Best Colleges in Missouri

With nearly 16,000 students, the University of Missouri - Kansas City awards undergraduate and graduate degrees across 12 academic divisions. The school also offers a six-year BA/MD program for aspiring physicians. Learners at the university's Volker campus benefit from numerous housing options that include traditional dormitories and apartments. Like many colleges and universities on this ranking, UMKC hosts an Honors College. Degree-seekers in honors courses enjoy small class sizes, exclusive scholarship opportunities, and an honors internship. In their final year, these learners undertake a senior honors thesis wherein they work closely with a faculty advisor to select a topic, perform in-depth research, and write a paper. UMKC uses GPA and test score cutoffs but accepts learners with minimum GED scores. Some applicants who do not meet all application requirements may still receive conditional admission. The university offers many automatic and competitive scholarships to reduce students' financial burden. UMKC also helps degree-seekers explore outside scholarship and grant opportunities.

A women's college, Cottey College enrolls approximately 300 learners on its Nevada campus. This Missouri college offers 12 bachelor's programs and six associate programs. Two associate programs at Cottey transfer to accredited four-year schools, and students can also pursue bachelor's degrees in fields such as criminology or organizational leadership. Students at Cottey can choose from more than 35 organizations and clubs. The Leadership, Experiences, Opportunity (LEO) program provides motivated students with extracurricular training opportunities that enhance leadership skills. LEO participants attend seminars and complete a service project in their senior year. Cottey admits recent high school graduates, transfer students, and international learners. Applicants with a high school diploma should have a minimum 2.6 high school GPA and at least a 21 on the ACT or 1060 on the SAT. A private college, Cottey charges the same semester-based tuition rate to all students. All incoming degree-seekers submit FAFSA results to apply for college-funded scholarships and grants.

A Jesuit institution located in Kansas City, Rockhurst University educates over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students across more than 50 academic programs. These include options in education, nursing, and theology and religious studies. Graduate programs include a master of science in business intelligence that students can earn entirely online. Students can join one of many pre-professional clubs on campus in areas such as law, medicine, and occupational therapy. Faith-based activities include optional daily Mass and retreats in the surrounding countryside. The Career Services Office at RU hosts many information events throughout the academic year to prepare degree-seekers for life after graduation. A test-optional school, RU does not require SAT or ACT scores for most undergraduate majors. Nor does this Missouri university accept GED scores. New degree-seekers with an excellent high school GPA or standardized test scores qualify for up to $24,000 per year in automatic scholarships.

Southeast Missouri State University hosts nearly 12,000 students, approximately 90% of whom pursue undergraduate degrees. The university offers 12 entirely online bachelor's degrees, including options in general studies, nursing, and technology management. Graduate students have nearly double the number of online degree options, many of which prepare degree-seekers for a career as education specialists. SEMO features a robust Career Services Department that partners with local employers to pair seniors with fulfilling and lucrative jobs. Each semester, the department hosts on-campus career fairs and interviews and provides one-on-one help in the form of mock interviews and resume critiques. Other services include seminars on pursuing careers in government and other topics. Prospective degree-seekers can apply for the spring, summer, or fall semester. Scholarships at SEMO stack, meaning that some academically gifted students do not pay out of pocket for a degree. Learners interested in scholarships and other financial aid opportunities should submit FAFSA results by the December 1 deadline.

Originally a teachers college in the early 20th century, Northwest Missouri State University now educates over 6,300 undergraduate and graduate learners across seven colleges and schools. Undergraduate degrees at this top Missouri university include agricultural business, animal science, and medicinal chemistry. Graduate students can select from 37 master's programs and benefit from a flat tuition rate. Incoming freshmen with a minimum 3.5 high school GPA and 26 ACT score qualify for the Northwest Honors Program. This competitive track helps students hone both leadership and academic skills through rigorous coursework and access to exclusive extracurricular opportunities. All honors students receive a $2,000 study abroad scholarship. Prospective degree-seekers with GED or HiSET scores may apply as long as they meet score cutoffs. Homeschooled applicants must possess a minimum 21 ACT score. Northwest awards up to $4,000 in automatic merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen. First-time and transfer students may apply for additional university-funded scholarship opportunities.

William Woods University offers programs designed for working professionals with an associate degree or some college education. Learners can pursue bachelor's degree completion programs in 10 diverse areas such as American Sign Language, the humanities, and legal studies. Many programs also feature online and evening options. This Missouri university features graduate programs in over a dozen topics, many of which confer a master of education. WWU ensures that all learners -- including those who study online -- benefit from a meaningful student experience. The university partners with local companies to provide degree-seekers with valuable internship opportunities. Also, the Woods Around the World program allows students to study abroad as far away as New Zealand. Prospective undergraduates should possess a high school diploma and a minimum 2.5 GPA. WWU uses standardized test score cutoffs and accepts up to 70 transfer credits. Incoming freshmen and transfer degree-seekers may qualify for a full-tuition scholarship or one of many other university-funded financial aid opportunities.

With a main campus in St. Louis -- and satellite campuses in Wentzville and Perryville -- Ranken Technical College awards certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees across five fields including automotive, construction, and information technology. To help students transition into the workforce, Ranken hosts multiple job fairs throughout the year that attract hundreds of employers from throughout the United States. Ranken's website outlines each program's related careers, salaries, and projected job growth. This Missouri college also posts numerous informational articles that compare the differences between technical education and traditional colleges. Learners have many opportunities to socialize and network outside of class, including participation in the Student Government Association and intramural sports. Applicants should have a high school diploma, GED scores, or HiSET scores. Incoming students who do not submit ACT scores take the ACCUPLACER exam. Some learners may need to complete remedial coursework before starting a program. Ranken announces new scholarship opportunities throughout the year.

Maryville University of St. Louis enrolls nearly 6,500 undergraduate and graduate students across six colleges and schools. Many academic programs feature programmatic accreditation, and undergraduates can supplement their degree by completing an optional minor. Additionally, this Missouri university features dozens of bachelor's and master's degrees that learners can earn entirely online. Maryville provides three options for undergraduates who want a more rigorous and fulfilling educational experience: the Bascom Honors Program includes learning communities and exclusive courses, the Distinguished Fellowship Program provides financial assistance to degree-seekers performing original research, and the Global Scholars Program offers three study abroad experiences as well as a minor in international studies. Maryville accepts GED and HiSET scores. Although the university is a test-optional institution, prospective students planning to apply for university-funded financial aid should submit ACT or SAT scores. Merit-based scholarships at this Missouri university award between $6,000 and $14,000 per year.

Founded in 1858, Hannibal-LaGrange University educates approximately 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students on its Hannibal campus and online. HLG offers traditional bachelor's and master's programs, as well as degree-completion tracks for learners who already have an associate degree. Each course has an average of 22 students to allow for individualized instruction from the university's professors. A member of the Southern Baptist Convention, HLGU provides numerous opportunities for students to grow in their faith. All undergraduates attend chapel services, and the university hosts speakers every week. Mission trips take learners throughout the world; in recent years, students have visited destinations such as the Dominican Republic and Lebanon to share their faith. HLGU hosts campus visit days for prospective students at many points throughout the year. The university's website provides a valuable guide on transfer-credit equivalencies. Incoming degree-seekers who graduated from a Christian high school may qualify for a 50% tuition reduction.

With over 150 academic programs, the University of Central Missouri attracts students from all over the world. The university's four colleges offer degrees in areas such as aviation, criminal justice, and military science. Additionally, the College of Education features four specialized departments that prepare graduates for careers as teachers and education administrators. Academically talented prospective students should consider UCM's Honors College. Degree-seekers interested in any major can apply, and honors students benefit from one-on-one advising. The program also awards exclusive scholarships and study abroad grants. Seniors in the Honors Program complete an extended honors project similar to a master's thesis. UCM accepts GED diplomas and the Common Application. To gain admission, applicants should have either an excellent high school GPA or satisfactory ACT score. Active-duty military personnel pay a reduced per-credit tuition rate at this Missouri university. Incoming degree-seekers submit only one form to apply to all university-funded scholarship opportunities.

One of the youngest institutions on this ranking, Missouri Baptist University features over 50 academic programs across 16 academic departments, schools, and divisions. Like other excellent Missouri colleges and universities, MBU offers an associate program in nursing for recent high school graduates and professionals planning to enter this in-demand field. Distance education students can choose from more than 20 undergraduate and graduate programs. Students at MBU can participate in dozens of religious and secular clubs and activities. The university hosts 21 honors clubs and societies, and learners interested in honing leadership skills can join the Student Government Association. Additionally, all full-time degree-seekers attend chapel services and lectures. A private university, MBU does not accept GED scores. Required application materials include high school transcripts and ACT scores, as well as a recommendation letter. All transfer credit should reflect a minimum 2.0 GPA. This Missouri university offers a full-tuition scholarship to incoming freshmen with a minimum 3.6 GPA and 30 ACT score.

A women's college, Stephens College enrolls approximately 850 students on its Columbia campus. Students can pursue majors at this Missouri college such as acting, digital filmmaking, and graphic design communications. Nineteen minors give learners the chance to customize a degree. The college also delivers three graduate-level certificate programs as well as one entirely online bachelor's degree in health information administration. The Stephens Scholars Program provides academically gifted students with engaging honors-level courses, guest speakers, and endowed scholarship opportunities. Honors degree-seekers also participate in experiential learning activities. Prospective honors students should have either a minimum 3.5 high school GPA or a score of at least 25 on the ACT. Stephens uses rolling admissions. Application materials include high school transcripts and ACT scores, and prospective students need not submit a separate form to apply to endowed scholarships. Merit-based scholarships award up to $12,000 per semester as long as recipients maintain good grades.

Students at Missouri Southern State University can pursue degrees through four schools and two specialized programs. The latter train aspiring police officers and Missouri National Guard troops. Traditional undergraduate majors at this Missouri university include seven two-year associate degrees and bachelor's degrees in areas such as general studies and education. Three of the university's seven master's degrees prepare students for careers as education administrators. Distance education students at MSSU can select from 14 bachelor's degrees and 17 minors. Learners can also enroll in one of a dozen online certificate programs. All online courses use an asynchronous curriculum to accommodate learners who work full time or have demanding personal responsibilities. Some online courses may also require students to take an exam or other assessment at a university testing center. MSSU accepts GED diplomas and uses slightly different application requirements for prospective students ages 21 and older. Applicants interested in Foundation Scholarships should apply by the March 1 deadline. These scholarships award up to $7,000 per year. MSSU awards other merit-based scholarships, each of which requires a separate application.

A research university based in St. Louis, Washington University features additional campuses throughout the area. The university's 11 schools and colleges provide over 15,000 undergraduate and graduate students with more than 90 degree options. The online University College offers seven degrees and certificates, including an AA degree that prepares graduates for transfer to a four-year college or university. In Washington University's Faculty Fellows Program, some professors live in a residence hall, allowing them to provide vital mentoring services to undergraduates. The university also offers other valuable student services, such as a career center that works with degree-seekers to explore career options and practice interviewing skills. Prospective undergraduates submit high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, recommendations, and at least one essay. All incoming students provide FAFSA results, and those with demonstrated financial need receive aid automatically. Washington University also proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program to provide veterans and active-duty military students with additional financial aid opportunities.

Programs at Missouri University of Science & Technology prepare the next generation of engineers, mathematicians, and scientists. However, the university also offers traditional liberal arts majors in fields like philosophy, psychology, and history. Additionally, students at Missouri S&T can pursue three on-campus undergraduate certificate programs in explosives engineering, explosives technology, and technical writing. Online education brings Missouri S&T's master's degrees and certificates to learners throughout the world. Degree-seekers learn asynchronously and can earn a degree online in 2-3 years. Prospective online students can attend a monthly online webinar to learn more. The university also accepts online doctoral students on a limited basis. Missouri S&T accepts the Common Application. Prospective students must have a high school diploma and submit ACT or SAT scores. Degree-seekers interested in university-funded financial aid opportunities should submit FAFSA results by the February 1 deadline. The university considers prospective students' high school GPAs and standardized test scores when making merit-based scholarship decisions.

A private Jesuit institution established in 1818, St. Louis University offers more than 100 undergraduate and 80 graduate programs to 13,000 students. Undergraduate programs at SLU include law and health degrees that prepare degree-seekers for graduate school. The school also offers delivers study abroad programs in more than a dozen countries. The Honors Program at SLU includes exclusive seminar and capstone courses, as well as coursework in ethics, theology, and philosophy. Additionally, all Honors Program learners qualify for fellowships and scholarships not open to other SLU students. Prospective undergraduates should have either a high school diploma or GED scores. SLU charges the same tuition rate to all students regardless of residency. Automatic merit-based scholarships award up to $23,000 per year, and incoming degree-seekers may qualify for other competitive merit scholarships.

One of the top choices for Missouri high school graduates, Missouri State University - Springfield provides 150 undergraduate degrees, 45 graduate programs, and numerous online certificates. Nearly 9 in 10 professors, including those who teach online courses, possess a terminal degree. In 2000, MSU opened an accredited satellite campus in China that educates both Chinese students and MSU degree-seekers studying abroad. Greek life plays a significant role at MSU. The campus hosts 20 fraternities and eight sororities. The university also features more than 300 student organizations that have events throughout the year. Additionally, learners can turn to the Center for Learning and Writing to receive one-on-one academic assistance. MSU accepts GED and HiSET scores, and all undergraduate applicants submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students who earned an associate degree from a Missouri community college receive 42 transfer credits automatically. MSU awards up to $6,500 per year in merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen.