Missouri Western State University, founded in 1915 as St. Joseph Junior College, initially held classes at Central High School's original location at 13th and Patee. After Central High School moved to a new site in 1933, the junior college relocated to the Robidoux Polytechnic High School building on 10th Street between Edmond and Charles. In 1917, the institution adopted the Griffon as its mascot.
The transformation into a four-year institution became a key issue in Missouri’s 1964 Democratic gubernatorial primary. Warren Hearnes, representing the Bootheel, campaigned on a promise to elevate the college's status, despite the proximity of Northwest Missouri State College (now Northwest Missouri State University), located 40 miles (64 km) north in Maryville. Hearnes' efforts contrasted with those of his opponent, Hilary A. Bush of Kansas City, and were central to his campaign.
What is the Missouri Western State University US News National Rankings 2025?
Missouri Western State University ranks 138 according to the US News National Rankings 2025.
Campus
Missouri Western State University’s main buildings are each named in honor of individuals significant to the institution's history. These facilities serve a variety of functions, supporting academics, student life, athletics, and administration. Key academic buildings include Agenstein Hall and Remington Hall, which house the Math and Science Departments, while Murphy Hall accommodates programs in Communication, Journalism, Education, Nursing, Allied Health, and Psychology. Popplewell Hall, an administrative hub, is home to the Stephen L. Craig School of Business, the College of Professional Studies, and several social sciences departments. Potter Hall supports the Art and Music Departments, and Wilson Hall provides space for programs like Criminal Justice, Engineering Technology, and the Law Enforcement Academy.
Student housing is spread across multiple dormitories, such as Beshears Hall, Vartabedian Hall, Juda Hall, Leaverton Hall, Logan Hall, Scanlon Hall, and Vaselakos Hall. The campus also features facilities like the Baker Family Fitness Center for student wellness, the Griffon Indoor Sports Complex for athletic training, and the Looney Complex for athletics and physical education. For dining and student engagement, Blum Union includes the Esports Arena, Health Center, Campus Police, and multicultural and student engagement centers. Additional resources, such as the Hearnes Center's library and academic support services, further enhance the student experience.
Missouri Western State University Global Ranking
The University is still awaiting its official rankings from prominent organisations such as QS, Times Higher Education, and US News and World Report. Despite its growing reputation and contributions to academia, the university has not yet been featured in the rankings published by these influential bodies. But it has been ranked at #138 out of 165 Regional Universities Midwest by U.S. News in 2025.
Although the University continues to develop its academic programs and research initiatives, it remains unranked by these major international ranking institutions. The absence of a ranking from QS, Times Higher Education, and US News does not reflect the quality of education or research output but simply indicates that the university has not been formally assessed by these specific agencies.
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Frequently asked questions on Missouri Western State University Ranking 2025
1: How will one receive important information from the university?
A: As a student of Missouri Western, you will be given a Missouri Western email address. You will receive much of your important information from the university and from The Office of Global Engagement on that account. It is recommended that you check your Missouri Western email at least once every day.
2: How does one register for classes?
A: You will register for classes online with the help of your academic advisor. The Office of Global Engagement will help you to coordinate a meeting with your advisor during International Student Orientation.