Missouri, the home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is on a mission to become the "best in the Midwest." The Show-Me state hopes to achieve that title by helping more adult learners complete college through its Adult Learner Network Collaborative. Online colleges in Missouri offer the flexibility that adult learners — and every busy student — need to reach their educational objectives.
The best online colleges in Missouri offer quality academics, diverse program offerings, and affordable tuition.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2025
#1 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
University of Missouri-Columbia
- Columbia, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Missouri-Columbia offers more than 185 online degree and certificate program choices for distance students. Mizzou's flexible programs run in eight-, 16-, or 19-week blocks and are mostly asynchronous or self-paced to give learners freedom in their studies.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $455
Out of State | $553
Why Students Choose Mizzou:
- Online Community: Online students can connect with instructors and peers in a supportive online space.
- Strong Support: Mizzou provides online students with access to support services, including the school's learning center, libraries, and student health services.
- Out-of-State Graduate Tuition Waivers: Graduate students may be able to pay the same tuition rate regardless of location through the tuition support program.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Undergraduate Out-of-State Rates: Online out-of-state undergraduates must pay a nonresident fee on top of tuition.
- Synchronous Sessions: While many courses run asynchronously or are self-paced, some are held at specific times.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Missouri State University-Springfield
- Springfield, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
At Missouri State University-Springfield, students can choose from more than 50 online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The programs may run asynchronously, synchronously, or as a blend of modalities to provide students with a hybrid learning experience.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $290
Out of State | $621
Why Students Choose MSU:
- Support Services: Online students can access technical, academic, and career support.
- Financial Aid: Numerous funding opportunities are offered to qualifying online students, including the MoState Access Award, which covers all tuition and fees.
- Same Instruction: Online programs feature the same faculty and content as on-campus programs.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Out-of-State Tuition: Out-of-state students pay more than twice the tuition rate of in-state students.
- Synchronous or In-Person Requirements: Some online programs may have scheduled class times or on-campus components.
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Central Missouri offers more than 50 online undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Many of these run entirely online in a self-paced format, but the school also offers hybrid programs that meet both online and in person.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $285
Out of State | $285
Why Students Choose UCM:
- Transfer Agreements: Students can transfer general education credits from local community colleges with ease.
- Postgraduate Success: UCM reports that 97% of graduates start their careers or enter a graduate program within six months of graduating.
- No Out-of-State Tuition Increase: All online students pay the same tuition rate.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Degree Completion Programs: Some degree programs require transfer credits or an associate degree for entry.
- In-Person Requirements: Some programs feature field experiences and residencies that require in-person attendance.
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
University of Missouri-St Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers more than 35 online undergraduate and graduate degree programs with flexible delivery modes that accommodate working students. The school also offers numerous supportive financial aid programs, which 75% of students use.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $504+
Out of State | $756+
Why Students Choose UMSL:
- Program Options: Missouri Online allows access to programs from all University of Missouri institutions.
- Student Services: Support services for students include academic advising, tutoring, and library access.
- Out-of-State Programs: UMSL offers lower tuition rates for residents of Midwest Student Exchange member states.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Higher Tuition for Out-of-State Students: Out-of-state students pay more than double the tuition rates of in-state students.
- In-Person Requirements: Some programs feature hands-on clinical or field experiences requiring in-person attendance.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Missouri Western State University
- Saint Joseph, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Missouri Western State University offers over 300 online courses and 10 degree programs. The school stands out for its commitment to helping online students feel engaged and like they are true campus and classroom community members.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $277
Out of State | $583
Why Students Choose MWSU:
- Classroom Environment: Some online courses blend asynchronous and synchronous delivery to give students opportunities to collaborate.
- Academic Support: Missouri Western's Center for Academic Support offers tutoring services and workshops.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Additional Fees: Online classes come with a $55-per-credit instructional support and technology fee.
- Degree Completion Programs: Some bachelor's programs are degree completion programs that require transfer credits for admission.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Maryville University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Maryville University features nearly 80 fully online degree programs, all offering asynchronous courses for optimal flexibility. The school maintains small class sizes, and most programs do not require on-campus components.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $540+
Out of State | $540+
Why Students Choose Maryville:
- Streamlined Admissions Process: Maryville offers several start dates annually and an accommodating transfer credit policy.
- Accessible Applications: There are no application fees or entrance exams.
- No Out-of-State Tuition: Online learners pay the same tuition no matter where they live.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Additional Fees: Online degree programs come with a $425-per-semester technology fee.
- Time Commitment: Online courses typically require 10-15 hours of study weekly.
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Webster University stands out with more than 60 online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs offering both asynchronous and synchronous delivery modes. The school first introduced its online programs in 1999 and has since become a leader in the field of online learning.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $475
Out of State | $475
Why Students Choose Webster:
- Choose Your Learning Style: Some programs allow you to choose between asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid formats.
- Student Services: Online students can access career development, mental health counseling, and life development services.
- Travel Opportunities: Global hybrid programs offer international immersion components.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Synchronous Sessions: Some classes have scheduled meeting times, which may be limiting for certain students.
- Internship Requirements: Programs like education studies feature internships or other hands-on requirements that call for in-person attendance.
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Lindenwood University
- Saint Charles, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Lindenwood University offers online students plenty of degree program choices, including more than 20 at the undergraduate level. Through its flexibly scheduled online programs, Lindenwood carries on its nearly 200-year mission of helping students contribute to a global community.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $495
Out of State | $495
Why Students Choose Lindenwood:
- Placement Rates: Nearly 97% of graduates find employment or begin graduate studies within six months of graduation.
- Transfer Credit Policy: Lindenwood accepts up to 90 transfer credits for undergraduate students.
- Military Student Programs: The school accommodates veterans with tuition assistance programs and specialized support.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Technology Fee: All online programs feature a $500-per-year technology fee.
- In-Person Requirements: Some programs feature internships or hands-on experiences requiring in-person attendance.
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Saint Louis University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
One of the nation's oldest universities, Saint Louis University has more than 60 years of experience offering nontraditional programs specifically for adult learners. The school's 14 online undergraduate programs offer primarily asynchronous schedules and accelerated track options.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $650
Out of State | $650
Why Students Choose SLU:
- Accelerated Courses: SLU's courses run year-round in eight-week sessions, allowing students to complete their programs faster.
- Multiple Start Dates: SLU offers five annual start dates.
- Financial Aid: Online students can access all financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Fieldwork Requirements: Some programs feature practicums or field experiences students must complete in person.
- Challenging Courses: SLU's accelerated eight-week courses may be more rigorous and require more study outside of class than 16-week courses.
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Park University
- Parkville, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Park University has been in the online learning space for more than 25 years. The school offers more than 650 online courses and features undergraduate degree programs in over 50 disciplines. The courses at Park run through accelerated, asynchronous eight-week sessions, allowing learners to fast-track their studies and complete coursework on their own time.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $575
Out of State | $575
Why Students Choose Park:
- Extensive Online Community: Nearly 80% of Park students take at least one online course.
- Support Services: Online students have access to tutoring, writing, and mentoring services.
- Flexibility: Park offers multiple start dates annually and individualized course loads to ensure students can start and finish their program when needed.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Additional Fees: Online students pay a university fee of $35 per credit, which is similar to the on-campus university fee.
- Eight-Week Terms: The accelerated terms at Park could intensify studies and increase time spent on coursework.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula on our most affordable rankings. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This list is from 2025. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Price Check
The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development awarded over $149 million in financial aid to nearly 56,000 students during the 2022-2023 academic year.
10 Fast-Growing Careers in Missouri
The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center projects a 7.3% rise in employment from 2020-2030, primarily due to pandemic recovery. The largest increase in jobs is expected in accommodation and food services, with 52,160 positions projected to be added in the next decade.
The next sectors expected to grow are healthcare and professional, scientific, and tech services.
Fast-Growing Careers in Missouri 2022-2032
| Job |
Projected Growth |
Annual Mean Wage in Missouri |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists |
40.43% |
$133,200 |
| Financial Managers |
18.64% |
$149,360 |
| Human Resources Specialists |
11.10% |
$128,400 |
| Lawyers |
10.90% |
$146,870 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists |
22.76% |
$73,200 |
| Nurse Practitioners |
47.52% |
$116,680 |
| Respiratory Therapists |
23.75% |
$70,450 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors |
13.80% |
$55,910 |
Source: BLS Missouri, Missouri Economic Research and Information Center
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Missouri's Job Market
You can make the most out of your college education by selecting a major that aligns with your interests and provides job security. The following majors can lead to high-demand careers in Missouri.
-
Business Management
With a business management degree, you can thrive in Missouri's dynamic workforce. Business management majors can make their degrees more relevant by pursuing concentrations like finance, human resources, and marketing. This degree positions you to pursue in-demand careers as finance managers, human resource specialists, and market research analysts.
-
Information Technology
Information technology degree-holders can benefit from Missouri's thriving computer and mathematical sector. Earning an information technology major with a specialty can lead to careers in cybersecurity, software development, and network architecture.
-
Nursing
Missouri is expected to experience a surge in the healthcare sector from 2020-2030. There's a high demand for nurses, particularly nurse practitioners (NPs). Becoming an NP requires a bachelor of science in nursing, experience as a registered nurse, and a master of science in nursing.
-
Political Science
Career-ready political science graduates can thrive in Missouri's competitive job market. Many pre-law students choose to major in political science, which introduces them to the legal system. Employment opportunities for lawyers in Missouri are projected to increase in the coming decade.
What Is the Cost of Living in Missouri?
Cost of living refers to expenses related to basic needs, such as food, shelter, and transportation. Missourians currently have the nation's sixth-lowest cost of living as of 2023. The most expensive places to live include California, Hawaii, and states in the Northeast and West Coast regions.
On average, housing in Missouri costs $820 per month. Transportation comes to $850 per month. By attending online college, students can cut transportation and on-campus housing expenses.
Average Cost of Living in Missouri
| Cost of Living Category |
Average Cost Per Month |
| Housing |
$820 |
| Groceries & Food |
$350 |
| Transportation |
$850 |
| Medical Care |
$267 |
Source: MIT Living Wage Calculator, using data for 1 Adult without children
How Can I Make Online College in Missouri More Affordable?
The cost of an online college education can seem like a burden to consider while pursuing your education. However, scholarships, work-study programs, and other forms of aid can make higher education more accessible.
1. Apply for Scholarships and Grants
If you have an excellent academic track record or can demonstrate 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. The application process may also require a short personal essay. If you doubt your ability to receive a scholarship, don't let that stop you from applying. It's free money, and you do not have to pay it back. Check out some of the scholarships available to you below:
2. Consider a Work-Study Program
Work-study programs involve earning money on-campus or elsewhere to help pay for college. Like scholarships, these opportunities do not require repayment. Part-time work provides time for your studies, activities, and the college experience. The wages you earn apply directly toward your tuition balance. Due to the high demand for work-study and limited funds, schools have limited positions.
3. Apply for Financial Aid
Financial aid includes student loans and grants that help students with limited funds cover tuition and other school-related expenses. While you must repay student loans, grants provide free money without repayment requirements.
People who graduate and pursue careers in healthcare, public service, and education may qualify for loan repayment assistance. To apply for financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the June 30 federal deadline, which determines your financial need.
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:
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Missouri
Do online credits cost more or less in Missouri?
Missouri's college tuition is lower than in 21 other states. Colleges in Missouri charged an average of $9,944 for in-state tuition and fees in 2021-2022.
What is the most affordable college in Missouri?
Tuition in Missouri differs for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as in-state and out-of-state learners. One of the most accessible schools, Harris-Stowe State University, charges $2,904 per semester for a course load of 12-15 credits.
What is the best online college degree to get in Missouri?
Choose a major in your interest area that offers marketability in a high-projected growth sector. From 2020-2030, industries such as healthcare, computer and mathematical, business and financial operations, and education are projected to increase in Missouri.
Is Missouri online accredited?
Missouri participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA), a nonprofit overseeing the regulation of online programs. As a NC-SARA member, online colleges in Missouri can admit students across all 50 states.
Edited by