4 Best Colleges and Universities Near Columbia, MO

Interested in finding out about the top schools in Columbia, Missouri? Perhaps you live in town and are hoping to attend a college close to home.

If this sounds like you, keep reading as we discuss the best colleges in and around Columbia and answer some related questions you may have about attending college.

Featured Colleges in Columbia, MO

Let's take a look at four of the best schools located in Columbia.

1. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri-Columbia is the flagship campus of the University of Missouri System. It enrolls more than 31,000 students.

The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of fields and disciplines. Various minors and certificate programs are also available.

Many of the programs can be completed entirely online through the school's remote campus, Missouri Online.

2. Columbia College

Columbia College is a private school headquartered in Columbia. It has multiple locations throughout the U.S. and a total of nearly 6,800 students.

Programs of study include:

• Nursing
• Business Administration
• Global Studies
• Human Services
• Computer Science

Undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates are all available, and many of the programs can be completed entirely online.

3. Stephens College

Stephens College is a private school for women. It is one of the oldest such institutions remaining in the United States.

A variety of degrees are available, including:

• Equestrian Studies
• Musical Theatre
• Content Creation
• Education
• Self-initiated Major

Students complete their studies on campus.

4. Moberly Area Community College

Moberly Area Community College is headquartered in Moberly but has various additional campuses, including one in Columbia.

A wide array of associate degrees and certificate programs are available, including fine arts and honors programs.

Students also have the opportunity to spend a semester studying abroad through the school's global education program.

Other Colleges Near Columbia, MO

Up next, we'll discuss some notable schools located in cities around Columbia such as Jefferson City, Fulton, Fayette, and Booneville.

Ranken Technical College

Ranken Technical College is a vocational school headquartered in Saint Louis. It has several additional campuses, including one in Ashland, near Columbia.

Training programs are available in fields such as carpentry, information technology, industrial engineering, and welding.

Programs are taught in person, and financial aid is available to help students cover their costs.

William Woods University

William Woods University is located in Fulton. This private school enrolls around 1,700 students.

The school offers graduate and undergraduate degrees, bridge programs, and study-abroad opportunities.

Students can also pursue a variety of degree programs online.

Westminster College

Westminster College is a small private school with around 600 students. It is located in Fulton.

Students can choose from various majors, minors, certificates, dual degrees, and professional programs. Fields include business, healthcare, education, arts, and sciences.

Programs are commonly completed in person, but various online degrees are also available.

State Fair Community College

State Fair Community College is headquartered in Sedalia, though extension campuses are located throughout the region. One of these campuses is located in Boonville.

The school offers a transferable Associate of Arts degree, as well as an associate degree and two certificate programs in medical assisting.

Students complete these programs on campus.

Central Methodist University

Central Methodist University is a private school in Fayette. It enrolls around 3,400 students through campus-based and online programs.

The school offers degrees in various fields, including:

• Behavioral Health
• Music Performance
• Physics
• Sports Management
• Accounting

The school provides associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, and tuition for online programs is some of the most affordable in the state.

Lincoln University

Lincoln University is a small public school located in Jefferson City. The school enrolls around 1,800 students and has been around since 1866.

A wide variety of degree programs are available, such as:

• Agriculture
• Journalism
• Civil Engineering Technology
• Health, Physical Education, and Wellness
• Public Administration

Graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates can both be completed through this school, and many of them can be completed entirely online.

What Is the Biggest School Near Columbia, MO?

The biggest school in Columbia is the University of Missouri. It enrolls more than 31,400 students, and its campus sits on 1,262 acres of land.

How to Choose the Right College Near Columbia, MO

Not sure how to choose the best college for you? With so many schools to choose from, the task can feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, there are ways to make it easier. Start by considering what's most important to you when choosing a college.

Are you looking for a specific degree program, affordable tuition, or a specific location?

Are there other factors that are important to you?

Once you have an idea of your priorities, you can narrow down your list of schools until you have found the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Paying for Your Degree Near Columbia, MO

College is expensive, but financial aid can help. To find out if you qualify for financial aid, fill out the FAFSA as soon as possible before beginning school.

Consider applying for scholarships through your school or outside organizations.

If you have a military background, find out whether your GI Bill benefits provide tuition discounts or waivers.

Finally, check into your school's work-study program to earn funds toward your education, or ask your employer if they provide tuition assistance as a benefit.

Start Your Degree Near Columbia, MO Today

The schools in this article all have something unique to offer.

If you're ready to start attending college, check into each of them to find out which one is the best fit for you.