Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is a public university located in Joplin, Missouri. It was established in 1937 and is part of the Missouri public higher education system. As a public institution, MSSU receives funding from state appropriations and operates under the governance of the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education.
The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing accessible and affordable education. Public universities like MSSU typically have lower tuition rates for in-state students compared to private institutions, aligning with their mission to serve the broader community.