10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Independence, MO

Do you live in Independence, Missouri? Are you interested in finding a school close to home? If so, you've come to the right place.

In this article, we'll discuss the best universities and colleges near Independence, Missouri. We'll also answer a few questions you may have relative to starting college.

Featured Colleges in Independence, MO

Read on as we take a closer look at the top two schools located in Independence.

1. Graceland University

Graceland University is a private school associated with the Community of Christ church. Its main campus is located in Lamoni, Iowa, but a secondary campus is located in Independence.

The Independence campus is best known for its nursing school, but it provides academic programs in areas such as business and education as well.

Undergraduate and graduate programs are both available, and some programs can be completed entirely online.

2. Metropolitan Community College - Blue River

Metropolitan Community College is a large public school with five campus locations in the Kansas City area, including one in Independence.

This junior college offers a wealth of transferable associate degrees along with career-focused programs and short-term certificates.

Students typically study in person, though some classes are offered in online and hybrid formats for convenience and flexibility.

Other Colleges Near Independence, MO

Now let's talk about some other top schools located in Liberty and Kansas City, both located near Independence.

3. University of Missouri - Kansas City

The University of Missouri - Kansas City is a public school belonging to the University of Missouri System. It enrolls a little more than 16,000 students.

The school provides around 125 academic programs, including degrees and certificates. Programs include dental training along with degrees in arts, sciences, business, technology, and more.

Graduate and undergraduate degrees are both available, and students primarily study on campus.

4. William Jewell College

William Jewell College is a private school located in Liberty, north of Independence. This small school enrolls fewer than 1,000 students.

William Jewell is a liberal arts school offering degrees in arts, sciences, humanities, business, healthcare, and more. Accelerated three-year bachelor's degrees are available.

Students also have various opportunities to study abroad, which allows them to take part in once-in-a-lifetime experiences that expand their minds.

5. Rockhurst University

Rockhurst University is located in Kansas City. It is a private school enrolling around 3,000 students.

Some of the various degree programs available include:

• exercise science
• film arts
• pre-medicine
• pre-law
• educational studies

Graduate and undergraduate degree programs are both available, and some programs can be completed entirely online.

6. Kansas City Art Institute

Kansas City Art Institute is a private school with around 700 students. It was founded in 1885.

The school offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in several disciplines, including:

• illustration
• product design
• photography
• creative writing
• ceramics

Students are taught in person in an immersive studio environment that prepares them for professional opportunities in their chosen profession.

7. Kansas City University

Kansas City University is a medical school that was founded in 1916. It is known for being one of the first osteopathic schools in the country.

In addition, the school offers graduate degrees in biomedical sciences, dentistry, and clinical psychology.

This school is one of the largest medical schools in the U.S. and is known for providing top-level medical training.

8. Western Baptist Bible College

Western Baptist Bible College is headquartered in Kansas City, though it has various locations throughout Missouri and Kansas.

The school provides a variety of degrees with a Christian focus, including:

• religious studies
• music history and worship
• Christian education
• Christian counseling
• pastoral theology

Students can complete graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates. Some are available online, while others can only be completed in person.

9. Aviation Institute of Maintenance

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance is a trade school with locations throughout the country. One of these locations is in Kansas City.

This specialized vocational college provides training in aviation maintenance and unmanned aircraft systems.

Financial aid is available for all students to help them cover the costs of their training.

10. Columbia College - Kansas City

Columbia College is a private school headquartered in Columbia, but it has additional campus locations throughout Missouri and beyond. One of these campuses is located in Kansas City.

The school provides various degree programs in a variety of disciplines. Both graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates are available.

Students can study either online or on campus depending on their degree program of choice.

What Is the Biggest School Near Independence, MO?

The biggest college near Independence, Missouri is the University of Missouri - Kansas City, which enrolls over 16,000 students.

Metropolitan Community College is a close second, with a total enrollment of around 15,700 across its five campuses.

How to Choose the Right College Near Independence, MO

Wondering how to narrow down your options when it comes to choosing a college near Independence, Missouri? Start by identifying what's important to you and what your priorities are.

You may want to consider factors such as what degree programs are available, which schools offer the most affordable tuition, or where they are located. Or you may find there are other factors you care about.

Make a list of the things you're looking for in your future school, and then see how each school you are considering matches up with your priorities. This will help you narrow down your school list and choose the best option for you.

Paying for Your Degree Near Independence, MO

If you're curious about how to pay for college, you can start by filling out the FAFSA. This form will help determine whether you are eligible for need-based financial aid.

Scholarships can also help you cover costs and are often available through schools and other organizations. The GI Bill makes it possible for active-duty military and veterans to receive tuition assistance.

If you have a job, find out if your employer offers tuition assistance. You can also check with your school to see if they offer work-study programs, which allow you to work off some of your expenses.

Start Your Degree Near Independence, MO Today

If you are ready to get started, check out each of the colleges near Independence, Missouri that are discussed above to find out which one will best fit your needs and interests.