Best
Private Colleges in Springfield in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Springfield, Missouri, combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Students build skills in leadership, communication, data analysis, and decision-making through projects and internships. Popular local options include Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, each offering business-related degree pathways. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or financial services associate, with opportunities across the region.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Springfield, MO, offers opportunities to explore behavior, cognition, development, and mental health. At Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, students can pursue psychology degrees. Typical courses include research methods, statistics, social psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. A bachelor's degree may prepare graduates for roles in human resources, social services, case assistance, market research, or behavioral support. Counseling and clinical psychologist careers generally require graduate education and professional licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Springfield, Missouri, combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving. At Missouri State University and Drury University, students can pursue computer science coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, software engineering, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Graduates commonly become software developers, web developers, systems analysts, database administrators, or cybersecurity specialists. Internships and projects help build practical experience, while electives may cover artificial intelligence, networking, and mobile app development, depending on the institution and degree path.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Springfield, Missouri, combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, group counseling, multicultural practice, and research. Students build listening, crisis response, and treatment-planning skills through supervised fieldwork. Missouri State University offers graduate counseling pathways, while Evangel University provides counseling study with faith-integrated options. Graduates may pursue licensure and work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or case managers in clinics, schools, hospitals, community agencies, and private practices.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Springfield, MO offers pathways from practical nursing to bachelor's-level preparation. Typical courses cover anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and medical-surgical, pediatric, and psychiatric nursing, alongside supervised clinical practice. Popular options include Missouri State University, Cox College, and Ozarks Technical Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and community health settings; experience can support roles in care coordination or specialty nursing.

Best Colleges in Springfield, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $14,580, compared with $30,490.80 at schools in the top 10% - $15,910.80 higher at top-ranked schools.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students across the ranking, compared with 69.75% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 69.75%. Schools receive an average of 986.5 applicants, while top-10% schools average 2,241.2 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 277, compared with 350.5 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,160 and 27, respectively.
• Schools average 1,050.5 enrolled students, including averages of 112 men and 87.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 64.86%, compared with 94% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 54% for men and 66% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree. Five schools are coeducational.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes, admissions selectivity, enrollment, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and substantially higher graduation rates, while the overall ranking reports broader average access to financial aid.

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

For a student planning to earn a degree in Springfield, MO, the reported average total cost of studying is $17,171.43. This is a useful planning benchmark, but it is not necessarily the full price of a degree: the figures do not specify a program length or whether they represent one academic year.

• Average tuition and fees: $18,519.71.
• Average room and board: $9,421.25.
• Average books and supplies: $1,236.75.

Because these averages total $29,177.71, above the reported total, they may use separate bases; don't add them as one bill. Compare program and housing choices at Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, then request each school's cost details. Residency, course load, scholarships, grants, and living at home can change your budget. Local options can help you find a campus and aid package that fit; estimate costs by semester and confirm whether tuition is per credit, term, or year.

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

In Springfield, MO, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two. At Missouri State University or Drury University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and how many credits you bring in. Balancing work or family may extend that timeline, and steady progress still counts.

Across Springfield schools in the data, the average graduation rate is 64.86%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 94%. Rates average 57.5% for men and 70% for women. These figures show many students complete, but they are not a promise of your individual timeline.

To finish sooner, consider:

• Transfer eligible credits or exam-based credit before enrolling, and ask Missouri State, Drury, or Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC) how they apply them.
• Use summer sessions, online courses, or a heavier course load when manageable; map prerequisites with an adviser to avoid delays.

Salary

Graduates in Springfield, Missouri, can expect a median alumni salary of about $40,912. The median for graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% is about $56,944, suggesting that attending a highly ranked institution may offer a stronger earnings benchmark.

Springfield students can explore options such as Missouri State University, Drury University, and Ozarks Technical Community College. Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you plan for life after graduation.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Springfield?

There's no objective winner, but Drury University is a strong contender for the prettiest campus in Springfield. Its leafy grounds, historic buildings, and intimate scale give it a welcoming, classic-college feel. If you're visiting, take a walk around campus and see whether its architecture and green spaces feel like a place where you could picture yourself studying.

What is the most selective college in Springfield?

Evangel University is often among Springfield's more selective colleges, though the answer can vary by year and by how selectivity is measured. Acceptance rates and admission requirements change, so check each school's latest figures before comparing. For a useful local comparison, look at Evangel alongside Drury University and Missouri State University, and consider your intended major and academic profile.

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

Drury University, in Springfield, Missouri, offers a private university setting with liberal arts roots and career-focused programs. A student considering study in Springfield can access the city's campus and local services while choosing from undergraduate and graduate options. Drury enrolls 1,698 students, and reports a 62% graduation rate and 58% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $35,400, while median alumni salary is $43,800. These figures offer useful context for comparing affordability and outcomes before applying and planning your budget.

Evangel University is a faith-based private institution in Springfield, Missouri, with an explicitly Christian learning environment and programs across several fields. Its campus location gives students access to Springfield's amenities and community opportunities. Evangel enrolls 2,621 students; its graduation rate is 65% and acceptance rate is 72%. The reported total cost of studying is $27,218, and median alumni salary is $38,023. Prospective students should compare program offerings, aid and personal fit alongside these figures when deciding whether to study locally.

Evangel University-College of Online Learning offers an online-focused route associated with Evangel University, giving students flexibility to pursue coursework beyond a traditional campus schedule. Although based on online learning, students in Springfield, Missouri, can consider it while staying close to home and local responsibilities. Enrollment is not reported. The school lists a 50% graduation rate and 49% acceptance rate; total study cost is $7,680, and median alumni salary is $38,023. Check degree availability, delivery requirements, and financial aid before enrolling.

Cox College, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a health-sciences-focused college offering professional education for students interested in healthcare careers. Studying locally may let you connect with Springfield's healthcare community during your education, though you should confirm clinical and program arrangements directly. Cox enrolls 736 students and reports a 100% graduation rate and 100% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $11,772, while median alumni salary is $70,087. Review program-specific admission requirements and costs to understand how figures match your plans.

Mission University in Springfield, Missouri, is a small institution with a faith-oriented identity, offering a close-knit setting for students seeking higher education in the area. Its local location can suit students who want to study in Springfield while remaining connected to community and personal commitments. Mission enrolls 434 students and has a 44% graduation rate. Acceptance rate and median alumni salary data are unavailable. Total study cost is $15,750. Ask about admission criteria, financial aid, and student support before deciding.