Missouri Southern State University vs Missouri State University-Springfield

Missouri Southern State University Missouri State University-Springfield
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 97% 91%
SAT range (mid 50%) 1,150-1,420 1,020-1,270
ACT range (mid 50%) 17-24 19-26
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $12,007 $17,613
Sticker cost of attendance $19,568 $25,048
Graduation rate 42% 58%
Retention rate 63% 77%
Undergraduates 3,019 13,313
Student-faculty ratio 15:1 21:1
Setting Joplin, MO Springfield, MO
Type Public Public
Application fee $30 None
Test policy Required Required for some

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

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Common questions

Is Missouri Southern State University or Missouri State University-Springfield harder to get into?

Missouri State University-Springfield is more selective, with a 91% acceptance rate versus 97% at Missouri Southern State University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, Missouri Southern State University or Missouri State University-Springfield?

Missouri Southern State University has the lower average net price ($12,007 versus $17,613). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.

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