10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Springfield, MO

Interested in attending college in Springfield, Missouri? Perhaps you're wondering about the various schools you have to choose from.

In this article, we'll talk about the best colleges and universities in Springfield and answer related questions, including how to choose the right school for you.

Featured Colleges Near Springfield, MO

There are quite a few colleges in and around Springfield. Read on as we take a look at the top 10 options.

1. Missouri State University

Missouri State University is one of the largest schools in the State with an enrollment of nearly 25,000 students.

More than 260 degree programs are available, including a wide range of programs available exclusively and fully online.

Both graduate and undergraduate degrees are available, and this school offers some of the most affordable tuition in the state for resident students.

2. Drury University

Drury University is a private college in Springfield with an enrollment of around 1,400. It has been around since 1873.

Various degree and certificate programs are available.

Students choose a major and two certificates as part of their degree program, with the option to substitute one certificate for a second major or a minor.

Degrees are available in fields such as arts and sciences, business, education, and technology. Pre-medicine, pre-law, and self-designed majors are also available.

3. Baptist Bible College

Baptist Bible College is a small private school in Springfield. It enrolls around 300 students.

The primary focus of this school is to prepare Christian leaders to spread the gospel. Various degrees in business, education, and ministry are available.

Students can obtain associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees, and some degree programs are available in a fully online format.

4. Evangel University

Evangel University is a Christian school sitting on an 80-acre campus in Springfield. It has around 2,100 students.

The school offers around 70 degree and certificate programs. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available, many of which have concentrations so you can customize your degree toward your interests.

Degrees are offered both online and in person depending on the specific program in question.

5. Cox College

Cox College is a private school in Springfield. It is affiliated with the CoxHealth System and, as such, provides healthcare-related training.

Some of the programs include:

• Associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in nursing
• Bachelor of Science in diagnostic imaging
• Master of Science in nutrition
• Occupational therapy doctorate program
• Dietetics internship

Generous scholarships and financial aid packages are available to make attending school affordable for any student.

6. Ozarks Technical Community College

Ozarks Technical Community College is a large public school that enrolls around 10,500 students.

As a junior college, this school awards certificates and associate degrees. Some programs are career-focused, while others are meant to transfer to a four-year university.

Many degree and certificate programs are available online or in a hybrid format; others require in-person attendance.

7. Bryan University - Springfield

Bryan University is a private school with various campuses, including one in Springfield.

The Springfield campus of this school offers associate degrees and diploma programs in business, health, and wellness fields.

Students have the option to complete much of their coursework online, and some programs can be completed entirely remotely.

8. Southwest Baptist University - Springfield

Southwest Baptist University is a private school headquartered in Bolivar, but it has several additional campuses. One of these is located in Springfield.

This campus offers healthcare degrees and programs in radiography, nursing, and health science degrees. Associate, bachelor's, and master's programs are all available.

Students participate in campus-based courses and benefit from small class sizes to gain a hands-on education in their chosen field.

9. Midwest Technical Institute

Midwest Technical Institute is a trade school headquartered in Springfield, Illinois.

It has several branch campuses throughout the Midwest, including one in Springfield, Missouri.

This school offers training in a wide variety of trades. Programs are available in various health and medical fields, welding, HVAC, cosmetology, and truck driving.

The school provides financial aid guidance and scholarship opportunities to help students figure out how to pay for their education.

10. Global University

Global University is a Christian school providing education with a Pentecostal bent. Courses and degrees are provided entirely online.

The school provides certificate and diploma programs as well as associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in theology and ministry-related fields.

All courses are taught in English, Spanish, or French, enabling students from all over the world to learn a language that works for them.

What Is the Biggest School Near Springfield, MO?

With nearly 25,000 students, Missouri State University is by far the largest school in Springfield.

Ozarks Technical Community College comes in second with a student body of around 10,600.

How to Choose the Right College Near Springfield, MO

When you're trying to figure out which school to attend, you may be overwhelmed by all of the options.

It helps to take a deep breath and think about what you're looking for in your ideal school.

Things to consider include tuition, fees, and other expenses; the school's location and distance from home; and, of course, whether or not the school has your degree or program of choice.

Make a list of which factors are most important to you.

This will help you narrow down your school list and choose one that most closely aligns with your interests and preferences.

Paying for Your Degree Near Springfield, MO

Even if you choose a school with low tuition rates, college can get expensive.

If you think you may qualify for financial aid from federal or state governments, fill out the FAFSA immediately.

You can also apply for scholarships for a chance to earn merit-based financial awards.

If you are or have been in the military, you may be able to get tuition discounts or waivers for your service through the GI Bill.

If you have a job, find out if your employer provides tuition assistance that could help you cut costs.

Your school may also offer work-study programs that could help you earn money toward your degree.

Start Your Degree Near Springfield, MO Today

If you are ready to begin your college adventure, check out the Springfield-area schools outlined above to find out which one will work best for you.