Best
Colleges in Saint Louis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines core business knowledge with practical skills. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and operations. Students may develop communication, analytical, leadership, and decision-making abilities through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, or operations supervisor. Saint Louis college options include Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Harris-Stowe State University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Saint Louis, MO offers programs at Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Typical coursework includes research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral technician, human resources specialist, or research assistant; clinical positions require graduate education and licensure. Internships connect students with community services.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Saint Louis, Missouri, offers access to academic programs and a growing technology community. Coursework typically includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT project managers. Popular options include Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Students can compare curricula, research, internships, and career support.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Saint Louis, Missouri, can prepare you to support individuals and families through mental health challenges. Typical coursework often includes counseling theories, ethics, diagnosis, human development, group counseling, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance use counselors, depending on degree and licensure requirements. Saint Louis University and the University of Missouri-St. Louis are popular local counseling degree options.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Saint Louis, MO, offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced practice. Students typically study anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical care across specialties. Options include Saint Louis University, University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community health settings; education can lead to nurse practitioner, educator, or administrator roles.

Best Colleges in Saint Louis, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 28,108.0, compared with 53,046.0 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 24,938.0.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students, versus 76.67% at top-10% schools. These figures describe how widely aid is received, not the amount each student receives.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.67%. Schools receive an average of 7,403.0 applicants overall, compared with 18,977.2 among top-10% schools. The median applicant counts are 1,591.0 men and 2,497.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,205.29 on the SAT and 26.29 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,474.69. Average enrollment counts are 325.25 men and 378.78 women.
• The average graduation rate is 60.55%, while the average for top-10% schools is 94.0%. The median graduation rate is 55.5% for men and 61.0% for women.
• Among the institutions represented, 5 offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, 13 offer master's degrees, and 9 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 12 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and the financial aid available to you, and consider whether the school's degree offerings fit your goals. Also weigh admissions selectivity, test-score expectations, enrollment, and graduation outcomes; the higher average graduation rate reported for top-10% schools may be worth investigating alongside their higher median cost.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Saint Louis, Missouri, is $30,119.83. For a local student, this is a useful starting point, but your actual degree cost will depend on your college, program, living arrangements, time to graduation, and available financial aid.

• Average tuition and fees: $30,524.33
• Average room and board: $17,744.62
• Average books and supplies: $1,224.83

Saint Louis has options including the University of Missouri-St. Louis and private schools such as Saint Louis University and Washington University in St. Louis. Compare each college's published cost of attendance and financial-aid offer. The listed averages do not necessarily add up to the reported total, so use them as separate planning benchmarks. Living at home, commuting, scholarships, grants, and transfer credits may reduce your costs. If you're excited to study close to home, a term-by-term budget can make this goal feel more manageable while keeping your finances in view.

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

In Saint Louis, MO, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two. At schools such as Saint Louis University, Washington University in St. Louis, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis, the exact timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you study full-time or part-time. A rewarding plan is to map required courses with an adviser before each term.

To finish sooner, consider these options:

• Transfer eligible credits from prior college or exams such as AP to avoid repeating coursework.
• Use summer classes or heavier course loads, if manageable, to complete requirements sooner.
• Ask about accelerated, online, or competency-based options that fit your program.

Saint Louis schools average a 60.55% graduation rate; the top 10% average 94.0%. Rates average 56.6% for men and 60.55% for women. Advising, tutoring, and financial-aid guidance can help you stay on track each academic year and feel supported and confident about graduating.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Saint Louis, MO, earn a median alumni salary of $52,621. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $71,847 - a promising earning potential to consider as you plan your next step.

Saint Louis offers options such as Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Your own earnings can vary by field, experience, and employer, but these figures give you a useful starting point when comparing local study opportunities.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Saint Louis?

There isn't one definitive count: it depends on whether you mean colleges within St. Louis city limits, branch campuses, or the wider metropolitan area. The city has more than a dozen higher-education institutions and campuses, while the metro area has many more. Checking each school's location is useful when comparing commutes and campus life.

What is the main college in Saint Louis?

Saint Louis University (SLU) is often considered one of the city's leading universities and is a prominent choice for students seeking a traditional campus experience. It offers a broad range of programs and is known for its Jesuit identity. Washington University in St. Louis is another major university, with its main Danforth Campus in nearby University City.

Where do college students go in Saint Louis?

Students have plenty of ways to enjoy the city beyond campus. The Delmar Loop is popular for restaurants, music, and shops, while the Central West End offers cafés and nightlife. Forest Park is a favorite for outdoor breaks and cultural attractions. Neighborhoods such as Soulard and the Grove also draw students looking for food and live entertainment.

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

Washington University in St. Louis offers a highly selective academic experience in the heart of Saint Louis, Missouri. Its 15,934 enrolled students benefit from a research-focused university known for strong academics and campus life. The 94% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 12% acceptance rate signals intense competition. Total study cost is $64,500, and median alumni salary is $57,449, useful figures when weighing outcomes against cost for a degree near local cultural and career opportunities.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) provides a public university option for students seeking a Saint Louis education with access and moderate costs. It enrolls 15,122 students, reports a 57% graduation rate, and accepts 63% of applicants. Its study cost of $37,620 may appeal to budget-conscious students comparing local choices. UMSL's urban setting connects study with the region's employers, cultural institutions, and community life. Median alumni salary is $48,880, offering an outcome measure to consider alongside program fit and goals.

Saint Louis University (SLU) is a private university in Saint Louis, Missouri, offering a city-based college experience and longstanding campus traditions. It enrolls 14,519 students and reports an 80% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $54,760, while median alumni salary is $57,653. SLU's location places students near hospitals, businesses, arts venues, and civic organizations, supporting opportunities beyond class. Use these figures to compare cost, outcomes, and fit with other Saint Louis colleges.

Webster University gives students in Saint Louis, Missouri, a private university experience with an international outlook and a comparatively accessible acceptance rate. Its 6,289 enrolled students form a smaller community than the largest schools listed here. Webster reports a 64% graduation rate and an 86% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $31,450, and median alumni salary is $39,558. Its Saint Louis location lets students connect coursework with the region's arts, business, and nonprofit communities while comparing affordability and outcomes.

Maryville University of Saint Louis offers students a private university setting in the Saint Louis area, with a high acceptance rate and the lowest reported total study cost among these five colleges. It enrolls 8,811 students, has a 66% graduation rate, and accepts 95% of applicants. Its total cost is $24,766, and median alumni salary is $54,271. Students can consider its regional connections and campus offerings while weighing affordability, completion rates, and career outcomes against their academic interests and plans.