Most
Affordable Colleges in Saint Louis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines business knowledge with practical skills. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, business law, economics, and operations. Students develop leadership, communication, and analytical abilities through projects and internships. Popular options include Washington University's Olin Business School, Saint Louis University's Chaifetz School of Business, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Business Administration. Graduates commonly pursue roles in marketing, human resources, finance, or operations.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Saint Louis, Missouri, introduces students to human behavior through courses such as developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Programs at Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Harris-Stowe State University offer undergraduate and graduate options. Graduates pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, or research assistants; advanced study may prepare them for licensed counseling or clinical psychology careers after graduate training and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects, labs, and internships with local employers. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, and IT consultants. Popular local options include Washington University in St. Louis and Saint Louis University, both offering computer science study and research opportunities across the greater St. Louis metropolitan region.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Saint Louis, Missouri, typically combines counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and fieldwork. Programs may lead to careers as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, behavioral health therapists, substance-use counselors, or community counselors, depending on degree level and state licensure. Popular options include Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Webster University, which offer counseling-related study. Compare accreditation, practicum placements, and licensure requirements before choosing a program.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Saint Louis, Missouri, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and health centers. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, ethics, and clinical rotations. Graduates pursue registered nurse roles in medical-surgical units, emergency departments, pediatrics, intensive care, or community health. Popular options include Saint Louis University, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College, which offer nursing pathways and clinical training.

Best Colleges in Saint Louis, MO Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $28,108, compared with $53,046 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $24,938.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 76.67% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.67%. Schools receive an average of 7,403 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 18,977.2 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,591 for men and 2,497 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,205.29 on the SAT and 26.29 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,917.25; average enrollment is 325.25 men and 378.78 women.
• The average graduation rate is 60.55%, while the average for top-10% schools is 94%. The median graduation rate is 55.5% for men and 61% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and seven offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 11 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability alongside graduation rates, admissions figures, test scores, enrollment, and degree offerings. The figures show that lower median cost and broader average financial-aid access do not necessarily coincide with the higher graduation rate reported for top-10% schools, so weigh these factors according to your educational and financial priorities.

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

In Saint Louis, average total study cost is $30,119.83. Treat it as a planning benchmark, not the full price of a degree: bachelor's programs span several years, and college tuition, housing, and aid vary.

Reported average expenses are:

• Tuition and fees: $30,524.33
• Room and board: $17,744.62
• Books and supplies: $1,224.83

These separate averages do not add up to the stated total, so compare each school's published cost of attendance rather than combining them. At Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, or the University of Missouri-St. Louis, your actual bill will depend on program, residency, living arrangements, and scholarships.

Check whether estimates cover one academic year and include fees. Commuting, buying used books, applying for aid early, and comparing net prices after grants can make a Saint Louis degree more attainable while helping you choose a campus that fits your goals and budget. Ask financial aid offices directly, too.

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; associate degrees commonly take two, while a master's often adds one or two years. At Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, or the University of Missouri-St. Louis, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and attendance status.

You may finish sooner by taking summer courses, earning accepted AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits, or choosing an accelerated program. St. Louis Community College can offer a lower-cost start; transferable credits may help you move efficiently toward a bachelor's degree. Confirm transfer rules with your intended university before enrolling.

Completion figures provide context: the average graduation rate is 60.55%, while the top 10% of schools average 94%. The reported average is 56.6% for men and 60.55% for women. These rates show degree completion is achievable, and planning with advisers can help you stay confident throughout college.

Salary

College graduates in Saint Louis, MO, earn a median salary of $52,621. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $71,847 - a difference of $19,226 that shows how rewarding a strong educational path can be.

If you're comparing options around Saint Louis, you might explore institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, or the University of Missouri-St. Louis. These figures describe graduates broadly, not the typical salary of alumni from any one school; your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career choices.

• Median alumni salary: $52,621
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $71,847

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Saint Louis?

Costs vary widely by school, degree, residency, and whether you live at home. St. Louis Community College is generally a lower-cost starting point, while private universities can charge much more. Budget for fees, books, housing, food, and transportation as well as tuition; check each school's current cost-of-attendance estimate before deciding.

What college in Saint Louis has the lowest tuition?

St. Louis Community College is generally among the least expensive local options, especially for students who qualify for its in-district rate. Your actual bill depends on residency, credits, fees, and program. If you are comparing schools, ask about grants and scholarships too: financial aid can make another college's net cost lower.

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

University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a public-university option for students seeking a degree in the St. Louis area. Its 15,122 enrolled students create a larger campus community, while the reported 57% graduation rate and 63% acceptance rate provide useful context when comparing schools. Total study cost is $37,620, and median alumni salary is $48,880. Located in St. Louis, UMSL lets local students pursue undergraduate and graduate study close to the region's employers, cultural attractions, and public transportation links and amenities.

Harris-Stowe State University is a public historically Black university in St. Louis, offering a city-based setting for students pursuing a degree close to home. Enrollment is 1,002, the second-smallest population among these five schools. Its graduation rate is 28%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The stated total study cost is $10,440, the lowest in this group, while median alumni salary is $42,366. For Saint Louis residents, its location can make local campus study and community connections especially convenient, particularly for locals.

Ranken Technical College is a St. Louis institution centered on technical and career-oriented education, making it a distinctive choice for students seeking practical preparation for work. It enrolls 1,784 students and reports a 53% graduation rate; acceptance-rate information is not available. Its total study cost is $16,680, and median alumni salary is $52,621, the highest figure among these five schools. For Saint Louis-area students, studying locally may offer access to hands-on training while staying connected to regional industries and employers.

Stevens-The Institute of Business & Arts is a small, specialized college in St. Louis, suited to students considering focused study in business or the arts. Its enrollment is 92, so the campus community is notably smaller than those of the other listed institutions. The graduation rate is 14%, acceptance rate 100%, total study cost $14,332, and median alumni salary $36,710. Saint Louis students can compare its compact setting and accessible admissions profile with broader academic choices across the metropolitan area.

Maryville University of Saint Louis is a private university in the St. Louis region, offering students a campus option beyond the city center. It enrolls 8,811 students and reports a 66% graduation rate, the highest among these five colleges; its acceptance rate is 95%. Total study cost is $24,766, and median alumni salary is $54,271, also the highest salary figure in this group. For Saint Louis residents, Maryville combines regional access with a university environment and notably strong graduation rate.