Attending college online in Missouri can be an affordable and flexible way to further your education. Plus, you have many options when choosing an online school in the "Show-Me" state. For example, did you know that the University of Missouri-Columbia alone offers more than 180 online degree and certificate programs?
With expanding job growth in healthcare, information technology and security, logistics, and data science, graduates from online colleges in Missouri can seek meaningful employment without leaving the state.
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Explore these promoted online degree programs.
These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online bachelor's programs.
Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Read About Our Methodology
#1 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University
- Cape Girardeau, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Southeast Missouri State University operates a Cape Girardeau campus. The accredited school's academic offerings include both in-person and online programs. Of all students, 5,553 choose to enroll online at the college. Fully online bachelor's programs are available in addition to single remote classes.
Learners at the school select from many top-choice fields for their college degree. Being able to fit earning a degree around other responsibilities and obligations is why many degree-seekers like the virtual learning environment of online programs. Working professionals looking to further their careers with a degree find many programs at the school designed with them in mind. The institution's online program options include 11 bachelor's programs and 13 master's programs.
Earning a bachelor's takes most degree-seekers about four years. Transferring credits from previous institutions makes earning a four-year bachelor's degree in less time possible. People interested in applying to the school should visit the website for more information on admission requirements and application timelines.
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Missouri Southern State University
- Joplin, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Missouri Southern State University is one of the nation's top online colleges. The academic catalog at the accredited institution includes four online bachelor's programs for distance learners. The online school's academic offerings also include three online master's programs. Currently, the school enrolls 2,836 distance learners.
Located in Joplin, the public school enrolls about 1,791 degree-seekers. Online learners nationwide attend classes virtually. Several student services are available for the institution's online enrollees. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services are available to students at the online school.
The online college features programs in many top-choice fields to meet the needs of many different degree-seekers. The school confers accredited degrees that open the door to roles in many industries. The institution prioritizes offering an affordable education.
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Missouri Baptist University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, Missouri Baptist University is a private institution located in Saint Louis. The accredited school teaches 1,826 distance learners across its undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution's online degree-seekers choose from 11 bachelor's and 10 master's programs.
The school meets the career goals of all kinds of students by offering virtual programs in many top-choice disciplines, such as healthcare, STEM, and business. Remote classroom spaces let participants engage with the virtual program content. Often, distance learners meet in-person requirements locally. Student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring are available to online students.
Four years is often how long it takes to earn a bachelor's degree. Those with prior college experience can graduate in less time by transferring credits toward their degree. Additionally, prospective enrollees can check out programs with accelerated options.
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Northwest Missouri State University
- Maryville, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest Missouri State University counts itself as one of the top online colleges in the United States. Distance learners at the accredited institution pursue one of two online bachelor's programs. The online school's academic offerings also include eight online master's programs. A total of 2,759 remote learners attend classes through the institution.
The school enrolls about 1,529 degree-seekers from its public Maryville campus. Virtual learners complete their courses online from wherever they live in the United States. Those enrolled at the institution online benefit from student services designed for them. Students at the online school get access to academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.
With many top-choice majors available, the online college's programs appeal to many different degree-seekers. Distance learners earn an accredited degree that qualifies them for many different career paths. The institution prioritizes a low-cost education. Undergraduates at the school pay an average per-credit cost of $390, and 98% of them get financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Missouri State University
- Springfield, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Missouri State University is among some of the best U.S. online colleges. Distance learners at the accredited institution pursue one of 24 online bachelor's programs. Graduate students enjoy an academic catalog that includes 28 online master's programs. The school's distance learners total 9,079.
With a Springfield-based campus, the school teaches about 6,699 degree-seekers as a public institution. Distance learners nationwide remotely attend their classes. Some student services at the institution are tailored specifically for those enrolled online. The online school's students benefit from academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.
Degree-seekers from all different backgrounds choose from programs in some of the most popular disciplines. The school confers accredited degrees that open the door to roles in many fields. Affordability is a top priority for the institution.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Missouri Western State University
- Saint Joseph, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
As one of the best online schools, Missouri Western State University offers top-ranked online programs. Business, healthcare, STEM, and social science are fields that the public institution's distance learners can choose from. Many programs offer a fully-online route to a college degree. Distance learners can earn a degree from the comfort of their home rather than commuting to class on the Saint Joseph campus.
For online degrees, remote learners use a virtual classroom space to interact with each other and their teachers. Experiential learning opportunities at the institution help participants transition to the workforce. The school's distance learners receive support through academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling.
Diverse students get their different needs met by the accredited online institution's undergraduate- and graduate-level program offerings. Degree-seekers can meet graduation requirements more easily because of the flexible format.
Missouri Western State University Statistics:
Distance Learners Enrolled: 2,131
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 4
Total Online Master's Programs: 1
Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 98%
Percentage of Students Receiving Loans: 39%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
William Woods University
- Fulton, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Prospective students can explore affordable online programs at William Woods University. The Missouri school offers a comprehensive catalog of programs. Students prepare for entry-level jobs and career advancement. Online students can choose full-time or part-time enrollment. The school's asynchronous online degrees provide learning flexibility. Students complete hybrid programs with a blend of online and traditional face-to-face instruction. Online learners often prefer small classes for the individualized instruction.
Learners can earn one of two associate or 44 bachelor’s programs. Graduates can choose from among seven online master's programs. The institution's students benefit from affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
William Woods University at a Glance:
Status of School: Private
Students Enrolled in Online Programs: 876
Available Online Programs: 14
Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 6
Percentage of Degree-Seekers Receiving Aid: 99%
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, the University of Central Missouri is a public institution located in Warrensburg. Across its undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited school enrolls 4,403 distance learners. Degree-seekers pick from six online bachelor's programs and 14 online master's programs at the institution.
Students with many different needs and career paths choose from online programs in top fields, such as STEM, healthcare, and business. Remote classroom spaces let participants engage with the virtual program content. Typically, virtual learners can fulfill in-person requirements in their local area. Online learners benefit from student services tailored specifically for them, such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring.
It generally takes four years for degree-seekers to earn their bachelor's. People can graduate faster by applying credits from previous college experience. Prospective enrollees can also check out programs with accelerated options.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Webster University, a private institution in Saint Louis, Missouri, ranks among the country's top online schools. The accredited school teaches 4,741 distance learners across its undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution's academic offerings include 21 online bachelor's programs and 31 online master's programs.
The school offers online programs in popular fields like business, STEM, and healthcare to meet the diverse needs and career goals of different students. Virtual learning environments help participants engage with the online program material. The institution generally lets virtual learners complete in-person requirements in their local area. Online degree-seekers benefit from student services tailored specifically for them, such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring.
Most students complete a bachelor's degree in four years. Those with previous experience in higher education can often bring transfer credits and graduate faster. Accelerated program options are available as well.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Culver-Stockton College
- Canton, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its private Canton, Missouri, campus, Culver-Stockton College ranks among the best online schools. The accredited school's undergraduate and graduate programs teach 256 learners remotely. The academic catalog at the institution includes four online bachelor's programs and three online master's programs.
The school meets the needs of students with diverse career goals by offering online programs in popular fields like business, STEM, and healthcare. The virtual programs use online classroom spaces to engage participants. Often, distance learners meet in-person requirements locally. Online students can take advantage of student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring.
Typically, bachelor's programs take degree-seekers four years to finish. Those with prior college experience can transfer credits toward their degree and graduate in less time. Prospective enrollees can also check out programs with accelerated options.
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
What Is the Cost of Online College in Missouri?
Cost can be a significant factor in many people's choice of school, especially since private colleges are typically more expensive than public institutions. Living out of state can also raise your tuition bill.
Fortunately, enrolling in an online program can help you reduce your expenses because you're not paying for housing and dining hall meals. You can also save on transportation and avoid charges for student services that on-campus students can use.
Cost of College in Missouri (2020-21)
| Institution Type |
Average Tuition & Required Fees |
| Public, Four-Year (In-state) |
$9,310 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) |
$21,880 |
| Private, Four-Year |
$27,723 |
Source: NCES
How to Make Online College in Missouri More Affordable
The cost of an online college education can seem like a burden to you. However, scholarships, work-study programs, and other forms of finance can make higher education more accessible.
1. Apply for Scholarships
If you have an excellent academic track record or can show financial need, consider applying for scholarships to make college more affordable. You'll have to do some research to find the scholarships you qualify for based on specific criteria. If you doubt your ability to snag a scholarship, don't let that stop you from applying. It's free money, and you won't have to pay it back. Check out some of the scholarships available to you below:
2. Consider a Work-Study Program
Work-study involves earning money on- or off-campus to help pay for college. Like scholarships, work-study programs provide funds you don't have to repay later. Part-time work allows plenty of time for your studies, activities, and other things you can do to enjoy the college experience. The wages you earn goes directly toward your tuition balance, not to you.
3. Apply for Financial Aid
Financial aid includes student loans and grants that help students with limited funds pay their tuition and other school-related expenses. While you must repay student loans, grants provide free money that you don't have to reimburse.
People who graduate and pursue careers in healthcare, public service, and education may be eligible for loan repayment assistance. To apply for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your financial need.
5 High-Paying Jobs in Missouri
Compared to holding a high school diploma, getting a bachelor's degree or more from an online college in Missouri can increase your earning potential. In Missouri, many high-paying jobs exist in transportation, finance, and business. You might work to gain experience that qualifies you for management and leadership positions, especially in business, technology, and engineering.
The following high-paying jobs are based on May 2022 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
High-Paying Jobs in Missouri
| Career |
Mean Annual Salary (May 2022) |
| Airline or Commercial Pilot |
$217,730 |
| Top Executive |
$190,270 |
| Architectural and Engineering Manager |
$149.720 |
| Financial Manager |
$149,270 |
| Compensation and Benefits Manager |
$147,830 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Missouri
What is the most affordable college in Missouri?
With an annual in-state tuition of just over $5,800, Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis provides an affordable path to higher education. This school offers in-person, hybrid, and 100% online programs.
How long do you need to live in Missouri to get in-state tuition?
To qualify for in-state tuition, you must live full-time in Missouri for 12 consecutive months and prove that you intend to make Missouri your permanent home. However, if you aren't a Missouri resident, you can qualify for reduced out-of-state tuition through the Midwest Student Exchange Program if you live in the following states:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Wisconsin
Do online credits cost more or less in Missouri?
According to 2021 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, students attending a public four-year college in Missouri pay an average of $9,310 in tuition and fees. This is close to the U.S. national average of $9,375. When attending one of the online colleges in Missouri, you typically bypass costs for housing, transportation, and services available to on-campus students.
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