University of Missouri-St Louis (UMSL) vs Missouri S&T

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between UMSL and Missouri S&T?

  UMSL (University of Missouri-St. Louis) is a comprehensive public research university with a broad range of programs, including strong offerings in business, nursing, education, and the liberal arts. Missouri S&T (Missouri University of Science and Technology) is a STEM-focused university renowned for its engineering, science, and technology programs. UMSL is located in a major metropolitan area, while Missouri S&T is in a smaller, more rural setting.

• Which school is better for engineering programs?

  Missouri S&T is generally considered the stronger choice for engineering programs. It has a long-standing reputation and a dedicated focus on STEM fields, offering a wide array of specialized engineering disciplines and research opportunities. While UMSL offers engineering programs, Missouri S&T's programs are typically more highly ranked and have a greater emphasis on hands-on experience and research.

• Which school is better for business programs?

  UMSL is generally considered the better choice for business programs. UMSL's College of Business Administration is well-regarded and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including an MBA. It also benefits from its location in St. Louis, providing students with access to internships and networking opportunities with major corporations. While Missouri S&T offers some business-related programs, its primary focus is on STEM.

• What is the campus environment like at UMSL versus Missouri S&T?

  UMSL has a more urban, commuter-focused campus environment. Being located in St. Louis, it offers access to a wide range of cultural and entertainment options. Missouri S&T, located in Rolla, has a more traditional, close-knit campus community. It's a smaller town, so the university is a central part of the community. Students at Missouri S&T often find a strong sense of camaraderie due to the shared focus on STEM fields.

• How do the tuition costs compare between UMSL and Missouri S&T?

  Tuition costs can vary depending on residency and specific program. Generally, Missouri S&T tends to have slightly higher tuition rates than UMSL, especially for out-of-state students. However, both are public universities, so in-state tuition is relatively affordable. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information, as well as scholarship opportunities.

• What kind of research opportunities are available at each university?

  Both UMSL and Missouri S&T offer research opportunities, but the focus differs. Missouri S&T is heavily research-oriented in STEM fields, with numerous labs and centers dedicated to cutting-edge research in areas like engineering, materials science, and energy. UMSL also has research opportunities across various disciplines, including biology, chemistry, psychology, and business, often with a focus on addressing urban challenges and community needs.

• Which school is more diverse?

  UMSL generally has a more diverse student body than Missouri S&T. UMSL's location in a major metropolitan area contributes to a more diverse student population in terms of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background. While Missouri S&T is working to increase diversity, its student body is predominantly white and male, reflecting the demographics of the engineering field.

• What are the career prospects like after graduating from UMSL versus Missouri S&T?

  Career prospects are generally strong for graduates of both universities. Missouri S&T graduates are highly sought after by engineering and technology companies, particularly in fields like aerospace, manufacturing, and energy. UMSL graduates find opportunities in a wider range of industries, including business, healthcare, education, and non-profit organizations, benefiting from the university's strong connections to the St. Louis business community.

• Does location play a role in choosing between UMSL and Missouri S&T?

  Yes, location is a significant factor. UMSL's location in St. Louis provides access to a major city's cultural attractions, entertainment, and job market. Missouri S&T's location in Rolla offers a smaller-town environment with a strong sense of community, but fewer immediate access to big-city amenities. Consider which environment best suits your personal preferences and career goals.

• What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each university?

  The student-to-faculty ratio is an indicator of class size and access to professors. UMSL generally has a student-to-faculty ratio around 18:1. Missouri S&T typically has a slightly lower ratio, around 19:1. A lower ratio can potentially mean more individualized attention from professors, but both universities strive to provide a supportive learning environment.