how it is requested to be delivered, electronically or mailes. Additional charges will be applied for overnight delivery methods. International transcripts sent overnight will be charged a minimum of $47.50.

Where do I go to get verification that I'm a full-time student?

The office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall routinely completes "enrollment verification" forms for insurance and other purposes.

When will I graduate?

As soon as you complete the prescribed course of study you have chosen and file to graduate in the office of registration and records, (417) 255-7979, in Cass Hall.