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Missouri's Division II market reveals striking contrasts in both cost and outcomes. Rockhurst University leads with a 75.6% graduation rate but commands the steepest price at $23,165 annually, while Missouri Southern opens doors to nearly everyone with 99.5% acceptance and costs just $11,653. The state's agriculture and healthcare sectors create strong demand for graduates, with Missouri University of Science and Technology producing some of the highest earners at $82,957 median income. These 13 institutions serve over 40,000 students across varied communities from Kansas City to rural Kirksville. Major employers like Cerner and BJC HealthCare actively recruit from these programs, particularly in business and health sciences. The state's A+ Scholarship program helps students transition from community colleges to four-year institutions, making these Division II options especially attractive for transfer students. Graduation rates span from Lincoln University's challenging 22.1% to Rockhurst's impressive 75.6%, reflecting the varying missions and student populations these schools serve. Geographic spread ensures most Missouri residents live within driving distance of multiple options.
13
Schools
$16,422
Avg. Net Price
$52,825
Avg. Earnings
55.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division II Colleges in Missouri

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 2,666 $12,030 68.4% 45.1%
2 5,467 $13,773 63.6% 81.5%
3 868 $16,602 61.6% 41.0%
4 5,108 $12,323 56.9% 51.1%
5 1,702 $23,165 75.6% 66.5%
6 5,988 $26,047 71.5% 87.8%
7 5,653 $15,336 49.4% 71.3%
8 2,372 $12,638 39.8%
9 4,550 $14,824 57.5% 85.6%
10 1,367 $21,523 66.0% 63.4%
11 1,357 $12,484 22.1%
12 3,101 $11,653 38.3% 99.5%
13 1,339 $21,082 51.2% 99.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What Division II school in Missouri offers the best return on investment?

Missouri University of Science and Technology delivers strong value with graduates earning $82,957 median income while paying just $13,773 net cost. The 63.6% graduation rate and 81.5% acceptance rate make this Rolla-based institution accessible yet rewarding for STEM-focused students.

How much do Missouri Division II colleges typically cost after financial aid?

Net costs range from $11,653 at Missouri Southern State to $26,047 at Maryville University. Most schools cluster between $12,000-$16,000 annually, making them affordable alternatives to flagship universities while maintaining quality academic programs and regional employer connections.

Is it difficult to get accepted to Missouri's Division II schools?

Acceptance rates vary dramatically from William Jewell's selective 41% to Missouri Southern's open 99.5%. Eight schools accept over 70% of applicants, providing accessible pathways to higher education across Missouri's varied geographic regions and student populations.

Does school size affect graduation rates at Missouri Division II institutions?

Smaller schools often show stronger outcomes. William Jewell with 868 students achieves 61.6% graduation, while Rockhurst's 1,702 enrollment correlates with 75.6% completion. However, larger institutions like Maryville serve 5,988 students while maintaining 71.5% graduation rates through targeted support systems.

Where do Missouri Division II graduates find employment opportunities?

Healthcare giants like BJC HealthCare and technology leaders such as Cerner actively recruit from these programs. Agriculture, defense contractors, and regional businesses throughout Missouri's major metros create steady demand, with graduate earnings ranging from $39,463 to $82,957 depending on field and location.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.