About Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Central Methodist University's College of Graduate and Extended Studies serves working adults and nontraditional learners through flexible degree programs. The university accepts all applicants who apply, reflecting its mission to provide accessible higher education opportunities. With 1,807 students spread across multiple locations and online programs, this Methodist-affiliated institution focuses on career advancement rather than traditional campus life. The rural Missouri setting of the main campus creates an intimate learning environment with a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Students typically pay around $14,774 after financial aid, making this one of the more affordable private options available. Only 27% receive federal financial aid, suggesting many students pay out of pocket or use employer benefits. Graduates earn a median of $48,991 ten years after graduation with manageable debt of $17,619. The monthly loan payment of $187 represents a reasonable investment given the earning potential. An impressive 97.9% employment rate demonstrates strong job market outcomes for graduates.
The retention rate of 50% reflects the challenges many adult learners face balancing education with work and family responsibilities. Women make up 59% of the student body, typical for programs serving working professionals. Three-quarters of students come from Missouri, indicating the university's strong regional focus and community ties.
Students typically pay around $14,774 after financial aid, making this one of the more affordable private options available. Only 27% receive federal financial aid, suggesting many students pay out of pocket or use employer benefits. Graduates earn a median of $48,991 ten years after graduation with manageable debt of $17,619. The monthly loan payment of $187 represents a reasonable investment given the earning potential. An impressive 97.9% employment rate demonstrates strong job market outcomes for graduates.
The retention rate of 50% reflects the challenges many adult learners face balancing education with work and family responsibilities. Women make up 59% of the student body, typical for programs serving working professionals. Three-quarters of students come from Missouri, indicating the university's strong regional focus and community ties.
Academics & Faculty
Central Methodist University's College of Graduate and Extended Studies focuses on flexible degree completion for working adults. The school maintains a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, providing personalized attention in small classes. However, the 50% retention rate suggests students face significant challenges balancing work, family, and academic demands. CMU is known for practical programs in business, education, and health sciences that cater to career changers and degree completers. The Methodist tradition emphasizes service-oriented learning and ethical leadership. Students benefit from evening and online course formats designed around professional schedules. The college serves as a bridge for students who started their education elsewhere or are returning after time in the workforce.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Retention Rate
- 50.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $48,991
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Small)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $61,054 |
| Education, General. | Master | $35,213 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Bachelor | $33,281 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $31,799 |
| Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management. | Bachelor | $31,133 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $29,374 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $28,816 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Bachelor | $28,055 |
Campus Life
Central Methodist University's College of Graduate and Extended Studies operates primarily as an online and extended campus program, serving working adults across Missouri and beyond. With 1,807 students enrolled, most take classes through flexible evening, weekend, and online formats designed around busy schedules. The main campus sits in rural Fayette, population 2,700, about two hours from both Kansas City and St. Louis.
Students juggle coursework with full-time jobs and family responsibilities. The 58.94% female student body reflects the program's appeal to career-changing professionals, particularly in education and business fields. Weekend intensives and evening classes mean limited traditional campus life. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, requiring heavy coats from December through February. The 97.9% employment rate shows most students work while studying. Online discussion boards and group projects replace dormitory socializing. Students typically spend weekends completing assignments, attending family events, or working rather than participating in campus activities. The Methodist heritage emphasizes service learning, though daily religious observance isn't required.
Students juggle coursework with full-time jobs and family responsibilities. The 58.94% female student body reflects the program's appeal to career-changing professionals, particularly in education and business fields. Weekend intensives and evening classes mean limited traditional campus life. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, requiring heavy coats from December through February. The 97.9% employment rate shows most students work while studying. Online discussion boards and group projects replace dormitory socializing. Students typically spend weekends completing assignments, attending family events, or working rather than participating in campus activities. The Methodist heritage emphasizes service learning, though daily religious observance isn't required.
- Setting
- Rural-Distant
- Calendar System
- Semester
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 18°–37°F
- July Avg
- 67°–87°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 41.5"
- Annual Snowfall
- 10.3"
Student Demographics
Central Methodist's College of Graduate and Extended Studies draws primarily Missouri residents who value the school's Methodist traditions and practical career focus. Three-quarters of students come from in-state, reflecting the university's deep roots in rural Missouri communities. Women make up nearly 60% of enrollment, typical for programs emphasizing education, healthcare, and social services that align with Methodist values of service. The student body is predominantly white but includes meaningful representation from Black students. Most students work while studying, attracted by the school's flexible scheduling and affordable tuition that makes higher education accessible to working adults.
- Men
- 41.1%
- Women
- 58.9%
- White
- 79.5%
- Black
- 11.7%
- Hispanic
- 3.3%
- Asian
- 0.4%
- In-State Students
- 75.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 26.8%
Location
Fayette sits in rural central Missouri, roughly 100 miles northwest of St. Louis and 130 miles east of Kansas City. This small town of about 2,700 residents embodies classic Midwest agricultural country, surrounded by rolling farmland and tight-knit communities. The university anchors much of the local economy and culture in this quintessential college town setting. With 75% of students coming from Missouri, most are familiar with the state's rural character before arriving. The nearest shopping or entertainment beyond campus requires a drive to Columbia, about 30 miles south. Students considering colleges in Missouri may also compare Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Fayette, Missouri 65248-1198
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $48,991
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $50,224
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $35,000
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 57.7%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $187/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $17,619
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies?
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies accepts 100% of applicants. This open admission policy reflects the college's focus on serving working adults and non-traditional students through flexible degree programs.
How much does Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $14,774 annually. The low tuition of $6,960 makes this Methodist-affiliated college particularly affordable for both in-state and out-of-state students.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 17:1 across the 1,807 enrolled students. However, the 50% retention rate suggests challenges in keeping students engaged in this rural Missouri setting.
How much do Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies graduates earn?
Graduates earn a median of $48,991 ten years after graduation with typical monthly loan payments of $187. The 97.9% employment rate demonstrates strong job placement despite the modest earnings compared to traditional four-year programs.
Where is Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies located?
The college operates from Fayette, Missouri, in a rural setting that serves 75% in-state students. This small town environment provides a close-knit community feel for the predominantly female student body at 58.94%.
Does Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies offer good value for working adults?
Only 26.78% of students receive federal financial aid, suggesting many can afford the low $6,960 tuition without assistance. The college specializes in graduate and extended studies programs designed for career advancement rather than traditional undergraduate experiences.
