1. Washington University in St. Louis
Overview:
Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university known for its exceptional academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1853, WashU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in fields such as engineering, business, arts and sciences, law, and medicine. The university is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment and preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society.
U.S. News Ranking:
Washington University in St. Louis consistently ranks among the top universities in the nation, known for its strong programs in biomedical engineering, business, and law.
Number of Students:
WashU has an enrollment of approximately 15,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
WashU has a highly selective acceptance rate, admitting less than 15% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at WashU is approximately 1500.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
WashU offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, community service projects, research opportunities, internships, and NCAA Division III athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- T.S. Eliot – Poet and Nobel laureate
- Harold Ramis – Actor, director, and writer
- John Danforth – Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to the United Nations
- Jonathan Franzen – Author
- Tennessee Williams – Playwright
Top Hiring Companies:
- Washington University in St. Louis
- BJC HealthCare
- Monsanto Company (now Bayer)
- Edward Jones
- Boeing Company
2. University of Missouri – Columbia (Mizzou)
Overview:
The University of Missouri – Columbia, commonly known as Mizzou, is a public research university and the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System. Founded in 1839, Mizzou offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as journalism, agriculture, engineering, medicine, and the arts. The university is committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement.
U.S. News Ranking:
The University of Missouri – Columbia is recognized for its strong programs in journalism, agricultural sciences, and veterinary medicine.
Number of Students:
Mizzou has an enrollment of over 30,000 students, making it the largest university in Missouri.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Mizzou has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 75% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Mizzou is approximately 1200.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
Mizzou offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations, intramural sports, community service projects, research opportunities, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Brad Pitt – Actor
- Sheryl Crow – Singer-songwriter
- Jon Hamm – Actor
- James Rollins – Author
- Linda Godwin – Former NASA astronaut
Top Hiring Companies:
- University of Missouri – Columbia
- MU Health Care
- Veterans United Home Loans
- Cerner Corporation
- Shelter Insurance
3. Saint Louis University (SLU)
Overview:
Saint Louis University is a private Jesuit research university located in St. Louis. Established in 1818, SLU offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as medicine, law, business, education, and theology. The university is committed to academic excellence, service to others, and the pursuit of justice. SLU’s urban campus provides students with access to a diverse and dynamic city environment.
U.S. News Ranking:
Saint Louis University is recognized for its strong programs in health sciences, law, and business.
Number of Students:
SLU has an enrollment of approximately 13,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
SLU has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 60% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at SLU is approximately 1300.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
SLU offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, community service projects, research opportunities, internships, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Phyllis Schlafly – Conservative activist and author
- Kevin Kline – Actor
- Danny Meyer – Restaurateur and CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group
- William S. Burroughs – Author
- Thomas Eagleton – Former U.S. Senator
Top Hiring Companies:
- Saint Louis University
- BJC HealthCare
- Anheuser-Busch InBev
- Centene Corporation
- Mercy Health
4. Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T)
Overview:
The Missouri University of Science and Technology, commonly known as Missouri S&T, is a public research university located in Rolla. Founded in 1870, Missouri S&T specializes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and research. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as engineering, computer science, business, and the sciences. Missouri S&T is known for its rigorous academic programs, research contributions, and industry partnerships.
U.S. News Ranking:
Missouri University of Science and Technology is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, particularly in mechanical, aerospace, and civil engineering.
Number of Students:
Missouri S&T has an enrollment of over 9,000 students, primarily focused on STEM disciplines.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Missouri S&T has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 80% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Missouri S&T is approximately 1300.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
Missouri S&T offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, research projects, internships, co-op programs, and NCAA Division II athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Leland C. Clark – Inventor of the Clark oxygen electrode
- Stanly Lechtzin – Pioneering computer scientist
- Walt Williams – Co-founder of Williams International
- Andy Hopper – Computer scientist and entrepreneur
- Gary Forsee – Former CEO of Sprint Corporation
Top Hiring Companies:
- Missouri University of Science and Technology
- Burns & McDonnell
- The Boeing Company
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Union Pacific Railroad
5. Truman State University
Overview:
Truman State University, located in Kirksville, is a public liberal arts and sciences university. Founded in 1867, Truman State offers a rigorous academic curriculum with an emphasis on undergraduate education. The university provides a wide range of majors and minors in areas such as the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Truman State is known for its academic excellence, small class sizes, and vibrant campus community.
U.S. News Ranking:
Truman State University is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest for its strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and academic quality.
Number of Students:
Truman State has an enrollment of approximately 6,000 students, predominantly undergraduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate degrees, including bachelor’s programs in liberal arts, sciences, education, and health-related fields.
Acceptance Rate:
Truman State has a selective acceptance rate, admitting around 65% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Truman State is approximately 1250.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
Truman State offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, academic clubs, community service projects, internships, and NCAA Division II athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Sam Walton – Founder of Walmart
- John F. Kurtzke – Neurologist known for developing the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale
- Susan Montee – Former Missouri State Auditor
- Katie Couric – Journalist and television personality
- Paul Tibbets – Pilot of the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima
Top Hiring Companies:
- Truman State University
- Kirksville R-III School District
- A.T. Still University
- Kraft Heinz Company
- Northeast Regional Medical Center
6. University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC)
Overview:
The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a public research university located in Kansas City. Established in 1933, UMKC offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as health sciences, urban planning, business, law, and the arts. The university is committed to fostering creativity, innovation, and civic engagement. UMKC’s urban campus provides students with access to a dynamic city environment and numerous opportunities for internships and experiential learning.
U.S. News Ranking:
The University of Missouri-Kansas City is recognized for its strong programs in pharmacy, nursing, and health-related fields.
Number of Students:
UMKC has an enrollment of over 16,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
UMKC has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 65% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at UMKC is approximately 1150.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
UMKC offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, cultural events, community service projects, internships, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Walt Disney – Founder of The Walt Disney Company
- Kay Barnes – Former Mayor of Kansas City
- Robert Altman – Film director and screenwriter
- Emanuel Cleaver II – U.S. Congressman
- Jason Sudeikis – Actor and comedian
Top Hiring Companies:
- University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Cerner Corporation
- Hallmark Cards, Inc.
- Sprint Corporation (now T-Mobile)
- Children’s Mercy Kansas City
7. Missouri State University (MSU)
Overview:
Missouri State University, located in Springfield, is a public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Founded in 1905, MSU is known for its commitment to student success, community engagement, and academic excellence. The university offers majors in areas such as business, education, healthcare, the arts, and sciences. MSU’s vibrant campus community and strong alumni network provide students with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
U.S. News Ranking:
Missouri State University is recognized for its strong programs in education, healthcare, and business.
Number of Students:
MSU has an enrollment of over 26,000 students, making it the second-largest university in Missouri.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
MSU has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 85% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Missouri State University is approximately 1150.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
MSU offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, Greek life, community service projects, internships, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Brad Pitt – Actor
- John Goodman – Actor
- Kathleen Turner – Actress
- Bob Barker – Former host of “The Price Is Right”
- Bill O’Reilly – Political commentator and television host
Top Hiring Companies:
- Missouri State University
- CoxHealth
- Mercy Hospital Springfield
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- Bass Pro Shops
8. Webster University
Overview:
Webster University is a private nonprofit university with its main campus in Webster Groves, Missouri. Established in 1915, Webster offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, the arts, and sciences. The university is committed to providing high-quality education that promotes global citizenship and fosters a diverse and inclusive community. Webster’s global network includes campuses in the United States and international locations, offering students opportunities for international study and cross-cultural experiences.
U.S. News Ranking:
Webster University is recognized for its strong programs in international relations, business, and the arts.
Number of Students:
Webster University has an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Webster University has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 60% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Webster University is approximately 1100.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
Webster University offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, cultural events, community service projects, internships, and study abroad programs.
Famous Alumni:
- Jon Hamm – Actor
- Nnamdi Asomugha – Former NFL player and actor
- Sherry Stringfield – Actress
- Jenifer Lewis – Actress and singer
- Peter Sarsgaard – Actor
Top Hiring Companies:
- Webster University
- Edward Jones
- Enterprise Holdings
- Boeing Company
- Centene Corporation
9. Lindenwood University
Overview:
Lindenwood University is a private liberal arts university located in St. Charles, Missouri. Established in 1827, Lindenwood offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs in diverse fields such as business, education, the arts, humanities, and sciences. The university is committed to providing students with a values-centered education that promotes academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement. Lindenwood’s campus provides a vibrant and supportive environment where students can pursue their academic and extracurricular interests.
U.S. News Ranking:
Lindenwood University is recognized for its strong programs in business, education, and the arts.
Number of Students:
Lindenwood University has an enrollment of approximately 8,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Lindenwood University has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 80% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at Lindenwood University is approximately 1050.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
Lindenwood University offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, cultural events, community service projects, internships, and NCAA Division II athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Steve Pemberton – Author and former executive at Walgreens
- Tony Stone – Former NFL player
- Kevin O’Brien – Novelist
- William G. Bauer – Former Missouri Supreme Court Judge
- Amber Portwood – Reality television personality
Top Hiring Companies:
- Lindenwood University
- Boeing Company
- Centene Corporation
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Wells Fargo
10. Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO)
Overview:
Southeast Missouri State University, located in Cape Girardeau, is a comprehensive public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Founded in 1873, SEMO is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality, affordable education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers. The university offers majors in areas such as business, education, healthcare, the arts, and sciences. SEMO’s campus fosters a supportive and inclusive community where students can engage in academic, cultural, and extracurricular activities.
U.S. News Ranking:
Southeast Missouri State University is recognized for its strong programs in teacher education, nursing, and business.
Number of Students:
SEMO has an enrollment of over 11,000 students, including undergraduates and graduates.
Degrees Offered:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Southeast Missouri State University has a moderately selective acceptance rate, admitting around 85% of applicants.
Average SAT Score:
The average SAT score for admitted students at SEMO is approximately 1050.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
SEMO offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, Greek life, community service projects, internships, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Famous Alumni:
- Rush Limbaugh – Radio personality
- David Robinson – Former NFL player
- Kathleen Turner – Actress
- Neal E. Boyd – Opera singer and America’s Got Talent winner
- Scott Hamilton – Olympic figure skater
Top Hiring Companies:
- Southeast Missouri State University
- SoutheastHEALTH
- Procter & Gamble
- Saint Francis Healthcare System
- BJC HealthCare