Private Four-Year Universities in Missouri

May 25, 2007 educationvv

Avila University

Overview

Avila University is a private Catholic university located in Kansas City, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, Avila offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1916 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Avila University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. Originally established as St. Teresa’s College, it became Avila College in 1963 and was renamed Avila University in 2002.

Academic Offerings

Avila University offers programs across various schools, including:

School of Education
School of Nursing
School of Business
College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
School of Visual and Communication Arts

Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Psychology, and Communication.

Student Life

Avila University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Service Learning: Emphasis on volunteerism and community service.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Kansas City with modern facilities.
Small Class Sizes: Personalized education with close faculty-student interaction.

Admissions

Avila University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Catholic values. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.

Alumni

Avila University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, healthcare, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Ann Mahoney: Actress known for her role in “The Walking Dead.”
Lisa Benson: Emmy Award-winning journalist.
Jason Kander: Former Missouri Secretary of State.

Central Methodist University

Overview

Central Methodist University (CMU) is a private liberal arts university located in Fayette, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success, CMU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1854 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Central Methodist University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Methodist values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Central Methodist University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Swinney Conservatory of Music
Division of Professional Education
Division of Health Professions

Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Nursing, Music, and Biology.

Student Life

Central Methodist University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

Methodist Heritage: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Strong Music Program: Renowned for its conservatory of music.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Fayette with modern facilities and historic buildings.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Central Methodist University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Methodist values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.

Alumni

Central Methodist University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, healthcare, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Wally Szczerbiak: Former NBA player.
Carl M. Edwards: Former NASCAR driver.
Mary Gant: Award-winning educator and author.

Columbia College

Overview

Columbia College is a private liberal arts college located in Columbia, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and flexible learning options, Columbia offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1851 as Christian Female College, Columbia College was the first women’s college west of the Mississippi River to be chartered by a state legislature. The college became coeducational in 1970 and adopted the name Columbia College in 1971.

Academic Offerings

Columbia College offers programs across various schools, including:

School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
School of Business Administration
School of Education
School of Nursing

Popular majors include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Nursing, and Education.

Student Life

Columbia College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Flexible Learning: Offers both on-campus and online programs to accommodate diverse student needs.
Beautiful Campus: Located in the vibrant city of Columbia with modern facilities.
Strong Military Connections: Provides education to military personnel and their families.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Columbia College’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community engagement.

Alumni

Columbia College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Jane Froman: Renowned singer and actress.
Brett Hull: Hall of Fame NHL player.
Patricia McConnell: Ethologist and author.

Drury University

Overview

Drury University is a private liberal arts university located in Springfield, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to community service, Drury offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1873 by Congregationalist home missionaries, Drury University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in liberal arts values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Drury University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
Breech School of Business Administration
Hammons School of Architecture
College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
School of Education and Child Development

Popular majors include Architecture, Business Administration, Psychology, Education, and Biology.

Student Life

Drury University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

Strong Architecture Program: Renowned Hammons School of Architecture.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Springfield with historic buildings and modern facilities.
Community Engagement: Emphasis on service learning and community involvement.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Encourages interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning.

Admissions

Drury University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.

Alumni

Drury University alumni are leaders in various fields, including architecture, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Bob Barker: Former host of “The Price Is Right.”
John Beuerlein: Former Chief Investment Officer of Edward Jones.
Jerry Jacob: Emmy Award-winning journalist.

Evangel University

Overview

Evangel University is a private Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to faith, Evangel offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1955 by the Assemblies of God, Evangel University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Christian values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Evangel University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
College of Adult and Graduate Studies
College of Business and Entrepreneurship
College of Education
College of Theology and Church Ministries

Popular majors include Business Administration, Psychology, Education, Music, and Biblical Studies.

Student Life

Evangel University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and spiritual growth.

Unique Features

Christian Foundation: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Strong Music Program: Renowned for its music and worship studies.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Springfield with modern facilities.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Evangel University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Christian values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth.

Alumni

Evangel University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, ministry, and public service. Notable alumni include:

J. Don George: Renowned pastor and author.
Jack Hayford: Founding pastor of The Church on the Way.
Sarah Palin: Former Governor of Alaska and Vice Presidential candidate (attended briefly).

Fontbonne University

Overview

Fontbonne University is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to social justice, Fontbonne offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1923 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Fontbonne University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Fontbonne University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
Eckelkamp College of Global Business and Professional Studies
College of Education and Allied Health Professions

Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Communication Disorders, Psychology, and Fine Arts.

Student Life

Fontbonne University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Strong Education Programs: Renowned for its education and communication disorders programs.
Beautiful Campus: Located in St. Louis with modern facilities.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Fontbonne University’s admissions process considers academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Catholic values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.

Alumni

Fontbonne University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, healthcare, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Bill Mueller: Former Major League Baseball player.
Angela Hutti: Meteorologist for Fox 2 News in St. Louis.
Katie O’Grady: Actress and producer.

Lindenwood University

Overview

Lindenwood University is a private liberal arts university located in St. Charles, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success, Lindenwood offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1827 by Mary Easton Sibley and George Sibley, Lindenwood University is one of the oldest higher education institutions west of the Mississippi River. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Lindenwood University offers programs across various schools, including:

School of Arts, Media, and Communications
School of Business and Entrepreneurship
School of Education
School of Health Sciences
School of Humanities

Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Athletic Training.

Student Life

Lindenwood University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

Beautiful Campus: Located in historic St. Charles with modern facilities.
Strong Business Programs: Renowned for its business and entrepreneurship programs.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Encourages interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning.

Admissions

Lindenwood University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.

Alumni

Lindenwood University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Peter Kinder: Former Lieutenant Governor of Missouri.
Anne Perry: Bestselling author.
Mary Ann McGivern: Renowned peace activist.

Maryville University

Overview

Maryville University is a private university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and innovative approach to education, Maryville offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1872 by the Society of the Sacred Heart, Maryville University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Maryville University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
John E. Simon School of Business
School of Education
Walker College of Health Professions

Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Psychology, Education, and Cybersecurity.

Student Life

Maryville University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Innovative Learning: Emphasis on personalized and technology-driven education.
Beautiful Campus: Located in St. Louis with modern facilities.
Strong Health Professions Programs: Renowned for its nursing and health sciences programs.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Maryville University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and innovation.

Alumni

Maryville University alumni are leaders in various fields, including healthcare, education, and business. Notable alumni include:

Ryan Carrethers: Former NFL player.
Angie Le Mar: Comedian and writer.
Reggie Morris: Renowned cybersecurity expert.

Rockhurst University

Overview

Rockhurst University is a private Jesuit university located in Kansas City, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, Rockhurst offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1910 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), Rockhurst University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Jesuit values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Rockhurst University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
Helzberg School of Management
College of Health and Human Services
College of Business, Influence, and Information Analysis

Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Psychology, Education, and Biology.

Student Life

Rockhurst University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

Jesuit Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Strong Business Programs: Renowned for its Helzberg School of Management.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Kansas City with modern facilities.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Rockhurst University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Jesuit values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.

Alumni

Rockhurst University alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, healthcare, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Tom Bloch: Co-founder of H&R Block.
Tom McDonnell: Former CEO of DST Systems.
Jim Ferlo: Former Pennsylvania State Senator.

Saint Louis University

Overview

Saint Louis University (SLU) is a private Jesuit research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, SLU offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

History

Founded in 1818 by Bishop Louis William DuBourg, Saint Louis University is one of the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Saint Louis University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business
School of Law
School of Medicine
School of Nursing

Popular majors include Business Administration, Biology, Nursing, Engineering, and Psychology.

Student Life

Saint Louis University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Jesuit Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
Research Opportunities: Strong emphasis on research and innovation across various disciplines.
Beautiful Campus: Located in St. Louis with historic buildings and modern facilities.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Saint Louis University’s admissions process is highly selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Jesuit values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.

Alumni

Saint Louis University alumni are leaders in various fields, including healthcare, education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Joseph P. Teasdale: Former Governor of Missouri.
John Danforth: Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to the United Nations.
Robert Guillaume: Emmy Award-winning actor.

Stephens College

Overview

Stephens College is a private women’s college located in Columbia, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to women’s leadership, Stephens offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

History

Founded in 1833, Stephens College is the second-oldest women’s educational institution in the United States. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Stephens College offers programs across various schools, including:

School of Design
School of Health Sciences
School of Performing Arts
School of Integrative Studies

Popular majors include Fashion Design, Nursing, Theatre Arts, Creative Writing, and Digital Filmmaking.

Student Life

Stephens College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes leadership development and community engagement.

Unique Features

Women’s Leadership: Strong focus on empowering women and developing leadership skills.
Strong Arts Programs: Renowned for its theatre and fashion design programs.
Beautiful Campus: Located in Columbia with modern facilities and historic buildings.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.

Admissions

Stephens College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about women’s leadership and the arts.

Alumni

Stephens College alumni are leaders in various fields, including arts, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Dawn Wells: Actress known for her role in “Gilligan’s Island.”
Jeane Kirkpatrick: Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
Joan Crawford: Academy Award-winning actress.

Washington University in St. Louis

Overview

Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Known for its rigorous academics and global influence, Washington University offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

History

Founded in 1853 by William Greenleaf Eliot and Wayman Crow, Washington University has grown into one of the leading research universities in the United States. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Washington University offers programs across various schools, including:

College of Arts and Sciences
Olin Business School
School of Engineering and Applied Science
School of Law
School of Medicine

Popular majors include Business Administration, Biology, Engineering, Psychology, and Political Science.

Student Life

Washington University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Strong Research Focus: Renowned for its research and innovation across various disciplines.
Global Perspective: Diverse student body and extensive international partnerships.
Beautiful Campus: Located in St. Louis with historic buildings and state-of-the-art facilities.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Encourages interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning.

Admissions

Washington University’s admissions process is highly selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.

Alumni

Washington University alumni are leaders in various fields, including academia, business, law, and medicine. Notable alumni include:

Tennessee Williams: Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright.
John Danforth: Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador to the United Nations.
William H. Webster: Former Director of the FBI and CIA.

Westminster College

Overview

Westminster College is a private liberal arts college located in Fulton, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to leadership development, Westminster offers a range of undergraduate programs.

History

Founded in 1851 by the Presbyterian Church, Westminster College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in liberal arts values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

Westminster College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Biology
Business Administration
Education
Political Science
Psychology

The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and encourages study abroad experiences.

Student Life

Westminster College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.

Unique Features

Leadership Focus: Strong emphasis on leadership development and ethical decision-making.
Historic Campus: Located in Fulton with historic buildings and modern facilities.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Encourages interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning.
Global Engagement: Numerous opportunities for study abroad and international internships.

Admissions

Westminster College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and leadership.

Alumni

Westminster College alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Winston Churchill: Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (delivered his “Iron Curtain” speech at Westminster).
William H. Danforth: Former Chancellor of Washington University in St. Louis.
Roy Blunt: U.S. Senator from Missouri.

William Jewell College

Overview

William Jewell College is a private liberal arts college located in Liberty, Missouri. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success, William Jewell offers a range of undergraduate programs.

History

Founded in 1849 by the Missouri Baptist Convention, William Jewell College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in liberal arts values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.

Academic Offerings

William Jewell College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Biology
Business Administration
Education
Music
Political Science

The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and emphasizes experiential learning.

Student Life

William Jewell College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.

Unique Features

Beautiful Campus: Located in Liberty with modern facilities and historic buildings.
Strong Music Program: Renowned for its music and performing arts programs.
Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Encourages interdisciplinary studies and experiential learning.

Admissions

William Jewell College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.

Alumni

William Jewell College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:

Tom Brokaw: Former NBC News anchor.
Sheryl Crow: Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter.
Leon Jordan: Civil rights leader and politician.