Missouri State University-Springfield vs University of Missouri-Columbia Introduction
This comprehensive comparison between Missouri State University-Springfield (School 1) and the University of Missouri-Columbia (School 2) will provide an in-depth analysis of the two prominent universities in Missouri. We will examine various aspects, including costs, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and outcomes, to help prospective students make an informed decision on where to pursue their higher education.
Missouri State University-Springfield Overview
Missouri State University-Springfield (MSU) is a public university located in Springfield, Missouri. Established in 1905, the institution offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across a wide range of disciplines. With a student population of over 24,000, MSU is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education with a focus on public affairs, community engagement, and inclusive excellence.
Missouri State University-Springfield Costs & Tuition
The tuition and fees at Missouri State University-Springfield for in-state students are approximately $7,750 per academic year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $15,910. Additional expenses include room and board, which is estimated to be about $9,100 per year. Financial aid options are available for students who qualify, with around 80% of MSU students receiving some form of financial assistance.
Missouri State University-Springfield Admissions
Admission to Missouri State University-Springfield has a moderately selective acceptance rate of 85%. Prospective students are required to submit their high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and personal essays. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.55, while the average ACT score is 24 and the average SAT score is 1200.
Missouri State University-Springfield Degrees Offered
MSU offers over 150 undergraduate majors and more than 45 graduate programs. The most popular majors include Business, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and Visual & Performing Arts. The university’s graduate programs include Master’s, Specialist, and Doctoral degrees in various fields such as Business, Education, and Health.
Missouri State University-Springfield Academics
Missouri State University-Springfield is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a comprehensive academic experience with a 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Students have access to numerous research opportunities, internships, study abroad programs, and service-learning experiences that contribute to their overall academic growth.
Missouri State University-Springfield Diversity
MSU is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. The university has numerous programs and initiatives to support underrepresented students, including the Office of Multicultural Programs, the Inclusive Excellence Leadership Scholars Program, and the TRIO Student Support Services.
Missouri State University-Springfield Students
The student population at MSU is predominantly comprised of undergraduate students, with a total enrollment of over 24,000 students. The institution offers an active campus life, with over 350 student organizations, various intramural sports, and recreational activities for students to engage in.
Missouri State University-Springfield Campus
MSU’s campus covers 225 acres in the heart of Springfield, Missouri. The university features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and recreational spaces. In addition, Missouri State University-Springfield offers on-campus housing options for students in the form of residence halls, apartments, and living-learning communities.
Missouri State University-Springfield Alumni
Missouri State University-Springfield has a strong alumni network, with over 110,000 alumni worldwide. The MSU Alumni Association offers various benefits, resources, and networking opportunities for graduates. Notable alumni include John Goodman, actor; Kathleen Turner, actress; and Brad Pitt, actor.
Missouri State University-Springfield Rankings
MSU is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. The institution is also recognized for its affordability and commitment to community engagement and sustainability.
Missouri State University-Springfield Outcomes
The six-year graduation rate at Missouri State University-Springfield is 55%. The university’s career services department provides resources and support for students and alumni searching for internships, jobs, and graduate school opportunities. The average starting salary for MSU graduates is around $37,000.
University of Missouri-Columbia Overview
The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is a public research university located in Columbia, Missouri. Established in 1839, Mizzou is the flagship campus of the four-campus University of Missouri System. With over 30,000 students, the institution offers more than 300 degree programs, covering undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies.
University of Missouri-Columbia Costs & Tuition
Tuition and fees for in-state students at Mizzou are approximately $9,930 per academic year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $27,080. Room and board expenses are estimated to be about $10,800 per year. Financial aid options are available for qualifying students, with around 85% of Mizzou students receiving some form of financial assistance.
University of Missouri-Columbia Admissions
The University of Missouri-Columbia has a selective acceptance rate of 78%. Applicants are required to submit their high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and personal essays. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.72, while the average ACT score is 26 and the average SAT score is 1300.
University of Missouri-Columbia Degrees Offered
Mizzou offers more than 300-degree programs across various disciplines, including the most popular majors such as Business, Health Professions, Engineering, and Journalism. In addition, the university provides graduate and professional programs in areas like Law, Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine.
University of Missouri-Columbia Academics
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Mizzou has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention for students. The university is renowned for its research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and interdisciplinary study options.
University of Missouri-Columbia Diversity
Mizzou is committed to fostering an inclusive campus environment that supports diversity and inclusion. The university has various programs and resources, such as the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center, the LGBTQ Resource Center, and the Women’s Center, to promote diversity and empower underrepresented students.
University of Missouri-Columbia Students
With a total enrollment of over 30,000 students, Mizzou offers a vibrant campus life, including more than 600 student organizations, athletic events, and recreational activities. The university also provides various support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources.
University of Missouri-Columbia Campus
Mizzou’s campus spans over 1,200 acres in Columbia, Missouri, featuring state-of-the-art academic buildings, research facilities, and recreational spaces. The university also offers on-campus housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and living-learning communities.
University of Missouri-Columbia Alumni
The University of Missouri-Columbia boasts a strong alumni network, with over 300,000 alumni worldwide. The Mizzou Alumni Association provides benefits, resources, and networking opportunities for graduates. Notable alumni include Sheryl Crow, singer-songwriter; Brad Pitt, actor; and George C. Scott, actor.
University of Missouri-Columbia Rankings
Mizzou is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. The institution is also recognized for its research, journalism program, and commitment to sustainability.
University of Missouri-Columbia Outcome
The six-year graduation rate at the University of Missouri-Columbia is 68%. The university’s career services department offers resources and support for students and alumni searching for internships, jobs, and graduate school opportunities. The average starting salary for Mizzou graduates is around $42,000.
Missouri State University-Springfield vs University of Missouri-Columbia Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending Missouri State University-Springfield and the University of Missouri-Columbia, MSU is generally more affordable. In-state students at MSU can expect to pay $7,750 per academic year in tuition and fees, while in-state students at Mizzou will pay around $9,930 per academic year. Out-of-state students will pay $15,910 at MSU and $27,080 at Mizzou. Room and board expenses are also slightly higher at Mizzou, with an estimated cost of $10,800 compared to MSU’s $9,100.
Missouri State University-Springfield vs University of Missouri-Columbia Admissions Difficulty
Both Missouri State University-Springfield and the University of Missouri-Columbia have moderately selective acceptance rates, with MSU at 85% and Mizzou at 78%. The average high school GPA and standardized test scores are slightly higher for incoming freshmen at Mizzou. However, both institutions require similar application materials, such as high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and personal essays.
Missouri State University-Springfield vs University of Missouri-Columbia Academic Difficulty
The University of Missouri-Columbia is generally considered to have a more rigorous academic environment than Missouri State University-Springfield. Mizzou has a lower student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, compared to MSU’s 20:1, allowing for more personalized attention and smaller class sizes. Additionally, Mizzou is known for its research opportunities and interdisciplinary study options, which can contribute to a more challenging academic experience.
Missouri State University-Springfield vs University of Missouri-Columbia Outcome Comparison
The University of Missouri-Columbia has a higher six-year graduation rate of 68% compared to Missouri State University-Springfield’s 55%. Additionally, Mizzou graduates tend to have higher starting salaries, with an average of $42,000 compared to MSU’s $37,000. However, both universities offer extensive career services and resources for students and alumni to support their job search and graduate school application process.
