Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2026

Badge for MOST AFFORDABLE COLLEGES IN MISSOURI
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Updated:

Here are the most affordable colleges and universities in Missouri. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you, at a price you can afford.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2026

  1. University of Missouri
  2. University of Missouri–Kansas City
    +1
  3. Southeast Missouri State University
    +7
  4. Missouri University of Science and Technology
    –2
  5. Truman State University
    –1
  6. Missouri State University
  7. University of Missouri–St. Louis
    +1
  8. William Jewell College
    +1
  9. University of Central Missouri
    –2
  10. Northwest Missouri State University
    –5

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

There are 18 colleges and universities in Missouri with stated tuitions and fees under $20,000/year. The following list of the most affordable colleges and universities in Missouri is composed entirely of schools offering bachelor’s degree programs, have stated tuition and fees near or under the national average of $16,000/year, and are fully accredited colleges.

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Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2023

These schools are ranked by academic excellence, and all under $20,000/year.

  1. #1

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $14,130
    Expenses: $18,142
    Starting Salary: $69,958
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Missouri known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Missouri’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 126
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Early Childhood Education In A Mobile Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: `
    • Format: Fully online
    BES in Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BGS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Format: Fully online
    BHS in Radiography
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Format: Fully online
    BHS in Respiratory Therapy
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Format: Fully online
    BHS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online
    BHS in Health Science
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Fitness Programming And Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Missouri–Kansas City

    Kansas City , MO
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #4 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #4 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #4 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    72%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1420/24

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Missouri–Kansas City

    Cost of Degree: $12,734
    Expenses: $17,578
    Starting Salary: $63,110
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Missouri–Kansas City known for?

    University of Missouri–Kansas City’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Southeast Missouri State University

    Cape Girardeau , MO
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2026 #3 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #5 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for degree at Southeast Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,495
    Expenses: $17,786
    Starting Salary: $48,748
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Southeast Missouri State University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Southeast Missouri State University’s Online Degrees

    BAS in Applied Technology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Child & Family Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Child Development (
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cybersecurity
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • and Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Law Enforcement
    • Corrections
    • Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Human Environmental Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • General Management
    • Health
    • Administration
    • and Sport Management.
    • Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies,
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Social Science
    Degree Concentrations
    • Anthropology
    • Criminal Justice
    • Economics
    • History (any prefix)
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • or Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Technology Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Technology Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Rolla , MO
    #4 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #5 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #6 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #7 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri University of Science and Technology

    Cost of Degree: $14,278
    Expenses: $15,282
    Starting Salary: $85,917
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri University of Science and Technology known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  6. #5

    Truman State University

    Kirksville , MO
    #1 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2026 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2026 #5 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #8 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1270/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Truman State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,470
    Expenses: $15,981
    Starting Salary: $57,751
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Truman State University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Missouri State University

    Springfield , MO
    #6 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #10 Best Colleges in Missouri 2026 #14 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,024
    Expenses: $16,024
    Starting Salary: $52,782
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Missouri State University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Missouri State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Health Services
    Degree Concentrations
    • Health Services
    • Clinical services
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BAS/BS in Hospitality Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Club management
    • Food and beverage
    • General operations
    • Lodging
    • Senior living management
    • Tourism
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS/BA in Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS/BA in Religious Studies
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Psychology
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS/BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Completion Time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Analysis
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Application Development
    • IT Infrastructure or Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Professional Writing
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Finance
    Degree Concentrations
    • Corporate and Investments
    • Financial Planning
    • Required Credits: 120-121
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Sociology
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in General Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Relationships
    • Financial and Quantitative Analysis
    • International Business Environment
    • Markets and Economies
    • Project and Technology Management
    • Risk Management and Compliance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Marketing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Marketing Management
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Missouri–St. Louis

    Saint Louis , MO
    #7 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #7 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #7 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #5 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Missouri–St. Louis

    Cost of Degree: $14,400
    Expenses: $20,666
    Starting Salary: $59,899
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Missouri–St. Louis known for?

    University of Missouri–St. Louis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Missouri–St. Louis’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Entrepreneurship
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BLS in Liberal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Administration
    • Criminology And Criminal Justice
    • Education
    • Communication
    • Gender Studies
    • History
    • Philosophy
    • Political Science
    • Social Work
    • Sociology
    • Psychological Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Business Administration
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computing Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Information Systems And Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSBA in Information Systems And Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Cybersecurity: Information Systems & Technology
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminology & Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Philosophy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    William Jewell College

    Liberty , MO
    #14 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #3 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2026 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2026 #5 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    38%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/21

    Career Outlook for degree at William Jewell College

    Cost of Degree: $19,890
    Expenses: $16,049
    Starting Salary: $63,955
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is William Jewell College known for?

    William Jewell College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of Central Missouri

    Warrensburg , MO
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2026 #8 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs #5 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    18K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $9,735
    Expenses: $14,064
    Starting Salary: $52,739
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Environmental Safety and Risk Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120-121
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Public Relations and Strategic Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Technology Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Technology
    • Virtual Media
    • Quality Systems
    • Manufacturing Engineering Technology
    • Networking
    • Construction
    • Management
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Northwest Missouri State University

    Maryville , MO
    #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2026 #9 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1084/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwest Missouri State University

    Cost of Degree: $10,181
    Expenses: $14,764
    Starting Salary: $52,028
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in General Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Communication – Public Relations
    • Business Management
    • Business Technology
    • Marketing
    • Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30
    • Completion Time: 12 months
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Business Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Lincoln University, Missouri

    Jefferson City , MO
    #21 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #7 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2026 #10 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2026 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    24%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln University, Missouri

    Cost of Degree: $9,290
    Expenses: $16,106
    Starting Salary: $41,642
    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
      Compare school
    • #12

      Lindenwood University

      Saint Charles , MO
      #8 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2026 #8 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2026 #10 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2026 #2 Best Online Master’s in Game Development & Design 2026

      Tuition + fees

      $23K

      Acceptance

      57%

      Graduation

      56%

      Student body

      11K

      Career Outlook for degree at Lindenwood University

      Cost of Degree: $21,100
      Expenses: $15,100
      Starting Salary: $58,321
      Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
      Paid back at 15% of annual salary
      What is Lindenwood University known for?

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

      Most Influential Alumni

      Lindenwood University’s Online Degrees

      BFA in Art & Design
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Art and Design
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Accounting
      • Required Credits: 78-80
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Accounting
      • Required Credits: 78-80
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Health Management
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Art History & Visual Culture
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Game Design
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Business Administration
      Degree Concentrations
      • Healthcare Management
      • Accounting
      • Finance
      • Management
      • Marketing
      • Supply Chain Management
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA/BS in Business Administration
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Cybersecurity
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Pre-Art Therapy
      • Required Credits: 48
      • Format: Fully online
      BA/BS in Human Resource Management
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in International Relations
      Degree Concentrations
      • Asian Studies
      • Required Credits: 39
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Criminology & Criminal Justice
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Mass Communications
      Degree Concentrations
      • Media Arts and Production
      • Media Management and Sales
      • Required Credits: 48
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Information Technology
      Degree Concentrations
      • Applications Development
      • Networking
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Digital Marketing
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Fashion Business and Entrepreneurship
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Finance
      • Required Credits: 75-77
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Finance
      • Required Credits: 78-80
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Paramedicine
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      BA/BS in Marketing
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Completion Time: 24-48 months
      • Format: Fully online
      Compare school
    • #13

      Park University

      Parkville , MO
      #10 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2026 #1 Best Online Associate in Building and Construction Degree Programs #1 Best Online Associate in Psychology #3 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2026

      Tuition + fees

      $18K

      Graduation

      36%

      Student body

      9K

      Career Outlook for degree at Park University

      Cost of Degree: $12,808
      Expenses: $14,178
      Starting Salary: $62,154
      Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
      Paid back at 15% of annual salary
      What is Park University known for?

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

      Most Influential Alumni

      Park University’s Online Degrees

      BS in Accounting
      • Required Credits: 69
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Construction Management
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in English
      • Required Credits: 122
      BS in Education Studies
      Degree Concentrations
      • Early Childhood Education: Teaching Young Children
      • Required Credits: 58
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Geography
      • Required Credits: 34-40
      • Format: Fully online
      BA/BFA in Fine Arts
      Degree Concentrations
      • Photography
      • Painting
      • Drawing
      • Fiber or ceramics
      • Required Credits: 122
      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
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
      • Required Credits: 42-44
      • Format: Fully online
      BFA in Interior Design
      • Required Credits: 120
      BA in History
      • Required Credits: 122
      • Format: Fully online
      BFA in Graphic Design
      • Required Credits: 122
      BS in Chemistry
      • Required Credits: 71
      BS/BA in Criminal Justice Administration
      Degree Concentrations
      • Law Enforcement
      • Corrections
      • Security
      • Required Credits: 45
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Logistics
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Psychology
      • Required Credits: 122
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Management
      • Required Credits: 57
      • Format: Fully 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
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Mathematics
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      Bachelor of Science in Education in Military History
      • Required Credits: 36
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Multimedia Journalism and Public Relations
      • Required Credits: 45-48
      • Format: Fully online
      BM in Music, Music Performance Piano or Orchestral Strings
      • Required Credits: 65
      • Format: Fully online
      Bachelor of Science in Education in K-12 Education (Art or Spanish), (Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical Disabilities)
      • Required Credits: 120
      BS in Information Systems
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle School Education
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Political Science
      • Required Credits: 122
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Organizational Communication
      • Required Credits: 122
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Economics
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Public Administration
      Degree Concentrations
      • Business Relations
      • Criminal Justice
      • Fire Service Management
      • Homeland Security and Public Service
      • Required Credits: 45
      BS in Finance
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in Sociology
      • Required Credits: 122
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Marketing
      • Required Credits: 60
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Social Psychology
      • Required Credits: 42
      • Format: Fully online
      Compare school
    • #14

      Missouri Western State University

      Saint Joseph , MO
      #10 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2026 #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2026 #8 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2026 #12 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies

      Tuition + fees

      $11K

      Graduation

      35%

      Student body

      4K

      Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Western State University

      Cost of Degree: $8,970
      Expenses: $14,845
      Starting Salary: $47,624
      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
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Health Information Management
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in General Studies
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Nursing
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      Compare school
    • #15

      Harris–Stowe State University

      Saint Louis , MO

      Tuition + fees

      $7K

      Graduation

      33%

      Student body

      1K

      Career Outlook for degree at Harris–Stowe State University

      Cost of Degree: $6,442
      Expenses: $18,798
      Starting Salary: $39,919
      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

      Compare school
    • #16

      Missouri Southern State University

      Joplin , MO
      #18 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2026

      Tuition + fees

      $9K

      Acceptance

      97%

      Graduation

      39%

      Student body

      5K

      Median SAT/ACT

      1285/20

      Career Outlook for degree at Missouri Southern State University

      Cost of Degree: $8,400
      Expenses: $11,651
      Starting Salary: $48,193
      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
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Environmental Health and Safety
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Health Science
      Degree Concentrations
      • Dental Hygiene
      • Respiratory Therapy
      • Radiologic Technology
      • Paramedic / EMS
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Business Administration
      Degree Concentrations
      • General Business
      • Accounting
      • International Business
      • Management
      • Human Resources Management
      • Marketing
      • Finance
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BA in General Studies
      • Required Credits: 120
      • Format: Fully online
      BS in Criminal Justice Administration
      • Required Credits: 120-124
      • Format: Fully online
      Compare school
    • #17

      College of the Ozarks

      Point Lookout , MO
      #12 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2026 #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2026

      Tuition + fees

      $24K

      Acceptance

      12%

      Graduation

      63%

      Student body

      2K

      Median SAT/ACT

      1135/22

      Career Outlook for degree at College of the Ozarks

      Cost of Degree: $21,290
      Expenses: $12,444
      Starting Salary: $47,246
      Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
      Paid back at 15% of annual salary
      What is College of the Ozarks known for?

      College of the Ozarks’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

      Most Influential Alumni

      Compare school
    • #18

      Ranken Technical College

      Saint Louis , MO

      Tuition + fees

      $19K

      Graduation

      47%

      Student body

      2K

      Career Outlook for degree at Ranken Technical College

      Cost of Degree: $17,490
      Expenses: $17,488
      Starting Salary: $60,835
      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:

      Compare school

    Finding the most affordable colleges in Missouri in 2026 means looking beyond sticker tuition to compare in-state rates, institutional aid, program format, and total cost of attendance. This guide focuses on institutions and programs that deliver accredited degrees at lower total cost—highlighting public universities, community colleges with strong transfer pathways, and online graduate options that reduce living expenses and accelerate completion.

    If you’re specifically exploring graduate study, there are several competitively priced online MBA pathways in Missouri; see our roundup of online MBA programs in Missouri for examples and pricing context. Use the sections below to compare tuition models, fee structures, and practical tips for maximizing affordability in 2026.

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    Missouri’s Most Affordable Colleges in Your Area of Interest

    Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology
    2021 Ranking Archive
    1. Harris–Stowe State University
    2. Missouri Western State University
    3. Missouri Southern State University
    4. Missouri State University
    5. Southeast Missouri State University
    6. Lincoln University, Missouri
    7. University of Central Missouri
    8. Truman State University
    9. Northwest Missouri State University
    10. Park University
    11. University of Missouri–Kansas City
    12. University of Missouri
    13. Missouri University of Science and Technology
    14. Columbia College
    15. University of Missouri–St. Louis
    16. Ranken Technical College
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