Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2024

Badge for 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. Webster University
  2. Truman State University
  3. Northwest Missouri State University
  4. University of Central Missouri
  5. William Jewell College
  6. Southeast Missouri State University
  7. Evangel University
  8. Rockhurst University
  9. Drury University
  10. Stephens College
  1. Southeast Missouri State University
  2. Webster University
  3. Truman State University
  4. Drury University
  5. Park University
  6. William Jewell College
  7. University of Central Missouri
  8. Rockhurst University
  9. Northwest Missouri State University
  10. Central Methodist University
  1. Southwest Baptist University 100%
  2. Missouri Southern State University 99%
  3. Central Methodist University 98%
  4. Culver–Stockton College 97%
  5. Fontbonne University 94%
  6. Southeast Missouri State University 86%
  7. Northwest Missouri State University 86%
  8. Westminster College, Missouri 75%
  9. Cottey College 73%
  10. University of Central Missouri 71%
  1. Southeast Missouri State University 20 to 1
  2. Columbia College 20 to 1
  3. University of Central Missouri 19 to 1
  4. Missouri Baptist University 19 to 1
  5. Northwest Missouri State University 18 to 1
  6. Missouri Western State University 17 to 1
  7. Missouri Southern State University 17 to 1
  8. Lincoln University, Missouri 15 to 1
  9. College of the Ozarks 15 to 1
  10. Park University 14 to 1
  1. Rockhurst University $41,701
  2. Drury University $33,830
  3. Missouri Baptist University $33,316
  4. Westminster College, Missouri $33,144
  5. Webster University $29,840
  6. Culver–Stockton College $29,195
  7. Fontbonne University $28,696
  8. Central Methodist University $27,140
  9. Southwest Baptist University $27,038
  10. Evangel University $26,400
  1. Rockhurst University $17,028
  2. Hannibal–LaGrange University $14,850
  3. Fontbonne University $13,950
  4. Webster University $12,600
  5. Missouri Baptist University $11,102
  6. Truman State University $9,960
  7. Stephens College $8,910
  8. Columbia College $8,826
  9. Avila University $8,775
  10. University of Central Missouri $8,136
  1. Ranken Technical College
  2. Hannibal–LaGrange University
  3. Cottey College
  4. Harris–Stowe State University
  5. Missouri Baptist University
  6. College of the Ozarks
  7. Columbia College
  8. Missouri Valley College
  9. Culver–Stockton College
  10. Westminster College, Missouri
  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. Avila University
  9. College of the Ozarks
  10. Harris–Stowe State University
  1. College of the Ozarks 21%
  2. William Jewell College 41%
  3. Truman State University 45%
  4. Webster University 55%
  5. Missouri Valley College 61%
  6. Drury University 63%
  7. Stephens College 64%
  8. Rockhurst University 66%
  9. Hannibal–LaGrange University 67%
  10. Evangel University 68%
  1. Cottey College 7 to 1
  2. Harris–Stowe State University 8 to 1
  3. Stephens College 8 to 1
  4. Fontbonne University 9 to 1
  5. Westminster College, Missouri 9 to 1
  6. Avila University 10 to 1
  7. William Jewell College 10 to 1
  8. Hannibal–LaGrange University 11 to 1
  9. Ranken Technical College 11 to 1
  10. Evangel University 11 to 1
  1. Harris–Stowe State University $5,424
  2. Northwest Missouri State University $6,015
  3. Lincoln University, Missouri $7,020
  4. Missouri Western State University $7,200
  5. Southeast Missouri State University $7,761
  6. Missouri Southern State University $8,026
  7. University of Central Missouri $8,040
  8. Truman State University $8,690
  9. Park University $12,671
  10. Ranken Technical College $16,960
  1. Missouri Valley College $3,600
  2. William Jewell College $4,800
  3. Southwest Baptist University $5,136
  4. Lincoln University, Missouri $5,832
  5. Culver–Stockton College $6,000
  6. Northwest Missouri State University $6,004
  7. Southeast Missouri State University $6,205
  8. Missouri Southern State University $6,300
  9. Park University $6,663
  10. Missouri Western State University $7,110

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

    $30K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Webster University

    Cost of Degree: $29,840
    Expenses: $22,662
    Starting Salary: $47,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 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

    45%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Truman State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,014
    Expenses: $15,216
    Starting Salary: $50,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1048/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwest Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,502
    Expenses: $13,404
    Starting Salary: $43,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    71%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    15K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $9,410
    Expenses: $13,505
    Starting Salary: $42,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    $20K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/23

    Career Outlook for degree at William Jewell College

    Cost of Degree: $19,610
    Expenses: $14,798
    Starting Salary: $51,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1075/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Southeast Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,015
    Expenses: $15,973
    Starting Salary: $41,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    68%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Evangel University

    Cost of Degree: $26,400
    Expenses: $13,632
    Starting Salary: $40,900
    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

    $42K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Rockhurst University

    Cost of Degree: $41,701
    Expenses: $17,743
    Starting Salary: $57,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  9. #9

    Drury University

    Springfield , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Drury University

    Cost of Degree: $33,633
    Expenses: $15,172
    Starting Salary: $36,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 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

    $26K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Stephens College

    Cost of Degree: $25,586
    Expenses: $17,058
    Starting Salary: $41,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  11. #11

    Park University

    Parkville , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    12K

    Career Outlook for degree at Park University

    Cost of Degree: $9,702
    Expenses: $13,335
    Starting Salary: $50,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 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

    $27K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Central Methodist University

    Cost of Degree: $27,140
    Expenses: $17,130
    Starting Salary: $39,500
    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

    $29K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Fontbonne University

    Cost of Degree: $28,696
    Expenses: $17,036
    Starting Salary: $46,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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

    41%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Western State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,241
    Expenses: $14,070
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    99%

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Southern State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,026
    Expenses: $11,985
    Starting Salary: $38,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    $27K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1038/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Southwest Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $26,970
    Expenses: $11,790
    Starting Salary: $37,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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

    29%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln University, Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $8,386
    Expenses: $14,718
    Starting Salary: $34,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    51%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Avila University

    Cost of Degree: $22,390
    Expenses: $12,234
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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

    $33K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Westminster College, Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $33,144
    Expenses: $17,380
    Starting Salary: $49,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  20. Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Culver–Stockton College

    Cost of Degree: $29,195
    Expenses: $14,232
    Starting Salary: $40,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 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

    61%

    Graduation

    23%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1015/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Valley College

    Cost of Degree: $22,450
    Expenses: $14,700
    Starting Salary: $38,100
    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

    43%

    Student body

    9K

    Career Outlook for degree at Columbia College

    Cost of Degree: $12,140
    Expenses: $13,982
    Starting Salary: $43,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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

    1149/22

    Career Outlook for degree at College of the Ozarks

    Cost of Degree: $20,290
    Expenses: $11,972
    Starting Salary: $35,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  24. #24

    Missouri Baptist University

    Saint Louis , MO
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $31,784
    Expenses: $16,485
    Starting Salary: $39,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 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

    20%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Harris–Stowe State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,058
    Expenses: $17,711
    Starting Salary: $30,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 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

    $25K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Cottey College

    Cost of Degree: $24,960
    Expenses: $12,373
    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

    $26K

    Acceptance

    67%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1191/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Hannibal–LaGrange University

    Cost of Degree: $25,600
    Expenses: $14,000
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 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

    $17K

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Ranken Technical College

    Cost of Degree: $16,960
    Expenses: $16,180
    Starting Salary: $50,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 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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