About MVU
About Missouri Valley University
You want an education built around you, one that prepares you for a career and for life. Missouri Valley has helped students do that since 1889, and that personal approach is still at the heart of Missouri Valley University.
At a glance
Valley in five facts.
- Founded: 1889
- Location: Marshall, Missouri
- Type: Private university
- Teams: The Vikings
- Degrees: Undergraduate and graduate, on campus and online
Who we are
A private university in the heart of Missouri.
Missouri Valley University sits on a 150-acre campus in Marshall, Missouri, within easy reach of Kansas City and Columbia. It’s small enough to feel like family, with room to explore your interests, your career, and the world.
Founded in 1889 as Missouri Valley College, Valley became Missouri Valley University to reflect who we are today: a place where you can earn undergraduate and graduate degrees, on campus or online.
Our teams are the Vikings, and the rallying cry you’ll hear across campus, “Valley Will Roll,” dates back to 1897.
By the numbers
Small enough to know you.
Small classes, students from around the world, and financial support for nearly everyone.
Our mission
Personalized education for life skills and career success.
Your education here is personal. Small classes, hands-on learning, and people who care how you’re doing help you build the skills you need for a meaningful life and a successful career.
Our vision
Missouri Valley University aspires to be the most innovative, student-centered, and engaging private institution in the Midwest. Our goal is to deliver transformative, career-focused learning experiences that foster personal growth through instructional innovation, experiential learning, and high-impact educational practices.
Our values
What guides us.
Five values shape how we teach, work, and treat one another.
A culture of care
Empathy and compassion guide how we treat one another and the decisions we make.
Human potential
We honor the strengths and perspectives each person brings, and we intentionally build the life skills that lead to meaningful lives and career success.
Social responsibility
We strive to create positive change and contribute to the well-being of society.
Integrity and truth
Integrity and a never-ending quest for truth shape the character we develop and the lifelong learning we pursue.
Accountability
We hold ourselves and each other responsible for upholding these values in fulfillment of our mission.
Our story
Rooted in Marshall since 1889.
More than 135 years of Valley history, from the first day of classes to a new chapter as a university.
1889
Missouri Valley College opens on September 17. Baity Hall, the original “Old Main,” still anchors campus.
1897
Graduate William Ira “Pop” Ferguson names the teams the Vikings and coins “Valley Will Roll.”
1942
During World War II, U.S. Navy V-5 and V-12 units train military officers on campus.
1948
The American Humanics program starts here. Now the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, it has grown to more than 40 colleges and universities.
2011
Valley offers its first graduate degree, a master of arts in community counseling.
2012
The first online degree programs launch: bachelor’s degrees in business administration and psychology.
2023
Dr. Joseph A. Parisi becomes Valley’s 14th president.
Today
Missouri Valley College becomes Missouri Valley University, and a new chapter begins.
Get to know MVU
Take the next step.
Visit, check our credentials, or find the people you need.
Visit campus
See Marshall and campus for yourself, and find out what a day at Valley feels like.
Accreditation
MVU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and several programs hold their own accreditation.
Work at MVU
Explore current openings for faculty, staff, coaches, adjuncts, and graduate assistants.
Contact and directory
Find the right office or person, or reach the main line at 660-831-4000.
See Valley for yourself.
The best way to know if MVU is right for you is to visit. Tour campus and picture yourself here.