MWSU offers certificates, associates, bachelors and masters degrees. Student-centered, high-quality instruction emphasizes experience-based learning and community service. Students at the university can choose from over 90 majors and over 40 minors across 18 academic departments & schools. Missouri Western State University, located on more than 700 acres in St. Joseph, Mo., serves Missouri and surrounding states. Originally founded as St. Joseph Junior College in 1915, Missouri Western was transformed into a four-year college in 1969 and became a full member of the State of Missouri system in 1977. In 2005, Missouri Western received university designation and changed its name to Missouri Western State University. Today, Missouri Western offers certificates, associates, bachelors and masters degrees. Student-centered, high-quality instruction emphasizes experience-based learning and community service.