At $19,889/yr net price, University of Missouri-Columbia graduates earn $63,403/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $29,403/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,889 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $79,556 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $63,403/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$29,403/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 76.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,599/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,676/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,707/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,455/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,637/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $100,008 | $28,485 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $89,564 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $81,210 | $31,045 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $80,628 | $35,202 |
| Veterinary Medicine. | Doctoral | $78,768 | $160,825 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $74,953 | $33,421 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $69,897 | $19,500 |
| Industrial Engineering. | Bachelor | $69,338 | $26,512 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $67,101 | $22,500 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $66,004 | $21,843 |
The Risk Factor
76.2% of students at University of Missouri-Columbia graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 24% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of Missouri-Columbia delivers solid financial returns with a median 10-year salary of $63,403 against a net price of $19,889 annually. The numbers work particularly well if you target the right programs.
Nursing stands out as the clear winner, with graduates earning $100,008 annually while carrying manageable debt of $28,485. Educational Administration and Business both clear $80,000 in median earnings. Veterinary Medicine presents a tougher calculation at $78,768 with crushing debt loads of $160,825 that will take decades to pay down.
Your biggest financial risk comes from choosing lower-earning majors at a school where 76% of students graduate. While the graduation rate protects you from the worst outcome of dropping out with debt and no degree, Missouri lacks the elite earning power that would justify high borrowing for weaker-paying fields.
This school works best for Missouri residents targeting healthcare, education, or business careers who want solid outcomes without the premium pricing of private universities. The 91% retention rate suggests most students find what they expected academically.
Only 20% of students receive aid, indicating either strong family financial resources among the student body or limited need-based assistance. Merit scholarships exist but competition runs high given the relatively low aid distribution rate.
Skip Missouri if you want prestige that opens doors nationally, plan to study lower-earning liberal arts fields, or need substantial financial aid. The school serves students well when you match realistic career expectations with its regional strengths in practical professional fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Missouri-Columbia worth the cost?
With a net price of $19,889 and median earnings of $63,403 after 10 years, Mizzou offers reasonable value for a public university. The moderate debt load of $20,500 makes it manageable for most graduates, though outcomes vary significantly by major.
What are the best paying majors at University of Missouri-Columbia?
Nursing programs lead with graduates earning around $90,000-$100,000 annually, followed by educational administration at $81,210. Business majors earn about $80,628, while veterinary medicine graduates make $78,768 despite the high cost of the program.
How much student debt do University of Missouri-Columbia graduates have?
The median debt for Mizzou graduates is $20,500, which is below the national average. This manageable debt load, combined with the school's relatively low net price, reduces financial risk for most students.
Does University of Missouri-Columbia have good job prospects after graduation?
With a 76% graduation rate and 10-year median earnings of $63,403, Mizzou produces solid employment outcomes. The high acceptance rate of 79% means it's accessible, but students should choose their major carefully since earnings vary widely by program.