Best Colleges in Missouri
“The Show-Me State” of Missouri has cold and snowy winters to contrast the hot, wet summers. There are 67 colleges in Missouri, many of which are 4-year, public or private institutions. The Cave State also hosts many community colleges and more than a dozen theological seminaries. Cox College of Nursing is the most selective in the state, while the University of Missouri system is the largest. Top industries in Missouri are transportation equipment, food processing, electric equipment, and chemical products. It also is home to iconic monuments, such as the St. Louis Gateway Arch and National World War 1 Museum and Memorial, as well as the Silver Dollar City and Branson.
How Were the Top Schools in Missouri Chosen?
Appily determines “Best Colleges” based on publicly-available information from the US Department of Education. Several factors include, but are not limited to, data about admitted students’ academic calibers, students’ expected career outcomes after graduation, and colleges’ investments toward making their institution accessible to all students.
Explore the Best Universities in Missouri with Appily!
Create a Appily account to start saving schools to your personal list. Wondering where you stand when applying to the best universities in the USA? You can also see your chances of acceptance and get insights into your target, reach, and likely schools.
At WashU, you will draw strength from a community of achievers who inspire each other with their creativity and tenacity. You’ll acquire the confidence and skills to succeed as a professional and as a person, ready to change the world. You’ll learn...
The classes I have taken have been interesting and challenging. It's a good idea to do some research on the professor, but generally you can expect a good experience. Class size really varies. I've had classes with 12 students, but also classes with...
” – Catlyne from Wheaton, IL
With campus a short distance from Lake Taneycomo, the College of the Ozarks is an evangelical Christian liberal arts college in southwest Missouri. College of the Ozarks grants undergrad degrees in 28 academic majors and all courses feature a Christ...
I know I will learn a lot here because you have most of the the things I want to partake in.
” – Natalie from virginia, IL
William Jewell College is a private, liberal arts institution established in Liberty, Missouri. Jewell’s 35-credit core curriculum is uniquely organized to move students through three different themed levels: transitioning from high school to college...
Lacks breadth, makes up for in depth.The core curriculum classes are tough, a shock for even the most intelligent first year students as you will often times get the highest level professors and expectations from day one. If you can make it through...
” – William from Springfield, MO
Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is a private research institution and one of the oldest Catholic, Jesuit universities in the United States. At SLU, students can explore nearly 100 different undergraduate programs and over 80 graduate programs...
After one semester in my classes at Saint Louis University, I can practically run circles around my old high school friends academically. The classes here are very challenging but great for anyone who truly desires a quality education. It takes...
” – Evan from Brighton, IL
Truman State University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in northeast Missouri. Truman confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and its Liberal Studies program combines “traditional learning” and “personal investigation.” Truman hosts...
There is a wide selection of classes to choose from and while it is sometimes difficult to get into a desired class there are many more options open. The smaller class sizes really allow you to interact better with your teacher and so get more out of...
” – Keara from Wildwood, MO
Founded in 1910, Rockhurst University is a private institution with “selective admissions.” As a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, students at Rockhurst have the opportunity to tap into their faith through retreats...
rockhurst is a great university for someone looking to make close relationships with their professors and know them on a personal level. also, meeting new people is super easy because of the size of the university and there are students from all over...
” – Anna from Overland Park, KS
Founded in 1884, Cottey College is a women’s liberal arts college in southwest Missouri. Cottey confers bachelor’s degrees in 12 academic majors as well as several associate degree-granting programs. In addition, Cottey pays for second year students...
The class sizes are 5-25 students, but usually end up being 15, providing a great learning environment. And what makes it even better is the teachers actually know you by name and care about your grades! They are available to help/talk to you at...
” – Jessica from Wayne, MI
Originally established in 1873 as Springfield College, Drury University is a liberal arts college based in southwest Missouri. DU is home to the Your Drury Fusion academic program combining professionally-oriented majors with concentrations in purely...
Drury University is a small, private, liberal arts college in the heart of the Midwest. The area is beautiful and provides the perfect environment for a great education. The staff and faculty are very helpful and truly care about the education and...
” – Brianna from Springfield, MO
Missouri University of Science and Technology, Missouri S&T, is a 4-year institution that was founded in 1870. The Rolla-located university houses two colleges, the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business, as well as the College of Engineering and...
The Professors really push you to the hardest extent. They expect you to do your homework the first time and take school very seriously. However, if you finish your homework and work at it you will learn more than you expected and the way most...
” – Julie from Camdenton, MO
Founded in 1839, the University of Missouri is a 4-year public school in central Missouri and the first university established west of the Mississippi River. MU is home to 13 colleges and schools conferring degrees in 97 academic majors including the...
Mizzou is a huge learning experience in every aspect. I've learned not only about my subjects but about good study habits, organizational habits and myself. The teachers are generally understanding but tough and if you take the time to talk to them...
” – Philip from Saint Louis, MOCulver-Stockton College is a private, liberal arts college established in Canton, Missouri. C-SC features a unique 12/3 semester system, in which one semester lasts for twelve weeks and is followed by a three-week term dedicated to hands-on learning...
I have learned a lot from being at Culver. Not only have I learned many life experiences, but I am also learning a lot on my decided major. I have learned many things both inside and outside the classroom walls.
” – Kasey from Eolia, MO
Webster University is a private institution based in Webster Groves, Missouri. Webster operates campuses around the nation and abroad, in countries such as Ghana, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Greece, that students may transfer to for a semester...
webster exudes an open atmosphere filled with people that are easy to get along with. the staff is friendly, and personable, and the education quality is top-knotch.
” – Lowell from Saint Louis, MO
The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a 4-year public school and the largest university in Kansas City. Part of the University of Missouri system, UMKC offers undergraduate degrees in over 125 academic fields of study and is home to an honors...
Most teachers care about you learning, however sometimes don't expect you to know much since we aren't at Mizzou I guess so that offends me esp considering I could have went to Mizzou if I wanted.
” – Jasmine from Kansas City, MOFounded in 1872, Maryville University of Saint Louis is a 4-year private school in the St. Louis metro area. Maryville grants undergraduate degrees in over 65 academic majors featuring a comprehensive liberal arts and professional curriculum. In...
The faculty and staff of Maryville University provide a great opportunity to learn and achieve more. They want you to do great in the path that you have chosen. Even if you struggle with a subject there are student aides there to provide help along...
” – Rebecca from Warrenton, MO
Founded in 1870, William Woods University is a private institution located in Fulton, Missouri. WWU is historically affiliated with the Christian Church Disciples of Christ but is now independent. Noted programs at the school include equestrian...
The teachers are very kind and helpful. They will help you when you need it and some even set up a review session if you want extra help!
” – Rebecca from Fulton, MOCalvary University is a Christian college with campuses in Missouri and Colorado that utilizes The Bible as its educational foundation. Calvary is home to over 50 bachelor’s degree programs and every class includes The Bible as a required textbook...
This is one of the best places to get you basic Bible classes. The Professors here really know their stuff and it's a joy yo sit under the,
” – Kenneth from Forest View, IL
Founded in 1853 by a local Presbyterian congregation, Westminster College is a 4-year liberal arts college in central Missouri. Westminster grants undergraduate degrees in 33 academic majors and 41 minors. As the site of Winston Churchill’s famous...
I am taking so many amazing classes here at Westminster!! Each class is really interesting. For example, I am taking psychology as a social science (which I was incredibly not excited for) but I am absolutely loving it!!! My professor makes it so...
” – Siri from Hibbing, MN
Fontbonne University is a Catholic, liberal arts institution in St. Louis, MO. Sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Fontbonne began as an academy for girls that has grown into a co-ed university featuring three colleges that offer...
I am a Special Education major at Fontbonne, and I absolutely love the program! The class sizes are perfect, and I have so much experience. The professors really care about your future as a teacher.
” – Melissa from Springfield, IL
Southwest Baptist University is a 4-year Christian college in southwest Missouri affiliated with the Missouri Baptist Convention. SBU confers undergraduate degrees in over 80 areas of study. As a Christian university, SBU holds biweekly chapel...
I have been able to learn quite a bit in the past year that I have attended here. The wonderful thing about SBU is that the faculty care about you learning about life, and not just their subjects.
” – Jennifer from Springfield, MO
Columbia College is a 4-year coeducational liberal arts institution in central Missouri. Columbia offers bachelor’s degrees in over 30 academic majors, as well as 10 associate degree-granting programs and eight master’s degrees. Additionally...
The professors here are great at what they do! I come from a pretty studious background, and many people thought college would be way too easy for me, but I am being challenged every day, and constantly learn new things!
” – Jessica from Mexico, MO
Central Christian College of the Bible is a 4-year institution based in Moberly, Missouri, whose mission is to develop servant-leaders for the church. Central offers bachelor’s and associate’s degrees in Bible and Ministry, as well as certificates in...
Central Christian College of the Bible gives their students more than a fair share of opportunities to use what they are learning in the classroom in a real-world setting. It is a small campus where the student body feels like a family. Overall, I...
” – Michael from Cincinnati, OH
Stephens College is a women’s institution established in Columbia, Missouri. Stephens has four schools, including Design, Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies & Performing Arts, and Equestrian Studies, which teach a variety of uncommon majors...
I'm a theatre student here and this program is amazing! It's intense, but extremely satisfying. You go to each theatre class with the same people and you build a great trust that allows you to do really great work with each other. All the theatre...
” – Caitlin from Columbia, MO
The University of Missouri-St Louis is a 4-year public school and the largest public research institution in eastern Missouri. Part of the University of Missouri System, UMSL is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees. In...
UMSL is the place for you if you want:
1) Teachers that actually care about your learning experience and about you as an individual.
2) Affordable education with free parking!!!
3) A centrally located school that offers every major under the sun.
Formerly known as Southwest Missouri State, Missouri State University is a 4-year public institution in southwest Missouri and the second largest university in the state by enrollment. The main campus of the MSU system, MSU Springfield is home to...
I have learned a lot about my physical body and nutrition in our PE Class and about the world economy in my Economics class. Textiles has been interesting to see the different kinds of material that clothes can be made from. Art has been a learning...
” – Jessica from Chillicothe, MOFounded as a center of evangelism in the metro St. Louis area, St. Louis Christian College is a Bible-centered college training students for the ministry. StL Christian offers eight ministry-based bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as Worship...
As a current student I know that I am being challenged, and I know that this school definitely wants you to succeed. The college teachers you a lot about yourself and the spiritual aspect of your spiritual walk.
” – Kyle from Banner Elk, NC
Avila University is a private, 4-year institution established in Kansas City, Missouri. Academics at Avila are rooted in experiential learning, and students have the opportunity to take part in undergraduate research and internships. Full-time...
In my opinion school is school no matter where you are or if you're in high school or college. However, I love living on campus and my roommates are great. The school is fairly small and I though I don't know everyone, it is a very friendly campus...
” – Brittany from Blue Springs, MO
Northwest Missouri State University is a state-funded institution based in the rural town of Maryville, Missouri. The tree-filled campus is designated as the official Missouri State Arboretum. Business, elementary education, and communications are...
Northwest has a lot of different offices around campus that can help you if you are struggling with any class you are in. There is no reason that you shouldn't be able to succeed here!
” – Alisha from Blue Springs, MO
Founded in 1871 as a teaching school, the University of Central Missouri is a 4-year public university with two campus locations. UCM confers bachelor’s degrees in over 150 academic programs. For students looking to spend part of their college tenure...
UCM is a great family oriented school. All the faculty and staff work well with others and students. There are many great opportunities available here at UCM.
” – Jennifer from Warrensburg, MO
Missouri Valley College is based in the rural town of Marshall, MO. The private liberal arts institution was founded in 1889 and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. On top of traditional education, MVC offers degrees that can be completed...
Some of the instructors at this school are among the most patient and intelligent people I've ever studied under.
” – Joshuah from Tipton, MO
Southeast Missouri State University is a large, public institution located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau. The school operates three regional campuses around the state in Sikeston, Malden, and Kennett. SEMO offers study...
Southeast is a wonderful university for Education Major. This school is ranked in the Top 10 colleges across America for teaching. The teachers are really understanding of your personal situations and they do their very best to see that you get a...
” – Misty from Malden, MOCentral Methodist University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Fayette, Missouri. While CMU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the university values diversity and diplomacy making students of all faiths welcome. CMU’s...
Lindenwood University is a private liberal arts university based in Saint Charles, MO, and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Lindenwood’s eight academic schools offer more than 120 programs, which can be completed traditionally, online...
The five stars are not a joke. I am currently a freshman at Lindenwood University and I have learned so much within my first semester. Already I have learned with hands on experiences and in the classroom with terrific teachers. Those who are...
” – Candice from Eagleville, TN
The Kansas City Art Institute is a private school of fine arts and design based in Kansas City, Missouri. KCAI primarily promotes a learn-by-doing program with their professional, studio-oriented majors, such as Creative Writing, Sculpture, and...
The teachers are really into their work. The love the subjects they teach and thus I feel like I'm really learning a lot about the subjects. Everything is clear and straight to the point, yet very in depth.
” – Britney from Hannibal, MO
Evangel University is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Springfield, Missouri. Students attending Evangel are required to attend chapel three times weekly, with many special events scheduled throughout the academic year. Along...
There are more than 100 graduate programs and with an average class size of 25 (many of my classes are smaller) you are able to have a lot of interaction with the professors.
” – Ashley from Kirkland, WAMissouri Baptist University is a private, Christ-centered institution located in the city of Creve Coeur. MBU offers a wide variety of uncommon fine arts programs, such as Worship Arts Technology and Commercial Voice. Full-time undergraduate students...
Be yoursef because college can change you
Remember to do your homework and study for test, if you don't that can affect your sport scholarship
Wear anything you like, but just maki sure it's appropriate
Open up and make new friends
Founded in 1864, St Louis College of Pharmacy is a private institution established in the Washington University Medical Center biomedical complex. The college offers Bachelor of Science degrees, Bachelor of Arts degrees, and Doctor of Pharmacy...
As a 1st year, a lot of what is being covered right now is review. However, since pharmacy is the only major, everything taught here has a pharmacy spin on it. This helps me realize that I am actually at school to become a pharmacist. I feel like we...
” – Alexis from Murrieta, CA
Park University offers a comprehensive selection of academic programs, while boasting a rich international culture, championship athletics programs, engaging student life activities, coupled inside a traditional university atmosphere. Located on the...
At Park University, professors are more about hands-on learning. Also, they prefer not to make students memorize terms or definitions, but to help students understand the information they receive. I was given the opportunity to explore and I have...
” – Syerra from Holden, MOLincoln University is a public land grant university in central Missouri that was founded by African American Civil War veterans as an institution for educating freedmen. Lincoln is home to five colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in 50 fields...
All teachers are generally consistent with their teaching and availability to help you understand.
” – Chelsia from Kansas City, MO
Originally founded as a junior college, Missouri Southern State University is now a 4-year public institution in southwest Missouri. MSSU is home to schools of Business, Education, Arts & Sciences, and Health Sciences as well as a Law Enforcement...
My professors are all very respected in their fields and know what they are talking about. When I don't understand something, they take the time to explain it one on one.
” – MSSU student
Ozark Christian College is a private, 4-year institution established in Joplin, Missouri. Ozark has held fast to one mission: training men and women for Christian service. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and by the Association for...
occ looks like a fantastic place to continue a person's studies. the spiritual side of things is also great, with chapel etc. the staff, students, and professors are all very kind and friendly.
” – Maranda from Springfield, MOFounded by a Benedictine abbot, Conception Seminary College is a Roman Catholic seminary dedicated to training students for the priesthood and theological graduate studies. For students considering the priesthood, CSC offers a Seminarian Formation...
Hannibal-LaGrange University is a private, Christ-centered institution established on a rural, 165-acre campus in northeastern Missouri. HLGU offers over 30 undergraduate degrees and pre-professional programs, as well as three master’s degree...
The class sizes are small and the teachers seem to care.
” – Kevin from Wentzville, MO
Missouri Western State University is a public school based in Saint Joseph, MI. MWSU is one of the less than 500 colleges in the US with an ABET-accredited engineering programs. Upon admittance to Missouri Western students rub the head of the statue...
When I started college in the fall of 2008 I was really unsure of what my major was going to be and what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Taking the general studies classes at Missouri Western has really helps students figure out what they...
” – Bethany from Saint Joseph, MO
Harris-Stowe State University is a public, historically black institution established in St. Louis, Missouri. Students attending HSSU have the opportunity to visit a number of on-campus facilities, such as the Board of Regents Gym, the Bank of...
Good school. easy to get accepted into and is reasonably cheap.
” – Marcella from Saint Louis, MOThe College of Graduate and Extended Studies is a branch institution of Central Methodist University, primarily located in Fayette, Missouri with satellite campuses throughout the region. CGES offers over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate degree...
Most instructors really help you learn and are interested in your achievements. Most professors are also readily available outside of class for assistance, and study sessions/tutors are available for most classes.
” – Shelby from Independence, MONamed for a former archbishop and cardinal, Kenrick-Glennon Seminary is a Roman Catholic seminary in St. Louis preparing students for the priesthood. The seminary confers a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy through Cardinal Glennon College and grants...
Ranken Technical College is a technical and vocational school in St. Louis. Ranken grants bachelor’s degrees in Architectural Technology and Applied Management as well as associate degrees in 17 fields of study. In addition, Ranken is home to several...
Ranken is an extremely good school. The instructors are high quality. Employers love the students here.
” – Jacob from Ste. Genevieve, MOWith campus a short distance from the Mississippi River, Southeast Missouri Hospital College of Nursing and Health Sciences is a nurse-training academy. Combining general education with professional training, SEH College offers a Bachelor of Science...
Logan University is a private institution focused on health sciences and chiropractic care. It is based in Chesterfield, Missouri, and is home to an 18-hole disc golf course. The school has an open admissions policy and also offers an online degree...
