Admissions Guide
Welcome to Missouri State University-West Plains!
DOWNLOAD THE 2025-2026 ADMISSIONS GUIDE (PDF 4 MB)
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For over 60 years, we've been empowering students to take control of their dreams and change tomorrow.
With personalized instruction, dynamic two-year degrees and certificates, and a dedicated faculty that puts you first, MSU-WP is the launchpad for your success. Wether you're kickstarting your career, preparing to transfer, or chasing your passion, your journey to a brighter future starts here.
Mission
Missouri State University-West Plains empowers students to achieve personal success
and to enrich their local and global communities. As a two-year public institution,
we provide accessible, affordable and quality educational opportunities.
Invest in Your Future
Worried about college costs? Think again!
With lower fees than most four-year schools and a comprehensive scholarship and financial aid program, we make your future more affordable!
A+ Scholarship
At Missouri State University-West Plains, the A+ Scholarship Program makes college more affordable! Graduates of A+ designated >high schools can receive funding for tuition and fees, plus stack savings with additional scholarships.
Estimated Yearly Costs for Students, 2024-2025
Missouri resident | Non-Missouri resident | |
---|---|---|
Tuition and Fees | $6,711* | $8,993* |
Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment (estimate) | $972 | $972 |
Living Expenses-Housing and Food | $8,323 | $8,323 |
TOAL | $16,011 | $18,293 |
*Note: Tuition and fees are estimates based on assumptions about individual enrollment.
Fees vary based on program of study.
2025-26 MISSOURI STATE-WEST PLAINS TUITION
AND FEES FOR MISSOURI RESIDENTS
$6,711 (based on 28 credit-hours per year)
Average annual tuition and fees for other Missouri Institutions
- Missouri 2-year public (out-of-district): $6,870
- Missouri 4-year public: $11,419*
- Missouri 4-year private: $34,018+
* Source: Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development Fiscal
Year 2025.
Charged to a typical full-time student.
+ Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, in-state average tuition
for full-time undergraduates 2023-24.
Areas of Study
Missouri State University-West Plains brings education closer to you! Shannon Hall in Mountain Grove lets students complete an Associate of Arts in General Studies while staying near home—A+ benefits apply! Gohn Hall offers local access to undergraduate and graduate degrees and transferring to MSU in Springfield is seamless. Want to go global? Study abroad in Dalian, China, at LNU while earning your degree!
Associate of Arts Degree (AA)
The AA degree is designed primarily for transfer to Missouri State University or other four-year colleges and universities.
- Child and Family Development†
- Criminal Justice
- Criminology, Law Enforcement
- Elementary Education
- General Studies†
- Health Professions
- Human Services†
Associate of Science Degree (AS)
The AS degree can transfer into a pre-professional program, allowing students to move into a bachelor’s degree completion program, or lead directly to a job in the workforce.
- Agriculture
- Business†
- Computer Science
- Engineering Technology
- Mechatronics, Pre-Engineering
- Information Technology
- Nursing
- Technology
The AS degree can transfer into a pre-professional program, allowing students to move into a bachelor’s degree completion program, or lead directly to a job in the workforce.
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
The AAS degree is primarily an occupationally oriented degree, allowing students to enter a particular job market after graduation.
- Agriculture
- Business†
- Child and Family Development†
- Community Behavioral Health Support
- Computer Graphics & Programing
- Health Information Technology†:
- Medical Coding, Medical Assistant, Healthcare Data Analytics, Healthcare Reimbursement
- Information Science & Technology
- Technology: Advanced Welding & Fabrication, General Technology, Industrial Maintenance, Manufacturing Management
Missouri State-West Plains keeps expanding its degree programs! Check out the latest list of degrees and certificates online at WP.MissouriState.edu/Academics/programs.htm. Some programs may still be awaiting U.S. Department of Education approval for financial aid. While AAS degrees aren’t primarily transfer programs, many can be the foundation for a Bachelor of Applied Science degree—with additional general education and major-specific courses.†Degree programs that can be completed online.
Campus Life Ball games, student organizations, swimming, workouts, video games, homecoming fun—life
as a Grizzly is non-stop excitement! Now, with intramural sports like basketball,
volleyball, pickleball, and more, there are even more ways to get in the game and
connect with fellow students.
Whether you’re competing on the court, hanging out in the Carol Silvey Student Union, breaking a sweat at the Student Recreation Center, or catching an event at the West Plains Civic Center, there’s always room to play, recharge, and make unforgettable memories!
Get ready to roar with Grizzly Athletics at Missouri State-West Plains! Whether you’re
cheering courtside at a basketball or volleyball game, or catching home runs in baseball
or softball, there’s always thrilling action on campus. Plus, with our co-ed esports,
cheer team, and rodeo, there’s a sport for everyone to get hyped about.
Join the fun, show your Grizzly pride, and be part of the excitement all season long!
Student Resources

Missouri State University-West Plains is committed to helping you succeed!
We offer a variety of FREE support services to make your college experience smoother and rewarding, including:
- academic advising
- tutoring
- veteran services
- and career counseling.
With personalized assistance every step of the way, you’ll never feel like you’re alone. Your success is our priority!
Counseling Services
Your physical and mental wellbeing should be a top priority.
That is why MSU-WP offers medical visits, counseling services, crisis intervention
and more!

ASCEND Program
The TJ Swift House ASCEND Program (Autism Support Can Empower New Directions), located in the Neurodiversity and Autism Center, provides additional support beyond typical college support services for autistic and neurodivergent students. It helps students navigate the differences between high school and college, build essential life skills and prepare for advanced coursework and career opportunities. (More information: WP.MissouriState.edu/ASCEND)
Missouri State University-West Plains will help you achieve your goals and thrive in college and beyond!
About West Plains
Tucked in the scenic Ozark Mountains, West Plains offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and small-town charm.
As the largest city in south-central Missouri, West Plains combines outdoor adventures
with modern conveniences. From exploring nearby parks and trails to enjoying local
dining and shopping, West Plains is a welcoming community that feels like home while
offering plenty to discover.
Learn more about West Plains and area activities and attractions by visiting ExploreWestPlains.com.
MSU-WP By the Numbers
As the open admissions campus of the Missouri State University System, becoming a Grizzly is easy!
Enrollment from:
- 70 Missouri counties
- 21 states
- 12 countries
- Student fo Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Average Class Size: 13
- First-time, Full-time Freshmen receiving Financial Aid: 90%
Visit the Campus
There’s no better way to experience Missouri State University-West Plains than by seeing it for yourself! Explore our state-of-the-art facilities, meet our dedicated faculty and staff, and get a taste of life in the scenic Ozarks. You’ll see why MSU-WP is the perfect place to start your journey.
Call the admissions office, 417-255-7955, to schedule your campus visit today! WP.MissouriState.edu/CampusVisit
Become a Grizzly
As the open admissions campus of the Missouri State University System, becoming a Grizzly is easy!
Admissions Checklist
- Submit an application for admission.
- Have your official high school or equivalency exam transcript sent to Missouri State-West Plains.
- Have your college transcript sent to Missouri State-West Plains, if you are transferring from another college or have taken college courses while in high school.
- Come, explore the campus and see why approximately 1,700 students each year make Missouri State-West Plains their college choice! Call the admissions office, (417) 255-7955, to schedule your campus tour today! WP.MissouriState.edu/CampusVisit
Connect with and follow us
- Facebook: missouristatewp
- Twitter/X: @missouristatewp
- Instagram: @missouristatewp
- YouTube: missouristatewp
- Snapchat: missouristatewp
- TikTok: @MissouriStateWestPlains
All content provided in this publication is intended for informational purposes and is subject to change.
Contact Us:
(888) 466-7897 or (417) 255-7255. WPAdmissions@MissouriState.edu
WP.MissouriState.edu
Missouri State University-West Plains
128 Garfield Ave.
West Plains, MO 65775
Missouri State University-West Plains remains fully accredited (on probation) by the Higher Learning Commission; (312) 263-0456