Missouri is home to a diverse selection of private colleges and universities, each offering unique educational experiences and specialized programs. These institutions emphasize academic excellence, community engagement, leadership development, and, in many cases, faith-based education. Missouri’s private colleges and universities range from small liberal arts colleges to large research universities, providing students with a variety of options depending on their academic and professional goals.
Washington University in St. Louis
Overview
Washington University in St. Louis, commonly referred to as WashU, is one of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Established in 1853, it has a reputation for academic excellence and world-class research. WashU is located in St. Louis and is known for its rigorous academic programs, collaborative research environment, and dedication to innovation.
Academic Programs
WashU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees through its various schools and colleges:
- College of Arts & Sciences
- McKelvey School of Engineering
- Olin Business School
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work
- Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts
Notable Programs:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Business and Finance
- Public Health
- Law
- Social Work
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 15,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1, promoting intimate learning environments and student-faculty collaboration.
- Athletics: The Washington University Bears compete in NCAA Division III, with a focus on academic and athletic balance.
- Extracurricular Activities: WashU has over 400 student organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, service organizations, and athletic clubs.
Research and Global Impact
WashU is renowned for its research output, particularly in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. The university has a global reach, with partnerships and collaborations in various countries. Its dedication to addressing complex global challenges, including health, environmental sustainability, and social justice, is reflected in its research and community engagement initiatives.
Saint Louis University
Overview
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a private Catholic research university located in St. Louis, with a second campus in Madrid, Spain. Founded in 1818, SLU is one of the oldest and most respected Catholic universities in the United States. It is known for its commitment to Jesuit values, including service, social justice, and academic excellence.
Academic Programs
SLU offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across various schools and colleges:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- John Cook School of Business
- School of Law
- College for Public Health and Social Justice
- School of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology
- School of Medicine
- School of Education
Notable Programs:
- Public Health
- Aviation Science
- Nursing
- Theology
- Law
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 13,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1, providing students with personalized learning experiences.
- Athletics: The SLU Billikens compete in NCAA Division I athletics, particularly excelling in soccer and basketball.
- Extracurricular Activities: SLU offers over 150 student organizations, including service clubs, Greek life, cultural groups, and professional organizations.
Jesuit Values and Service
Saint Louis University places a strong emphasis on community service and ethical leadership. Through its Jesuit mission, SLU encourages students to serve others and engage in social justice work. The university’s involvement in local and international service projects is a key part of its educational philosophy, and students are encouraged to participate in initiatives that promote equity and justice.
Rockhurst University
Overview
Rockhurst University is a Jesuit, Catholic institution located in Kansas City, Missouri. Founded in 1910, Rockhurst is known for its commitment to liberal arts education, leadership development, and service. As a Jesuit institution, Rockhurst focuses on educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and encourages students to be “men and women for others.”
Academic Programs
Rockhurst offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various schools and colleges:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- Helzberg School of Management
- School of Education
- College of Health and Human Services
- College of Nursing
Notable Programs:
- Physical Therapy
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Leadership Studies
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 3,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, fostering a supportive and engaging academic environment.
- Athletics: The Rockhurst Hawks compete in NCAA Division II athletics.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes more than 50 student organizations, focusing on leadership, service, and professional development.
Service and Leadership
Rockhurst University is dedicated to Jesuit values, particularly the importance of leadership and service. The university encourages students to engage in community service and ethical decision-making, preparing them to become leaders in their respective fields. Students participate in service-learning projects and leadership initiatives both on campus and in the surrounding Kansas City community.
Drury University
Overview
Drury University, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a private liberal arts university founded in 1873. Drury is known for its innovative academic programs that combine liberal arts education with professional studies, preparing students for successful careers and lives of purpose.
Academic Programs
Drury offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across multiple disciplines:
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Breech School of Business Administration
- College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
- Hammons School of Architecture
- College of Graduate and Continuing Studies
Notable Programs:
- Architecture
- Business Administration
- Communication Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Psychology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, offering a personalized educational experience.
- Athletics: The Drury Panthers compete in NCAA Division II sports, with particularly strong swimming and basketball teams.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 70 student organizations, including academic clubs, service organizations, and Greek life.
Innovative Education and Experiential Learning
Drury University’s commitment to integrating liberal arts with professional studies allows students to develop critical thinking skills alongside practical knowledge. The university emphasizes experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, community service, and undergraduate research. Drury’s unique architecture program is also highly regarded, offering students hands-on experience in design and planning.
Westminster College
Overview
Westminster College, located in Fulton, Missouri, is a private liberal arts college known for its emphasis on leadership, global engagement, and community service. Founded in 1851, Westminster is perhaps best known for being the site of Winston Churchill’s famous “Iron Curtain” speech in 1946.
Academic Programs
Westminster offers a variety of undergraduate programs with a focus on the liberal arts and leadership:
- School of Humanities and Fine Arts
- School of Social Sciences
- School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
- Business and Leadership Programs
Notable Programs:
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- Leadership Studies
- Environmental Science
- History
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, promoting small class sizes and individual attention.
- Athletics: The Westminster Blue Jays compete in NCAA Division III athletics.
- Extracurricular Activities: Westminster offers over 50 student clubs and organizations, including Greek life, academic societies, and service organizations.
Leadership and Global Focus
Westminster College is dedicated to cultivating leadership and global citizenship among its students. The Churchill Institute for Global Engagement offers unique opportunities for students to explore international issues, leadership development, and public service. The college’s focus on community involvement and leadership training prepares graduates for careers in public service, business, and education.
Maryville University
Overview
Maryville University, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a private institution founded in 1872. It is known for its forward-thinking approach to higher education, integrating technology into the classroom and offering flexible learning options for students. Maryville has a strong emphasis on preparing students for professional success through career-oriented programs.
Academic Programs
Maryville offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its various schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- John E. Simon School of Business
- Walker College of Health Professions
- School of Education
- School of Adult and Online Education
Notable Programs:
- Cybersecurity
- Nursing
- Data Science
- Business Administration
- Education
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 11,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1.
- Athletics: The Maryville Saints compete in NCAA Division II sports.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 100 student organizations, including service clubs, academic groups, and professional organizations.
Technology and Career Preparation
Maryville University is known for its emphasis on integrating technology into the curriculum, providing students with cutting-edge tools and resources for learning. The university is also recognized for its career-focused programs and partnerships with local industries, which offer students real-world experience through internships and co-op programs. Maryville’s online education offerings allow students to complete degrees with flexible scheduling options, making it a leader in adult and non-traditional education.
William Jewell College
Overview
William Jewell College is a private liberal arts college located in Liberty, Missouri, near Kansas City. Founded in 1849, William Jewell is known for its challenging curriculum, focus on critical thinking, and commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in a global society.
Academic Programs
William Jewell offers a variety of undergraduate programs across several disciplines, emphasizing a liberal arts education:
- School of Humanities
- School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
- School of Social Sciences
- Pryor Center for Leadership Development
Notable Programs:
- Political Science
- Biology
- Leadership Studies
- Data Science
- Communication Studies
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 900 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, promoting close interaction between students and faculty.
- Athletics: The William Jewell Cardinals compete in NCAA Division II sports.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes more than 50 student organizations, including academic clubs, Greek life, and leadership programs.
Leadership and Innovation
William Jewell College is committed to fostering leadership and innovation through its curriculum and extracurricular programs. The Pryor Leadership Program is a flagship initiative that helps students develop leadership skills through hands-on experience, mentorship, and service. The college also emphasizes global citizenship, encouraging students to engage in study abroad programs and international internships.
Evangel University
Overview
Evangel University, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Assemblies of God. Founded in 1955, Evangel offers a faith-based education that integrates academic excellence with spiritual growth and service to others.
Academic Programs
Evangel offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its schools and colleges:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business and Communication
- College of Adult and Graduate Studies
- School of Theology and Church Ministries
- College of Education
Notable Programs:
- Biblical Studies
- Business Administration
- Education
- Counseling Psychology
- Worship Leadership
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1.
- Athletics: The Evangel Valor compete in NAIA athletics, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and track.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 40 student organizations, including faith-based groups, service organizations, and academic clubs.
Faith-Based Education and Service
Evangel University places a strong emphasis on integrating Christian faith into all aspects of student life and education. Students are encouraged to engage in ministry, service projects, and mission trips, both locally and internationally. Evangel’s commitment to faith, service, and leadership is evident throughout its academic programs and student life offerings.