Northwest Missouri State University has been recognized as a leading institution for international students in the United States, according to the latest Open Doors Report. The university improved its ranking to No. 14 among master's colleges and universities, up from No. 16 last year.
In addition to this ranking, Northwest received the Open Doors 75 Seal of Excellence, marking 75 years since the report's inception. Thomas Merlot, director at Northwest, commented on this achievement: “This recognition is one of many examples of the Northwest commitment to international education.” He further emphasized the importance of community support in achieving such accolades.
The university saw a significant increase in international student enrollment during the 2023-24 academic year, with numbers rising by 36 percent to a total of 1,742 students. This reflects a broader national trend reported by Open Doors, which noted an all-time high of over 1.1 million international students across U.S. institutions.
The annual report is produced by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE). It provides comprehensive data on international student flows into and out of the U.S., having been published annually since 1949.
Northwest Missouri State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs at its Maryville campus. Founded in 1905, it boasts high retention and graduation rates compared to its peers. The university emphasizes profession-based learning and offers numerous opportunities for students to gain practical experience through various programs and employment positions.
For more information about Northwest Missouri State University, visit their official website.