Saint Louis is recognized as one of the top college towns in the Midwest region of the United States.

From globally renowned research universities to public comprehensive universities with a variety of major programs, Saint Louis is home to a diverse range of higher education institutions. This article provides a detailed introduction to three representative universities in Saint Louis: Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL).

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is a private research university with the highest national recognition in Saint Louis. Established in 1853, this university consistently ranks among the top 15 in the US News & World Report college rankings. Although it is not part of the Ivy League, it is regarded as being on par with those institutions. The beautiful main campus, located between Maplewood and Clayton near the Clayton School District, features Gothic-style buildings and is frequently selected as one of the most beautiful campuses in the United States.

WashU offers a variety of professional schools and graduate programs, including the School of Medicine, School of Law, Olin Business School, Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, and McKelvey School of Engineering.

In particular, the medical school consistently ranks among the top 10 in the nation and collaborates with Barnes-Jewish Hospital to provide world-class medical education and research. The total number of undergraduate students is approximately 7,500, and when including graduate students, the total enrollment is around 16,000.

The annual tuition for WashU is approximately $63,000 for the 2024-2025 academic year, and when including dormitory and living expenses, the total annual cost exceeds $80,000. However, the university offers significant financial aid to families that meet income criteria in the United States, and there is a program that provides full tuition coverage for families with an annual income of $75,000 or less. The acceptance rate is about 13%, indicating a highly competitive environment.

The second school is Saint Louis University (SLU). Like WashU, it is located in Midtown Saint Louis and is one of the oldest universities in the United States, established in 1818. Operated by a Jesuit Catholic foundation, SLU is a comprehensive research university that emphasizes religious values and social service as core educational principles. The total student enrollment is about 14,000, with approximately 8,000 undergraduates enrolled in various major programs.

SLU has distinctive departments, including the School of Medicine, School of Law, John Cook School of Business, College for Public Health and Social Justice, and the Department of Aerospace Engineering. In particular, the aviation-related programs have a traditional strength due to their connection to the aviation industry history in Saint Louis. The medical school is also well-regarded locally, making it a preferred choice for students aiming to enter the medical field.

The annual tuition is around $48,000, which is lower than WashU, and scholarships and financial aid are actively provided.

SLU operates an NCAA Division I sports program, with a historically strong men's soccer team. The campus, located in the city center, has good transportation access, and various community engagement programs are actively run. The area surrounding the campus has seen recent development, with an increasing number of cafes, restaurants, and amenities available for students.

The third university to be introduced is the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL). UMSL is a public comprehensive university that is part of the University of Missouri system, located in the northern suburbs of Saint Louis. Established in 1963, it is a relatively young university but has gained strong support from the local community through its practical education closely linked to the community. The total student enrollment is about 16,000, with a balanced distribution of undergraduates and graduate students.

UMSL operates various colleges, including the College of Business Administration, College of Education, College of Nursing, College of Engineering & Computing, and College of Arts and Sciences. In particular, the College of Business and the College of Nursing are highly regarded in the local job market, resulting in high employment rates for graduates. For Missouri residents, the annual tuition is approximately $12,000, making it a more economical option compared to the previous two schools. The tuition for non-residents is about $27,000.

UMSL also offers a robust selection of evening and online courses, providing a suitable environment for working adults or adult learners with childcare responsibilities. The MetroLink light rail station is located on campus, offering excellent public transportation access.

Additionally, there are well-developed internship programs with local businesses and non-profit organizations, providing a suitable environment for students looking to gain practical experience while earning their degrees. If you are planning to attend college in Saint Louis, it is important to carefully choose a school that aligns with your major goals and budget.