Find out more about Northwest Missouri State University

Transition from a technical expert into a professional leader with the online Bachelor of Applied Science degree program from Northwest Missouri State University. The B.A.S. offers you a flexible degree completion pathway after pursuing a vocational or technical degree such as a technical Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or certificate from a regionally accredited community college.

The 100% online B.A.S. enables you to maximize the transfer of vocational and technical courses towards a four-year degree, thus minimizing the number of Northwest core (general education) courses required. This program gives you the flexibility to tailor your studies to your personal and professional goals with curriculum designed around your choices within a specific discipline area.

Pave your own career path in the Bachelor of Science in General Studies online. Designed to meet your unique interests, this highly versatile online program offers you the flexibility of personalizing your college curriculum based on your personal and professional goals and previously earned credit hours.

In the highly adaptable B.S. in General Studies online program, you will be able to explore your interests in unique and innovative ways. You will take five courses in three emphasis areas and can choose from the established Northwest listing, including business, communication, marketing, psychology or nursing. Or, you can create your own emphasis area through a proposal process with your academic advisor.

Learn about the constitutional, political and administrative aspects of the federal system with the Bachelor of Science in Political Science - American Institutions online program. Examine and analyze political theory and constitutional law through a curriculum that integrates philosophical concepts.

Coursework for the bachelor of political science online program focuses on legislative functions and the legal system while empowering you to pursue graduate study or roles in law or the public sector. Finish faster by transferring up to 90 credit hours toward your degree.

Study international political trends in the online Bachelor of Political Science - Global Affairs program. This dynamic program explores the complex history of African government and compares the philosophies of Western and Eastern politics.

This online political science bachelor’s degree elevates your research, critical analysis and public policy expertise, empowering you to make significant contributions to international politics. Benefit from our generous transfer policy and finish faster with credit for prior learning.

Gain experience with advanced research methods with the Bachelor of Science in Political Science - Minor Required online program. Improve your ability to determine the accuracy of information and analyze public policy while benefiting from our generous transfer credit policy.

Through continuously updated curriculum, you will learn about the principles and problems of American constitutional government and develop the ability to draw systematic comparisons between nation states. This bachelor of political science online program empowers you to shape the future through advocacy, consulting or policy creation.

This online Bachelor of Science in Political Science - Public Administration program is designed for working professionals seeking an accelerated pathway to roles in government or public organizations. Our 100% online coursework develops your collaborative management skills so you can lead effectively.

Explore relevant concepts like budget administration and behavior sciences and earn your degree in less time with our generous transfer credit policy. The bachelor’s in political science and public administration program prepares you to be a change agent for nonprofits or government agencies.

Transition from a technical expert into a professional leader with the online Bachelor of Applied Science degree program from Northwest Missouri State University. The B.A.S. offers you a flexible degree completion pathway after pursuing a vocational or technical degree such as a technical Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or certificate from a regionally accredited community college.

The 100% online B.A.S. enables you to maximize the transfer of vocational and technical courses towards a four-year degree, thus minimizing the number of Northwest core (general education) courses required. This program gives you the flexibility to tailor your studies to your personal and professional goals with curriculum designed around your choices within a specific discipline area.

Become an asset to any organization with the analytical, technical and practical accounting skills you will develop in the accelerated bachelor’s degree in public accounting from Northwest Missouri State University. This 100% online program is designed to provide you with a complete understanding of accounting while successfully preparing you for the CPA exam. The pass rate on the CPA exam for Northwest students has historically been about 15% higher than the state average.

Learn to organize, maintain and evaluate the financial operations of an organization while gaining the expertise to provide sound financial advice and recommendations. Advance your knowledge of federal income tax compliance and increase your awareness and understanding of the legal environment of business. In addition to traditional lectures, this program includes hands-on interaction and application so you can gain a better understanding of key concepts. Projects and case studies also put your knowledge to practical use.

Gain expertise in finance, management and marketing in this customizable, 100% online B.S. in Business Administration program. Develop the core knowledge required for corporate and government roles or entrepreneurship.

Personalized support and real-world case studies will prepare you to think strategically, lead cross-functional teams and take charge of important projects. The Business Administration degree online program guides you in planning, decision-making and overcoming business challenges, giving you practical skills for success in any industry.

Prepare to become a strategic leader with the 100% online B.S. in Finance – Corporate Finance program. Coursework features real-world case studies and provides hands-on experience in accounting, corporate operations, financial analysis and investment management.

Learn from faculty dedicated to your success as you develop expertise applicable in a wide range of industries, from banking and financial services to insurance and healthcare. This flexible bachelor’s degree in corporate finance can also open the door to positions in government and consulting, or help you start your own business.

The online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management program prepares you to support organizations in managing benefits, recruitment, selection, professional development, and compensation. This is a high growth, high impact field with plenty of potential. The program combines general education requirements with courses that examine human resource management in the workplace.

Throughout the coursework, you will gain the skills needed to help organizations focus on their people and their success, from hiring the right personnel to developing their skills and ensuring that they are compensated fairly. As a graduate, you will be able to work with a wide variety of employers in the public and private sectors.

This 100% online B.S. in Management Information Systems: Data Analytics program prepares you to detect meaning in raw data. You will learn how data affects corporate decision-making and gain the experience to become a trusted analyst who can bridge the gap between tech and business professionals in any field.

Emphasis is placed on utilizing specialized computer systems that help you inform conclusions and identify patterns by transforming and organizing data. Attentive Northwest faculty are industry experts and encourage you to think critically and act decisively while you develop qualifications you can apply immediately to your resume.

Positively influence mass audiences using succinct and modern language with the Bachelor of Science in Public Relations online. This in-demand program prepares you to serve as an insightful and eloquent public relations representative for any organization.

In the online public relations degree program, you will develop your communication skills across multiple media platforms, focusing on key aspects such as writing, social media, and information management. You will grow your foundational knowledge of public relations techniques and expand your skills in both written and verbal communication. Plus, you will strengthen your skills as a creative thinker and problem solver and be fully prepared to view all sides of modern-day challenges and offer strategic solutions.

The online Graduate Certificate in Accounting from Northwest Missouri State University offers a fast, flexible pathway for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. Designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, this 12-credit program can be completed in as few as eight months. The curriculum emphasizes advanced accounting principles, data analytics, and regulatory compliance, preparing students for leadership roles in public, corporate, or government accounting. All courses are taught by experienced faculty and can be applied toward the university’s MBA in Accounting. Ideal for working professionals, this certificate supports career advancement and CPA exam preparation while offering the convenience of fully online learning.

The online Graduate Certificate in Finance from Northwest Missouri State University provides professionals with advanced financial knowledge to support strategic decision-making in corporate, nonprofit, and government settings. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field, this 12-credit program can be completed in as few as eight months. Students gain expertise in financial analysis, investment strategies, and risk management while learning to evaluate financial performance and apply data-driven insights. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and ethical leadership, with all courses taught by experienced faculty. Credits earned can be applied toward the university’s MBA in Finance, offering a flexible pathway to career advancement in financial management and planning.

The online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management from Northwest Missouri State University prepares professionals to lead strategic HR initiatives across industries. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field, this 12-credit program can be completed in as few as eight months. Students gain expertise in talent acquisition, employee development, compensation systems, and labor relations while learning to align HR practices with organizational goals. The curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, data-informed decision-making, and legal compliance, with all courses taught by experienced faculty. Credits earned can be applied toward the university’s MBA in Human Resource Management, offering a flexible pathway to career advancement in HR leadership and consulting.

The online Graduate Certificate in Marketing from Northwest Missouri State University empowers professionals to lead data-driven marketing strategies across industries. Designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field, this 12-credit program can be completed in as few as eight months. Students gain expertise in consumer behavior, digital marketing, brand management, and marketing analytics while learning to apply research insights and emerging technologies to real-world campaigns. The curriculum emphasizes strategic planning, ethical decision-making, and measurable outcomes, with all courses taught by experienced faculty. Credits earned can be applied toward the university’s MBA in Marketing, offering a flexible pathway to career advancement in marketing leadership and consulting.

Expand your expertise in communication and mass media with the Master of Arts in Strategic Communication online. Our faculty intentionally designed the curriculum to focus on helping students build skills that will translate to various professions in the field. With that in mind, our program offers more media course content than most other strategic communication programs. As a working student, you can apply your learnings immediately in your current position.

Courses include study on communication campaigns, public relations, research, argumentation and more. All classes are 100% online and only 7 weeks long, allowing you to earn your degree faster from any location that is convenient to your lifestyle.

Acquire the knowledge essential for a managerial role within the accounting functions of business while you earn the credits needed to sit for the CPA exam with the Master of Business Administration in Accounting online program. This program enables you to complete qualifying hours that can be applied toward the educational requirement for sitting for the CPA exam.

Enhance your decision-making abilities with curriculum that provides in-depth explorations of topics that affect a company's professional accounting policies. You will gain advanced understanding in areas such as research practices, audit procedures, taxation, fundamentals of cost accounting, accounting ethics and more. Plus, prepare for managerial roles with a foundational business background by studying topics such as economics, finance, marketing and organizational behavior. GMAT waivers are available as part of our streamlined admissions process.

This 100% online MBA in Finance is the ideal track to earning a managerial role overseeing a finance department by combining multiple areas of emphasis, giving you experience in organizational behavior, strategic marketing, managerial accounting and other vital business areas. Upon graduation, you will have expanded knowledge of financial institutions, international finance and investments.

The finance MBA degree online curriculum focuses on expanding your skills and confidence in decision-making, giving you additional understanding of economics and developing your comprehension of the role financial institutions play in the global economy.

Advance your career to upper-level management positions with the qualifications you will gain in the Master of Business Administration General online program. This MBA online offers you a strong business foundation and equips you with essential decision-making and problem-solving techniques to develop your leadership strengths.

In this MBA program, you will study relevant, real-world business topics through extensive analyses and applications. You will gain a thorough understanding of entrepreneurship, marketing communication, human resource management, international business and more.

Prepare for leadership roles in the exciting and evolving realm of municipal and nonprofit recreation with the Master of Science in Recreation with an emphasis in Recreation Management online. Gain an in-depth understanding of fast-moving, increasingly complex recreational challenges while deepening your credentials for leading programs in youth and municipal organizations, parks and recreation departments and more.

In this online program, you will study topics such as facility design and management, recreation programming, commercial recreation, and athletics for active adults. Our curriculum is aligned with the requirements for Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, which is essential for high-level employment in the industry.

Expand your leadership capabilities for sports organizations ranging from recreational to professional with the Master of Science in Recreation with an emphasis in Sports Management online. Follow your passion for athletics into a variety of exciting career paths while learning real-world management skills applicable to professional sports, youth organizations, fitness or recreational endeavors - and much more.

In this online recreation master's program, you will enrich your knowledge in areas such as sports communication, facility design and management, and finance and marketing in recreation. Our core coursework covers broader topics such as data analytics, risk management, grant writing, and human resources.

The online Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics from Northwest Missouri State University equips professionals with the skills to transform data into strategic insights across business, healthcare, and technology sectors. Designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in any field, this 12-credit program can be completed in as few as eight months. Students learn to apply statistical methods, data visualization tools, and predictive modeling techniques using industry-standard platforms. The curriculum emphasizes real-world problem solving, ethical data use, and communication of complex findings to diverse audiences. All courses are taught by experienced faculty and can be applied toward the university’s MBA in Data Analytics, offering a flexible pathway to career advancement in data-driven roles.

The online Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science program is designed for students looking to gain knowledge and skills in geographic information systems (GIS) without pursuing master’s degrees.  Students will study the science and issues of using GIS technology, including modeling with GIS, geostatic, cartographic design, GIS database design, and project management.  Courses may include:

• Applications of Remotely Sensed Data
• Cartographic Design and Visualization
• Spatial Analysis and Geostatistics
• Raster-based GIS and Modeling
• GIS Theory and Research

Our MBA in Geographic Information Systems online program helps you expand your acumen as a consultant, business leader, data gatherer and analyzer. In addition to specialized GIS curriculum, MBA core coursework places emphasis on developing management skills through relevant, real-world applications.

This affordable geographic information systems degree program gives you the opportunity to complete a rigorous study of vector and raster data models, crucial GIS operations and key GIS principles. Specialized courses examine cartography, spatial analytics, geostatistics and real-world case studies to help you implement GIS solutions.

Advance your ability to align technology solutions with organizational goals through the online Master of Science in Information Systems program. This cutting-edge pathway explores project management tools, database design and information system analysis to expand your career opportunities.

Drive improved decision-making for organizations with data management and analytics techniques you will gain through collaborations with industry-connected faculty. The online master’s in information systems program features curriculum aligned with employer feedback and boasts a high placement rate among Northwest alumni entering this booming field.

Become a positive force in combating crime with the knowledge and skills you will gain in the Bachelor of Science in Criminology online. This 100% online degree program prepares you with an understanding of the psychological and sociological factors of criminal behavior as well as a study of the social and legal influences on crime in America.

In the online criminology degree program, you will take a wide-lens look into various elements that affect crime, including psychology, sociology, statistics, political science and criminal justice. You will expand your critical thinking skills, learn effective methods for interacting with both criminals and victims and study the dynamics between crime and community over time. Northwest's program uniquely includes political science courses as part of the curriculum to equip you with a broad view of crime, examining root causes at both individual and societal levels.

The Ed.S. - Educational Diagnostician gives post-graduate students the opportunity to become certified psychological examiners in Missouri. Courses will build your knowledge for assessing students, discovering their unique learning needs, collaborating with others to create ideal learning environments for them and tracking their growth over time.

The culminating capstone project includes the creation of an evaluation plan and report you can use to showcase your expertise in the field. You will finish with qualifications needed for becoming a School Psychological Examiner, Academic Assessment Specialist or Educational Diagnostician.

The Graduate Certificate in Instructional Technology from Northwest Missouri State University is a fully online, accelerated program designed for educators, trainers, and instructional designers seeking to enhance their expertise in technology-integrated instruction. Completed in as few as eight months, the 12-credit curriculum covers instructional design, multimedia integration, online course development, and the evaluation of educational technologies. No teaching certificate is required, and all credits can be applied toward the university’s MSEd in Curriculum & Instruction – Teaching Technology. Taught by full-time faculty, the program prepares professionals to lead in virtual and blended learning environments, improve instructional outcomes, and potentially qualify for dual credit teaching roles in Missouri. This certificate offers a flexible pathway for those looking to modernize their instructional approach and expand career opportunities in education and training.

Analyze, assess, and determine eligibility for students with exceptionalities, such as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, when you become a certified school psychological examiner through this educational diagnostician master's degree. You will develop effective learning plans, conduct formal evaluations to determine eligibility for special education services, create multifaceted approaches for student success.

Through an experiential curriculum developed based on feedback from teachers and administrators, you will explore literacy-based assessments, theories of applied learning, theories of individual cognition and academic interventions. Field experiences and supportive mentors are purposefully integrated into the program to ensure a meaningful learning experience.

Prepare to teach students with mild or moderate learning and/or physical disabilities in the Master of Science in Education in Special Education online program. This MSEd. offers field experiences embedded throughout the coursework and effectively prepares you for teaching certification in Missouri.

In this TEACH Grant eligible program, you will learn to collaborate with stakeholders in culturally responsible ways to address the needs of students with disabilities. You will learn to apply evidence-based instructional strategies suited to fit students' individualized educational goals and apply multiple methods of assessment and data-gathering to measure their progress.

Our online MSEd. in Curriculum & Instruction - Teaching Technology puts you at the forefront of integrating technology in the classroom. In this graduate C&I program, you will develop relevant, up-to-date teaching strategies to engage and motivate K-12 students. Practical, hands-on coursework means you can make an immediate impact on student outcomes.

Northwest is renowned for exceptional education programs and online courses are taught by the same respected faculty who teach on campus. Affordably priced, this 30-hour program can be completed in as few as 12 months.

In the MSEd. in Educational Diagnostician program, prepare for a diagnostic role in supporting student success in which you will evaluate and apply research methods, analyze student behaviors, and design effective educational plans. Enrich your learning with embedded field experiences and a supportive mentor to guide your applied learnings.

This online program uses an experiential curriculum covering such vital topics as literacy-based assessments, academic interventions, theories of applied learning and individual cognition, and more. A capstone project ensures your readiness to design and implement an evidence-based educational diagnostic program.

Engage diverse secondary and post-secondary students and inspire them to share your passion for history and lifelong learning. Designed for working educators, the online MSEd. in Teaching History program prepares you to teach more effectively, applying advanced knowledge of pedagogical theories, curriculum development, educational technology and multicultural historical perspectives. Tailor this education master’s in teaching history program to your interests with a wide choice of electives. Completion of this degree allows you to teach dual-credit courses, which can increase job placement opportunities and salary rates offered.

As part of the MSEd. in Teaching Mathematics program, you will acquire the qualifications to teach higher levels of math and even dual-credit courses, which leads to more opportunities and higher salary. Plus, you’ll study how to apply mathematics concepts for better understanding of modern trends in various disciplines. Increase your credentials for mathematics department leadership positions by taking our courses on data, curriculum, and issues within the education system. This is the degree you need to propel yourself into a higher-level position.

The online Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Northwest Missouri State University prepares students to promote wellness and address health disparities across diverse communities. This accelerated, customizable program emphasizes evidence-based practice, policy analysis, and emergency preparedness, with opportunities to build real-world experience through grant writing and applied learning. Students explore epidemiology, health communication, environmental health, and global health systems while developing skills in data analysis, program design, and cross-sector collaboration. With up to 90 transfer credits accepted, the degree supports flexible pathways to careers in education, advocacy, and healthcare or to graduate study in public health and related fields.

Our online MBA in Healthcare Management degree program gives you the advanced tools to become a trusted decision-maker in your organization. Whether your goal is to begin a rewarding career in the medical sector, or you're an experienced healthcare provider ready to seize new opportunities, this in-demand program is designed for your success.

Our online MBA in Healthcare Management curriculum examines recent trends and emerging opportunities; administrative behavior topics including teamwork, motivation and logistical development; laws, policies and processes unique to the healthcare industry from a financial, legal and human resource lens; and managerial accounting. You will complete an executive seminar that analyzes issues faced by senior management and contemporary business practices utilized by successful organizations.

The Master of Science in Nutrition online program offers specialized tracks to cater to diverse career interests in the field of nutrition and dietetics. Designed for aspiring leaders, the program emphasizes rigorous academic preparation and practical experience.

Broaden your expertise and follow your passion into therapy for adults and children in recreational settings with the Master of Science in Recreation with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation online. Prepare for leading roles in recreational therapy while developing a well-rounded background applicable to adaptive youth sports, adult therapies, care agencies and more.

In this online program, your studies will include strength-based practices and interventions, psychological theories in recreational therapy, and managerial functions.

Our agricultural economics MBA, comprised of completely online courses focused on business management, agricultural resources, and macroeconomics, trains you to make crucial decisions in agricultural business. With in-depth study on how financial skills, accounting concepts and marketing strategy should be used in agricultural environments, you will be ready with the expertise today’s top agricultural economics professionals need. Our targeted course lineup prepares you to graduate qualified to lead in the agriculture industry.

Whether you are specializing your skillset as a math instructor or advancing your career in a different field, this Master of Science in Mathematics online prepares you for upper-level math positions in education, computer systems design, scientific and technical consulting, corporate management, and depository credit intermediation.

Our cutting-edge curriculum will help you elevate your professional career and enable you to teach dual credit high school classes or instruct at a community college. Explore modern data analysis methods, including Statistical Machine Learning (SML), elementary statistical concepts and computer methods in statistics, classical number theory, engineering and statistical modeling problems, and abstract algebra.

The online Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate from Northwest Missouri State University prepares registered nurses to take on instructional roles in academic, clinical, and patient education settings. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, this 15-credit program can be completed in as few as four to eight months and does not require a master’s degree for admission. Students deepen their expertise in pathophysiology, health assessment, and pharmacology across the lifespan while learning to design innovative, evidence-based curricula and deliver healthcare education using current technologies and teaching strategies. The program includes experiential learning and a capstone project aligned with national nurse educator competencies. Graduates are equipped to pursue roles such as patient educator, clinical educator, hospital educator, or military nursing instructor, with support from faculty mentors and nurse experts throughout the program.

The online Nurse Administrator Graduate Certificate from Northwest Missouri State University is designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking leadership roles in healthcare administration. This 15-credit program can be completed in as few as four to eight months and does not require a master’s degree for admission. Students gain advanced knowledge in healthcare finance, organizational behavior, and leadership strategies while developing skills in personnel management, budgeting, and strategic planning. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based decision-making and includes a capstone project aligned with national nurse administrator competencies. Graduates are prepared to pursue roles such as nurse manager, clinical director, or healthcare administrator, supported by experienced faculty and a flexible online format tailored to working professionals.

With the demand for nurse educators on the rise, the MSN - Nurse Educator online program gives you practical tools for dynamic career growth. Build your leadership skills and healthcare policy expertise to advance your professional practice while learning curriculum development processes, instructional strategies and more to advance your role as a nurse educator.

In this innovative and student-centered online program, you can help shape the future of nursing through practical knowledge tailored to your interests and professional goals. You will build an employer-ready portfolio throughout the accredited program, culminating with an experiential capstone project. An active and unencumbered United States issued Registered Nursing license is required to apply for the MSN - Nurse Educator program.

With the demand for nursing administrators on the rise, the MSN - Nurse Executive online program gives you practical tools for dynamic career growth. Build your leadership skills and healthcare policy expertise to advance your professional practice while preparing for a broad range of administrative roles.

In this fully accredited program, equip yourself with in-depth proficiency in evidence-based practice research, healthcare policies and ethics, organizational structures and processes, culture and collaboration, and more. You also will study fiduciary responsibility and regulatory systems to advance high quality, safe, professional practice. An active and unencumbered United States issued Registered Nursing license is required to apply for the MSN - Nurse Executive program.

The 100% online psychology degree from Northwest Missouri State University prepares you with the critical knowledge and skills you need to pursue a rewarding career in the field of human behavior. As a psychology major, you will learn to read a person's thoughts and feelings beyond face value.

Our real-life studies converge both theory and practical application. Plus, our expert faculty embed the most sought-after workplace skills as part of the curriculum so you can be fully prepared to step into essential roles in professional settings.

Prepare to make a difference by developing a deeper understanding of how societal structures shape human interactions in an increasingly diverse, multicultural society. Designed for working professionals, the affordable B.S. in Sociology online program strengthens your critical thinking and analysis skills valued across many industries as you study topics such as sociological theories and research; family dynamics; race, ethnicity and immigration; healthcare disparities; criminology and more.