Best
Colleges in Springfield in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Springfield, Missouri, combines foundational business knowledge with practical decision-making skills. At Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, students can pursue business degrees in a supportive regional economy. Typical courses include accounting, marketing, finance, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Graduates commonly work as management trainees, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, financial analysts, or operations supervisors across businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. Internships can strengthen job readiness.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Springfield, Missouri, lets students explore human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. At Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, programs cover developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, statistics, research design, and counseling foundations. Coursework may include labs and field experiences. Graduates often pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or research coordinator. A bachelor's degree prepares students for graduate study and clinical or counseling careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Springfield, Missouri, offers a blend of theory and hands-on learning. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University are popular local options for exploring the field. Students build skills through projects and internships while preparing for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, web developer, data analyst, or cybersecurity specialist. Strong problem-solving and teamwork support career growth.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Springfield, MO combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Students typically complete supervised fieldwork or internships to build client-facing skills. Missouri State University and Evangel University are local options offering counseling-related graduate study. Graduates may pursue licensure and work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, case managers, or college career counselors. Program requirements and licensure pathways vary by degree and state.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Springfield, Missouri, offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's degrees. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical care, pediatrics, and clinical practice. Options include Missouri State University, Cox College, and Ozarks Technical Community College. Depending on credentials and experience, graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, care coordinators, or community health nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, and long-term care facilities.

Best Colleges in Springfield, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 14,580.0, compared with 28,854.4 at schools in the top 10%, making the top-10% figure nearly twice as high.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 74.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.0%. Schools receive an average of 3,106.0 applicants, while top-10% schools average 8,026.4 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 524.0 men and 670.0 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,132.5, and the average ACT score is 25.0.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,375.62. Average enrollment is 330.25 men and 410.8 women.
• The average graduation rate is 60.56%, compared with 92.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 61.5% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven schools are coeducational, while there are zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, potential students should weigh cost and financial aid alongside admission competitiveness, test-score expectations, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. Comparing overall figures with top-10% schools may help clarify the trade-offs, while the differences in graduation rates by gender may also be worth considering.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Springfield, Missouri, is $15,946.22. For a local student, this figure offers a useful starting point for comparing options such as Missouri State University, Drury University, and Ozarks Technical Community College, though your actual bill depends on the school, program, residency status, and living arrangements. The listed averages include $16,253.11 for tuition and fees, $10,117.17 for room and board, and $1,157.83 for books and supplies. Because these component estimates do not reconcile with the reported total, treat them as separate planning figures rather than amounts to add together.

Request a school-specific estimate before enrolling, since program fees and aid can change your out-of-pocket amount. Living at home or commuting, where practical, may help you manage housing expenses, while scholarships and grants can reduce what you pay. Compare annual and semester bills, and remember that books, transportation, and personal costs may affect your budget.

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

In Springfield, MO, plan on about four years for a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree typically takes two; part-time study can take longer. At Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and how many credits you bring with you. The average graduation rate is 60.56%, a reminder finishing is achievable but not automatic. The average reaches 92.0% among the top 10% of schools. Reported averages are 53.75% for men and 64.38% for women, showing variation across student groups and institutions.

You may finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, earning credit through AP or dual-enrollment courses, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated course schedule. Ask an advisor at your Springfield college to map prerequisites and confirm which credits count before enrolling. A clear degree plan can help you avoid unnecessary semesters, control costs, and feel confident as you make progress toward graduation.

Salary

After graduating from college in Springfield, MO, a useful salary benchmark is about $39,737 for median alumni earnings. Graduates of top 10% schools have a median alumni salary benchmark of about $51,686, showing the potential for higher earnings depending on the school and career path.

Springfield students can choose from schools such as Missouri State University, Drury University, and Evangel University. Your own earnings may differ based on your degree, occupation, experience, and employer, but these figures offer a starting point as you compare programs and plan for life after graduation.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Springfield?

Springfield, Missouri, has six commonly counted, campus-based colleges and universities: Missouri State University, Drury University, Evangel University, Ozarks Technical Community College, Cox College, and Baptist Bible College. The total can vary depending on whether specialized schools, seminaries, or online institutions are included, so six is a useful count for comparing local campus options.

What is the main college in Springfield?

Missouri State University is generally considered Springfield's main college. It is the city's large public university, with a broad range of academic programs and a substantial campus near downtown. For prospective students, that means a traditional university setting alongside access to city amenities, community events, and opportunities to connect with other students.

Where do college students go in Springfield?

Students have a mix of places to study, eat, and spend time with friends. Missouri State's campus is a natural hub, while downtown Springfield and Commercial Street offer restaurants, cafés, and local businesses. Parks and neighborhood destinations provide a change of pace, making it easy to find a relaxed outing between classes.

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

Located in Springfield, Drury University offers a comparatively small campus community, with 1,698 enrolled students. Its 62% graduation rate and 58% acceptance rate provide useful context as you assess admission and completion. The reported total study cost is $35,400, while median alumni salary is $43,800. For a Springfield-area student, Drury may suit someone seeking a private university experience close to home, with access to the city's services and employers. Compare its higher cost with likely aid and your intended major.

Evangel University is a Springfield-based Christian university with 2,621 enrolled students, offering a faith-centered setting and a range of campus experiences. Its 65% graduation rate and 72% acceptance rate can help frame your application planning. The listed total cost is $27,218, and median alumni salary is $38,023. Staying in Springfield, MO, may let you study near home while building local connections. Consider how Evangel's religious identity, academic offerings, financial aid, and career support align with your priorities and desired degree.

Missouri State University-Springfield is a large public university in the city, enrolling 24,606 students and offering the breadth of a major campus. Its 58% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate are relevant when weighing access and persistence. The listed total cost is $17,388, and median alumni salary is $41,451. For a Springfield, MO resident, studying locally can reduce relocation needs while keeping classes, campus activities, and regional opportunities nearby. Explore programs and aid to estimate your personal cost and fit.

Evangel University-College of Online Learning extends Evangel's offerings through distance study, potentially suiting students who need flexibility while living in Springfield, MO. Enrollment is not reported, so the program's scale cannot be directly compared locally. Its graduation rate is 50%, acceptance rate 49%, and listed cost $7,680; median alumni salary is $38,023. These figures offer starting points, not guarantees. Before enrolling, verify degree availability, online course schedules, support services, and whether the program meets your career and personal financial goals.

Ozarks Technical Community College is a public community college serving Springfield and the surrounding region, with 12,096 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 33%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The total study cost of $5,928 is the lowest listed among these five options, and median alumni salary is $37,907. For a local student, OTC may be an affordable starting point for workforce training or transfer study. Check program pathways, transfer agreements, and additional expenses before choosing a recognized academic credential.