
Missouri State University (MSU or MO State), formerly Southwest Missouri State University, is a public university in Springfield, Missouri, United States. Founded in 1905, it is the state's second-largest university by enrollment, with 23,418 students enrolled in the fall semester of 2023. The university has consistently high enrollment numbers, with over 20,000 students enrolled as early as 1990. MSU's campus size is 225 acres, and it offers a range of degree programs, including associate and bachelor's degrees.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of institution | Public |
| Year founded | 1905 or 1906 |
| Campus size | 225 acres |
| Total enrollment | 23,418 (fall 2023) |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 18,419 (fall 2022) |
| State rank by enrollment | Second-largest |
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What You'll Learn
- Missouri State University's undergraduate enrollment in 2022 was 18,419
- The university's fall 2023 enrollment was 23,418
- MSU offers Pell Grants and MoState Access Awards to eligible students
- MSU's Springfield campus reached a new enrollment milestone in 2024
- MSU has a history of international student enrollment, including from China, Korea, and Indonesia

Missouri State University's undergraduate enrollment in 2022 was 18,419
Missouri State University (MSU), a public university in Springfield, Missouri, had an undergraduate enrollment of 18,419 students in the fall semester of 2022. This figure makes Missouri State University the second-largest university in the state by enrollment.
The university was founded in 1905 as the Fourth District Normal School, and classes began in June 1906 with a total of 543 students. Over time, the university grew significantly, and by 1985, it had become the second-largest public university in Missouri. In 1990, enrollment surpassed 20,000 students for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the university's history.
Missouri State University's campus size is 225 acres, contributing to its ability to accommodate a large student population. The university offers a range of academic programs, including associate degree programs at its two-year campus in West Plains, Missouri, and a bachelor's degree in business program at Liaoning Normal University in China.
The high enrollment figures at Missouri State University reflect its reputation as a leading educational institution in the state and its appeal to students seeking a quality education. The university continues to grow and set new enrollment records, contributing to its vibrant and diverse academic community.
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The university's fall 2023 enrollment was 23,418
Missouri State University (MSU or MO State), a public university in Springfield, Missouri, had an enrollment of 23,418 students in the fall semester of 2023, making it the state's second-largest university by enrollment. This number represents a significant increase from the fall of 2022 when the university had a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,419 students.
The university has experienced growth and milestones in its history. By 1985, it had become the second-largest public university in the state, and in 1990, enrollment surpassed 20,000 students for the first time. The university's roots go back to 1905 when it was founded as the Fourth District Normal School, and its primary purpose was to prepare teachers for the public school system.
Missouri State University offers a range of academic programs and opportunities for its students. In addition to its main campus in Springfield, the university has expanded its reach with additional campuses and programs. It offers associate degree programs at a two-year campus in West Plains, Missouri, and has established international partnerships, including a bachelor's degree program in business at Liaoning Normal University in China.
The university's enrollment figures reflect its popularity and appeal to students seeking higher education in Missouri and beyond. With its history, academic offerings, and continued growth, Missouri State University solidifies its position as a prominent educational institution in the state and the country.
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MSU offers Pell Grants and MoState Access Awards to eligible students
Missouri State University (MSU), formerly Southwest Missouri State University, is a public university in Springfield, Missouri, US. It is the state's second-largest university by enrolment, with an enrolment of 23,418 in the fall semester of 2023. MSU offers Pell Grants and MoState Access Awards to eligible students.
The MoState Access Award is a scholarship that covers any gap between a student's tuition and fees and their total federal, state, and institutional grant and scholarship aid. This means that eligible students will pay no tuition or fees after their federal, state, and institutional grants and scholarships are first applied. The award is available to new undergraduate students who are eligible for Pell Grants and will cover all tuition and fees that are not covered by other scholarships and grants.
To be eligible for the MoState Access Award, students must be incoming freshmen or new transfer students, apply for admission no later than June 1 (for the fall semester), and be Missouri residents. Students must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 1 each year they are in school and be eligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant, with a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 12,000 or less, as determined by the FAFSA. Additionally, students must maintain full-time enrolment, meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements, and complete 24 MSU credit hours each academic year to renew the award for up to 8 semesters.
The Pell Grant is a federal grant program that provides financial assistance to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. To be eligible for a Pell Grant, students must be seeking an undergraduate degree, be enrolled full-time (at least 12 credit hours), and remain Pell-eligible based on their FAFSA.
Through these financial aid programs, MSU aims to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality college education and can pursue their academic goals without the burden of financial obstacles.
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MSU's Springfield campus reached a new enrollment milestone in 2024
Missouri State University (MSU), a public university in Springfield, Missouri, has reached a new enrollment milestone in 2024. MSU's Springfield campus, which was founded in 1905, has seen a steady increase in enrollment over the years.
In the fall semester of 2023, the university had an enrollment of 23,418 students, making it the state's second-largest university by enrollment. The university offers a range of degree programs, including associate degree programs at its two-year campus in West Plains, Missouri, and a bachelor's degree in business program at Liaoning Normal University in China.
MSU's commitment to accessibility and financial aid has likely contributed to its enrollment success. The university offers the MoState Access Award, which covers tuition and fees not covered by other scholarships and grants for eligible undergraduate students. Additionally, MSU's recent ranking as #352 in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges may have also attracted prospective students.
The university's efforts to support and encourage prospective students have been significant. MSU hosts Showcase, a special open house for students considering enrollment. This provides an opportunity for students to experience the campus and learn more about the academic programs and opportunities MSU offers. With its rich history, focus on accessibility, and commitment to academic excellence, MSU Springfield campus continues to thrive and attract a growing number of students.
The university's enrollment growth is a testament to its dedication to providing a high-quality education and its ongoing efforts to support and engage prospective students. As MSU moves forward, it will be exciting to see the impact of this new enrollment milestone on the university's future development and its standing among educational institutions in the United States.
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MSU has a history of international student enrollment, including from China, Korea, and Indonesia
Missouri State University (MSU), formerly Southwest Missouri State University, is a public university in Springfield, Missouri, with a history of international student enrollment. MSU is the state's second-largest university by enrollment, with 23,418 students in the fall semester of 2023. This includes a significant number of international students, with a history of enrollment from China, Korea, and Indonesia, among other countries.
MSU has a well-established relationship with Chinese students and educational institutions. In 2011, the university's executive MBA program for students from China was scrutinized due to questions surrounding the financial relationship between MSU and its Hong Kong-based agent. MSU's agent, the International Management Education Corporation (IMEC), facilitates relationships with sponsors who identify and prepare students based on work experience, undergraduate grades, and English language proficiency. The university also offers a Bachelor of Science in General Business degree at Liaoning Normal University in China, showcasing its commitment to educational cooperation with Chinese institutions.
The university's international programs provide support and coordination for international students, faculty, and those traveling abroad. Missouri State University has a history of welcoming international students from various countries, including Korea and Indonesia. The Branch Campus, located on the North Campus of Liaoning Normal University (LNU), attracts a diverse student body with students from these countries and others such as Senegal, Nigeria, Zambia, Iran, Japan, and the United States.
MSU's international undergraduate students are required to submit documentation demonstrating financial support for their first year and subsequent years of their program. Additionally, official proof of degrees, diplomas, or certificates must be submitted in the original language, along with an English translation. Missouri State University's international programs aim to facilitate cultural exchange and provide an affordable education for international students, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment.
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Frequently asked questions
As of the fall semester of 2023, there were 23,418 students enrolled at Missouri State University.
In 2022, Missouri State University had a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,419 students.
No, it is the second-largest university in the state by enrollment, surpassed only by the University of Missouri.
No, the enrollment numbers have grown over time. In 1990, enrollment surpassed 20,000 students for the first time.
The campus of Missouri State University spans 225 acres.











































