Missouri students may see tremendous benefit when they enroll in an online college in-state. This includes online support, eligibility for state scholarships, and feeling more connected to the overall college experience. But how do you determine which school and online program is right for you?
Before making this decision, it’s important to research to determine which online degree programs will meet your needs and long-term goals. The following guide ranks the best online colleges in Missouri and provides critical information such as costs, programs, and student services offered so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to see how Missouri colleges stack up.
2024 Rankings: Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Your foremost priority should be determining which college is the best fit for your academic and career goals. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best online colleges in Missouri and ranked them according to how well they serve their students. The schools selected for this ranking offer affordable tuition, considerable financial aid opportunities, favorable student-faculty ratios, robust student support, effective career placement services, and a healthy catalogue of degree options. See which Missouri online colleges earned top honors in 2024.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Columbia, MissouriPublic $$
The University of Missouri-Columbia is just one of four campus-based university locations. With a degree from Missouri online, you can benefit from over 80 flexible degree programs from all four accredited schools in the university system. As a student, you’ll connect with industry leaders and top-notch scholars who are ready to support your passions and encourage your success. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, you can expect the freedom to work with your individual schedule as you balance life’s obligations with your studies. You’ll gain insights from Missouri’s advisors, take courses with dedicated professors, and network with your peers throughout your chosen online degree program.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $426.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Learning Technologies and Design with an Emphasis in Technology in Schools
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $510.50
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Finance
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $1,389.80/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Springfield, MissouriPublic $$
At Missouri State University-Springfield online, you’ll find plenty of fully accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees to meet your educational goals. These online programs are developed and taught by the same prestigious full-time faculty as the in-person programs. MSU also stands out for enrolling more transfer students than any other college or university in Missouri, and the staff takes care to make the transfer process as smooth as possible. Whether you’re a brand new student or transferring from another institution, Missouri State’s dedicated advisors have you covered. All incoming online students have access to a wide range of student support resources, including virtual research assistance, writing assistance, and one-on-one tutoring services.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Marketing – Advertising and Promotions
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $267/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Public Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $333/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Arts in Writing – Technical and Professional Writing Track
- Credits: 33
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $333/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Rolla, MissouriPublic $$
The Missouri University of Science and Technology specializes in providing online courses for graduate degree-seeking students. With an online degree from S&T, you can gain deeper knowledge in your field and increase your career prospects, all while maintaining a work/life balance alongside your studies. These online programs are the same courses you’d take on campus, but they’re conveniently available via online synchronous and asynchronous instruction. For synchronous classes, you can participate in live-stream discussions to interact with your professors and peers. If set meeting times don’t work for your schedule, you can view class materials whenever it’s convenient for you.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 36 credits
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $1,200/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Master of Science in Computer Science
- Credits: 31
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,200/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: ABET
Master of Science in Mining Engineering
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,200/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Moberly, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$
If you’re looking for an online bachelor’s degree in a Christian field of study, Central Christian College of the Bible might be the school that fits your needs. The school offers two online bachelor’s programs that were developed for working adults who want to achieve degrees without having to relocate or take time off from their jobs or ministries. At Central Christian College of the Bible, not only will you receive a biblical education, you’ll join a lively online community of peers and be led by knowledgeable professors. Both available online bachelor’s programs take place in eight-week-long intensive course formats. There are no set class times, so students can choose when and how they’ll listen to lectures. However, students must complete reading assignments, writing assignments, and tests on scheduled deadlines.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Religious Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $295/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: ABHE
Bachelor of Science in Biblical Ministry
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $295/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: ABHE
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
8/1
-
Parkville, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$
Park University’s online learning department brings students the best of online bachelor’s and master’s degrees with the flexible course schedules busy working adults need. Online classes are available asynchronously, so students don’t have to worry about attending class at a specific time. As a result, Park students can create a schedule that’s convenient for their lives. Even though online students watch course lectures via asynchronous recordings, they can still look forward to class participation through weekly online assignments and discussion groups. Park University also stands out for its strong relationship with the military, offering service members credits based on their time spent in the service.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication
- Credits: 122
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $453/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Healthcare Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $634/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $634/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: ACBSP
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Saint Louis, MissouriPublic $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Saint Louis, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Cape Girardeau, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Kirksville, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Saint Charles, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Maryville, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Warrensburg, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Saint Joseph, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Chesterfield, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Columbia, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
23/1
-
Kansas City, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Marshall, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Joplin, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Hannibal, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Bolivar, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Joplin, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Kansas City, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Springfield, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Wentzville, MissouriPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
West Plains, MissouriPublic $
Missouri State West Plains keeps class sizes small, with 12 students on average. MSWP is both accessible and affordable with 97% of students receiving some form of financial aid. Choose from a wide range of academic paths from transfer degree programs that prepare you for a four-year university to technical courses with hands-on training for employment in several fields. MSWP also has a growing list of online programs, including its Associate of Applied Science in Enology, Associate of Applied Science in Viticulture, and Associate of Arts in General Studies.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Enology
- Credits: 62
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $141/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Viticulture
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $141/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Arts in General Studies
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $141/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Sedalia, MissouriPublic $
State Fair Community College offers certificates, associate’s degrees, and continuing and community education classes. Choose from seven campuses as well as fully online offerings. SFCC offers more than 260 courses and two degree programs, an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, entirely online. Courses are hybrid with regular campus meetings, via Webcon with Zoom meetings, or through other web-based platforms. SFCC also offers continuing education and workforce training for working professionals through The LearningForce.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts
- Credits: 64
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $121/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Business Management
- Credits: 64
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $121/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Medical Assisting
- Credits: 61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $121/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Missouri State Board of Nursing
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Hillsboro, MissouriPublic $$
Jefferson College offers an Associate of Arts in General Studies degree entirely online. This program gives you a foundation in a range of academic disciplines, from humanities and fine arts to mathematical sciences, and prepares you for transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree. Courses with a MORT CORE42 designation are guaranteed to transfer to any public college or university in Missouri. The college also offers three degrees that are 50% or more online. Its Associate of Arts in Teaching, Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology, and Associate of Applied Science in Business Management allow students to complete most of their coursework online but require periodic classroom meetings on campus.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts in General Studies
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $118/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Arts in Teaching
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $118/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Business Management
- Credits: 65-67
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $118/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Poplar Bluff, MissouriPublic $
Three Rivers College offers 13 fully online pathways to an associate’s degree. These programs, designed for convenience and flexibility, include Administration, Biological Sciences, Business Administration, General Education, Political Science, Pre-Law, and more. As an open-access institution, Three Rivers College provides full educational opportunities and encourages the enrollment of all students able to benefit from its education programs.TRC offers resources for displaced workers and has programs to help them succeed in the labor market. It also works with veterans to ensure they have the resources they need to reach educational goals.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Administration of Justice
- Credits: 66-70
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $174/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Associate of Arts in Biological Sciences
- Credits: 63
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $174/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Springfield, MissouriPublic $
Ozarks Technical Community College has over 15 online programs that include associate degrees, like an Associate of Science in Fire Service Administration and an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, and certificates for administrative assistants, accounting and business management, business, and marketing. OTC offers over a hundred programs across concentrations in general education, technical education, and health sciences. Students from a range of diverse backgrounds, from undergraduates seeking degrees to students not seeking degrees to corporate learners, can find a unique pathway at OTC for their individual educational needs.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $117/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $117/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Accounting and Business Management
- Credits: 61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $117/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Kansas City, MissouriPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Bridgeton, MissouriPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Moberly, MissouriPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
24/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Online Learning Formats at Missouri Colleges
Applying the term “online” to college is somewhat vague—there are actually several different ways to earn a degree from an online college in Missouri. When choosing one, consider how, when, and where you learn best. Will you choose a fully-online program or a blended program? Do you learn best from a synchronous or asynchronous approach? These program types and others are detailed below; keep reading to learn more.
Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended
Although the terms fully-online, hybrid, and blended all imply some degree of virtual learning, there are important differences among them. Fully-online programs are completely virtual, whereas both hybrid and blended programs combine in-person and online modes. Hybrid programs conveniently allow learners to flexibly shift between modes based on their preferences; in blended models, participation in both modes is required.
Because they require little or no in-person interaction, fully-online and hybrid models are best for people who are self-motivated and have excellent time management skills. Blended models use online elements to supplement required in-person instruction, so they’re a great compromise for individuals who need more accountability. In the section below, we’ve detailed examples of each type of online college in Missouri to help you get a better understanding of which model might be best for you.
Master of Science in Nursing at University of Missouri-Kansas City (Blended/Hybrid)
The official name of this program is the master of science in nursing with an emphasis in acute care pediatric nurse practitioner. You’re a qualified candidate if you hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, are currently licensed, and have a minimum of two years’ clinical experience in pediatrics. The program requires a total of 52 credits; attending part-time means you’ll finish in three years, whereas the full-time option will only take two. Because the learning format is blended, asynchronous online coursework is combined with select on-campus sessions. Another vital part of this program is the clinical sequence in which you apply your learning in the real world. The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and it prepares you for relevant certification exams.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Maryville University (Fully-Online)
Even if you don’t have a tech background, the bachelor of science in cybersecurity program at Maryville gives you all of the training and knowledge you need to succeed in the field. It features three tracks—cybersecurity, offensive cybersecurity, and defensive cybersecurity—and all coursework is completed entirely online. Apple has recognized the school’s course-delivery system, the Maryville Virtual Lab, for mobile innovation. In this virtual training ground, students have a safe space to practice their skills, such as testing software and running investigations. Although most students complete the cybersecurity program in four years, it’s possible to finish it in two and a half. For the duration of this online college program in Missouri, you’ll receive the help of a dedicated student support advisor to answer your questions and connect you with resources.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
Another thing you’ll want to consider when selecting an online college in Missouri is whether the coursework is synchronous or asynchronous. In asynchronous programs, students complete work at their own pace to meet specified deadlines. Synchronous learning, on the other hand, requires students to meet in one place (virtually or physically) at specified times. Synchronous virtual learning is a great choice for people who thrive on social interaction and immediate feedback, whereas asynchronous learning is perfect for individuals who prefer more time to reflect before responding. Many online colleges in Missouri offer both of these modes, and some programs even combine them. The quality examples detailed below will give you an inside look at each of these learning styles so that you can decide which suits you.
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management at Southeast Missouri State University (Asynchronous)
Southeast Missouri State’s bachelor of science in healthcare management might be the right choice for you if you’re interested in careers such as health service manager, medical records manager, clinical analyst, or patient safety specialist. Graduates of this program enjoy a high rate of success, with 98% employed or continuing their education six months after completion. The entire program is fully online and asynchronous; you’ll use the Canvas learning management system to access course content, engage with peers on forums, and submit assignments. Although there are no set meeting times for classes, you will still be responsible for assignment deadlines. For group projects, you’ll use email and other means of virtual communication to complete the assignment. Online students also receive ample guidance through an online program specialist and access to career services.
Master of Business Administration at Webster University (Synchronous)
Webster University’s robust master of business administration program was recognized as one of the nation’s best of 2022 by U.S. News & World Report. It features ten areas of emphasis and 12 dual degree options. Through the live virtual option, instruction is delivered synchronously online. You’ll complete your coursework independently and at your own pace, but you’ll also teleconference with your instructor and peers once per week. This approach allows you to get some real-time interaction and feedback while still retaining control over your assignment management. In addition, Webster students benefit from the university’s relationships with corporate partners as well as its professional networking events. Both aspects enable you to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time
The next decision you’ll need to make is whether you pursue your degree part-time or full-time. Most young undergraduates opt for a full-time schedule because they don’t yet have other responsibilities to balance with their education. However, if you’re an adult learner, you may need to consider a part-time online college in Missouri to accommodate work, family, and free time. Luckily, many online colleges in Missouri offer both options, and it’s sometimes possible to switch between the two, as necessary. For a better idea of what each enrollment status entails, check out the details of the excellent programs below.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing at St. Louis University (Part-Time)
If you’re a registered nurse, you can earn your BSN fully online through St. Louis University. This degree prepares you to deliver a higher standard of care to patients through enhanced knowledge and skills. Course content is delivered via the Canvas management system, and students have online access to the school’s library and writing center. With six terms per year and two part-time degree paths (1 1/2-year and two-year), the program is highly flexible, and individualized curriculum plans make it easy to visualize your roadmap to completion. Although the program is a total of 120 credits, you have the option to earn a maximum of 38 credits through your prior experience. Part-time students at this online college in Missouri take six credits per semester.
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies at William Woods University (Full-Time)
The paralegal studies degree at William Woods University can open up many possibilities. It will, of course, prepare you to serve as a paralegal in a law office, but it can also be a step toward law school or many other careers, including healthcare risk management and compliance, deputy court clerk, and legal administrator of a business. This online college program in Missouri consists of 42 semester hours delivered over a 14-course sequence. If you’re a full-time student, you’ll take two courses per session for a total of 12 credit hours. All online courses are delivered via the Brightspace learning platform, and you will be required to complete a hands-on practicum in the program’s Virtual Law Office.
Accreditation Explained: Online Colleges in Missouri
It’s crucial that you choose an online Missouri college that holds a sound accreditation. Doing so ensures that you’ll receive a quality education. Furthermore, if your school isn’t accredited, you won’t be eligible for federal financial aid, you won’t be able to obtain licenses and certifications, and your credits won’t be transferrable to accredited colleges in Missouri. There are two categories of accreditation: institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation applies to the university or college as a whole; specialized accreditation applies only to certain programs or departments within an institution. The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development has a list of institutional and specialized accreditation agencies available on its site. A great resource on this topic is our guide to accreditation.
How Much Does an Online Degree Cost in Missouri?
Since the cost of attending Missouri’s online colleges can vary significantly from school to school, it’s a good idea to do your research. Many schools list tuition and fees up front, and some provide cost estimators to help you get an idea of your bottom line. In general, online programs are more affordable than attending in person. That’s because online students usually don’t have to pay as many fees as in-person students. For example, students who attend in person may have to pay parking fees, lab usage fees, housing, and meals. And, for students who attend in person but don’t live on campus, the cost of commuting can be considerable. Also, many schools (but not all) charge out-of-state tuition for online courses the same as they do for in-person courses. So, as a Missouri resident, you can definitely benefit from lower in-state tuition rates. The table below compares the costs of traditional college with online college in Missouri to give you an idea of how much these amounts can vary.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Missouri | $29,636/year | $48,808/year | $26,484/year | $29,370/year |
| Columbia College | $38,308/year | $38,308/year | $27,874/year | $27,874/year |
| Maryville University | $37,766/year | $37,766/year | $500/credit hour | $500/credit hour |
| Missouri Baptist University | $31,884/year | $48,337/year | $482/credit hour | $482/credit hour |
| Missouri Western State University | $23,160/year | $30,170/year | $290/credit hour | $554/credit hour |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for Missouri Online College Students
Paying for online college programs in Missouri is a little easier thanks to the state’s many grants, assistance programs, and scholarships. Some programs in the state are geared toward specific areas of study, but others offer general funding. Also, be aware that many colleges offer their own scholarships and grants. The Missouri programs detailed below give you an idea of what kind of statewide assistance is available, so give them a look. And, for more guidance on scholarships, our guide to financial aid is a valuable resource.
- The A+ Scholarship Program is for eligible graduates of A+ designated high schools who plan to attend participating community colleges or vocational schools. The qualifying criteria include a GPA of 2.5 or higher and at least 50 hours of unpaid tutoring or mentoring.
- Requirements for the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program are fairly simple. This is a need-based program, and your eligibility is based on your expected family contribution as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (most often known as the FAFSA).
- Also known as the Bright Flight Program, the Missouri Higher Education Academic Scholarship Program is a merit-based program for top-ranked high school seniors. Eligibility is primarily determined based on ACT or SAT scores.
Hot College-Level Careers in Missouri
Online colleges in Missouri are great places to get an education, but what should you do if you still haven’t decided which degree to pursue? Getting a sense of the most in-demand career fields in the state is a helpful starting point. Check out the table below to see which careers are projected to grow the most over the next decade.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 47.5% | $103,490 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 39.3% | $101,680 |
| Media and Communication Workers | 34.8% | $60,310 |
| Logisticians | 33.8% | $77,330 |
| Statisticians | 33.3% | $69,160 |
| Information Security Analysts | 32.8% | $95,010 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants | 31.2% | $56,230 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants | 29.5% | $55,810 |
| Physician Assistants | 28.9% | $95,280 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 28% | $108,150 |
Additional Resources for Online College Students in Missouri
5 Tips for Success When Taking an Online Class by Missouri Online
This brief guide contains helpful pointers for surviving and thriving in the online learning format. It gives you an idea of what to expect and where to turn for help if you get stuck.
The Department of Social Services on Campus initiative makes it easier for students to access services such as food stamps, healthcare, and energy assistance. This link contains full details and a list of participating campuses.
Journey to college is a planning resource sponsored by the Missouri Department of Higher Education. The site contains tons of resources related to college and career planning. In fact, it has almost everything you need to map out a successful trajectory.
Missouri Connections is a free online resource that assists individuals with planning their college and professional careers. Its assessments help users learn more about their skills and talents, and the results are used in making educational and career roadmaps.
Missouri Scholarship and Loan Foundation
The Missouri Scholarship and Loan Foundation is a nonprofit corporation. It provides scholarships and low-cost student loans to make college more affordable for students in Missouri.