Attending an accredited online college in Missouri is a great way for prospective students to earn a respected degree online. There are many online graduate degrees and undergraduate majors for students to explore, including human services, criminal justice, nursing, and education.
An online degree program at a virtual school in Missouri allows students to complete their degrees with some flexibility, and online schools in Missouri are highly ranked. They also low student-to-faculty ratios, ranging from nine to one to 19 to one. Keep reading to learn more about the best online schools in Missouri.
Fully Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri: Two Types of Accreditation
Accreditation shows that a college or university meets a strict quality standard set forth by the college accreditation agencies, and college accreditation agencies are overseen by the US Department of Education. There are two types of accreditation, regional and national. Both private and public institutions get accredited.
Regionally Accredited Online Colleges
Regional accreditation is the more prestigious of the two types of accreditations. Institutions with regional accreditation are typically private non-profit and public institutions. Students can transfer college credits from one regionally accredited school to another, but they might not be able to transfer college credits from a nationally accredited school to a regionally accredited school.
Nationally Accredited Online Colleges
National accreditation standards are less strict than regional standards. Unlike regional accreditation, schools that are nationally accredited tend to be vocational or technical colleges and for-profit institutions. Nationally accredited colleges can be less expensive than regionally accredited colleges and usually have higher acceptance rates.
Why Is Accreditation Important for College?
Accreditation is important for college because it shows that the school meets the education quality standards outlined by the accrediting body and the US government. These standards help to standardize education, streamline admissions, increase the credibility of degrees earned, and facilitate financial aid.
How to Find an Accredited Online College in Missouri
You can find out whether an online college in Missouri is accredited through the US Department of Education’s database, the national or regional accrediting agency website, or on the school’s official website. If you are having trouble finding information about a school’s accreditation status, you can also reach out to that school directly.
Check the US Department of Education’s Database
Using the US Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs website to find university accreditation is simple. Once you open the website, type the school’s name in the search box and click search. If more than one school search result populates, select the correct school to see the name of the accrediting agency.
Search for Colleges on the Regional Accrediting Agency’s Website
The regional accrediting agency for colleges in Missouri is the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). To find out if a school is accredited by the HLC, go to the HLC institution directory website. Type the school’s name in the search box, select the state, and click the Search button. The results will show you if that school is accredited or not by the HLC.
Visit the School’s Official Website
Distance learners who want to find out if their online college is accredited can always go to the school’s official website. The school or online program’s home page often has the accreditation listed at the bottom of the page. You can also find this information on the about page or by searching the website with the keyword “accreditation.”
Top 10 Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri: Overview
| Ranking | Online College | Accreditation | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Saint Louis University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 69% |
| 2 | University of Missouri – Columbia | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 68% |
| 3 | Webster University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 64% |
| 4 | Drury University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 63% |
| 5 | Maryville University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 57% |
| 6 | Lindenwood University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 54% |
| 7 | Missouri Baptist University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 52% |
| 8 | Northwest Missouri State University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 51% |
| 9 | Southeast Missouri State University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 49% |
| 10 | Park University | Higher Learning Commission (regional) | 25% |
How We Ranked the Best Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri
We ranked the best accredited online colleges in Missouri by looking at the graduation rates of various institutions that offer fully online degree programs. The information in the table above comes from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Best Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri: Deep Dive
Online universities should be accredited just like in-person courses, and the best accredited online colleges in Missouri have a wide variety of degrees that are in high demand for working adults. The schools on our list have both graduate and undergraduate degree programs for online learners.
Saint Louis University is a private Jesuit university founded in 1818, making it one of the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River. Saint Louis University has a campus in St. Louis Missouri and in Madrid, Spain. This school’s graduation rate is well above the national average, according to the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
Saint Louis University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 18% (undergraduate); 25% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 69%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $65,943
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Saint Louis University
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information System. This computer information systems degree is a four-year program consisting of accelerated eight-week terms. Students who earned an associate degree through a partner program are eligible to complete this degree in two years.
- Bachelor of Science in Strategic Intelligence. This bachelor’s degree program teaches students how to keep data secure in the fields of business or international intelligence.
- Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence. A strategic intelligence master’s degree prepares you for a career as an intelligence analyst in the government or with a private organization.
- Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner. The nurse practitioner program will teach you how to facilitate health care improvement and teach other nurses.
- Emergency Management Certificate. This is a one-year certificate program that teaches students how to navigate different interconnected agencies during an emergency. It prepares students to work as risk managers, firefighters, and emergency managers.
The University of Missouri at Columbia, affectionately known as Mizzou, is a public college that was founded in 1839. It is a land-grant university, and it is the flagship campus of the University of Missouri education system. Forty-eight percent of students graduate from this institution without any debt.
University of Missouri - Columbia Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 16% (undergraduate); 40% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 68%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $56,986
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at University of Missouri - Columbia
- Bachelor of Arts in Child Advocacy Studies. This online bachelor’s program teaches students the skills they need to be advocates for children in situations where children are threatened or in danger.
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. An information technology bachelor’s degree prepares students for a career in IT with a business-focused approach to designing computer networks, intellectual property, and data analysis.
- Bachelor of Science in Veterinarian Technology. This is the first complete online and asynchronous veterinary technology bachelor’s degree in the US. It prepares students to pass the Veterinary Technician Specialist professional certification.
- Master in Education in Mental Health Practices in School. This online master’s program will help you improve your classroom management skills and promote positive mental health in your students.
- Gerontological Social Work Graduate Certificate. The graduate certificate helps students to build awareness of aging services, policies, and disability rights. Students should already have a Bachelor or Master of Social Work or be currently enrolled in the Master of Social Work program at Mizzou.
Webster University is a private college that was founded as a female college in 1915. It became a coed school in 1962. Webster was the first Catholic college to integrate its student body, and its first Black student graduated in 1950. Today, Webster has in-person and online programs for graduate and undergraduate students.
Webster University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 13% (undergraduate); 43% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 64%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,663
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Webster University
- Bachelor of Arts in Scriptwriting. This program allows students to learn from professional writers and study successful scripts to learn how to craft engaging stories.
- Bachelor of Arts Media Studies. Students who want to write content for different media platforms and create engaging communication strategies should consider this BA program. Graduates can work as web content managers or media researchers.
- Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies. This program, taught by the Department of Teacher Education, prepares students to teach in diverse classrooms.
- Master of Arts in Gerontology. Gerontology students learn how to care for the elderly and understand the social, economic, and political issues an aging population faces.
- Master of Arts in Public Relations. In this PR master’s degree, students will practice developing solutions to real-world issues. They’ll learn about budgeting, develop writing skills, and build a portfolio.
Drury University is a private liberal arts college in Springfield, Missouri, founded in 1873. It is a Christian-affiliated school with an active alumni network. Online students can take programs in four pathways which are Business, Leadership and Communication, Education, Health and Behavioral Science, and Public Service and Safety.
Drury University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 0% (undergraduate); 70% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 63%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $37,543
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Drury University
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Students in this program can complete all coursework online, but they will need to complete several key fieldwork experiences in person. Non-traditional students from low-income households can win a Fast Track grant to pay for this degree.
- Bachelor of Science in Graphic and Digital Design. Graphic and digital design is a four-year bachelor’s program that teaches students a mix of artistic and technical design skills. Courses have projects that you can use to build a professional portfolio.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Students in this criminal justice program will take 42 credit hours of required classes in topics such as white-collar crime, the judicial process, and forensic science, in addition to general education requirements.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This bachelor's program teaches students about social interaction and group dynamics. Graduates can work in education, social work, or counseling.
- Bachelor of Science in Communication. A Bachelor's Degree in Communication focuses on messaging, conflict resolution, and brand management through both written and oral formats.
Maryville University is a private school that was founded in 1872 by the Society of Sacred Heart in Saint Louis. It was initially a women’s college, but today it enrolls male students too. Maryville University is the second-fastest-growing private university in the US, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education.
Maryville University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 45% (undergraduate); 88% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $53,466
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Maryville University
- Bachelor of Science in Forensic Psychology. This program teaches students about psychology, criminal justice, and social science. Students will practice using principles from these three fields to analyze real-world problems.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. This BS degree program culminates with an internship in one of two paths, police academy training or project-based learning. Students can also take graduate-level courses that are transferable to a master’s degree program.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The psychology program explores topics in social science and includes a focused psychology research sequence. Students can transfer up to two years' worth of credits to complete this degree in only two years.
- Master of Science in Data Science. This master’s program builds proficiency in data mining, machine learning, and big data. Students will also learn programming in SAS, Python, and SQL.
- Master of Science in Nursing. This Master’s in Nursing program is a two-year degree that offers five areas of concentration, including adult nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Students will need to complete clinical experiences, but they can do this where they live without traveling to St Louis.
Founded in 1827, Lindenwood University was initially a private college school for women. Today all genders are welcome, and students can enroll in bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. Ninety-three percent of graduates find employment or enroll in further education within six months of graduation.
Lindenwood University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 17% (undergraduate); 63% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 54%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $47,009
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Lindenwood University
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Design. In this game design bachelor’s degree program, students will learn about advanced game design and production, from brainstorming to finished product.
- Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications - Media Arts and Production. The degree covers a wide variety of media arts such as radio, podcast, and video production. Students learn about basic reporting, film editing, and production.
- Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing. A Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Marketing focuses on how to analyze an audience and design a marketing campaign for that group of people using big data. Students finish this program with a capstone course.
- Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine. This paramedicine program is designed for certified paramedics to become further educated on emergency and pre-hospital care. It is one of very few paramedicine bachelor’s degrees offered in the US.
- Master of Arts in Early Intervention in Autism & Sensory Impairments. Students in this program can specialize in autism spectrum disorder, deaf/hearing impairment, or vision impairment. Students will learn how to work with parents and caregivers of children with autism or sensory impairments to make sure they get the care they need.
Missouri Baptist University is a private school associated with the Southern Baptist church. This school has six regional learning centers across Missouri as well as an online campus. Its focus is Christian education, and faith is integrated into most classes.
Missouri Baptist University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 6% (undergraduate); 49% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $39,658
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Missouri Baptist University
- Bachelor of Professional Studies in Healthcare Management. Students will learn about the legal and ethical issues in the field of health services. Students can transfer in up to 96 of the required 120 credits, making this a great option for students with prior degrees in related fields.
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing. Students learn marketing strategies and consumer behavior through this online marketing degree. After graduation, students can work in roles like marketing specialist and market research analyst.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Students in this program will focus on leadership skills, strategic planning, and communication skills. This degree is great preparation for students who want to earn a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA).
- Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner. Registered nurses can enroll in this program to learn about primary care for all ages. Graduates can go on to work in private practices, rural health clinics, or Indian Health Services.
- Master of Social Work. Students in the master of social work program will learn from social work professionals who have worked in faith-based non-profits and other types of organizations. This program prepared students for advanced roles in social work organizations.
Northwest Missouri State University earned its university status in 1972. The school has over 160 majors and programs with student support services like tutoring and supplemental instruction to make sure all students stay on track to earn their degrees. This school is also home to the official Missouri State Arboretum.
Northwest Missouri State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 6% (undergraduate); 85% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 51%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $43,505
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Northwest Missouri State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Students in this program will learn the fundamentals of accounting to prepare them for the Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) exam. In fact, the CPA pass rate for students in this program is15 percent higher than the state average.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology. This program offers a comprehensive study of factors behind criminal behavior and teaches students different methods for interacting with criminals and victims.
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing. The marketing bachelor’s program offers a solid foundation in business and explores relevant case studies. Students will learn how to use creativity and technical skills to create persuasive marketing campaigns.
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This bachelor's degree program focuses on critical thinking skills as students learn the biological, social, and emotional aspects of psychology.
- Master of Science Early Childhood Education. This 30-credit master's program in early childhood education can be completed in only 12 months. The curriculum highlights the role of culture in child development and prepares students to work with diverse populations.
Southeast Missouri State University is a public university that was founded in 1873. The school was initially established as a teaching school. Today, Southeast Missouri State has over 230 undergraduate programs and 44 graduate degrees.
Southeast Missouri State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 14% (undergraduate); 44% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $39,874
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Southeast Missouri State University
- Bachelor of Science in Technology Management. This bachelor’s degree program focuses on technical computer applications in the field of computer science. Graduates can work in technical management or technical sales.
- Bachelor of Science Child Development Degree. With a child development degree, students will gain an understanding of how family dynamics and environment affects children. Students can go on to work in education or human services.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Students can choose an Academic/University track or a Law Enforcement Acadamy track. The first track is designed to prepare students for law school or other further education while the second track prepares students for a career in law enforcement.
- Master of Public Administration. A Master of Public Administration teaches students how to develop leadership skills and how to analyze public policy. Graduates can work as emergency management directors or human resources managers.
- Master of Business Administration - Accounting. Students will learn about research methods, organizational behavior, and marketing in this MBA in Accounting program. This degree helps students unlock jobs at the highest level of management.
Park University is a private institution that was founded back in 1875 as Park College. Today, they have a student body with international students from 57 different countries. Park University offers 78 degree programs and 31 certificate programs.
Park University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fully Online Enrollment: 69% (undergraduate); 79% (graduate)
- Overall Graduation Rate: 25%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $51,085
Top Accredited Online College Degrees and Certificate Programs at Park University
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. In this program, students will learn about human behavior and different mental processes. This is a four-year program with 122-credit hours required.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. The graphic design bachelor’s degree teaches students about typography, branding, and 3D animation. Through four years of classes, students will build a professional design portfolio.
- Master in Education Teacher Leadership. The teacher leadership master’s degree helps current teachers prepare for management roles such as department leader. Students can focus on literacy or curriculum and instruction.
- Associate of Science in Information and Computer Science. This Associate Degree in Information and Computer Science teaches students the latest technology and methodology in a wide range of computer science disciplines. After graduation, students can join the workforce or continue on to a bachelor’s degree.
- Diversity and Social Justice Certificate. The diversity and social justice certificate is a 12-credit course that focuses on social issues in today’s society. This program offers a formal learning experience for students who need to develop a better understanding of diversity in their current careers.
What Is the Easiest Online College That Is Accredited in Missouri?
The easiest online college that is accredited in Missouri is Saint Louis University. The graduation rate is 69 percent, showing that the workload is manageable and that the college supports its students. This school also has a very low student-to-faculty ratio, just nine to one. This means students in undergraduate programs and graduate degree programs can interact closely with professors.
One of the more manageable degrees for online learners at Saint Louis is the Bachelor of Arts in General Education. This online degree covers a broad range of topics that allows students to gain skills in civic engagement, leadership, ethical reasoning, and quantitative skills.
What Is the Cheapest Accredited Online College in Missouri?
One of the cheapest accredited online colleges in Missouri is Southeast Missouri State University. In-state tuition costs are $8,715 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Out-of-state tuition costs $15,285 per year, with an additional fee of around $644 for books.
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Are There Free Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri?
No, there are no free accredited online colleges in Missouri. There are some free online courses, but you won’t be able to earn your degree through free online classes. Organizations that have free accredited online classes include Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX.
It is possible to reduce the cost of an online program at an accredited college through financial aid. Students enrolled in online degree programs are eligible for federal and state-funded financial aid, as long as they are attending an accredited college. To apply for federal and state financial aid, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Why Choose an Accredited Online College in Missouri?
You should choose an accredited online college in Missouri because you will get a high-quality, standardized education, and students who live in Missouri may get reduced in-state tuition. Getting an accredited online education also provides you with a flexible schedule, a variety of degree options, and an affordable college degree.
Flexibility
Online classes offer working adults the flexibility to get their undergraduate or advanced degree part-time while working full-time. Many of the online courses are asynchronous, meaning there is no set meeting time for class. Instead, students can log in at any time during the semester to watch lectures and complete assignments.
Variety of Degree Options
At an accredited online college in Missouri, there are a lot of online major options for undergraduate programs and many online graduate programs to choose from. For example, students can obtain degrees in criminal justice, health care management, or political science.
Affordability
Most of the accredited online colleges in Missouri offer financial aid and tuition discounts to help make degrees affordable. Several programs also provide dual enrollment or advanced placement, allowing students to take graduate-level courses as undergraduate students and reduce the total time and cost to earn a master’s degree.
Most Affordable Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri
The most affordable accredited online colleges in Missouri make online education more accessible to students. The following is a list of the most affordable online colleges, ranked by the cost per college credit.
- Harris-Stowe State University | Tuition: $226/Credit (in-state). Harris-Stowe State University offers 22 online bachelor’s degrees, including criminal justice and education. Students will have additional fees of $222 per semester and a tech fee of $52.50.
- Southeast Missouri State University | Tuition: $258.70/Credit (undergraduate). Southeast Missouri State University offers 62 online programs, computer information systems, and nursing RN to BSN. Undergraduate students have additional fees of $41.80 per credit hour.
- Missouri State Univesity | Tuition: $267/Credit (in-state, undergraduate). At Missouri State University, students can study information technology, business administration, and special education. Online students will pay a $30 per-credit-hour online fee in addition to other student fees.
- Logan University | Tuition: $275/Credit (undergraduate). First-year students and transfer students at Logan University with a GPA of 3.5 or higher can get a tuition discount of $150 or $200 per credit, respectively. For those looking to enroll in one of the master’s programs, the tuition is $450 per hour.
- Drury University | Tuition: $320/Credit. Drury University offers over 50 online degree programs at the associate degree level and bachelor’s degree level. There is a student fee of $38, a tech fee of $8, and a graduation fee of $110 due in the last semester of coursework.
Best Online Accredited Colleges in Missouri That Accept Financial Aid
Many affordable accredited colleges in Missouri offer financial aid to their students to make online education more accessible to students. Financial aid comes in many forms, such as scholarships, federal assistance, and student loans. Below are just a few of the Missouri colleges with online programs that accept financial aid.
- Lindenwood University | Tuition: $9,550/Semester. At Lindenwood University, 100 percent of the student body receives some form of financial aid. Approximately 99 percent of the students have scholarships or grants, 30 percent of which come from federal aid programs.
- Northwest Missouri State University | Tuition: $299/Credit (undergraduate). Ninety-nine percent of incoming students at Northwest Missouri State University receive financial aid. Around 96 percent of students participate in grant or scholarship programs and 61 percent have student loans.
- Saint Louis University | Tuition: $1,680/Credit. Undergraduate students at Saint Louis University get an average of $31,030 in aid from grants or scholarships.
- Columbia College | Tuition: $375/Credit. Columbia College guarantees that whatever tuition rate you pay for your first year will be the tuition rate you pay for up to five years, meaning no surprise tuition hikes. Ninety-five percent of incoming freshmen receive financial aid.
- University of Missouri – Kansas City | Tuition: $321.30/Credit. The Kansas City campus of the University of Missouri has 92 percent of students receiving financial aid. Only 4 percent of students use private loans.
Best Online Schools in Missouri by Popular Subjects
The best online schools in Missouri offer a wide array of degrees. While the basics of each degree are similar, each school has its own unique twist on its program. In the next section, we’ll talk about the best online schools in Missouri for computer science, nursing, criminal justice, accounting, and more.
- Missouri University of Science and Technology. At Missouri University of Science and Technology, students can get a Master’s Degree in Computer Science. This three-year program offers two tracks in cyber security or data science.
- Saint Louis University. Saint Louis University offers data analyst and cyber security concentrations for students majoring in computer science. Online courses are taught in eight weeks terms, and students can finish their Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in four years.
- Northwest Missouri State. At Northwest Missouri State, cyber security bachelor’s degree students learn about digital forensics and how to detect vulnerabilities in a computer network. Students also learn cryptography and security engineering.
- Maryville University. Maryville University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing. The program allows working nurses to advance their education in one of five concentrations and work towards their Nurse Practitioner certification.
- Missouri Baptist University. Missouri Baptist University offers a two-year nursing executive leadership master’s program. The flexible online courses prepare students for leadership roles in nursing.
- Columbia College. The nursing associate degree program at Columbia College sets students up for professional success with an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 82 percent and a job placement rate of 95 percent.
- East Central College. East Central College’s health information management associate degree teaches students about medical terminology, ICD coding, and insurance policies.
- St. Charles Community College. St. Charles has an online community college certificate program that covers medical billing and coding. It’s a 35-credit course that teaches students proper billing procedures and how to accurately maintain medical records.
- State Fair Community College. State Fair Community College offers a professional certificate in medical billing. This 33-credit course teaches healthcare reimbursement, medical terminology, and coding. Students will have the opportunity to complete an externship for hands-on experience.
- Drury University. In Drury’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology, students will take classes in applied human development, drugs and behavior, and the psychology of gender.
- Maryville Unversity. Maryville University offers two Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology, one in general psychology and one in forensic psychology. Students can also use the early access program to take graduate-level courses and get started on their master’s or PhD degree.
- Missouri Baptist University. Missouri Baptist University offers a psychology bachelor’s degree program. This Christian-affiliated school integrates empirical science theory and bible teachings.
- Missouri Baptist University. Missouri Baptist University has a Master of Science in Education program that focuses on leadership building. It helps develop professional technical skills and is designed for teachers who already have their teaching certificates.
- Maryville University. Maryville University offers an online Doctorate in Education for students who already have their teaching certification. The program lasts 32 months and follows a cohort learning model. Students complete both courses and a dissertation simultaneously.
- Park University. Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at Park University. All coursework can be completed online, but there are in-person experiential learning requirements. Faculty will help with placement for fieldwork and student teaching.
- University of Missouri - Columbia. The University of Missouri Columbia offers an online, part-time Master of Social Work. Students with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work can complete the program in two years, while students with a bachelor’s degree in other fields will take three years.
- Maryville University. An online social work master’s degree is available through Maryville University. This program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
- Southeast Missouri University. Southeast Missouri University offers an online Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice. At the bachelor’s degree level, students can choose to specialize in either criminal justice administration or law enforcement.
- Park University. Park University offers a bachelor’s degree with one of three concentrations and two certification options. Students in this program get a practical look at careers in criminal justice through internship opportunities.
- University of Central Missouri. At the University of Central Missouri, students study both state and federal law enforcement protocols. Students can choose from eight- and 16-week-long courses, and students can work with a dedicated career coach to receive their bachelor's and master's degrees in tandem.
- University of Missouri - Columbia. The University of Missouri at Columbia offers a three-year accounting master’s degree. The classes are 100 percent online, but students may attend development workshops on campus.
- Northwest Missouri University. Northwest Missouri University's Bachelor's Degree in Accounting prepares students to take the Certified Professional Accountant certification exam. Students learn about both local and federal income tax compliance and work on their analytical, technical, and practical skills.
- Park University. Park University’s accounting department offers Bachelor’s Degrees in Accounting, Management/Accounting, and Business Administration with Accounting Concentration in addition to an associate degree and an accounting minor for business and non-business majors. These programs are all accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Best Accredited Online Colleges With Associate Degree Programs in Missouri
Finding the right associate degree programs begins with searching for accredited online colleges in Missouri. Getting an online associate degree can prepare you for an entry-level job or you can transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree program. In this section, we’ll share the best accredited online colleges with associate degree programs in Missouri in more detail.
- Missouri Baptist University | Associate of Science in Business Administration. Missouri Baptist University has several options for online associate degrees, and the most popular is the business administration. In this program, students can study management, information technology, marketing, or healthcare management.
- Southeast Missouri State University | Associate of Applied Science Computer Technology. Southeast Missouri State University offers two associate’s degrees, one in computer technology and the other in childcare and guidance. The computer technology program focuses on technical skills to train students for IT technician jobs.
- Park University | Associate of Science in Management/Accounting. Among its eight associate degree programs, Park University has a Management/Accounting Associate of Science. This 60-credit course is a great option for students looking to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program.
- Columbia College | Associate of Science in Nursing. Columbia College has several associate programs available online. The nursing associate degree prepares students for the registered nurse professional certification exam and a career in nursing or to continue their education to earn a bachelor’s degree.
- East Central College | Associate of Applied Science Computer Information Systems. East Central College is a fully accredited online college that offers Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in either computer information systems or health information management. These AAS degrees are designed for students who want to start working after graduation, not for students who want to continue on to a bachelor’s degree.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Missouri
Finding an accredited online college for your bachelor’s degree in Missouri is not hard at all. Several colleges offer flexible course schedules that allow adults to simultaneously work and earn their degrees. Below are some top colleges with online bachelor’s degrees.
- Saint Louis University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. Saint Louis University’s bachelor’s degree programs prepare students for their chosen careers. Instead of having semester-long courses, students take classes during six accelerated eight-week terms.
- University of Missouri – Columbia | Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology. Mizzou offers unique Bachelor of Science options like their veterinarian technology bachelor’s degree. This program prepares students for a career as a veterinarian technician, with coursework focused on animal welfare.
- Webster University | Bachelor of Arts in Scriptwriting. One of Webster’s most popular online bachelor’s degrees is the Bachelor of Arts in Scriptwriting. Their program has produced several well-known writers who have worked on shows such as “Raising Hope” and “In Plain Sight.”
- Drury University | Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Drury University’s bachelor’s degree programs are flexible enough for working adults to earn their degrees while working. Students in Drury’s criminal justice bachelor’s degree program can also take classes through the Drury University Law Enforcement Academy.
- Lindenwood University | Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing. Lindenwood University’s online bachelor’s degree programs are considered some of the top online programs in Missouri. Their digital marketing program focuses on recent changes in marketing and how to create marketing content for different social media channels.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Accredited Online Colleges With Master’s Degree Programs in Missouri
The best accredited online colleges in Missouri also have master’s degree programs. Some programs include a thesis option or capstone project to give students a chance to practice all their skills through a real-world scenario or research project. Missouri online colleges have many different master’s degree topics to choose from so you can further your current career or change career paths.
- Maryville University | Master of Science in Data Science. Maryville University serves a large student base helping students get their graduate degrees in a realistic amount of time. The data science master’s degree is a three-year course with a capstone project that helps build proficiency in big data, machine learning, and coding skills.
- Missouri Baptist University | Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner. Missouri Baptist University’s master’s programs focus on health, technology, and business. The Master of Science in Nursing allows RNs with a bachelor’s degree to upskill and become family nurse practitioners.
- Northwest Missouri State University | Master of Science in Early Childhood Education. Northwest Missouri State University offers affordable tuition for graduate students to make it easier for students to further their education. In addition, their early childhood education master’s program is designed to help teachers get their degrees in as little as a year.
- Southeast Missouri State University | Master of Public Administration. Southeast Missouri State University employs leaders in the industry to teach their graduate students. Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree at Southeast Missouri State can enroll as in-state students, no matter where they live. This school also has excellent career services to help graduates land a job soon after graduation.
- Park University | Master in Education – Teacher Leadership. Park University offers flexible graduate studies for working adults.This career-building education master’s degree program is designed to train current teachers for leadership roles such as department head or curriculum specialist.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Why You Should Attend an Accredited Online College in Missouri
You should attend an accredited online college in Missouri to earn a respected degree or certificate through a flexible education experience. There are plenty of accredited virtual schools in Missouri for degree-seeking students to choose from, including private and public schools such as Maryville University or Northwest Missouri State University.
Accredited Online Colleges in Missouri FAQ
It is important to go to an accredited online school because they guarantee that distance students are receiving the same high quality of education as on-campus students. For a school to be accredited, it must meet the standards of a national or regional accreditation agency which are guided by the US Department of Education.
The benefits of attending school online include greater flexibility and a reduced overall cost for distance students compared to on-campus students. Online students often take classes part-time, so that they can continue working in their current job while earning their degrees.
Online programs are highly effective in helping students learn. For example, students who are hard of hearing can adjust the volume of the lectures so they can hear them more clearly. Students who have trouble understanding a certain topic can listen to a section as many times as they need to. Online programs also eliminate the stress of making it to class on time.
No, the application process is typically not different for online programs as for on-campus programs. Many schools have streamlined their admissions process to be completely online for both in-person and online degree programs.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
