Skip to main content

Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University campus
At Northwest Missouri State University, we believe college should help you discover every side of yourself.

That’s why we offer 200+ majors and minors, 150+ student organizations, and hands-on learning experiences starting your first year. Whether you’re analyzing data in our cybersecurity lab, managing crops on our 448-acre teaching farm, or leading a student club, you’ll gain real-world experience that sets you up for success. With small class sizes, textbooks and laptop included, and a welcoming campus community, Northwest is designed to help you grow — academically, personally, and professionally.
Accepts first-year applicationsMidwestPublicRuralMedium (2,001 to 14,999)Co-Ed

Academic programs

  • Design
  • Engineering
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Communication
  • Music
  • Art & Design
  • Economics
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Public health

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Greek Life
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • LGBTQIA Services
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • ROTC Program
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Distance/online learning

Application information

First-year

If you will be first time in college after graduating high school, homeschool, or completing the GED/HiSET, you are considered a First-Time Freshman applicant. Freshman admission is based on a combination of academic and personal considerations within our moderately selective designation. ACT/SAT scores are optional unless homeschooled or attending an unaccredited high school. If test scores are provided, super scores are considered to maximize your scholarship eligibility. Northwest has rolling admission but students are encouraged to apply early to meet scholarship and financial aid deadlines.

Transfer

If you have enrolled at another college/university following high school graduation or the equivalency (with the exception of the summer immediately following your graduation), you are considered a Transfer applicant. Transfer admission is automatically awarded with completion of 24 transferrable credit hours with a 2.00 GPA. Applicants not meeting that criteria will be reviewed individually and additional information may be requested. With dedicated transfer advisors, a quick admission decision and scholarship notification, and transfer-friendly credit evaluation policies, we work to make the transfer process as smooth as possible. Transfer applicants should apply through our University website at apply.nwmissouri.edu.

Image gallery

View gallery

Additional information

At Northwest, we believe your future shouldn’t come with a heavy price tag. That’s why we offer competitive tuition, generous scholarships, and built-in savings like textbooks and a laptop included—a value of nearly $7,000 over four years. Out-of-state students automatically qualify for reduced tuition through the Bearcat Advantage. With a 95% career placement rate and profession-based learning from day one, Northwest offers a smart investment in your future.

Have questions? We’re happy to help. Reach out to our Office of Admissions at admissions@nwmissouri.edu or (660) 562-1148.

Visit us

Whether you visit us in Maryville or explore Northwest from wherever you are, you’ll feel what makes Bearcat Nation special. Our campus is filled with energy, opportunity, and people who genuinely care. Tour with a student guide, take it in at your own pace, or do both — you’ll see why so many students say it just feels right.

Schedule your visit today and experience what it means to be a Bearcat.

"Northwest just feels like home. It is the perfect intersection between a big town but still feels like a small town where I am from."