The Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics and Computing / 81
Dean: Cleo Samudzi, Ph.D.
Director of Student Achievement: Neal Davis
Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics and Computing (Missouri Academy or MASMC) is a two-year early-entrance-to-college, residential program for academically high performing high school students. It is located on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. The program selects students (domestic and international) who have completed 10th grade at their traditional high schools, and therefore replaces the junior and senior years of traditional high school. The curriculum consists of college coursework taught by professors at Northwest Missouri State University. Missouri Academy students attend the same classes with traditional university students, and professors have the same high expectations of Missouri Academy students as they do for traditional university students. Thus, all courses taken by Missouri Academy students are:
- Taught on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University
- Taught by regular faculty members of Northwest Missouri State University
- Taken in competition with degree candidates at Northwest Missouri State University
- Offered as regular part of the Northwest Missouri State University academic curriculum
High school students who successfully complete this program receive an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Science and Mathematics, as well as a high school diploma. It is an opportunity for exceptional students to live and study in a community of peers. The Missouri Academy is highly selective and only the best and brightest students are admitted to undertake what is arguably one of the most difficult high school curricula in the U.S.A. By most measures, this program has been successful since its inception in August 2000.
The primary goals of the Missouri Academy are: 1) to prepare students for continued success in higher education in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and 2) to provide a solid foundation of education, integrity and quality and thus, to enable its graduates to have a lasting positive impact in society. Missouri Academy students participate in many co-curricular and extra-curricular activities that offer opportunities for enduring friendships, personal growth, recreation and leadership.
Many Missouri Academy graduates have gone on to attend in-state institutions such as the University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Northwest Missouri State University, Washington University in St. Louis, Truman State University, and out-of-state institutions such as Boston University, University of Illinois, Cornell University, MIT, University of Iowa, and many others.
Missouri residents selected to attend the Missouri Academy receive scholarships covering about 45% of tuition/fees for two years (completion of the FAFSA is required). The Missouri Academy is committed to being affordable for all Missouri students regardless of family income. Therefore, depending on demonstrated need based on information provided on the FAFSA form, students receive scholarships to cover 20%-100% of the room costs. All students are expected to pay their board (meal) costs.
Applicants to the Missouri Academy must be currently enrolled in the tenth grade (or equivalent) of their traditional high school. A minimum ACT composite score of 23 and a mathematics sub-score of 24, or a minimum SAT composite score of 1060, with 560 in mathematics, is required for eligibility. Geometry and Algebra II must be completed prior to beginning the first trimester at the Missouri Academy. Admission decisions are based on: 1) standardized test scores – ACT or SAT; 2) cumulative GPA in the 9th and 10th grades – minimum acceptable cumulative GPA is 3.5; 3) class rank – prefer students in the top 10% of class; 4) positive evaluations from three high school teachers; 5) student essays; and 6) official school records including disciplinary and tardy record.
Additional information and application forms can be obtained from the Missouri Academy by calling toll free (877) 398-4615, or by email at MASMC@nwmissouri.edu or at www.nwmissouri.edu/MASMC.
Statement of Mission
The Missouri Academy of Science, Mathematics and Computing is an early-entrance-to-college school at Northwest Missouri State University. Utilizing the principles of Integrity and Quality (IQ), this living and learning community prepares its graduates to succeed in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and other academic fields at any higher education institution – thus empowering them to contribute to society in ethical and meaningful ways.
Degree Program
The Missouri Academy has a structured curriculum leading to the Associate of Science degree in Mathematics and Science. This degree is designed for the Missouri Academy only, and not for traditional students at Northwest Missouri State University.