Just like the saying goes, ”An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”. Many high school graduates are sometimes in a state of dissonance when choosing the best college or university to enroll in after high school graduation.
In a big city like Missouri, a wide variety of students can pursue higher education through colleges and universities alongside other certificate programs and vocational training, which provide chances for people of all backgrounds to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees.
On this web page, we shall be looking at the List of Colleges and Universities in Missouri: both public and private colleges and universities, Specialized technical Colleges, and theological institutions.
Also, examining other variables like the importance of a degree from a college or university in Missouri and the Requirement to study at any College or University in Missouri.
Missouri
In the US Midwest, the state of Missouri is situated in an isolated desert. Missouri is ranked 21st in terms of land area and has boundaries with Iowa to the north, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee to the east, Arkansas to the south, and Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to the west.
List of Colleges and Universities in Missouri
Here is a list of colleges and universities in Missouri:
1. Public four-year universities
- Harris-Stowe State University
- Lincoln University
- Missouri Southern State University
- Missouri State University
- Missouri University of Science & Technology
- Missouri Western State University
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Southeast Missouri State University
- Truman State University
- University of Central Missouri
- University of Missouri – Columbia
- University of Missouri – Kansas City
- University of Missouri – St. Louis
2. Public two-year colleges
- Crowder College
- East Central College
- Jefferson College
- Metropolitan Community College
- Mineral Area College
- Missouri State University – West Plains
- Moberly Area Community College
- North Central Missouri College
- Ozarks Technical Community College
- St. Charles Community College
- St. Louis Community College
- State Fair Community College
- State Technical College of Missouri
- Three Rivers College
3. Specialized/technical colleges
- A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
- Bolivar Technical College
- Cleveland University
- Cox College of Nursing
- Goldfarb School of Nursing
- Kansas City Art Institute
- Kansas City University
- Logan University
- Ranken Technical College
- Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences
- Southeast Hospital College of Nursing & Health Sciences
- University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis
4. Independent four-year colleges and universities
- Avila University
- Central Methodist University
- College of the Ozarks
- Columbia College
- Cottey College
- Culver-Stockton College
- Drury University
- Evangel University
- Fontbonne University
- Hannibal-LaGrange University
- Lindenwood University
- Maryville University
- Missouri Baptist University
- Missouri Valley College
- Park University
- Rockhurst University
- Saint Louis University
- Southwest Baptist University
- Stephens College
- Washington University
- Webster University
- Westminster College
- William Jewell College
- William Woods University
5. Theological Institutions
- Aquinas Institute of Theology
- Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
- Calvary University
- Central Bible College
- Central Christian College of the Bible
- Conception Seminary College
- Concordia Seminary
- Covenant Theological Seminary
- Eden Theological Seminary
- Global University
- Kenrick-Glennon Seminary
- Midwest University
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Mission University
- Nazarene Theological Seminary
- Ozark Christian College
- Saint Louis Christian College
- Saint Paul School of Theology
- Urshan College
- Urshan Graduate School of Theology
Why Colleges and University in Missouri Are Important
Colleges and universities in Missouri play a crucial role in the state’s social, economic, and cultural development. Here’s a detailed explanation of why these institutions are important:
1. Workforce Development
Missouri’s colleges and universities play a vital role in developing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the state’s economy. By offering degree programs and training in various fields such as engineering, healthcare, business, agriculture, and technology, these institutions prepare students for careers in high-demand industries. They also collaborate with businesses and industries to align their programs with workforce needs, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
2. Economic Impact
Colleges and universities contribute significantly to Missouri’s economy. They create jobs, attract federal research grants, and stimulate economic activity through student spending and alumni contributions. According to the Missouri Department of Higher Education, higher education institutions contribute billions of dollars to the state’s economy annually, making them key drivers of economic growth and development.
3. Research and Innovation
Missouri’s colleges and universities conduct cutting-edge research and drive innovation across various fields. From biomedical research to agricultural technology and environmental sustainability, these institutions contribute to scientific advancements and technological breakthroughs. Research conducted at universities often leads to patents, new businesses, and job creation, fostering innovation ecosystems in the state.
4. Community Engagement and Service
Colleges and universities in Missouri are deeply engaged with their local communities. They provide resources, expertise, and volunteer opportunities to address community needs, ranging from healthcare and education to environmental conservation and social services. Students, faculty, and staff participate in community outreach programs, service-learning projects, and volunteer initiatives, enriching the lives of residents and strengthening community bonds.
5. Cultural and Intellectual Enrichment
Higher education institutions serve as centers of learning, culture, and intellectual discourse. They host lectures, concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances that enrich the cultural fabric of Missouri. Libraries, museums, and academic events provide opportunities for lifelong learning and personal growth, benefiting both students and the broader community.
Requirement to study at any College or University in Missouri
To study at any college or university in Missouri, students typically need to fulfill certain requirements. These requirements can vary depending on the institution and the program of study. Here’s a general overview of the common requirements to study at a college or university in Missouri:
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Most colleges and universities in Missouri require applicants to have a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED certificate.
Homeschooled students may also need to provide documentation demonstrating completion of a high school curriculum.
Standardized Tests:
Many colleges and universities require standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. However, some institutions have become test-optional in recent years, allowing students to choose whether or not to submit test scores.
Grade Point Average (GPA):
Colleges and universities often consider an applicant’s high school GPA. The minimum GPA requirement varies depending on the institution and the competitiveness of the program.
Some institutions may also consider the applicant’s GPA in specific core courses, such as English, math, science, and social studies.
Application Form:
Prospective students must complete an application form for the college or university they wish to attend. This may be done online through the institution’s website or a centralized application system like the Common Application.
Application Fee:
Applicants are usually required to pay an application fee when submitting their application. Some institutions offer fee waivers for students with financial need.
Transcripts:
Applicants must submit official high school transcripts, which detail the courses taken and grades earned.
Transfer students may also need to submit transcripts from any colleges or universities previously attended.
Letters of Recommendation:
Some colleges and universities require letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and character.
Personal Statement or Essay:
Many institutions require applicants to write a personal statement or essay as part of their application. This essay allows applicants to share their personal experiences, academic goals, and reasons for wanting to attend the institution.
Extracurricular Activities:
Colleges and universities often consider applicants’ involvement in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, community service, and leadership roles.
Specific Program Requirements:
Certain programs, particularly those in specialized fields like engineering, nursing, or fine arts, may have additional requirements such as portfolios, auditions, or prerequisite courses.
Residency Requirements:
In-state and out-of-state applicants may have different requirements regarding residency status, tuition rates, and financial aid eligibility.
Financial Aid Documentation:
Applicants who wish to apply for financial aid, scholarships, or grants may need to submit additional documentation, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost of living in Missouri
Consistently ranked among the states with the lowest cost of living, Missouri is the sixth most affordable state to reside in. For a single individual, Missouri has an average monthly cost of living of about $1,957. Around $227,347 is thought to be the average house value in Missouri.
FAQS
1. How many colleges and universities are there in Missouri
Accredited post-secondary institutions that confer degrees are what are considered colleges and universities for this list. The state is home to 67 of these establishments at the moment: thirty-nine private 4-year schools, thirteen community colleges, and thirteen public universities.
2. In Missouri, how many four-year colleges exist?
There are fourteen public two-year colleges, thirteen public four-year universities, twenty-four independent colleges, eleven specialized/technical colleges, seventeen theological institutions, and over one hundred fifty private career schools available to students interested in attending college in Missouri.