Best
Value Colleges in Missouri in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Missouri builds skills in leadership, finance, marketing, operations, and decision-making. Typical courses include accounting, economics, business law, management, organizational behavior, statistics, and strategic planning. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or entrepreneur. Missouri schools offering business administration programs include the University of Missouri in Columbia, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, Missouri State University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Missouri offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and research. Typical coursework includes developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, statistics, and research methods. Universities such as the University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and Missouri State University offer psychology programs. Graduates may pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, or human resources specialists. Advanced clinical or counseling positions generally require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Missouri combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and may pursue internships with employers. Popular options include the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Washington University in St. Louis, and Saint Louis University. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Missouri combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Programs at the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, University of Central Missouri, Lindenwood University, and Webster University offer options. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselors, licensed professional counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or case managers. Licensure requirements vary by position and typically involve graduate-level study, supervised experience, and examinations.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Missouri prepares students to provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Programs cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical practice. Students build communication, critical-thinking, and patient-safety skills through placements. Missouri options include the University of Missouri, Saint Louis University, University of Missouri-Kansas City, and Missouri State University. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, outpatient practices, or public-health agencies.

Best Colleges in Missouri Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 19,530.0, compared with 35,243.1 at schools in the top 10%, indicating that the top-ranked group has a higher median cost.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, versus 75.65% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.65%. Schools receive an average of 3,599.47 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 8,352.0 applicants.
• The median number of male applicants is 560.0, compared with 814.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,140.52 on the SAT and 23.65 on the ACT.
• Schools average 4,292.44 enrolled students, including an average of 255.19 men and 305.76 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.14%, compared with 75.0% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 50.0% for men and 56.5% for women.
• There are 42 institutions offering associate's degrees, 64 offering bachelor's degrees, 55 offering master's degrees, and 23 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 59 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid availability, and consider acceptance rates, applicant volume, test-score averages, enrollment figures, graduation outcomes, and the degree levels offered. The figures show that the top 10% of schools have higher median costs and applicant volumes, but also higher average graduation rates, so weigh these factors against your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Missouri cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Missouri is $21,579.11, a useful starting point as you plan for a degree. Average tuition and fees are $21,274.86, while average room and board add $11,850.96, and books and supplies average $1,176.23. These figures are separate reported averages, so they do not reconcile as a single bill; actual totals depend on the school, residency, housing, and program.

Missouri students can compare the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, Saint Louis University, and Washington University in St. Louis. Costs vary by campus, residency, housing, and program, so check each college's current annual cost estimate. Subtract grants and scholarships you may receive, and budget for transportation, personal expenses, and program fees. Living at home or sharing housing may reduce expenses. With careful comparison, you can find a welcoming Missouri campus and a budget that feels achievable for your next steps.

How long does it take to finish college in Missouri?

In Missouri, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college commonly takes two. At the University of Missouri in Columbia or Missouri State University in Springfield, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and how many credits you bring with you. Part-time study, changing majors, or pausing school can extend the journey, so planning can make graduation feel more manageable.

• Finish sooner by earning AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credit in high school and transferring eligible credits from a regionally accredited college.
• Take summer or winter courses, choose a full course load, and meet an academic adviser each term to stay on track.
• Ask whether your program offers accelerated schedules, online classes, or credit for prior learning, while confirming that credits satisfy degree requirements.

Missouri's average graduation rate is 52.14%, meaning roughly half of students graduate. The average is 75.0% at the top 10% of schools. The average rate is 54.06% for women and 50.38% for men. These figures can help you compare schools and plan confidently.

Salary

After graduating from college in Missouri, you can use $43,286 as a median alumni salary benchmark. Graduates of schools in the top 10% earn a median of about $68,034, showing the potential for higher earnings while recognizing that your results will depend on your field, experience, and career path.

Whether you study at the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, or another Missouri college, these figures can help you plan for life after graduation. Your major and the opportunities you pursue during school can shape your earning potential, so it's encouraging to explore programs that fit both your interests and your career goals.

People also ask

What college in Missouri has the lowest tuition?

Crowder College is commonly among Missouri's lowest-tuition colleges, particularly for in-state students. As a public community college, it can be an affordable place to complete general-education courses or earn an associate degree before transferring. Tuition and fees change by year and may depend on residency, so compare current costs directly with other nearby community colleges.

What are Tier 1 schools in Missouri?

"Tier 1" does not have one universal definition, but it often refers to universities with the Carnegie R1 research classification. Missouri institutions commonly included in that group are the University of Missouri-Columbia, Missouri University of Science and Technology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Washington University in St. Louis, and Saint Louis University. These schools offer extensive research opportunities alongside a wide range of academic programs.

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

Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university known for demanding academics, vibrant campus life, and strong programs across the sciences, humanities, and professional fields. For a Missouri student seeking a highly selective degree, its 12% acceptance rate signals competitive admission. It enrolls 15,934 students and reports a 94% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $64,500, while median alumni salary is $57,449. Its St. Louis location offers access to internships, hospitals, and cultural attractions nearby.

The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is a large public research university in Columbia, offering broad academic choices and a lively college-town setting. Missouri residents may appreciate its in-state public-university option and extensive student community. Enrollment is 32,105, the graduation rate is 75%, and the acceptance rate is 78%. The listed total cost of studying is $34,877, with median alumni salary of $51,985. Students can explore journalism, research, athletics, and campus organizations while earning a degree in central Missouri with school spirit.

Missouri University of Science and Technology, in Rolla, is a public institution especially recognized for engineering, computing, and applied sciences. Its technical focus may suit Missouri students aiming for hands-on learning and careers in industry or research. The university enrolls 7,173 students; its graduation rate is 64%, and its acceptance rate is 73%. The listed total cost of studying is $31,920. Median alumni salary is $75,236, the highest among these five schools, offering outcomes to weigh against program fit.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a public urban university serving students in Kansas City, with programs spanning health sciences, business, arts, and other fields. Its metropolitan setting can connect Missouri learners with employers, civic organizations, and cultural life. UMKC has 14,886 enrolled students, a 55% graduation rate, and a 72% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $30,650, and median alumni salary is $49,935. Students considering an urban campus can compare these figures with majors and aid.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis is a public university in the St. Louis area, offering accessible options across liberal arts, business, education, and other disciplines. For Missouri students, its regional setting may make commuting and connecting with local employers practical. Enrollment is 15,122; the graduation rate is 57%, and the acceptance rate is 63%. The listed total cost of studying is $37,620, while median alumni salary is $48,880. Prospective students can assess program offerings, campus fit, and financial support and outcomes.