Best Public Colleges in Missouri
Missouri, located in the heart of America, is a state that combines rich history, cultural significance, and academic prowess. Its public universities are a testament to its commitment to higher education, offering various programs to cater to different academic interests. This article dives deep into some of the best public colleges in Missouri, detailing their unique features, costs, and student demographics.
University of Missouri
Located in Columbia, it’s often referred to as Mizzou.
Information About Public Programs
Mizzou is renowned for its research initiatives, and its Journalism school is among the top in the nation. Additionally, it boasts vital programs in health, agriculture, and education.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state tuition is around $10,477. The undergraduate enrollment is approximately 22,400, with an SAT range of 1150-1340.
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Located in Rolla, this university has a focus on STEM fields.
Information About Public Programs
Missouri S&T is known for its engineering, computer science, and business programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents can expect to pay about $9,440. Enrollment hovers around 6,800 undergraduates, and the SAT range is between 1180-1390.
University of Missouri – Kansas City
An urban public research university situated in Kansas City.
Information About Public Programs
UMKC is recognized for its health sciences, business, and arts programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state students pay approximately $9,076. The undergraduate body numbers are around 11,300, with an SAT range from 1030-1240.
University of Missouri – St. Louis
This is the largest public research university in eastern Missouri.
Information About Public Programs
UMSL is known for its business, education, and nursing programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Missouri residents pay around $9,792. Enrollment is approximately 10,000 undergraduates, with an SAT score range of 990-1220.
Truman State University
Located in Kirksville, Truman State is a liberal arts and sciences university.
Information About Public Programs
It offers vital arts, sciences, and humanities programs focusing on undergraduate education.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Tuition for residents stands at about $7,881. The school enrolls around 5,200 undergraduates, and the SAT range is typically 1090-1300.
University of Central Missouri
Based in Warrensburg, UCM offers a traditional college experience.
Information About Public Programs
UCM has reputable programs in education, business, and applied sciences.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents can expect tuition of $7,673. It enrolls about 9,500 undergraduates, with an SAT range from 970-1180.
Missouri State University
Situated in Springfield, MSU offers comprehensive programs.
Information About Public Programs
MSU is recognized for its health, business, and education programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state students face tuition of approximately $7,750. The undergraduate population is around 20,300, with an SAT range of 1020-1240.
Northwest Missouri State University
Located in Maryville, it provides a well-rounded education.
Information About Public Programs
It shines in areas like education, business, and agriculture.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Residents face tuition of about $7,844. The enrollment is approximately 5,500 undergraduates, with an SAT score range of 970-1150.
Southeast Missouri State University
Based in Cape Girardeau, this university offers a diverse set of programs.
Information About Public Programs
It is known for its health, business, and arts programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Tuition for residents is around $7,418. Enrollment numbers around 9,600 undergraduates, with an SAT range typically between 940-1130.
Missouri Western State University
It is located in Saint Joseph and offers a mix of liberal arts and professional degree programs.
Information About Public Programs
MWSU has vital programs in health, business, and applied sciences.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
In-state students can expect tuition of about $8,225. The undergraduate enrollment is around 4,500, with an SAT range of 930-1110.
Best Public Colleges in Three Other States
Best Public Colleges in Iowa
Iowa is home to prominent institutions like the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, both known for their research initiatives and community engagement.
Best Public Colleges in Illinois
Illinois boasts universities like the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, merging tradition with academic prowess.
Best Public Colleges in Kansas
With schools such as the University of Kansas and Kansas State University, the Sunflower State offers academic rigor and a vibrant campus life.
How a High SAT Score Can Make Up for a Below-Average GPA
A high SAT score can significantly benefit students with a lower GPA when applying to colleges. While a GPA reflects a student’s consistent performance over the years, a high SAT score can demonstrate academic prowess and readiness for college-level coursework. Some colleges, understanding that students may face personal challenges during their high school years that affect their GPA, might view a strong SAT score as evidence of a student’s true potential. However, students are advised to provide context in their application if there were specific reasons for a dip in their academic performance.
In conclusion, Missouri’s public universities offer diverse programs and experiences to cater to every student’s needs. Students and their families must research each institution thoroughly and visit campuses, if possible, to find the best fit. With the right resources and preparation, a Missouri public university can be a stepping stone to a bright future.
