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Best Value Political Science and Government Colleges in Missouri

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

Washington University in St Louis creates an unusual paradox in Missouri's political science market, combining an 11.76% acceptance rate with a net cost of $22,117 that rivals some public options. This selectivity contrasts sharply with schools like Southwest Baptist University, which accepts 99.55% of applicants at $21,082 annually. Northwest Missouri State University delivers the strongest return on investment, with graduates earning $39,741 against a $14,824 net cost. The state's political science programs serve Missouri's government sector, where agencies like the Department of Health and Senior Services and legislative offices in Jefferson City regularly recruit graduates. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with in-state costs ranging from $9,024 at Missouri State to $14,130 at the flagship Columbia campus. Private institutions span from $16,400 at Park University to $62,982 at Washington University, creating opportunities across every budget level.
28
Programs
$11,653 – $27,075
Net Price Range
$30,346
Avg. Program Earnings
55.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

28 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,824 $39,741 $10,181 57.5% 85.6%
2 $12,323 $32,569 $13,440 56.9% 51.1%
3 $12,837 $26,896 $11,988 55.9% 69.5%
4 $15,336 $30,771 $9,739 49.4% 71.3%
5 $19,889 $32,711 $14,130 76.2% 79.1%
6 $17,502 $27,642 $9,024 57.3% 92.6%
7 $26,196 $30,931 $30,730 61.1% 55.1%
8 $27,075 $21,508 $53,244 79.8% 84.7%
9 $14,532 $9,496 55.7% 86.3%
10 $15,529 $16,400 30.0%
11 $23,165 $43,420 75.6% 66.5%
12 $21,082 $28,320 51.2% 99.6%
13 $22,270 $28,860 57.0% 61.5%
14 $22,117 $62,982 94.4% 11.8%
15 $26,111 $34,188 57.5% 75.3%
16 $16,602 $19,890 61.6% 41.0%
17 $16,939 $38,672 42.6% 67.6%
18 $12,030 $9,470 68.4% 45.1%
19 $12,638 $9,800 39.8%
20 $11,653 $8,400 38.3% 99.5%
21 $18,516 $21,100 50.3% 74.0%
22 $12,484 $9,290 22.1%
23 $13,459 $6,442 27.4%
24 $18,705 $27,192 64.8% 67.9%
25 $21,523 $35,235 66.0% 63.4%
26 $22,080 $29,915 50.2% 97.0%
27 $24,051 $24,326 45.7%
28 $25,477 $27,140 52.5% 97.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap between Missouri political science programs?

Graduate salaries vary dramatically, from $21,508 at Saint Louis University to $39,741 at Northwest Missouri State University. Program focus and regional job markets influence these outcomes significantly. Schools near major government centers like Jefferson City and St. Louis often connect students with state agencies and political organizations. The $18,233 earnings difference reflects varying career paths, from local government roles to federal positions.

How do public universities compare to private schools for political science value?

Public universities offer substantial savings, with in-state costs averaging around $11,000 compared to private schools reaching $62,982. University of Missouri-St. Louis provides strong value at $12,323 net cost with 56.90% graduation rates. However, Washington University delivers a 94.40% graduation rate despite higher costs. The 85.56% acceptance rate at Northwest Missouri State makes quality education accessible to more students.

Is Saint Louis University worth considering despite lower graduate earnings?

Saint Louis University shows $21,508 in graduate earnings, the lowest among Missouri programs, but maintains a 79.80% graduation rate. The $27,075 net cost creates a challenging value proposition compared to public alternatives. Students should weigh the school's location advantages in Missouri's largest metropolitan area. The university's connections to local political organizations and internship opportunities may offset initial salary concerns.

Does Northwest Missouri State University offer the best overall value?

Northwest Missouri State combines the highest graduate earnings at $39,741 with a reasonable $14,824 net cost. The 57.50% graduation rate aligns with state averages while maintaining an 85.56% acceptance rate. Students pay just $10,181 for in-state tuition, creating excellent affordability. The Maryville location provides access to regional government positions and agricultural policy work.

Where do Missouri political science graduates typically find employment?

Missouri's state government in Jefferson City employs many graduates in legislative research and policy analysis roles. Major employers like BJC HealthCare and Cerner offer government relations and public affairs positions. The defense sector around Kansas City provides additional federal contracting opportunities. Local municipalities across Missouri's 114 counties create steady demand for public administration professionals with political science backgrounds.

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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.