1. On and after August 28, 2005, the institution formerly known as Missouri Western State College at St. Joseph, Buchanan County, shall hereafter be known as the “Missouri Western State University”. Missouri Western State University is hereby designated and shall hereafter be operated as a statewide institution of applied learning. The Missouri Western State University is hereby designated an open enrollment institution which shall provide associate degree programs except as provided in subsection 2 of this section, baccalaureate degree programs, and graduate degree programs pursuant to subdivisions (1) and (3) of subsection 2 of section 173.005. The institution shall develop such academic support programs as it deems necessary and appropriate to an open enrollment institution with a statewide mission of applied learning.

2. As of July 1, 2010, Missouri Western State University shall discontinue any and all associate degree programs unless the continuation of such associate degree program is approved by the coordinating board for higher education pursuant to subdivision (1)^* of subsection 2 of section 173.005.