
Missouri boasts a robust higher education system that offers diverse degrees for students and professions alike. Over the years, the state has taken various initiatives to increase its educated workforce. Government programs like “Big Goal” is aiming to equip 60% of its working-age adults with a degree or certificate by 2025.
Colleges in the state offer lower tuition rates, extensive selections of online degrees, flexible classes, financial assistance, and internship opportunities. Affordable living costs also help independent students keep their overall expenses low. Read on to learn more about the benefits of attending online colleges in Missouri.
Why choose Missouri for online colleges?
Missouri’s economic market usually requires students to have at least a college degree. The top sectors in the state include information technology, business, financial occupations, bioscience, and advanced manufacturing. Additionally, to help with educational expenses, students can apply for scholarships offered by several organizations in the state. These scholarships are usually awarded to Missouri residents. Many colleges even offer internships, which will help students get acquainted with real-world demands.
Online colleges in Missouri
Below, we have selected a few of the colleges in Missouri best for online education. These are chosen based on their popularity, quality of programs, degrees offered, and class flexibility for busy individuals. Each of these institutions is officially accredited.

William Woods University
Non Sponsored School
Fulton, Missouri

Saint Louis University
Non Sponsored School
St. Louis, Missouri
Learn how to break into a high-paying tech career in a few months, with no prior experience. Sign up to schedule a free coaching session!

Drury University
Non Sponsored School
Springfield, Missouri

University of Missouri-Columbia
Non Sponsored School
Columbia, Missouri

Webster University
Non Sponsored School
Webster Groves, Missouri
Cost of attending colleges in Missouri
In Missouri, the average cost of education at public institutions for on-campus students is $8,554 (in-state) and $20,877 (out-of-state). However, students attending online colleges pay a lot less as they are not charged for campus fees, parking, commuting, library, etc. Some colleges may even charge in-state tuition to degree-seekers enrolled in 100% online courses. Additionally, Missouri is a member of the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP). Through this program, students coming to Missouri from member states will pay no more than 150% of the in-state tuition at public institutions. Private institutions offer a 10% tuition reduction.Missouri Scholarships
Several local and government organizations in Missouri offer scholarships to need-based and merit-based students. By receiving one of these scholarships, you can cut down a proportion of your educational expenses. We have listed a few of the programs that you can look into.Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program | Scholarship Amount |
Eligible candidates must be permanent U.S. citizens and be full-time students at a participating Missouri school. | Amount Varies See Scholarship |
A+ Scholarship Program | Scholarship Amount |
Eligible candidates must be graduates of A+ designated high schools. The applicant must be a permanent U.S. resident. | Amount Varies See Scholarship |
Bright Flight Program | Scholarship Amount |
Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens and not be pursuing a degree or certificate in theology or divinity. | Amount Varies See Scholarship |
Kids' Chance Scholarship Program | Scholarship Amount |
Eligible candidates must be children of workers who were seriously injured or died in a work-related accident. The applicant must be between 17 to 22 years of age. | Amount Varies See Scholarship |
Minority and Underrepresented Environmental Literacy Program | Scholarship Amount |
Eligible for minority group members who have good academic records. The applicant must maintain a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. | Amount Varies See Scholarship |
Frequently Asked Questions
Calvary University, Missouri State University, and Southeast Missouri State University are some of the affordable online colleges in Missouri.
Columbia College, Drury University, and Missouri State University are some of the best online colleges in Missouri.