10 Best Colleges and Universities Near St. Louis, MO

Do you live in the St. Louis, Missouri, metropolitan area? Want to learn more about the colleges and universities in your community?

If so, you've come to the right place. Keep reading as we discuss the best schools in and around St. Louis.

Featured Colleges in St. Louis, MO

In this section, we'll take a look at the ten best colleges in St. Louis and the surrounding areas.

1. University of Missouri - St. Louis

The University of Missouri - St. Louis is a public school in the University of Missouri System. It enrolls more than 15,000 students.

The school offers many degree programs, both on campus and in a convenient online format. Degrees are available at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Students can participate in various athletics, student organizations, and other programs. International study options are also available.

2. Washington University

Washington University is a large private school in St. Louis. It is named after George Washington and enrolls more than 16,000 students.

Washington University is known for its academic excellence, as a large majority of its students obtain concurrent majors or pursue major/minor combinations.

Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized instruction. They have the option to study abroad and can choose from more than 50 countries.

3. St. Louis University

St. Louis University is a private Jesuit school, one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. It enrolls around 13,500 students.

The school offers over 200 programs leading to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Many of these programs are available both on campus and online.

The vast majority of students receive generous financial aid packages to help them cover the costs of their education.

4. Maryville University

Maryville University is a private school located in Town and Country, which is in the St. Louis metro area.

The school originally enrolled only women but now has nearly 10,000 students and admits both men and women.

Many students obtain their degree online, but campus-based programs are available as well. Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate level degrees, and certificate programs are also available online.

5. Webster University

Webster University is headquartered in Webster Groves, a St. Louis suburb. It has various campuses throughout the U.S. and enrolls a total of around 6,700 students.

Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate programs. Some programs are offered online, while others are available in person.

Certificate programs are also available.

6. Lindenwood University

Lindenwood University is one of the oldest schools west of the Mississippi River. It is a private school located in St. Charles.

This school offers a wide variety of flexible and affordable online degree programs. Its traditional campus programs are also designed to be both affordable and accessible.

Students can pursue graduate and undergraduate degrees, as well as various minors and certificate programs.

7. Harris-Stowe State University

Harris-Stowe State University is a public school in St. Louis. It enrolls around 1,000 students and has been around since 1857.

The school offers traditional campus programs, along with more flexible hybrid and online programs. More than 50 programs are available in various disciplines.

The school offers some of the most affordable tuition rates in the state.

8. Fontbonne University

Fontbonne University is a small private school affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. It enrolls under 1,000 students and is located in Clayton.

Students can choose from various degree programs such as:

• business administration
• special education
• exercise science
• biology
• cybersecurity

Some degree and certificate programs are available online, though most students attend classes on campus.

9. Missouri Baptist University

Missouri Baptist University is a private school with around 5,300 students. It is located in Creve Coeur in St. Louis County.

Students can choose from many majors, including:

• broadcast media
• criminal justice
• English
• health sciences
• marketing

A generous offering of online degree programs are available as well, and customizable financial aid packages help students from all walks of life afford school.

10. Logan University

Logan University is a small private school in Chesterfield. The majority of its students are master's and doctoral students; only around 100 students study at the undergraduate level.

This school's primary focus is on the health sciences, especially chiropractic medicine. Some of its programs are available online, while others are only offered in person.

Undergraduate students can enroll in programs that will transfer to graduate-level degrees also offered at the school.

What Is the Biggest School Near St. Louis, MO?

The largest school in St. Louis, in terms of enrollment, is Washington University. The school enrolls more than 16,000 students.

In terms of campus size, the University of Missouri - St. Louis wins out. Its urban campus sits on 350 acres of land.

How to Choose the Right College Near St. Louis, MO

Wondering how to choose the best college for you? A good place to start is to make a list of your priorities.

Are you interested in a particular degree program? Looking for the school with the lowest tuition rates or best financial aid package? Need a school on your side of town so you can live at home without a long commute?

Once you've determined what you're looking for in a school, you can check out each of the schools discussed above to find out which one will be the best fit.

Paying for Your Degree Near St. Louis, MO

Paying for college can be a challenge for many students. The first thing you should do when looking for financial aid is fill out the FAFSA, which can help you qualify for grants and waivers from your school as well as state and federal governments.

Applying for scholarships is another great way to earn money toward college. If you are or have been in the military, you may be eligible for tuition waivers through the GI Bill.

Finally, you can work to pay for college if your school offers work-study programs. Or, if you already have a job, your employer may offer tuition assistance benefits to help you cover your costs.

Start Your Degree Near St. Louis, MO Today

Ready to start college in St. Louis? Checking out the schools in this article will give you a good starting point to help you find one that meets your academic goals and budget.