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Best Value Biology Colleges in Missouri

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Truman State University delivers Missouri's most affordable Biology program at just $12,030 net cost while maintaining the highest graduation rate at 68.4%. This sharp contrast with private options like Maryville University at $26,047 highlights the significant cost spread across Missouri's 20 Biology programs. The earnings gap proves equally striking, ranging from $25,194 to $39,009 annually. Missouri's thriving healthcare sector, anchored by major employers like BJC HealthCare and Cerner, creates steady demand for Biology graduates across research, clinical support, and biotechnology roles. Public universities dominate the value equation, with Missouri Western State University producing graduates earning $37,568 while keeping debt manageable at $24,935. The state's agricultural heritage, strengthened by companies like Monsanto, also opens pathways for Biology majors in crop science and environmental monitoring. Students benefit from Missouri's A+ Scholarship program, which can cover initial community college coursework before transferring to four-year institutions.
41
Programs
$7,669 – $33,596
Net Price Range
$29,275
Avg. Program Earnings
54.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

41 Biology, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,638 $37,568 $9,800 39.8%
2 $12,837 $36,745 $11,988 55.9% 69.5%
3 $12,323 $33,281 $13,440 56.9% 51.1%
4 $13,773 $33,993 $14,278 63.6% 81.5%
5 $13,375 $31,314 $8,044 32.1%
6 $14,824 $33,993 $10,181 57.5% 85.6%
7 $12,030 $27,126 $9,470 68.4% 45.1%
8 $15,336 $29,902 $9,739 49.4% 71.3%
9 $18,516 $34,348 $21,100 50.3% 74.0%
10 $14,532 $26,353 $9,496 55.7% 86.3%
11 $14,774 $25,194 $6,960 100.0%
12 $24,051 $38,289 $24,326 45.7%
13 $17,502 $26,353 $9,024 57.3% 92.6%
14 $26,047 $39,009 $27,166 71.5% 87.8%
15 $21,523 $31,314 $35,235 66.0% 63.4%
16 $21,082 $28,055 $28,320 51.2% 99.6%
17 $19,889 $26,121 $14,130 76.2% 79.1%
18 $23,165 $30,119 $43,420 75.6% 66.5%
19 $22,270 $26,739 $28,860 57.0% 61.5%
20 $18,705 $21,312 $27,192 64.8% 67.9%
21 $26,196 $27,439 $30,730 61.1% 55.1%
22 $25,477 $25,194 $27,140 52.5% 97.9%
23 $22,117 $16,663 $62,982 94.4% 11.8%
24 $27,075 $16,169 $53,244 79.8% 84.7%
25 $16,939 $38,672 42.6% 67.6%
26 $25,807 $33,122 48.2% 70.9%
27 $22,080 $29,915 50.2% 97.0%
28 $16,602 $19,890 61.6% 41.0%
29 $26,111 $34,188 57.5% 75.3%
30 $18,251 $28,976 56.8% 94.4%
31 $23,277 $28,200 46.5% 64.2%
32 $33,596 $31,920 75.5% 91.6%
33 $15,529 $16,400 30.0%
34 $7,669 $21,290 61.3% 21.1%
35 $21,123 $26,880 44.3% 67.1%
36 $13,459 $6,442 27.4%
37 $12,484 $9,290 22.1%
38 $18,094 $9,000 81.8%
39 $18,154 $26,209 61.4% 73.0%
40 $17,945 $23,000 24.5% 61.2%
41 $11,653 $8,400 38.3% 99.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Truman State University the best value for Biology in Missouri?

Truman State combines the lowest net cost at $12,030 with the highest graduation rate at 68.4% among Missouri Biology programs. Students graduate with manageable debt of $20,305 while earning $27,126 annually. The university's acceptance rate of 45.05% indicates selectivity that maintains academic quality while keeping costs down.

How do Missouri public universities compare to private schools for Biology value?

Public universities consistently offer better value, with net costs ranging from $12,030 to $17,502 compared to private schools at $13,375 to $26,047. Missouri Western State University graduates earn $37,568 annually with only $24,935 in debt. Private schools like Maryville University charge $26,047 but do produce the highest earners at $39,009.

Does Missouri University of Science and Technology justify its higher cost?

Missouri S&T charges $13,773 net cost but delivers strong outcomes with a 63.6% graduation rate and $33,993 in earnings. The school's technical focus and 81.49% acceptance rate make it accessible while maintaining quality. Graduates carry $23,250 in debt, which aligns well with their earning potential.

What career opportunities exist for Biology graduates in Missouri?

Missouri's healthcare sector, led by BJC HealthCare, creates demand for clinical laboratory technicians and research assistants. Agricultural companies like Monsanto hire Biology graduates for crop research and environmental monitoring roles. The state's growing biotechnology sector, supported by companies like Cerner, offers positions in data analysis and medical technology development.

Is the earnings gap between Missouri Biology programs worth considering?

The $13,815 gap between lowest and highest earners reflects program quality and regional placement success. Maryville University graduates earn $39,009 but pay $26,047 for their education. Central Methodist graduates earn just $25,194, creating a significant long-term financial difference that impacts debt repayment and career advancement.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.