Best Online Colleges in Missouri of 2025
Did you know 97% of online college students and program graduates say they would recommend online education to others? Pursuing a degree online can be flexible and affordable. Online classes are often taught by the same professors teaching the traditional in-person classes.
There are many competitive, quality colleges in Missouri and many top Missouri colleges also have online degree programs.
Discover the benefits of an online education and explore the best online colleges in Missouri, while learning about career trends in the Show-Me State.
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Best Online Colleges in Missouri
Why You Should Get a Degree in Missouri
Affordable Living
In 2024, Missouri ranked 6th among states with the lowest cost of living for quarter three.Job Opportunities
Missouri's unemployment rate is lower than the national average, and more job opportunities are projected to open up in the future.Quality, Cost-Effective Education
Missouri colleges are almost 8% cheaper than the national average cost for tuition. The average price of a four-year degree was $21,600 for Missouri residents.Something for Everybody
Missouri offers something special for everybody. From the bustling, innovative growth of Kansas City to the relaxing Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri has plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Benefits of Getting a Degree Online
Most online coursework can be completed at your own time, and materials can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
In 2021, 61% of undergraduates took at least one online course.
College graduates earn higher salaries, on average, than high school graduates.
How Much Does Online College Cost in Missouri?
The cost of college tuition in Missouri is more affordable than the national average. In-state tuition costs less than $10,000, and out-of-state tuition costs nearly $24,000 at public universities.
Some Missouri colleges have a standard tuition rate for online degrees regardless of residency status. This rate can be cheaper than attending a public university in-person as an out-of-state resident.
The total cost of college varies, even for online students. As an online student, you still have access to financial aid. Depending on the amount of credits you take, you can receive FAFSA grants and loans. You can offset your college costs by applying for scholarships as well.
Tuition is only one cost to consider when looking at college financials. You should also consider your living costs, transportation costs, and the general cost of living where you reside.
Public, In-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2022-23)
$9,926
Public, Out-of-State
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2022-23)
$23,932
Private
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2022-23)
$30,660
Source:NCES
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Accreditation for Online Colleges in Missouri
What is accreditation? Accreditation is when an outside organization reviews a college's academics and certifies that the college is meeting a high academic standard and is providing a quality education. Accreditation is important if you want to transfer colleges or are pursuing an advanced degree.
The college itself may be accredited or specific schools or programs within the college can be accredited.
Popular accrediting agencies for Missouri colleges include:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Fastest-Growing Careers in Missouri
Missouri's job economy is experiencing a lot of healthy growth. A significant number of jobs in Missouri are projected to experience growing employment rates over the next few years. Several fields, from healthcare to technology, are expected to experience faster-than-average growth by 2032.
The top-growing careers all pay salaries above the national average. Many of these careers pay very competitive salaries.
For instance, specific jobs in healthcare can earn you a six-figure salary. All of these careers require at least a bachelor's degree, and some require a master's degree.
| Job | Projected Growth | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 41.93% | $116,680 |
| Data Scientists | 37.63% | $88,210 |
| Information Security Analysts | 33.97% | $102,320 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 32.53% | $133,200 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 31.16% | $116,370 |
| Speech-Language Pathologists | 26.56% | $80,730 |
| Software Developers | 26.43% | $107,980 |
| Epidemiologists | 26.36% | $67,310 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 26.19% | $63,640 |
| Veterinarians | 25.52% | $104,380 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Missouri
Missouri does not have any dedicated free online colleges. You can take some free courses through different Missouri colleges and other colleges, but you may not get college credit for taking those courses. You can reduce your school costs by applying for scholarships and grants.