Most
Affordable Colleges in Missouri in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Missouri provides foundations in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and data analysis. Programs often include teamwork, communication, and strategic planning, with internships or projects offering practical experience. Graduates may pursue roles as marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or management trainees. Popular Missouri colleges include the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and the University of Central Missouri.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Missouri offers students a foundation in human behavior, research, and mental health. Programs commonly cover developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, statistics, and research methods. Options include the University of Missouri in Columbia, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri State University in Springfield, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or market researcher, or, with advanced study, become licensed counselors or psychologists.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Missouri offers programs at the University of Missouri, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and Missouri State University. Coursework typically includes programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build problem-solving skills through projects, labs, and internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants across Missouri's diverse industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Missouri can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities. Coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and supervised practicum experiences. Depending on degree and licensure, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, case managers, or substance use counselors. Missouri colleges offering counseling study include the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Missouri State University, the University of Missouri, and Lindenwood University. Requirements vary.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Missouri combines instruction with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and maternal-child and psychiatric nursing. Graduates may pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or public health. Popular Missouri options include the University of Missouri, Saint Louis University, Missouri State University, and the University of Central Missouri. Programs prepare students for licensure examinations and patient-centered care.

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% - a difference of 15,713.1.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 75.24% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.24%. Schools receive an average of 3,665.46 applicants, compared with 8,562.9 at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 635.5, while the median number of female applicants is 823.5.
• Average test scores are 1,140.52 on the SAT and 23.65 on the ACT.
• Schools enroll an average of 4,425.06 students, including averages of 260.34 men and 308.92 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.13%, compared with 75.0% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 50.0% for men and 57.0% for women.
• There are 41 institutions offering associate's degrees, 63 offering bachelor's degrees, 45 offering master's degrees, and 19 offering doctor's degrees.
• Of the schools, 57 are coeducational, 0 are men-only, and 0 are women-only.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial-aid availability alongside graduation rates, degree offerings, admissions selectivity, and student population. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, while also reporting higher financial-aid coverage than the overall average and a higher average graduation rate; consider which trade-offs best fit your needs.

How much does studying at a college in Missouri cost?

The reported average total cost of studying in Missouri is $21,579.11. Average tuition and fees are $21,274.86, average room and board is $11,850.96, and average books and supplies cost $1,176.23. These are useful planning benchmarks, but the listed components add up to more than the stated total, so they should not be treated as a reconciled bill or combined into a single estimate. Your actual cost depends on the school, degree, residency status, housing choice, and financial aid.

At the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, or Saint Louis University in St. Louis, your bill will vary by program and choices. Because the figures do not state a degree's duration, $21,579.11 is a planning benchmark, not a guaranteed price for a multi-year degree. Check each school's estimate and account for grants or scholarships; comparing housing options can help you find an affordable path to graduation.

How long does it take to finish college in Missouri?

In Missouri, earning a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes two. Students pursuing graduate study should plan on one to two additional years for a master's, depending on the program. At the University of Missouri in Columbia or Missouri State University in Springfield, course load, major requirements, and scheduling can affect the timeline.

You can finish sooner by:

• Using AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits accepted toward your degree can reduce repeated coursework.
• Taking summer classes, heavier course loads, or an accelerated program may help you graduate sooner, if manageable.

Graduation outcomes matter, too: Missouri's average graduation rate is 52.13%, compared with 75.0% for the top 10% of schools. The average is 50.77% for men and 54.05% for women. Planning early with an adviser at your Missouri campus can make your route clearer and more encouraging for you.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Missouri, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $43,286. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $65,540, showing the stronger earning potential that may come with attending a highly ranked school.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and school. Missouri students can explore options at institutions such as the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, and Washington University in St. Louis, then compare programs and career outcomes to find a path that fits their goals.

People also ask

What college in Missouri has the lowest tuition?

College of the Ozarks is a notable option: its work-education program and scholarships cover tuition for eligible students, so students generally do not pay tuition directly. That does not mean college is cost-free - housing, meals, fees, books, and other expenses may still apply. Compare total costs and program eligibility before deciding.

What college in Missouri has the lowest GPA requirement?

There isn't one clear lowest-GPA college, because many Missouri community colleges have open admissions and do not require a minimum high-school GPA for general admission. However, placement steps or particular programs may have additional requirements. Check the admissions rules for the campus and program you're considering; a low GPA doesn't necessarily close the door.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Missouri Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Missouri-Columbia offers a large campus experience in Columbia, a lively Missouri college town with strong student traditions. With 32,105 enrolled students, it is the largest option among these five schools. Its 75% graduation rate and 78% acceptance rate provide useful context for applicants. Total study cost is $34,877, while median alumni salary is $51,985. Students can enjoy campus life and explore central Missouri while pursuing varied academic and career interests. For residents, nearby communities make visits convenient.

Located in Kansas City, the University of Missouri-Kansas City places students in Missouri's largest urban area, with access to cultural venues, employers, and community organizations. Its enrollment is 14,886, and applicants can consider its 72% acceptance rate alongside a 55% graduation rate. The total cost of studying is $30,650; median alumni salary reaches $49,935. This city-based setting may suit students seeking internships and metropolitan life while earning a degree close to home in Missouri and neighboring communities.

Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla is a university known for science, engineering, and technology education. Rolla offers a smaller Missouri community setting, useful for students who prefer a focused campus away from the state's biggest cities. Enrollment totals 7,173; its acceptance rate is 73% and graduation rate is 64%. Total study cost is $31,920. The median alumni salary of $75,236 is the highest among these five institutions, a notable career outcome for applicants.

Truman State University in Kirksville provides a smaller university experience in northern Missouri. Its enrollment of 3,855 may appeal to students seeking a close-knit campus and a quieter college town than the state's metropolitan areas. The school's 84% acceptance rate is the highest in this group, alongside a 69% graduation rate. Total study cost is $18,228, the lowest listed, while median alumni salary is $43,032. For Missouri residents balancing affordability with campus community, Kirksville is worth considering for study.

University of Missouri-St. Louis in St. Louis connects students with a major Missouri metro area and its diverse communities, employers, and cultural resources. Its 15,122 students make it a substantial campus, while a 63% acceptance rate may indicate a more selective entry point than the other schools listed. The graduation rate is 57%. Total study cost reaches $37,620, the highest of these five, and median alumni salary is $48,880. Students can pursue a degree near home in eastern Missouri today.