Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri

The "Show-me" state takes its higher education options seriously and more than half of Missouri's colleges offer online degree programs. One proof of this commitment to education is in "Missouri's Big Goal."

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The goal of this program is to provide 60% of adults in the state with postsecondary degrees by 2025.

The state also participates in the Midwestern Higher Education Compact, which assists students in participating states with transfer credits and lower tuition rates.

Missouri is also a member of the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which allows students from other participating estates to pay no more than 150% of the in-state tuition rate. 

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

With this financial assistance, along with the grants and scholarships available, Missouri may be the right choice to fit your financial constraints. If time is also a significant constraint, online degrees may be the way to go

The state encourages distance learning with its multiple options for taking classes online or in the classroom. You may take all your courses online, or you can choose a hybrid program. In the "Gateway to the West," you can find whatever works for your busy schedule or limited budget.

As you are deciding which online college in Missouri you would like to attend, it is crucial to make sure it is accredited. If it is accredited, employers will accept the degree. If it is not, search for another school.

You can check any school's status by searching the institution's name on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation website at https://www.chea.org/ and the U.S. Department of Education Database.

No matter what the constraints are on your time or money, accredited online colleges in Missouri can make it possible for you to reach all of your education and career goals. Because not all distance learning programs are of good quality, this list will provide you with the best programs available to help you with your decision.

One of the best-known components of Missouri higher education is the University of Missouri System, which includes four public research universities and an extension program that offers distance education. The oldest and largest university in this system is the University of Missouri, or Mizzou, the state’s flagship institution. Highly-ranked private universities in Missouri include Washington University in St. Louis and Saint Louis University.

Methodology

We have dug through the data trenches to bring you an easy-to-read, easy-to-digest ranking of the best accredited online colleges in Missouri.

Schools are ranked based on data points in four categories:

  • Affordability (net price)
  • Student Satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic Quality (4-year graduation rate)
  • Student Outcome (Salary After Completing - The median annual earnings of former students one year after graduation. Only data from students who received federal financial aid is included in the calculation.)

Each data point is ranked with equal weight. Schools received a weighted overall ranking score for each individual point mentioned above–100 being the highest score possible.

In the case of a tie-in scoring, the average net price was the determining factor for which school received the higher rank–the lower the net price, the higher the ranking.

All data was gathered from the U.S. Department of Education and school websites.

Best Online Colleges & Universities in Missouri 2024

1. Webster University

Score: 100.0

Salary After Completing: $23,953
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Completing: $48,965

Webster University Online: Designed for flexible learning and career advancement for undergraduate & graduate students.

Programs:

  • Master's Degrees: Various fields like Business, Cybersecurity, Education, IT, and more. (e.g., Public Administration, Space Systems Operations Management)
  • Undergraduate Degrees: Business Administration, Cybersecurity, and Management of Cyber and Information Technology.
  • Doctor of Education (EdD): Educational Leadership, Special Education, Transformative Learning.
  • Unique offerings:
    • WebNet+ courses: Combine online learning with instructor interaction.
    • Walker Global Hybrid Courses: Blend online learning with immersive travel experiences.

Benefits:

  • Accessibility: Online programs available worldwide.
  • Flexibility: Learn anytime, anywhere with various formats (online, synchronous, asynchronous).
  • Quality Education: Accredited university with recognized programs.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Ranked #32 in Regional Universities Midwest by US News & World Report.
  • Affordable programs with rates for active military members.
  • Canvas LMS provides easy access to course materials and assignments.

2. Culver-Stockton College

Score: 99.5

Salary After Completing: $21,189
Retention Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Salary After Completing: $46,707

Culver-Stockton College Online: Offers flexible & affordable online programs for undergraduate & graduate students.

Program Types:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Accountancy, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Digital Marketing, Esports, Human Resource Management, and more.
  • Non-Credit Online Career Development Courses: Build career-ready skills.
  • Online Certificates: Enhance your qualifications in specific areas.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits your schedule with online delivery and various formats.
  • Affordable: Known for affordability, catering to a broader audience.
  • Quality education: Accredited programs with support services for success.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Multiple teaching modalities: Online, hybrid, and in-person options.
  • Personalized support and career development focus.

3. Lindenwood University

Score: 98.3

Salary After Completing: $17,410
Retention Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Salary After Completing: $49,080

Lindenwood University Online: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for undergraduate & graduate students.

Program Types:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Accounting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Art & Design, Education, and more.
  • Graduate Degrees: Master's programs in various fields, including Business Administration, Education, and Cybersecurity Management.
  • Pre-engineering programs: Transfer to an affiliated university to complete your engineering degree.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Choose between 8-week or 16-week formats and online, hybrid, or pre-placement options.
  • Quality education: Accredited programs with experienced faculty and support services.
  • Affordable: Competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Ranked among the best online programs.
  • Resources like academic advising, library services, and tech support.
  • Prepares graduates for successful careers.

4. Missouri Baptist University

Score: 98

Average Net Price: $22,928
Retention Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Salary After Completing: $42,766

MBU Online: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for undergraduate & graduate students.

Program Types:

  • Bachelor's Degrees: Business Administration, Behavioral Science, Accounting, Health Administration, and more.
  • Master's Degrees: MBA, Master of Science in Education, Master of Arts in Counseling, and more.

Benefits:

  • Designed for adults: Flexible options for working adults with busy schedules.
  • Over 30 programs: Includes Business, Counseling, Education, Criminal Justice, and more.
  • Affordable: Competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Accredited programs with average GPA requirement for admission.
  • Admissions support, academic advising, and financial aid available.

5. Missouri State University-Springfield

Score: 97.8

Average Net Price: $16,625
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Salary After Completing: $47,850

MSU Online: Offers accredited & flexible online programs for undergraduate, graduate & special education students.

Program Types:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Accounting, Data Analytics, Business, Education, Nursing, and more.
  • Graduate Degrees: MBA, Master's in Education, Master's in Counseling, and more.
  • Special Education: Master's in Early Childhood Special Education.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with online options.
  • Quality education: Fully accredited with experienced faculty.
  • Support services: Includes virtual tutoring, writing assistance, and more.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Synchronous and asynchronous learning formats.
  • Competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.
  • Online courses downloadable from iTunes U.

6. Evangel University

Score: 97.5

Average Net Price: $21,623
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Salary After Completing: $45,450

Evangel Online: Offers accredited & flexible online programs for undergraduate & graduate students.

Program Types:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Allied Health, Applied Biology, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and more.
  • General Studies: B.S. and A.A. degrees.
  • Graduate Degrees: Master's in Education (Leadership & Literacy), certificates for aspiring leaders.
  • Business Management: B.S. program for working professionals.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with fully online options.
  • Quality education: Accredited programs with full-time faculty and support services.
  • Career preparation: Focus on practical skills and knowledge.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Integrated core classes and hands-on application.
  • Popular majors including Business Administration, Biology, and Social Work.
  • Faith-based learning integrated into the curriculum.

7. Drury University

Score: 97

Average Net Price: $18,582
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Salary After Completing: $39,169

Drury GO: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for undergraduate & graduate students.

Program Types:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and more.
  • Graduate Degrees: MBA, M.Ed., Master of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice, and more.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with online options.
  • Quality education: Same faculty and standards as on-campus programs.
  • Career-focused: Develop skills and knowledge for success in various fields.

Explore More:

  • Visit the website: https://www.drury.edu/go/
  • Discover your program and application details.
  • Earn your degree online, anywhere.

Additional Highlights:

  • Personalized education with strong liberal arts tradition.
  • Support services include tutoring, writing assistance, and more.

8. Northwest Missouri State University

Score: 96.8

Average Net Price: $13,398
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Salary After Completing: $45,693

Students who attend the school are provided with laptops and textbooks as part of their tuition.

NWMSU Online: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for undergraduate & graduate students. Choose from various programs including:

  • Business: MBA, Accounting, Business Management
  • Education: Multiple programs for educators
  • Healthcare: Nursing programs for working professionals
  • Communication & Media: Develop communication and media skills

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with online options.
  • Quality education: Same faculty and accreditation as on-campus programs.
  • Support services: Includes library services, academic advising, and more.

Explore More:

  • Visit the website: online.nwmissouri.edu
  • Discover your program and application details.
  • Earn your degree online, anywhere.

Additional Highlights:

  • Bachelor's degrees in Business Administration, Applied Computer Science, and more.
  • Master's degrees in various specializations like MBA, Education, and Health Science.
  • Online courses are recorded for convenient access.

9. Southeast Missouri State University

Score: 95

Average Net Price: $13,321
Retention Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 48%
Salary After Completing: $42,700

SEMO Online: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for undergraduate & graduate students. Choose from various programs including:

  • Bachelor's Degrees: Applied Behavior Analysis, Business Administration, Nursing, Psychology, and more.
  • Master's Degrees: MBA, MSN, MAT, and more.
  • Other: Certificates, online courses in various fields.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with online options.
  • Quality education: Accredited programs with dedicated faculty and support services.
  • Wide range of programs: Options for diverse interests and career goals.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Working professionals' discounts are available.
  • Online MHA program designed for healthcare professionals.
  • SEMO has been offering online programs since 2004.

10. Saint Louis Community College

Score: 95

Average Net Price: $6,624
Retention Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 13%
Salary After Completing: $33,167

STLCC Online: Offers flexible & accredited online programs for various needs. Choose from:

  • 100% Online Programs: General Transfer Studies, Accounting, Business Administration, and more.
  • 50% or More Online Programs: Addictions Study, Child Development, Criminal Justice, and more.

Benefits:

  • Flexible learning: Fits busy schedules with online options.
  • Quality education: Accredited programs and experienced faculty.
  • Wide range of programs: Options for diverse interests and career goals.

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Additional Highlights:

  • Support services include library access, career services, and tutoring.
  • Competitive tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
  • Non-credit continuing education courses also available.

Further Reading: Cheapest Affordable Online Colleges

Popular Online Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Overview

Nestled within the heart of the Midwest, Missouri serves as a microcosm of the United States, showcasing an amalgamation of rural and urban centers brimming with diverse interests. With a population approaching 6 million, a staggering 2.8 million individuals reside in the bustling St. Louis metropolitan area, while an additional 2 million thrive in the dynamic Kansas City metro area, which extends its influence into the neighboring state of Kansas.

The state's economy presents a harmonious blend of farming and industry, with the production of pork, dairy products, and beans dominating the food sector. Meanwhile, the manufacturing domain finds its leadership in the aerospace and transportation equipment industries.

Missouri ranks as a prominent hub for hog and cattle production, trailing only Texas in terms of farms per state. Furthermore, the state takes pride in its significant mining endeavors, particularly in lead production, where it claims the top spot nationwide. In lime production, Missouri consistently finds itself in the top one or two positions in the country.

Notably, the esteemed University of Missouri system encompasses four distinguished schools, catering to a thriving student body surpassing 66,000 individuals.

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