Cheapest Human Services Colleges in Missouri

College of the Ozarks stands out among Missouri's Human Services programs with a net cost of just $7,669, nearly half the price of the second most affordable option at $13,375. This dramatic difference reflects the school's work-study model that requires students to work on campus rather than take out loans. Missouri's growing healthcare sector, anchored by employers like BJC HealthCare and Cerner, creates steady demand for human services professionals. The 10 programs in the state show graduation rates ranging from 32% to 67%, with earnings typically falling between $27,947 and $31,437 for graduates entering this field.

Programs

$7,669 – $25,807

Net Price Range

$29,378

Avg. Program Earnings

53.7%

Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Human Services, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	College of the Ozarks Point Lookout, Missouri	$7,669	$21,290	61.3%	21.1%
2	Drury University-College of Continuing Professional Studies Springfield, Missouri	$13,375	$8,044	32.1%
3	Urshan College Wentzville, Missouri	$13,496	$8,506	55.0%	85.3%
4	Fontbonne University Saint Louis, Missouri	$18,251	$28,976	56.8%	94.4%
5	Lindenwood University Saint Charles, Missouri	$18,516	$21,100	50.3%	74.0%
6	Evangel University Springfield, Missouri	$18,705	$27,192	64.8%	67.9%
7	Drury University Springfield, Missouri	$21,523	$35,235	66.0%	63.4%
8	William Woods University Fulton, Missouri	$22,270	$28,860	57.0%	61.5%
9	Columbia College Columbia, Missouri	$24,051	$24,326	45.7%
10	Missouri Baptist University Saint Louis, Missouri	$25,807	$33,122	48.2%	70.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes College of the Ozarks so much cheaper than other Human Services programs?

The school requires all students to work 15 hours per week on campus and participate in work-study programs that cover tuition costs. This model results in a net cost of $7,669 compared to over $13,000 at the next cheapest option. However, admission remains highly selective with only 21% of applicants accepted.

How do graduation rates vary among Missouri's affordable Human Services programs?

Graduation rates span from 32% at Drury University's continuing education campus to 67% at Evangel University. College of the Ozarks maintains a 61% graduation rate despite its unique work requirements. Schools with rates below 50% often serve working adults or transfer students with different completion patterns.

What can graduates expect to earn in Missouri's job market?

Human Services graduates typically earn between $27,947 and $31,437 annually in Missouri. Columbia College graduates report the highest earnings at $31,437, while Missouri Baptist University graduates average $27,947. These salaries align with entry-level positions in social services and community organizations throughout the state.

Is there a significant cost difference between small and large private schools?

Net costs range from $7,669 at College of the Ozarks to $25,807 at Missouri Baptist University, both private institutions. School size doesn't directly correlate with price, as smaller schools like Urshan College ($13,496) often cost less than larger universities. Financial aid packages vary significantly based on each institution's endowment and aid philosophy.

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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.