Best
Private Colleges in Missouri in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Missouri combines foundational business knowledge with skills for managing organizations. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, management, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Internships can build communication and decision-making abilities. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or financial associate. Popular Missouri choices include the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, University of Central Missouri, Saint Louis University, and Washington University in St. Louis.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Missouri offers pathways to understand behavior and mental processes through coursework in developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, statistics, research methods, and abnormal psychology. Students often gain experience through labs, internships, or community projects. Popular options include the University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri State University, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Graduates may pursue roles in human services, case management, research assistance, education, or business.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Missouri offers paths through universities, including the University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri S&T, and Missouri State University. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or data scientists. Missouri's technology employers and research centers can offer practical opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Missouri can prepare you to support people through mental health, school, or career challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and practicum or internship experience. Popular Missouri options include the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, the University of Central Missouri, and Lindenwood University. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, behavioral health specialists, and substance use counselors; licensure requirements vary statewide.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Missouri offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, ethics, community health, and supervised clinical practice. Students can attend the University of Missouri, Saint Louis University, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri State University, or the University of Central Missouri. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, and community health settings, or pursue specialization.

Best Colleges in Missouri Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 21,900, compared with 36,840 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 14,940.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 75.02% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.02%. Schools receive an average of 2,424.34 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 4,410.
• The median number of male applicants is 250, compared with 558 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,122.62, and the average ACT score is 23.13.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,081.02. Average enrollment is 132.74 men and 152.38 women.
• The average graduation rate is 53.35%, compared with 83% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 50% for men and 56.5% for women.
• There are 34 institutions offering associate's degrees, 49 offering bachelor's degrees, 43 offering master's degrees, and 18 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 43 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, academic measures, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that schools in the top 10% have higher median study costs and graduation rates, but a lower average share of students receiving financial aid, so students should consider which combination best fits their budget and goals.

How much does studying at a college in Missouri cost?

Plan for an average study cost of about $22,744.27 in Missouri, using the supplied statewide figure as a practical benchmark. The reported averages also include $24,656.20 for tuition and fees, $12,098.11 for room and board, and $1,264.90 for books and supplies. These category averages do not add up to the stated total, so treat them as separate reference points rather than a bill for one student.

• Tuition and fees: $24,656.20 average.
• Room and board: $12,098.11 average.
• Books and supplies: $1,264.90 average.
• Overall study-cost benchmark: $22,744.27.

Your actual price will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. For example, compare options such as the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, and Washington University in St. Louis; their costs and aid packages can differ substantially. Check each school's cost-of-attendance estimate and scholarships before deciding. The good news is that comparing tuition, living arrangements, and grants can help you build a Missouri degree plan that fits your budget, without assuming the statewide average is your personal price.

How long does it take to finish college in Missouri?

In Missouri, a bachelor's degree usually takes four years full time; an associate degree typically takes two. Your timeline may stretch if you study part time, change majors, or balance school with work or family. At the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, and Saint Louis University, requirements and course availability shape your pace.

Reported graduation rates add useful context: Missouri's average is 53.35%, compared with 83% among the top 10% of schools. Rates average 52.71% for men and 54.89% for women. These figures show many students do earn degrees, while planning and support matter; ask each campus about advising, tutoring, and degree maps before choosing your school.

Finish sooner by applying AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits, taking summer classes, or selecting an accelerated program if available. Confirm transfer policies and map prerequisites with an advisor. A clear plan can make an earlier finish feel attainable for you.

Salary

College graduates in Missouri earn a median alumni salary of about $43,800. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to roughly $69,087, showing the encouraging earning potential a degree can offer.

Your own salary will depend on factors such as your major, experience, and career path. Students at popular Missouri institutions - including the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, and Washington University in St. Louis - can explore programs that match their goals and help prepare them for the opportunities they want.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Missouri?

"Prettiest" is a matter of taste, but Washington University in St. Louis is a strong contender. Its Danforth Campus is known for Collegiate Gothic architecture, green spaces, and an elegant, cohesive look. If you enjoy historic buildings and leafy campus walks, it's an especially inviting place to explore.

What is the most selective college in Missouri?

Washington University in St. Louis is generally considered Missouri's most selective university, based on how difficult it is to gain admission. Its admissions process is highly competitive, so prospective students should build a balanced college list and give themselves time to prepare a thoughtful application. Selectivity can vary by year and program.

What is the richest university in Missouri?

Washington University in St. Louis has the largest university endowment in Missouri, making it the state's wealthiest university by that common measure. A large endowment can support research, campus resources, and financial aid, though it does not mean every student automatically receives substantial assistance. Check the university's current aid policies when comparing costs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Missouri Ranking in 2026-2027

Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university offering a broad academic environment in Missouri's largest metropolitan area. It enrolls 15,934 students, with a 94% graduation rate and 12% acceptance rate, making admission highly selective. The listed total study cost is $64,500, while median alumni salary is $57,449. For a Missouri student seeking extensive research opportunities, campus resources, and city-based internships, this option combines strong completion outcomes with the highest stated cost among these five schools in particular.

William Jewell College is a private liberal arts college in Liberty, offering Missouri students a small-campus setting near Kansas City. Its enrollment is 1,469, and its graduation rate is 68%; the acceptance rate is 38%. The total listed cost is $19,320, and median alumni salary is $62,797, highest among the five schools. Students weighing cost and earnings may find it worthwhile, especially if they want close-knit classes and access to opportunities in the Kansas City region while studying in Missouri.

Park University is a private institution headquartered in Parkville, with additional learning options that can suit students seeking flexibility in Missouri. It enrolls 5,736 students and reports a 38% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Its total listed cost is $11,018, the lowest here, and median alumni salary is $53,960. For a Missouri student prioritizing lower stated expenses, Park may merit consideration, though its graduation figure is lower than those of the other colleges and deserves attention alongside program fit.

College of the Ozarks, a private Christian liberal arts college in Point Lookout, offers a distinctive campus experience in southern Missouri. It enrolls 1,500 students, graduates 64%, and has a 12% acceptance rate. The listed total cost is $21,800, with median alumni salary of $36,822. Its small enrollment and selective admissions may appeal to students wanting a close campus community. Missouri applicants should compare the stated cost and alumni earnings with their academic goals, preferred location, and financial-aid details before deciding.

Saint Louis University is a private Jesuit research university in St. Louis, bringing a city-centered campus and academic offerings to Missouri students. It enrolls 14,519 students, has an 80% graduation rate, and lists a 75% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $54,760, while median alumni salary is $57,653. Students interested in health, research, or service-oriented learning may appreciate its urban setting. Compare the cost with your intended program and financial aid, especially when weighing it against less expensive Missouri alternatives.