What's the college scene like in Joplin?

Okay, so I'm a junior and I've started to look into the college situation in Joplin. Anyone out there with a clue about what it's like to attend college there or any notable institutions?

Joplin, Missouri, is home to a few higher education institutions, and each offers a unique environment and distinct programs of study.

One of the well-known institutions is Missouri Southern State University (MSSU). It's a public university with a diverse array of undergraduate programs ranging from Business to Biology and Education. What sets MSSU apart is its mission for international education, designated by an emphasis on a specific world region during a four-year cycle.

Aside from MSSU, you also have Ozark Christian College, a private Bible college with a range of degrees tailored towards Christian service. This institution is known for its spiritual environment, hands-on ministry training, and smaller student-to-faculty ratio, which can afford a more personalized education.

For those seeking a two-year degree or a technical certification, there's also the Crowder College Advanced Training & Technology Center located in Joplin. It's ideal for students looking to enter the workforce directly after college or to transfer to a four-year institution later on.

Like anything else, the "feel" of the college scene somewhat depends on what you're looking for in a campus and an academic experience. Some students enjoy the traditional college environment with sports teams, Greek life, and dorm living at MSSU while others prefer the more intimate, faith-based atmosphere at Ozark Christian College. You might want to visit both to get a sense of which one you'd prefer.

As for the city of Joplin itself, it's a modest-sized city with a mix of urban and suburban living. There are parks, a couple of museums, a sprinkling of restaurants, and shops for students to bask in during their downtime. It's close to larger cities like Springfield and Kansas City if you crave more urban experiences occasionally. Joplin's cost of living is generally lower than the national average, which can make college life a bit more financially manageable compared to some other cities.