College and Career Counseling Page
This site is designed to help students and families explore bachelor’s degree programs at public and private universities in Missouri. Whether students plan to stay in state or transfer from a 2-year college, this guide will walk through options, pathways, and key admissions info.
A bachelor’s degree is a 4-year college credential (usually 120 credits) that prepares students for careers, advanced studies, and lifelong learning.
BA (Bachelor of Arts) — liberal arts & humanities emphasis
BS (Bachelor of Science) — typically more science, math, or technical coursework
BFA / BBA / other specialized bachelor’s — fine arts, business, engineering, etc.
Greater career opportunities & earning potential
Access to advanced and professional programs
In-depth study in a major subject area
Leadership & research experience
Broader networking and campus engagement
These schools offer a wide range of bachelor’s programs and are state affordable options.
University of Missouri — Columbia (MU)
Strong programs: Journalism, Business, Engineering, Education, Health Sciences
University of Missouri — Kansas City (UMKC)
Notable areas: Health Professions, Business, Urban Affairs
Missouri University of Science & Technology (Missouri S&T)
STEM-focused: Engineering, Computer Science, Sciences
University of Missouri — St. Louis (UMSL)
Known for: Business, Psychology, Nursing
(Each campus has its own culture, admissions requirements, and strengths.)
Missouri State University (Springfield)
Large, comprehensive university with strong teacher education, business, and health programs
Southeast Missouri State University (Cape Girardeau)
Good options in education, arts & sciences, business
Truman State University (Kirksville)
Honors-style academic environment with liberal arts focus
Harris-Stowe State University (St. Louis)
Historically Black university with strong community focus
Saint Louis University (SLU) — nationally ranked, strong health sciences and business programs
Webster University — global campus, flexible programs
Maryville University — career-focused majors & graduate support
Drury University (Springfield) — liberal arts emphasis
Evangel University, Southwest Baptist University, Central Methodist University, and others — varied majors, values-based education
Research schools & majors
Check admission requirements (GPA, test scores if required)
Complete applications (Common App or individual portals)
Submit transcripts
Apply for financial aid (FAFSA)
Apply for scholarships
FAFSA — federal financial aid form
State Scholarships — Bright Flight, Access Missouri, A+ help with tuition
Institutional Scholarships — merit & need-based awards
Work-Study & Grants
Costs vary by school, major, and residency; public schools are typically less expensive for in-state students.
Students who complete an associate degree (AA/AS) can often transfer into a bachelor’s program with junior standing — especially at Missouri public universities through statewide transfer agreements.
Attend college fairs & campus tours
Meet with your counselor
Explore majors with career interest inventories
Connect with admissions reps
Andrea Reed
College & Career Counselor
Windsor High School