Best
Private Colleges in Saint Louis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines core business skills with access to a diverse regional economy. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and organizational behavior. Local options include Saint Louis University, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Washington University in St. Louis, and Harris-Stowe State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations manager, or business development associate across companies and nonprofits.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Saint Louis, MO offers opportunities at Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Programs cover cognitive psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in communication, assessment, and data analysis. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, human resources specialist, or youth services worker, while clinical practice often requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines foundational theory with hands-on problem-solving. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, and artificial intelligence or cybersecurity. Popular local options include Saint Louis University and Washington University in St. Louis, which offer computer science degree programs. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants, working across technology, finance, healthcare, government, and research.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Saint Louis, Missouri combines psychological theory with supervised practice. Typical courses include counseling techniques, human development, ethics, multicultural counseling, assessment, and group therapy. Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Webster University offer relevant study options. Graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career advisors, or case managers, often after completing required postgraduate training, supervised hours, and state licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Saint Louis, Missouri offers preparation for patient-centered care through learning and clinical practice. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, and community health. Popular local options include Saint Louis University, Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, and Saint Louis Community College's Forest Park campus. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or community health, with some advancing into specialty or leadership positions.

Best Colleges in Saint Louis, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 28,108, compared with 55,734 at schools in the top 10%, indicating that top-ranked options have a substantially higher median cost.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 78.38% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 78.38%. Schools receive an average of 7,554.25 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 20,699.3 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,075.5, compared with 1,717 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,212.83 on the SAT and 26.33 on the ACT.
• Schools average 5,004.27 enrolled students, including averages of 342 men and 390.88 women.
• The average graduation rate is 64.56%, compared with 95.2% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 58.5% for men and 68.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 5 offer associate's degrees, 10 offer bachelor's degrees, 12 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. Consider how the average SAT and ACT scores relate to your academic profile, and weigh overall graduation rates against the stronger rate reported for top-10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Saint Louis, MO cost?

For a student pursuing a degree in Saint Louis, MO, the reported average total cost is $31,337.80. Use this figure as a helpful planning benchmark, not a guaranteed bill for completing an entire degree. Your costs can vary by college, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

• Average tuition and fees: $34,507.20
• Average room and board: $19,735.50
• Average books and supplies: $1,349.80

These are separate averages, so don't add them together as if they describe one student's bill; notably, the tuition-and-fees average is higher than the reported total-cost average. For a realistic estimate, check the current cost of attendance for your intended school and consider grants, scholarships, commuting, and living arrangements.

Saint Louis offers a range of options to explore, including Saint Louis University, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Comparing their programs and aid opportunities can help you find a path that fits your goals and budget. With a clear plan, the cost picture can feel more manageable - and pursuing a degree here can be an exciting step toward your future.

How long does it take to finish college in Saint Louis, MO?

A bachelor's degree in Saint Louis, MO, typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree generally takes two. At Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis, program requirements shape timelines; lab-heavy majors, clinical placements, or internships can add time. Full-time enrollment, early planning, and completing prerequisites can help you stay on track.

The average graduation rate is 64.56%, roughly 65 graduates per 100 students; among schools in the top 10%, it averages 95.2%. Rates average 61.38% for men and 64.0% for women.

You may complete your degree sooner by applying AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or selecting an accelerated program. Before enrolling, ask admissions teams which credits transfer, then map your courses with an academic adviser. Confirm campus policies and course availability early, since transfer rules and accelerated options differ by institution and by major.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Saint Louis, MO, earn a median alumni salary of $54,271. At schools in the top 10% nationally, the median rises to $75,473, offering an encouraging picture of the earning potential a degree can bring.

If you're considering Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, or the University of Missouri-St. Louis, your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path. These figures give you a useful benchmark as you compare programs and plan for life after graduation in the Saint Louis area.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Saint Louis?

Beauty is personal, but Washington University in St. Louis is often praised for its Danforth Campus. Collegiate Gothic buildings, leafy paths, and carefully landscaped quads give it a distinctive, welcoming feel. Brookings Hall is a campus landmark, and the mix of historic architecture and green space makes exploring between classes especially enjoyable.

What is the most selective college in Saint Louis?

Washington University in St. Louis is generally the most selective major university in the Saint Louis area. Its admissions process is competitive, and acceptance rates can change from year to year. Applicants should look beyond selectivity, too: academic programs, campus culture, financial aid, and fit can all help make a college a great choice.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Saint Louis, MO Ranking in 2026-2027

Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university known for rigorous academics and broad scholarly opportunities. Its 15,934 enrolled students study in a major metropolitan setting while benefiting from a 94% graduation rate. The acceptance rate is 12%, and total study cost is $64,500. Median alumni salary is $57,449. For Saint Louis, Missouri residents, it offers an academically ambitious local option, though its price and selective admission merit careful financial planning before applying and comparing aid packages.

Saint Louis University is a private Jesuit institution with a Catholic educational tradition and academic programs across many fields. It enrolls 14,519 students, reports an 80% graduation rate, and admits 75% of applicants. Total study cost is $54,760, while median alumni salary is $57,653. For students in Saint Louis, MO, SLU offers city-based study close to home and a campus community. Use those comparisons to judge affordability, career fit, and financial needs before enrolling as a local Saint Louis student.

Webster University is a private, independent institution with a student community and a network of campuses, including its St. Louis-area home. Its 6,289 enrolled students experience a 64% graduation rate and an 86% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $31,450, and median alumni salary is $39,558. For students in Saint Louis, MO, Webster provides a local option with a less selective admissions profile and moderate cost relative to the schools listed. Review program fit and aid to estimate personal expenses.

Maryville University of Saint Louis is a private university based in the St. Louis area, offering students a suburban setting and a range of academic pathways. It enrolls 8,811 students; its graduation rate is 66%, and its acceptance rate is 95%. Total study cost is $24,766, and median alumni salary is $54,271. For students in Saint Louis, MO, Maryville offers a nearby option with the highest acceptance rate among these five schools and the lowest listed cost, worth comparing locally.

Missouri Baptist University is a private Christian university in the St. Louis area, with an educational environment shaped by faith and a close-knit campus community. It enrolls 5,982 students, has a 48% graduation rate, and accepts 69% of applicants. Total study cost is $31,530, while median alumni salary is $42,949. For Saint Louis, MO students, it is a local option with broader admission than Washington University and lower cost than Saint Louis University. Compare program fit and aid before applying.