Missouri Western State University
Western
Saint Joseph, Missouri 64507
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — excellent value
Missouri Western State University is a public institution in Saint Joseph with particular strength in health sciences and business.
A mid-sized campus of 2.4K undergraduates with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
40% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $42,647 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,638.
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History Missouri Western State University was founded in 1915 as St.
- •In 1933 when Central High School moved to its current location the junior college relocated to the Robidoux Polytechnic High School building at 10th Street between Edmond and Charles.
- •The establishment of a four-year school was a central campaign issue in the 1964 Democratic gubernatorial primary, when Warren Hearnes of the Bootheel challenged Hilary A.
- •The college was granted four-year status as Missouri Western College in 1969 during Hearnes' second term.
Source: Wikipedia
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Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
70.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
8.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$11,920
Programs (75)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
59%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
20
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MO state average + city premium