Northwest Missouri State University
Acceptance rate
86.1%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$17,324
In-state $10,611
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
5,241
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
39.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 52.8%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northwest Missouri State University, located in Maryville, Missouri, is a public university renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. Established in 1905, the university has developed a strong reputation for its comprehensive programs and vibrant campus culture. With a focus on fostering a supportive learning environment, Northwest Missouri State emphasizes its mission of providing a student-centered experience that promotes personal growth, critical thinking, and community engagement. The university’s motto, "To Learn, To Lead, To Serve," encapsulates its dedication to developing leaders who are prepared to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which enhance the educational experience. The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, allowing students to pursue their passions and career aspirations. Additionally, Northwest Missouri State is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, with numerous internship and research opportunities available to students. The university also boasts a robust athletic program, encouraging student participation in various sports, which fosters teamwork and school spirit. Overall, Northwest Missouri State University provides a well-rounded education in a nurturing environment, preparing students for successful futures.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University has exhibited notable trends in several critical areas over the past decade, particularly in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention.
Firstly, the tuition costs have seen a significant increase over the years, reflecting a broader national trend in higher education. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition rose from $6,390 in 2014 to $10,181 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 59% within a decade. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has escalated by around 37% over the same period. This upward trajectory in tuition could impact student enrollment and financial accessibility, especially as student loan debt continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.
In terms of graduation rates, there has been a positive shift. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from approximately 27% in 2013 to about 35% in 2023. This upward trend is promising as it indicates that more students are completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. Improved graduation rates can enhance the university's reputation and attract prospective students.
Additionally, student retention rates have also shown improvement, climbing from around 67.5% in 2013 to nearly 80% in 2023. Higher retention rates suggest that students are more satisfied with their educational experience, which could be linked to supportive services and programs implemented by the university. Retaining students is critical for institutional stability and financial health, as it reduces the costs associated with recruiting new students.
In conclusion, while Northwest Missouri State University faces challenges related to rising tuition costs, the increasing graduation and retention rates are encouraging signs of institutional growth and student success. These metrics are vital for prospective students and their families when making informed decisions about higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Kansas City, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 70 mi
- Also known as
- Northwest
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Lance Tatum (President)
- Phone
- 6605621212
- Address
- 800 University Drive, Maryville, MO 64468-6001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 73.6%, women 73.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Northwest Missouri State University's Admission Trends
The admission data for Northwest Missouri State University over the years illustrates notable trends in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate showed a significant increase, rising from approximately 73% to 85%. Similarly, the female acceptance rate also improved from about 75% to nearly 86% during the same period. This upward trend indicates a growing inclusiveness in the admissions process, potentially reflecting the university's commitment to attracting a diverse student body.
Enrollment numbers fluctuated throughout the years, with a peak in 2010 at 1,562 students and a noticeable decline to 964 in 2022 before gradually increasing to 1,095 in 2023. Interestingly, the number of students denied admission tends to be higher during years of increased enrollment, suggesting a competitive admission landscape. The total number of applicants also appears to have varied, with a substantial number of deferrals each year, indicating that many students are considering delaying their start, perhaps due to external factors like economic conditions or health concerns stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data reflects a dynamic admission environment, where Northwest Missouri State University is actively managing its acceptance rates and enrollment strategies. The consistent increase in acceptance rates could imply a strategic pivot to ensure higher enrollment amidst fluctuating applicant numbers, demonstrating the university's resilience in adapting to changing educational landscapes.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 66% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Northwest Missouri State University
The data from Northwest Missouri State University over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for both the SAT and ACT. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has remained relatively low, fluctuating between 1% to 5%. This trend suggests either a growing trend towards test-optional admissions or a preference among applicants for alternative evaluation metrics.
The SAT reading scores, as indicated by the 25th and 75th percentile cutoffs, show an interesting pattern. Over the years, the lower bound has seen a gradual increase from 390 to 498, indicating an overall improvement in the academic preparedness of incoming students. Conversely, the upper bound has also risen, suggesting that the top-performing students have consistently achieved higher scores as well.
ACT scores reflect a similar trajectory with minor fluctuations. The composite scores range from a low of 18 to a high of 23, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable. This stability hints at a consistent level of academic achievement among the admitted students.
The overall data indicates that while standardized test scores can fluctuate, the general trend points towards an improvement in student preparedness. This may be attributed to various factors, including changes in high school curricula, increased access to test preparation resources, or shifts in applicant demographics. As universities increasingly adopt holistic admissions processes, understanding these trends in standardized testing becomes vital for prospective students and educational institutions alike.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
5,185 applicants in 2025, 86.1% admitted
4,464 admitted 721 not admitted Yield 22.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Science · Master's296 (99% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's205 (1% international)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's197 (99% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's165 (6% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's104 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's82 (1% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Northwest Missouri State University
In examining the graduation data from Northwest Missouri State University for 2023, a few notable trends emerge, particularly in the fields of computer science and education. The data reveals a significant number of master's degree graduates in these areas, with computer science yielding 320 graduates and educational leadership generating 193 graduates. Interestingly, the computer science program has a remarkable international presence, with 318 out of 320 graduates being international students, indicating the program's attractiveness to global talent.
Moreover, the data shows that business administration also has a notable number of master's graduates at 184, with 7 being international students. This suggests a growing interest in business studies, which is crucial in today's global economy. The lack of graduates in bachelor's and doctorate categories across the majority of programs indicates a potential area for growth, as these levels of education are essential for developing a well-rounded workforce.
The absence of graduates in associate degrees across all disciplines further highlights a trend where students are increasingly opting for higher education levels, perhaps driven by the competitive job market that favors those with advanced degrees. This shift aligns with broader national trends in higher education, where institutions are focusing on graduate-level programs to meet the demands of an evolving workforce.
In summary, the data from Northwest Missouri State University illustrates a strong emphasis on master's level education, particularly in computer science and education, while also calling attention to the need for strategic development in other degree offerings to foster a diverse academic environment.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $61,121 | ||
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | $61,121 | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | $50,095 | ||
| Data Modeling/Warehousing and Database Administration. | $50,095 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,196-$79,839 | ||
| Accounting. | $55,114 | ||
| Business/Office Automation/Technology/Data Entry. | - | ||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $49,287 | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $49,900 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $35,687 | ||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | - | ||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $80,800 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | $45,208 | ||
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $45,804 | ||
| Agricultural Communication/Journalism. | - | ||
| Animal Sciences, General. | $50,046 | ||
| Agronomy and Crop Science. | $53,530 | ||
| Pre-Veterinary Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,023 | ||
| Behavioral Neuroscience. | $40,247 | ||
| Social Psychology. | $40,247 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies. | $42,481 | ||
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | $43,753 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $41,693 | ||
| Geography. | - | ||
| Geographic Information Science and Cartography. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $42,152 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $41,330 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $44,956 | ||
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $44,956 | ||
| Organizational Communication, General. | - | ||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | - | ||
| Advertising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $55,846 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,906 | ||
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $49,723 | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $38,630 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Writing, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management. | $40,723 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | $47,893 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
Students
9,152 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 73.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,090
- First-year undergraduates 975
- Graduate students 3,911
- Transfers and others 1,176
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,241)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Northwest Missouri State University in 2023
In 2023, Northwest Missouri State University showcased a diverse student body comprising undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate upperclassmen, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 1,095, with a gender distribution showing that 38.2% are male and 61.8% are female. This trend of a higher female representation is consistent across other categories, where undergraduate upperclassmen total 3,275 (38.9% male and 61.1% female), and graduate students amount to 3,197 (37% male and 63% female).
Interestingly, undergraduate transfer students, although fewer in number at 309, have a slightly higher proportion of male students at 43%. This may suggest a different demographic trend among those transferring compared to new freshmen and upperclassmen.
Racially, the data indicates a predominance of White students across all categories, though specific numbers for each racial group are not detailed for the upperclassmen and graduate students. This lack of detailed data may highlight a need for improved representation and support for minority groups within the university community.
Overall, the gender disparity leaning towards females in higher education persists at Northwest Missouri State University, a trend observed nationwide. This may be indicative of broader societal shifts and could have implications for the university's programs and outreach strategies. Furthermore, the university could explore initiatives to enhance diversity further, especially among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, to foster a more inclusive campus environment.
Age Composition of Students at Northwest Missouri State University
The age distribution of students at Northwest Missouri State University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest segment of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with a total of 1,147 students in this category, comprising predominantly undergraduates. This aligns with the national trend of higher enrollment among traditional college-aged students, often between 18 to 24 years old, as more individuals pursue higher education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the data shows a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases beyond the 22-24 bracket. For instance, while there are 1,379 students aged 22-24, this number drops significantly for those aged 25-29 to just 572. This decline reflects common patterns, as many students in their mid to late twenties may be entering the workforce or may choose to pursue education in a more non-traditional capacity, possibly balancing work and study.
Moreover, the representation of graduate students highlights a distinct trend: while there are only 3 students above the age of 65, there is a notable presence of older students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups, with 355 and 165 graduate students respectively. This suggests that the university is attracting a diverse range of learners, including those returning to education later in life, which is increasingly common as lifelong learning becomes more valued in today’s fast-evolving job market.
Overall, these demographic patterns reflect broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of catering to both traditional and non-traditional students to foster an inclusive and diverse academic environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
145 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016
571 in 2025 · 48.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northwest Missouri State University
The data reveals significant trends in the enrollment of international students at Northwest Missouri State University over nearly two decades. In the early years, specifically around 2004, the international undergraduate student population comprised only about 3.15% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, this percentage has fluctuated, showing some peaks and troughs over the years.
A notable increase occurred in 2015, when international students represented 3.59% of the undergraduate population. The most dramatic change was observed in graduate enrollment, where the proportion of international students surged to 48.31% in 2016. This spike may reflect broader trends in higher education where graduate programs increasingly attract international talent, possibly due to the globalized job market and the demand for specialized skills.
However, the overall trend shows a decline in international undergraduate enrollment in recent years, dropping to 2.17% by 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including increasing competition from other institutions, changing immigration policies, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have led to more cautious decision-making among prospective international students.
Despite these challenges, the graduate programs at Northwest Missouri State University have maintained a relatively strong international presence, with a significant portion of the student body coming from abroad. This trend underscores the importance of fostering a supportive environment for international students, as they contribute not only to the diversity of the university community but also enhance the academic experience for all students through varied perspectives and backgrounds.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$29,606
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,324
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $10,611
- Room and board
- $12,282
- Graduate tuition
- $8,096
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 47% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$147M
Expenses$124M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 136 | 101 |
| Football | 141 | - |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Soccer | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 115 | 89 |
| Football | 141 | - |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Soccer | - | 31 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | - | 8 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 100 | 84 |
| Football | 145 | - |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Soccer | - | 31 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 10 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | - | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 84.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 86.0 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 92.4 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of KansasLawrence · 98.2 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 100.6 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 107.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 120.8 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 132.3 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Grinnell CollegeGrinnell · 148.3 mi
Liberal Arts #16
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Northwest Missouri State University:
-
Creighton University - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university in Omaha, Nebraska, is known for its strong programs in healthcare, business, and law.
-
University of Kansas - With a rank of 151, this comprehensive university in Lawrence, Kansas, offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
-
Iowa State University - Ranked 115, Iowa State University, located in Ames, Iowa, is renowned for its engineering and agricultural programs, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Missouri-Kansas City - This comprehensive university, ranked 269, is located in Kansas City, Missouri, and offers diverse academic programs along with a strong focus on research.
-
Drake University - Ranked 178, Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, is a private university known for its law school and strong liberal arts programs.
-
Washington University in St Louis - A prestigious comprehensive university ranked 24, it is known for its rigorous academic programs and research contributions across various fields.
These institutions provide a range of academic options and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Statistics at Northwest Missouri State University
The crime statistics from Northwest Missouri State University over the last decade reveal a notable trend in campus safety. The data indicates a downward trajectory in the crime rate, particularly from 2020 to 2023, where the average number of crimes per 1,000 students declined from 8.56 to just 4.40. This significant decrease suggests improvements in campus security and student behavior, as well as possibly a more proactive approach from university officials to address safety concerns.
Despite the overall decline, the year 2016 stands out with a peak crime rate of 13.92 per 1,000 students, significantly higher than other years. This spike could have been influenced by various factors, including increased reporting, changes in campus policies, or external societal issues. Interestingly, the categories of offenses also show variation, with arrests related to gun possession and drug-related incidents drawing attention in previous years.
The decrease in crime rates may also reflect broader national trends in campus safety, where universities are increasingly prioritizing mental health resources, awareness programs, and community engagement initiatives. The ongoing attention to issues such as domestic violence and substance abuse is crucial in creating a safer environment for students.
As we look at these statistics, it is essential to consider their implications on student life and the university's reputation. A safe and secure campus is integral not only for student well-being but also for attracting prospective students. Continued vigilance and community involvement will be key in maintaining this positive trend in campus safety.
For further understanding of crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Northwest Missouri State University include Kim Reynolds (43rd Governor of Iowa, first woman in the role), Jean Bartik (One of the original six ENIAC programmers) and Steve King (Former US Representative from Iowa).
-
Kim Reynolds 1959–
43rd Governor of Iowa, first woman in the role
-
Jean Bartik 1924–2011
One of the original six ENIAC programmers
-
Steve King 1949–
Former US Representative from Iowa
-
Gary Gaetti 1958–
Former MLB third baseman for the Minnesota Twins and others
-
Edward Wiskoski 1945–2025
Professional wrestler known as Colonel DeBeers
-
David R. Hansen 1938–
Senior judge, US Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit
-
Robin Wayne Bailey 1952–
Speculative fiction writer and editor
-
Zoé Samudzi 1980–
Writer and activist, co-author of As Black as Resistance
-
Philip Wise 1946–
Former Iowa state representative
More alumni (14, by field)
Politics and law
-
Brad Lager 1975–
Former Missouri state senator
-
Jon A. Jensen 1963–
Retired lieutenant general, former Army National Guard director
-
Laura Duffy 1962–
Judge and former U.S. Attorney
Sports
-
Michael Peterson 1982–
Former football tight end
-
Jane Chalmers 1983–
Australian professional basketball player
-
Tony Miles 1978–
Former CFL wide receiver and punt returner
-
Chad Kilgore 1989–
Former professional football linebacker
-
Xavier Omon 1985–
Former NFL running back
-
Justin Pitts 1994–
Former professional basketball player
-
Duck Dowell 1912–2003
Basketball player, coach and athletics administrator
-
Hal Hutcheson 1920–1991
Professional basketball player in the NBL
-
Seth Wand 1979–
Former NFL offensive tackle
-
Ryan Hawkins 1997–
Professional basketball player for Bosna
Other fields
-
Mary Lou King 1929–
Environmental activist, educator and writer
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.