Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2024

BEST IN MISSOURI LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES

Liberal arts colleges are a great option for students seeking a well-rounded education in an intimate campus setting. The best liberal arts colleges in Missouri offer a diverse selection of degree programs with opportunities for a highly individualized educational experience.

Key Takeaways

  • The best liberal arts colleges in Missouri feature smaller class sizes and more direct engagement with professors.
  • Missouri’s best liberal arts colleges offer a broad mix of course offerings so that students have exposure to a wide range of subject offerings.

10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri

Sort by:
  1. Southeast Missouri State University
  2. Webster University
  3. Truman State University
  4. Drury University
  5. Park University
  6. University of Central Missouri
  7. William Jewell College
  8. Rockhurst University
  9. Northwest Missouri State University
  10. Central Methodist University
  1. Central Methodist University 99%
  2. Missouri Southern State University 97%
  3. Westminster College, Missouri 97%
  4. Southwest Baptist University 96%
  5. Culver–Stockton College 93%
  6. Northwest Missouri State University 86%
  7. Southeast Missouri State University 79%
  8. Fontbonne University 78%
  9. University of Central Missouri 76%
  10. Avila University 68%
  1. Columbia College 23 to 1
  2. Northwest Missouri State University 19 to 1
  3. Southeast Missouri State University 19 to 1
  4. Missouri Baptist University 18 to 1
  5. Missouri Southern State University 17 to 1
  6. Missouri Western State University 16 to 1
  7. Evangel University 16 to 1
  8. Park University 15 to 1
  9. University of Central Missouri 15 to 1
  10. College of the Ozarks 15 to 1
  1. Rockhurst University $40,480
  2. Drury University $32,430
  3. Westminster College, Missouri $32,124
  4. Missouri Baptist University $30,548
  5. Webster University $28,700
  6. Culver–Stockton College $28,495
  7. Fontbonne University $28,200
  8. Central Methodist University $26,470
  9. Southwest Baptist University $26,128
  10. Evangel University $25,748
  1. Rockhurst University $16,524
  2. Hannibal–LaGrange University $14,250
  3. Fontbonne University $13,950
  4. Webster University $13,500
  5. Missouri Baptist University $10,670
  6. Truman State University $9,600
  7. Stephens College $8,730
  8. Avila University $8,598
  9. Columbia College $8,442
  10. Evangel University $8,388
  1. Ranken Technical College
  2. Hannibal–LaGrange University
  3. Missouri Baptist University
  4. Culver–Stockton College
  5. Missouri Valley College
  6. Cottey College
  7. Fontbonne University
  8. College of the Ozarks
  9. Avila University
  10. Harris–Stowe State University
  1. College of the Ozarks 21%
  2. William Jewell College 47%
  3. Webster University 59%
  4. Cottey College 61%
  5. Truman State University 61%
  6. Missouri Baptist University 62%
  7. Stephens College 64%
  8. Evangel University 64%
  9. Hannibal–LaGrange University 65%
  10. Drury University 65%
  1. Cottey College 6 to 1
  2. Fontbonne University 10 to 1
  3. Hannibal–LaGrange University 10 to 1
  4. Westminster College, Missouri 10 to 1
  5. William Jewell College 10 to 1
  6. Stephens College 11 to 1
  7. Central Methodist University 12 to 1
  8. Webster University 12 to 1
  9. Avila University 12 to 1
  10. Ranken Technical College 12 to 1
  1. Harris–Stowe State University $5,424
  2. Northwest Missouri State University $5,461
  3. Lincoln University, Missouri $6,720
  4. Missouri Western State University $6,900
  5. Southeast Missouri State University $7,461
  6. University of Central Missouri $7,758
  7. Missouri Southern State University $7,762
  8. Truman State University $8,365
  9. Park University $12,280
  10. Ranken Technical College $16,259
  1. Missouri Valley College $3,600
  2. William Jewell College $4,800
  3. Southwest Baptist University $5,004
  4. Lincoln University, Missouri $5,608
  5. Southeast Missouri State University $5,858
  6. Culver–Stockton College $6,000
  7. Missouri Southern State University $6,300
  8. Northwest Missouri State University $6,301
  9. Park University $6,435
  10. Missouri Western State University $6,840

Colleges and Universities in Missouri

Tuition costs in Missouri fall below the national average, allowing students access to many affordable options. For example, at Missouri State University, the second largest public school, tuition fees are around $7,000. Students of actor John Goodman’s alma mater can major in fields like religious studies, history, and business, and even have the option of earning an associate degree in arts or a bachelor’s in business at the university’s sister school in China. Missouri also offers more than 40 private schools.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Tuition and student populations vary greatly among these schools, but students who attend these higher education institutes also have the option to attend classes at other campuses. For example, Saint Louis University, a college with Jesuit roots, has campuses in both St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Additionally, Missouri offers special loan forgiveness programs for nurses and other health professionals, including dentists, psychiatrists, and primary care physicians, who work in designated, high-need areas.

When you aren’t exploring one of its 6,000 caves, chowing down on some barbecue, or taking in a live jazz performance, Missouri can serve as the perfect place to begin a road trip. The Show Me State is bordered by eight other U.S. states, making it ideal for students love travelling and planning weekend getaways. During the week days, students can continue on their road to success by pursuing their degree at one of Missouri’s 72 higher education institutes.

See where Missouri’s many roads can take you while earning your degree at one this state’s top learning institutions.


What are Missouri’s Colleges & Universities?

Missouri’s Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2023

  1. Webster University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    59%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1169/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Webster University

    Cost of Degree: $28,700
    Expenses: $17,932
    Starting Salary: $49,985
    Salary after 4 years: $56,375
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Webster University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Advertising And Marketing Communications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Sports And Entertainment Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Education
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychological Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Mental Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology General
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Truman State University

    Kirksville , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1205/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Truman State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,689
    Expenses: $14,113
    Starting Salary: $36,496
    Salary after 4 years: $48,051
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwest Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,852
    Expenses: $12,523
    Starting Salary: $40,015
    Salary after 4 years: $49,471
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Northwest Missouri State University known for?

    Northwest Missouri State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northwest Missouri State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Communication
    Degree Concentrations
    • Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communication – Public Relations
    • Business Management
    • Business Technology
    • Marketing
    • Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $9,078
    Expenses: $13,121
    Starting Salary: $43,473
    Salary after 4 years: $50,946
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Central Missouri known for?

    University of Central Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Central Missouri’s Online Degrees

    BS in Crisis and Disaster Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Continuity
    • Emergency Management
    • Emergency Services Management
    • Environmental Hazards
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Safety and Risk Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120-121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Relations and Strategic Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  5. Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/23

    Career Outlook for degree at William Jewell College

    Cost of Degree: $19,310
    Expenses: $14,528
    Starting Salary: $42,781
    Salary after 4 years: $54,832
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at Southeast Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,715
    Expenses: $15,559
    Starting Salary: $39,049
    Salary after 4 years: $49,086
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Southeast Missouri State University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Applied Technology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Child & Family Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Child Development (
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cybersecurity
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • and Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Law Enforcement
    • Corrections
    • Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Environmental Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • General Management
    • Health
    • Administration
    • and Sport Management.
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies,
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Anthropology
    • Criminal Justice
    • Economics
    • History (any prefix)
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • or Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. #7

    Evangel University

    Springfield , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Evangel University

    Cost of Degree: $25,748
    Expenses: $14,229
    Starting Salary: $37,469
    Salary after 4 years: $40,547
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Evangel University known for?

    Evangel University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  8. #8

    Rockhurst University

    Kansas City , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Rockhurst University

    Cost of Degree: $40,480
    Expenses: $16,885
    Starting Salary: $50,271
    Salary after 4 years: $65,372
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  9. #9

    Drury University

    Springfield , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Drury University

    Cost of Degree: $32,130
    Expenses: $14,334
    Starting Salary: $37,382
    Salary after 4 years: $41,433
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Drury University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Behavioral And Community Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  10. #10

    Stephens College

    Columbia , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Stephens College

    Cost of Degree: $24,570
    Expenses: $18,000
    Starting Salary: $31,809
    Salary after 4 years: $40,763
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  11. #11

    Park University

    Parkville , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    24%

    Student body

    7K

    Career Outlook for degree at Park University

    Cost of Degree: $8,853
    Expenses: $13,069
    Starting Salary: $49,556
    Salary after 4 years: $56,615
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Park University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 69
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Construction Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Education Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Early Childhood Education: Teaching Young Children
    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geography
    • Required Credits: 34-40
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA/BFA in Fine Arts
    Degree Concentrations
    • Photography
    • Painting
    • Drawing
    • Fiber or ceramics
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Business Economics
    • Computer Information Management
    • Corporate Financial Management
    • Digital Marketing
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Health Care
    • Human Resource Management
    • International Business
    • International Business and Economic Development
    • Labor Economics
    • Logistics
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Personal Financial Planning
    • Professional Sales
    • Project Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 42-44
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Interior Design
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Graphic Design
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Chemistry
    • Required Credits: 71
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS/BA in Criminal Justice Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Law Enforcement
    • Corrections
    • Security
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Logistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 57
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information and Computer Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Computer Science Concentration
    • Cybersecurity Concentration
    • Data Management Concentration
    • Information Technology Concentration
    • Networking and Security Concentration
    • Software Development Concentration
    • and Web Development Concentration
    • Required Credits: 46-58
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Mathematics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Education in Military History
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Multimedia Journalism and Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 45-48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BM in Music, Music Performance Piano or Orchestral Strings
    • Required Credits: 65
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Education in K-12 Education (Art or Spanish), (Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical Disabilities)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle School Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Communication
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Economics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Relations
    • Criminal Justice
    • Fire Service Management
    • Homeland Security and Public Service
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    BS in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  12. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Central Methodist University

    Cost of Degree: $26,470
    Expenses: $16,512
    Starting Salary: $44,251
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Central Methodist University’s Online Degrees

    BS/BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Child Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Elementary Education
    • Secondary Education
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Marketing and Advertising
    • Business Administration
    • Banking and Finance
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Agribusiness
    • International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Mathematics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS/BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  13. #13

    Fontbonne University

    Saint Louis , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Fontbonne University

    Cost of Degree: $28,200
    Expenses: $16,496
    Starting Salary: $44,085
    Salary after 4 years: $51,568
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fontbonne University known for?

    Fontbonne University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Fontbonne University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Finance
    • Management
    • Social Entrepreneurship.
    • Required Credits: 108
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education: Paraprofessional Pathways to Teaching
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  14. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Western State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,930
    Expenses: $13,870
    Starting Salary: $37,950
    Salary after 4 years: $45,103
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri Western State University known for?

    Missouri Western State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Missouri Western State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Corrections
    • Juvenile Justice
    • Law Enforcement
    • Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  15. Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    975/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Southern State University

    Cost of Degree: $7,762
    Expenses: $12,039
    Starting Salary: $36,373
    Salary after 4 years: $48,021
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri Southern State University known for?

    Missouri Southern State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Missouri Southern State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Science
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Health and Safety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Dental Hygiene
    • Respiratory Therapy
    • Radiologic Technology
    • Paramedic / EMS
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Business
    • Accounting
    • International Business
    • Management
    • Human Resources Management
    • Marketing
    • Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  16. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1051/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Southwest Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $26,060
    Expenses: $11,650
    Starting Salary: $44,167
    Salary after 4 years: $48,006
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Southwest Baptist University known for?

    Southwest Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Southwest Baptist University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 128-142
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  17. #17

    Lincoln University, Missouri

    Jefferson City , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    26%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln University, Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $8,370
    Expenses: $14,312
    Starting Salary: $36,392
    Salary after 4 years: $40,884
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lincoln University, Missouri known for?

    Lincoln University, Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Lincoln University, Missouri’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
  18. #18

    Avila University

    Kansas City , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Avila University

    Cost of Degree: $21,740
    Starting Salary: $47,877
    Salary after 4 years: $52,984
    What is Avila University known for?

    Avila University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Avila University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Human Resources
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Strategic Communication
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  19. Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Westminster College, Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $32,124
    Expenses: $16,858
    Starting Salary: $34,187
    Salary after 4 years: $53,961
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  20. Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1020/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Culver–Stockton College

    Cost of Degree: $28,495
    Expenses: $13,923
    Starting Salary: $32,740
    Salary after 4 years: $43,774
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Culver–Stockton College’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 31
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  21. #21

    Missouri Valley College

    Marshall , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    947/17

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Valley College

    Cost of Degree: $22,000
    Expenses: $14,030
    Starting Salary: $38,943
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri Valley College known for?

    Missouri Valley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Missouri Valley College’s Online Degrees

    BA/BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 106
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Administration
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  22. #22

    Columbia College

    Columbia , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Columbia College

    Cost of Degree: $11,636
    Expenses: $13,524
    Starting Salary: $43,178
    Salary after 4 years: $49,859
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Columbia College known for?

    Columbia College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Columbia College ’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
    • Marketing
    • Human Resources
    • Finance
    • Management
    • Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  23. #23

    College of the Ozarks

    Point Lookout , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    21%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1165/23

    Career Outlook for degree at College of the Ozarks

    Cost of Degree: $19,960
    Expenses: $11,496
    Starting Salary: $33,262
    Salary after 4 years: $38,398
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  24. #24

    Missouri Baptist University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    62%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    945/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $30,548
    Expenses: $15,183
    Starting Salary: $39,484
    Salary after 4 years: $50,065
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri Baptist University known for?

    Missouri Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Missouri Baptist University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Applied Management!
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Professional Studies in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Professional Studies in General Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Ministry and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cybersecurity
    • Application Development
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Arts
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  25. Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Graduation

    19%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Harris–Stowe State University

    Cost of Degree: $5,868
    Expenses: $17,053
    Starting Salary: $29,677
    Salary after 4 years: $38,579
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Harris–Stowe State University known for?

    Harris–Stowe State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  26. #26

    Cottey College

    Nevada , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Cottey College

    Cost of Degree: $23,114
    Expenses: $11,671
    Starting Salary: $34,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cottey College known for?

    Cottey College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

  27. Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Hannibal–LaGrange University

    Cost of Degree: $25,215
    Expenses: $12,950
    Starting Salary: $38,791
    Salary after 4 years: $42,120
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hannibal–LaGrange University known for?

    Hannibal–LaGrange University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Hannibal–LaGrange University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  28. #28

    Ranken Technical College

    Saint Louis , MO

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ranken Technical College

    Cost of Degree: $16,164
    Expenses: $12,775
    Starting Salary: $46,099
    Salary after 4 years: $53,193
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ranken Technical College known for?

    Ranken Technical College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Back to Top

Missouri’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Westminster College, Missouri
  2. Webster University
  3. Stephens College
  4. Drury University
  5. William Jewell College
  6. Southeast Missouri State University
  7. Evangel University
  8. Rockhurst University
  9. Fontbonne University
  10. Truman State University
  11. Central Methodist University
  12. Southwest Baptist University
  13. Northwest Missouri State University
  14. University of Central Missouri
  15. College of the Ozarks
  16. Avila University
  17. Cottey College
  18. Hannibal–LaGrange University
  19. Culver–Stockton College
  20. Ranken Technical College

Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.

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