Most
Popular Colleges in Missouri in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Missouri provides a foundation in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics, and organizational behavior. Programs often include internships or team-based projects that build communication and decision-making skills. Popular options include the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and Saint Louis University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, business analyst, sales representative, operations supervisor, or management trainee.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Missouri offers opportunities to explore how people think, feel, and behave. Typical coursework includes developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling principles. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or community outreach worker; clinical practice usually requires advanced education and licensure. Options include the University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and Missouri State University, with programs at varied levels.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Missouri offers options at institutions such as the University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri S&T, and Missouri State University. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants. Coursework and career opportunities vary by school, degree level, and specialization.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Missouri combines psychology foundations with skills for supporting individuals and communities. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Popular options include the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, University of Central Missouri, Lindenwood University, and Saint Louis University. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, behavioral health specialists, case managers, or substance use counselors; clinical practice often requires graduate training and licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Missouri offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Programs typically cover anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, ethics, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or community health settings. Popular in-state options include the University of Missouri, Saint Louis University, Missouri State University, the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and the University of Central Missouri.

Best Colleges in Missouri Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 23,623, compared with 38,394 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 14,771.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100% of students overall, compared with an average of 75.65% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.65%. Schools receive an average of 3,599.47 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 8,352.
• The median number of applicants is 560 men and 814 women.
• Average test scores are 1,140.52 on the SAT and 23.65 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 4,816; average enrollment is 255.19 men and 305.76 women.
• The average graduation rate is 56.3%, compared with 75.5% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 52% for men and 59% for women.
• There are 29 institutions offering associate's degrees, 49 offering bachelor's degrees, 35 offering master's degrees, and 18 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 43 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test-score expectations, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, while also reporting higher average graduation rates; consider which factors best fit your academic goals and financial situation.

How much does studying at a college in Missouri cost?

Average reported cost of studying in Missouri is $24,567.62. For a degree-seeking student, this is a useful starting point, not necessarily the full program price: costs vary by enrollment length, school, and living choices. Missouri options include the University of Missouri (Mizzou) in Columbia, Missouri State University in Springfield, and private Washington University in St. Louis. Compare each college's current cost of attendance to make a budget that fits your plans.

Reported cost averages include:

• Tuition and fees: $23,573.62.
• Room and board: $11,892.74.
• Books and supplies: $1,201.59.

These are reported averages and may reflect different cost groupings, so do not simply add them together. Check whether your chosen college's estimate is annual or program-wide, and ask about financial aid, scholarships, housing, and fees before enrolling. A little research can make planning more manageable and help you choose a Missouri campus where you can thrive with greater confidence today.

How long does it take to finish college in Missouri?

In Missouri, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree often takes two years. Your timeline can vary with your major, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study part-time. Students at the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, or community colleges can plan with an adviser to map courses and avoid delays.

Faster routes may include summer classes, heavier course loads, credit for qualifying exams or prior learning, and transferring credits. Some schools offer accelerated or combined bachelor's/master's pathways; check eligibility and workload before choosing one. Starting with dual-enrollment credits can shorten the time after high school.

Missouri's average graduation rate is 56.3%, so completing a degree is not automatic. The average is 75.5% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 54.13% for men and 58.52% for women. Advising, consistent enrollment, and financial planning can help you stay on track and make reaching graduation feel achievable.

Salary

College graduates in Missouri earn a median alumni salary of about $43,032. At schools in the top 10% nationally, the median is approximately $63,346 - a promising benchmark if you're weighing the value of a degree.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and the school you attend. Whether you study at the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, Washington University in St. Louis, or the University of Missouri-Kansas City, comparing programs and career outcomes can help you find a path that fits your goals.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Missouri?

The University of Missouri-Columbia, usually called Mizzou, is generally the state's largest university by total enrollment. Its student population is around 30,000, though totals vary by year and by how enrollment is counted. For Missouri students seeking a large campus with many academic and extracurricular options, Mizzou offers a lively college experience.

What is the most popular school in Missouri?

There is no official statewide measure of which school is "most popular," since popularity can mean applications, enrollment, or student preference. Mizzou is a strong answer if you mean a widely chosen public university with broad appeal. Its mix of majors, campus activities, and nationally competing athletics makes it a familiar choice for many students.

What is the most famous university in Missouri?

Mizzou is arguably Missouri's best-known university nationally. As the state's flagship public university, it has a long history and a prominent profile in college athletics. It is also recognized for its journalism program, including the Missouri School of Journalism. For an in-state student, that name recognition can make Mizzou an exciting place to build connections.

What is the hardest university to get into in Missouri?

Washington University in St. Louis is generally the hardest Missouri university to get into, based on its very low admission rate and highly competitive applicant pool. It is a private research university, and admission standards can vary by program and year. Students considering WashU should plan carefully and also keep other appealing options on their list.

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

College of the Ozarks offers Missouri students a small-campus experience, enrolling 1,500 students. Its 12% acceptance rate makes admission highly selective, while a 64% graduation rate provides one outcome measure. Listed total study cost is $21,800, and median alumni salary is $36,822. The college is a faith-based liberal-arts institution in Point Lookout, near Branson. For residents seeking close-knit undergraduate study in Missouri, compare its affordability and selectivity with personal academic goals and likely aid before enrolling and planning expenses carefully.

Washington University in St. Louis gives Missouri students access to a large research university, with 15,934 enrolled students. Its 12% acceptance rate indicates highly selective admission, and its 94% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. Total study cost is $64,500; median alumni salary is $57,449. Based in St. Louis, it offers broad academic and research opportunities in an urban setting. Applicants should weigh its completion figure and career outcomes against the substantial cost, including housing and transportation.

William Jewell College enrolls 1,469 students and may suit Missouri residents seeking a smaller undergraduate community near Kansas City. Its 38% acceptance rate is less restrictive than the 12% figures at two schools here, while its 68% graduation rate offers another point of comparison. The listed total study cost is $19,320, and median alumni salary is $62,797, highest in this group. Located in Liberty, the liberal-arts college encourages students to compare programs, campus fit, and likely aid carefully before enrolling.

Lindenwood University in St. Charles enrolls 6,409 students, offering Missouri students a larger university environment outside St. Louis. Its 57% acceptance rate suggests broader admission access than the most selective schools listed, while its 49% graduation rate is the lowest among these five. Total study cost is $19,900, and median alumni salary is $45,196. The university's suburban location may appeal to students seeking regional access to metropolitan opportunities. Compare majors, support services, and financial aid when estimating your full cost.

Central Methodist University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences enrolls 1,040 students, making it the smallest campus by enrollment. For Missouri students interested in a close-knit setting, its Fayette location offers a small-town alternative to study in cities. Acceptance is 57%, graduation is 51%, and listed total study cost is $27,840. Median alumni salary is $44,120. Consider how its liberal-arts focus aligns with your intended major, then review financial aid, housing, and travel needs before deciding if the fit works.