10 Most Popular Online Colleges in Missouri

Key Takeaways

• Missouri online colleges offer competitive in-state tuition averaging $9,926, slightly above the national average of $9,750, with more than $149 million awarded to nearly 56,000 students in 2022–2023.
• University of Missouri–Columbia leads statewide with more than 185 online programs, 54% online enrollment, 91% retention, and out-of-state graduate tuition waivers.
• Missouri State University–Springfield offers 50+ programs and the MoState Access Award, which can cover all tuition and fees for qualifying online students.
• The Show-Me State projects strong job growth, including 41.9% for nurse practitioners, 37.7% for data scientists, and 33.7% for information security analysts through 2032.
• Missouri’s Adult Learner Network Collaborative supports the state goal for 55% of residents to complete college, offering accelerated formats, generous transfer policies, and statewide adult-learner support.

Missouri’s online colleges offer flexible, affordable pathways for students across the state, from Kansas City and St. Louis to Springfield, Columbia, and rural communities. These institutions provide accessible bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs tailored to Missouri’s workforce needs in healthcare, business, technology, data science, education, and professional services.

Online learning in Missouri is especially supportive of working adults and nontraditional students through asynchronous courses, accelerated formats, hybrid options, and generous transfer policies. While in-state tuition at public four-year schools averages $9,926, slightly above the $9,750 national average, the state significantly offsets costs. In 2022–2023, Missouri awarded over $149 million in financial aid to nearly 56,000 students, making online study more attainable.

Out-of-state students also benefit from strong value, with Missouri averaging $23,932 versus the national average of $28,297. Private colleges average $30,660 compared with $35,248 nationally, and online formats eliminate commuting, housing, and campus fees.

This guide highlights the 10 most popular online colleges in Missouri based on program variety, affordability, enrollment strength, flexible course delivery, and support for adult learners, reflecting Missouri’s commitment to expanding access through the Adult Learner Network Collaborative and statewide financial aid programs.

10 Most Popular Online Colleges in Missouri

Missouri’s online college system includes large public universities, private institutions, and career-focused colleges that offer accessible pathways for working adults. These ten schools stand out for program variety, affordability, flexible delivery formats, and strong support for online learners.

University of Missouri–Columbia

The University of Missouri–Columbia (Mizzou) is the state’s flagship land-grant research university and Missouri’s most comprehensive online provider, offering more than 185 programs and flexible course formats designed for busy students.

Main Online Programs

More than 185 online degrees and certificates across 77 areas of study, with flexible 8-week, 16-week, and 19-week blocks. Options include business, education, health professions, engineering, information technology, and social sciences.

Pros

• More than 185 online programs, the largest catalog in Missouri
• 54% online enrollment showing strong digital commitment
• Flexible 8-, 16-, and 19-week course blocks
• Mostly asynchronous or self-paced formats
• Flagship university reputation with strong faculty and research resources

Cons

• $13,000 in-state tuition is higher than that of most of Missouri’s peers
• Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher at $33,200
• Some programs include synchronous sessions

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$13,000

Missouri State University–Springfield

Missouri State University–Springfield offers more than 50 online programs and stands out for its MoState Access Award, which can cover all tuition and fees for qualifying online students.

Main Online Programs

Over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs are delivered in asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid formats, including business, education, healthcare, communication, technology, criminology, and applied sciences.

Pros

• MoState Access Award covers 100% of tuition and fees for eligible online students
• 50+ online degree options
• Multiple delivery formats (async, sync, hybrid)
• Strong academic, tech, and career support for online learners

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition more than double in-state ($621 vs $290 per credit)
• In-state tuition, while fair, is not the lowest in Missouri
• Some programs require on-campus components

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$7,812

University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri (UCM) is known for consistent pricing and strong employment outcomes, offering more than 50 online programs with equitable tuition for all students.

Main Online Programs

More than 50 undergraduate and graduate online degree programs, many fully online and self-paced. Hybrid options blend online and on-campus learning for added flexibility.

Pros

• $285 per credit for all online students (no out-of-state increase)
• 50+ online programs
• Self-paced and hybrid options available

Cons

• Some programs are degree-completion only (transfer credits required)
• Certain programs include in-person field experiences
• Fewer options than Mizzou or Missouri State

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$8,040

University of Missouri–St. Louis

The University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) offers more than 35 online degree programs, plus access to the entire UM System catalog through Missouri Online, giving students an expanded range of options.

Main Online Programs

Over 35 fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, education, nursing, criminal justice, social work, information systems, and liberal arts. Missouri Online access allows enrollment in programs across all UM campuses.

Pros

• Access to all UM System online programs through Missouri Online
• 35+ online degrees at UMSL alone
• Flexible formats supporting working adults
• 75% of students receive financial aid
• Midwest Student Exchange discounts for eligible states

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition more than double in-state ($756+ vs $504+ per credit)
• Higher in-state tuition ($13,440) compared with regional peers
• Some programs require fieldwork or clinical hours

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$13,440

Missouri Western State University

Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph offers 10 fully online degree programs and more than 300 online courses, with an emphasis on community support and student engagement.

Main Online Programs

Ten online bachelor’s programs plus extensive online course offerings. Degrees cover business, health information management, criminal justice, technology, and general studies.

Pros

• Strong focus on online student engagement
• Mix of asynchronous and synchronous courses
• Center for Academic Support with tutoring and workshops
• 53% online enrollment
• Affordable in-state tuition around $7,200

Cons

• Only 10 online degree programs (the smallest selection on the list)
• $55-per-credit tech/support fee adds to total cost
• Some programs require transfer credits

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$7,200

Maryville University

Maryville University of St. Louis offers nearly 80 fully online programs with high online enrollment and strong retention, making it a leading private option for Missouri adult learners.

Main Online Programs

Nearly 80 undergraduate and graduate programs are delivered fully online, including nursing, business administration, cybersecurity, communications, healthcare management, psychology, and data science.

Pros

• Nearly 80 online programs, among Missouri’s largest private selections
• 83% online enrollment
• Primarily asynchronous courses
• Small class sizes for personalized attention
• No application fees or entrance exams
• Transfer-friendly admissions with several start dates

Cons

• $425-per-semester technology fee
• Courses typically require 10–15 hours per week

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$24,766

Webster University

Webster University in St. Louis is a long-time online education provider, offering more than 60 online programs and over 25 years of experience since launching online courses in 1999.

Main Online Programs

Webster offers 60+ online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in business, education, cybersecurity, IT, communications, counseling, and international relations, with both asynchronous and synchronous formats.

Pros

• 25+ years of online teaching experience
• 60+ online programs from bachelor’s to doctoral levels
• 69% online enrollment
• Mix of asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid options
• Strong student services, including career development and counseling
• Global programs that may include international or hybrid experiences

Cons

• Some classes have set meeting times, reducing flexibility
• Fieldwork or internships may require in-person components
• Private tuition at $29,640 annually

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$29,640

Lindenwood University

Lindenwood University in St. Charles offers more than 20 fully online undergraduate programs and a strong career outcomes record for graduates.

Main Online Programs

Lindenwood’s online catalog includes degrees in business, criminal justice, communications, digital marketing, cybersecurity, health management, and liberal arts, delivered in flexible online formats.

Pros

• 97% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months
• 20+ online undergraduate programs
• Nearly 200-year institutional history
• Accepts up to 90 transfer credits
• Career-focused programs aligned with employer needs

Cons

• $500 annual technology fee for online students
• Some programs require internships or hands-on experiences
• Limited online graduate options compared with larger universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$19,100

Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University (SLU) is a 200+ year-old Jesuit institution offering accelerated, adult-focused online programs with flexible start dates throughout the year.

Main Online Programs

SLU provides 14 online undergraduate programs, many in applied fields like organizational leadership, computer information systems, emergency management, nursing, and health sciences. Courses are typically delivered in eight-week sessions with multiple yearly starts.

Pros

• One of the nation’s oldest universities, with 60+ years serving adult learners
• Accelerated eight-week courses for faster degree completion
• Five start dates per year for maximum flexibility
• Primarily asynchronous schedules for working adults

Cons

• Some programs include practicums or field experiences that must be completed in person
• The eight-week format is intensive and time-demanding

Average Annual In-State Tuition 

$49,800

Park University

Park University in Parkville is one of Missouri’s most online-focused institutions, with 90% of students taking online classes and more than 25 years of experience in distance learning.

Main Online Programs

Park offers more than 650 online courses and undergraduate degrees in 50+ disciplines, including business, criminal justice, computer science, education, and social sciences, delivered in accelerated eight-week sessions.

Pros

• 25+ years of online learning experience
• 50+ disciplines and 650+ online courses
• Accelerated asynchronous eight-week terms
• Strong focus on serving adult and military learners

Cons

• Additional $35-per-credit university fee
• Accelerated terms can be intensive and time-consuming
• Tuition of $9,262 is competitive but not the lowest in the state

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$9,262

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Popular Online Colleges in Missouri

Enrolling in Missouri’s most popular online colleges usually involves a simple set of steps. These help confirm your eligibility, determine whether you qualify for in-state or Midwest tuition discounts, and make sure you receive as much financial aid as possible.

Complete Online Application Process

Each college uses its own online application portal. Selective institutions like the University of Missouri–Columbia and Saint Louis University use more traditional admission review, while schools such as Maryville and Park offer streamlined, adult-friendly processes with no application fees or entrance exams and multiple start dates each year. In most cases, you complete an online form, upload documents, and receive a decision within a reasonable timeframe.

Submit Official Transcripts and Test Scores

You will need to submit official high school transcripts, GED documentation, or college transcripts if you are a transfer student. Many Missouri institutions use test-optional policies, especially for adult learners. Maryville does not require entrance exams, while degree-completion programs at places like the University of Central Missouri and Missouri Western often require previous college credits or an associate degree.

Verify Missouri Residency Documentation

If you want in-state tuition, you may need to show proof of Missouri residency. This can include a state ID, tax records, or similar documentation. The savings can be significant. For example, Mizzou charges about $13,000 in-state versus $33,200 out-of-state, Missouri State charges $7,812 in-state versus $16,716 out-of-state, and UMSL charges $13,440 in-state versus $33,432 out-of-state. Some schools also participate in the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which offers reduced tuition for residents of nearby states.

Meet Program-Specific Requirements

Certain programs, especially in nursing, healthcare, education, and graduate business, have additional entry requirements. You may need prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement. Degree-completion programs at UCM and Missouri Western usually require prior credits. Some schools have special processes for military and veteran students, who may qualify for additional tuition benefits.

Verify Technology Requirements

To succeed in online classes, you need reliable high-speed internet, a suitable computer, and access to the college’s learning management system. Many Missouri institutions use platforms such as Canvas or Blackboard, with a mix of asynchronous and occasional synchronous sessions. Some schools, like Missouri State and Webster, offer both fully online and hybrid formats, while Mizzou and Park emphasize primarily asynchronous and accelerated online study.

Submit Financial Aid Applications

Complete the FAFSA to access federal grants, loans, and work-study. Missouri residents may also qualify for state programs such as Access Missouri need-based grants, Bright Flight merit scholarships, and other specialized awards. On top of that, institutional programs like the MoState Access Award at Missouri State and various tuition support programs at Mizzou, UMSL, and private universities can further reduce your net cost.

How Do Missouri Online College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Missouri’s online colleges are priced competitively, especially when you factor in financial aid. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of about $9,926, which is only slightly higher than the national average of $9,750. The difference is small, and Missouri helps close the gap through more than $149 million in state-administered aid awarded to nearly 56,000 students in the 2022–2023 academic year.

Out-of-state students see even clearer savings. Missouri’s average out-of-state tuition at public universities is about $23,932, compared with $28,297 nationally. Private institutions in Missouri average roughly $30,660, lower than the national private average of $35,248. When you combine that with the fact that online students avoid commuting, campus housing, and many on-site fees, the overall total cost can be quite favorable compared with similar programs in other states.

How Does University of the People Compare With the Most Popular Online Colleges in Missouri?

University of the People uses a different pricing model than Missouri’s public and private colleges. UoPeople does not charge traditional tuition. Instead, you pay a $60 application fee and a $160 assessment fee per course at the undergraduate level. A typical bachelor’s degree comes out to about $6,400 in assessment fees, which is often less than a single year at many Missouri institutions.

UoPeople is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is also recognized by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Missouri’s public and private universities are regionally accredited, typically by the Higher Learning Commission, which can be important for some licensure paths and in-state transfers. If you prioritize the lowest possible cost, global online access, and predictable fees, UoPeople offers a compelling alternative. If you want regional accreditation, local networking, or Missouri-specific program ties, the Show-Me State’s online institutions remain strong choices.

Ready To Choose the Best Online College in Missouri?

Choosing the right Missouri online college starts with your goals. If affordability is your priority, Missouri Western, Missouri State, and UCM offer strong value with competitive public tuition. If you want maximum program variety or a flagship experience, Mizzou’s 185+ online programs stand out.

Career outcomes are another key factor. UCM and Lindenwood report 97% of graduates employed or in graduate school within six months, and Missouri’s fastest-growing fields include nurse practitioners, data scientists, information security analysts, software developers, and operations research analysts. For faith-based or private options, Maryville, Webster, Lindenwood, and Saint Louis University provide flexible, well-supported programs with their own strengths.

Consider your pace and learning style. Accelerated eight-week terms at Park and SLU help you move quickly but require disciplined time management. Traditional 16-week or self-paced formats at institutions like Mizzou and UCM work well if you prefer a steadier pace. With generous transfer policies and multiple annual start dates, Missouri offers online pathways that can meet you wherever you are in your educational journey.

FAQs

What Is the Average Tuition at Missouri Online Colleges?

Public four-year institutions in Missouri charge an average in-state tuition of about $9,926 per year, which is slightly above the national public average of $9,750. Private Missouri colleges average about $30,660 per year.

What Is the Cheapest Online College in Missouri?

Among the schools highlighted, some of the more affordable public options include Missouri Western State University at around $7,200 per year, Missouri State University–Springfield at about $7,812, and University of Central Missouri at about $8,040.

Do Online Credits Cost More or Less in Missouri?

In many cases, online credits cost about the same or slightly less than on-campus credits. Some institutions, such as the University of Central Missouri, charge a flat online rate per credit with no out-of-state increase, while others add small technology or support fees for online courses.

What Is the Best Online College Degree To Get in Missouri?

The best degree depends on your goals, but programs aligned with Missouri’s fastest-growing fields are especially strong options. These include nursing and advanced practice nursing, data science, information security, software development, healthcare administration, and business analytics.

Are Missouri Online Colleges Accredited?

Yes. Missouri’s public and private colleges are regionally accredited, most commonly by the Higher Learning Commission. Many individual programs also hold specialized accreditation in areas such as business, nursing, or education.