Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Missouri Baptist University

Saint Louis, Missouri · www.mobap.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

68.6%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$33,122

$48,256 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

4,958

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

27.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 40.0%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Missouri Baptist University (MBU) is a private Christian university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1964, the university has grown to offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a liberal arts education infused with a Christian worldview. The campus is known for its welcoming atmosphere, where students are encouraged to develop their faith alongside their academic pursuits. MBU's commitment to integrating faith and learning is reflected in its mission statement, which promotes the development of students as individuals equipped for service in their communities and workplaces.

The university boasts a variety of facilities designed to enhance the student experience, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces. MBU also places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage in athletics, arts, and community service. The athletic programs, particularly in basketball and soccer, foster teamwork and school spirit, contributing to a vibrant campus culture. The university’s location in St. Louis provides students with access to a rich array of cultural and professional opportunities, making it a strategic choice for those looking to balance their education with real-world experiences. With a dedicated faculty and a strong support system, Missouri Baptist University prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Analysis of Tuition Trends and Graduation Rates

Missouri Baptist University, as a private institution, has experienced a significant increase in tuition over the years. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $21,790 to $33,122, representing an increase of over 51%. This trend mirrors the broader national pattern in higher education, where rising tuition costs have outpaced inflation, making college increasingly unaffordable for many families. The rising costs could be a significant factor influencing student enrollment and retention rates.

The student retention rates have shown a generally positive trend from 2013 to 2023, peaking at 72.6% in 2022 before slightly declining to 66.8% in 2023. High retention rates are crucial for institutions as they reflect student satisfaction and the effectiveness of academic programs. However, the fluctuation in retention rates may signal challenges that the university might face in sustaining student engagement amidst rising costs.

Graduation rates present another area of concern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showed variability, with a notable increase to 30.99% in 2022, but it dropped to 25.12% in 2023. This inconsistency may suggest underlying issues such as financial strain or academic challenges that could impact students' ability to complete their degrees on time.

In summary, while Missouri Baptist University has managed to maintain a relatively stable enrollment, the rising tuition costs may pose challenges for future retention and graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university to support its students effectively and uphold its academic reputation.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
St. Louis, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), about 9 mi
Saint Louis, Missouri
Also known as
MBU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Baptist
President
Keith Ross (President)
Phone
8774341115
City
Saint Louis, Missouri
Address
One College Park Dr, Saint Louis, MO 63141-8698

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
66.8%
Women
70.4%

In 2020: men 57.5%, women 64.8%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Missouri Baptist University

The admissions data for Missouri Baptist University over the years reveals significant trends and shifts in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 67.8%, while the female acceptance rate was around 66.7%. These figures reflect a relatively competitive admission landscape early in the decade.
However, as we move towards 2023, we observe a noticeable fluctuation in acceptance rates. For instance, the peak of male acceptance rates reached about 69.7% in 2023, indicating an increasing trend towards inclusivity and possibly a strategic shift in admissions policy. Conversely, the female acceptance rate also saw a peak at 72.2%, suggesting that the university is making concerted efforts to attract female students, aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions are striving for gender parity.
The data also shows variations in the total number of enrollments and denials. For example, in 2010, the university had a denial count of 339 against an enrollment of 223, which implies a highly competitive environment that year. In contrast, by 2023, with 317 enrollments and 307 denials, the university appears to be balancing its intake and maintaining selectivity while accommodating more students.
Overall, Missouri Baptist University demonstrates an evolving admissions strategy that reflects both changing demographics and broader educational trends, aiming for a diverse student body while maintaining rigorous academic standards. This evolution mirrors national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion in their admission processes.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 1% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite12–18
ACT composite
12–18
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Missouri Baptist University

The admission data from Missouri Baptist University over the years reveals notable trends in SAT and ACT scores, as well as the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. Starting from 2007, the number of students submitting SAT scores fluctuated, peaking at 45 students in 2019, which corresponds to 17% of the admitted class. However, by 2023, this figure dropped significantly to just 17 students, representing only 5% of the admitted students.

The SAT reading and math scores illustrate a gradual improvement over the years. The 25th percentile score for reading improved from 410 in 2007 to 530 in 2023, indicating a rising standard among admitted students. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores also reflect this upward trend, moving from 523 to 610 in reading, and from 410 to 570 in math across the same timeframe. This suggests that the university is attracting higher-achieving students, potentially aligning with broader trends in higher education where institutions aim for more competitive admissions standards.

On the ACT side, the data shows that the number of ACT submissions also varied, with a maximum of 55 submissions in 2020 (15% of the admitted class) and a minimum of 11 in 2009 (5%). The composite scores from 2007 to 2023 reveal a similar trend of increasing academic performance among new students, reinforcing the idea that Missouri Baptist University continues to elevate its admission criteria over time.

Overall, the shift in both the number of submissions and the scores indicates a transforming landscape in college admissions, possibly influenced by a more competitive academic environment and the ongoing impact of standardized testing policies in the U.S.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,118 applicants in 2025, 68.6% admitted

767 admitted 351 not admitted Yield 40.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate190 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's34514 international (4.1%)
Master's2127 international (3.3%)
Doctoral190 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
54
Business Administration and Management, General
40
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other
31
Psychology, General
25
General Studies
19
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
14
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
14
Elementary Education and Teaching
13
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
9
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's41 (0% international)
  • Social Work · Master's36 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's36 (19% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's24 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's17 (0% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's17 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Missouri Baptist University

The graduation data from Missouri Baptist University reveals some noteworthy trends in various academic disciplines for the year 2023. One of the most prominent findings is the strong output in the field of Registered Nursing, with 44 graduates earning their bachelor's degree. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, which has been exacerbated by recent global health crises. The absence of international students in this program reflects a potential area for growth, as universities increasingly seek to diversify their student populations.

In contrast, the Business Administration program shows a different trend, with 33 master's degrees awarded, but no bachelor’s degrees reported. This may suggest that students are opting to further their education in business after completing their undergraduate studies elsewhere, indicating a potential gap in the undergraduate offerings that could be addressed by the university.

Another notable observation is the lack of graduates in the performing arts and education sectors, with programs such as Music Performance and Elementary Education reporting no completions. This raises questions about the attractiveness of these programs and whether they are meeting the needs and interests of prospective students.

Additionally, the absence of international students in several programs could indicate barriers to entry for foreign students, which may warrant further investigation. Overall, the data reflects a university landscape that is shifting with market demands, particularly in health-related fields, while also highlighting areas that may require strategic improvements to attract and retain students.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Educationhas 154 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Curriculum and Instruction.$48,087
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$53,515
Administration of Special Education.$53,515
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.$53,515
Educational/Instructional Technology.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Multiple Disabilities.$38,960
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$44,568
Elementary Education and Teaching.$35,692-$44,722
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$35,692-$44,722
Secondary Education and Teaching.$35,692-$44,722
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$35,692-$44,722
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$35,692-$44,722
Health Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Drama and Dance Teacher Education.-
Education, Other.-
Businesshas 119 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$49,133-$71,005
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$49,133-$71,005
Accounting.$49,180
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 109 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health and Wellness, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$50,946
Pre-Nursing Studies.-
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$69,234
Nursing Administration.$69,234
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$69,234
Parks, recreation, leisure has 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$50,246
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$50,246
Public administrationhas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Human Services, General.-
Social Work.-
Psychology has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$32,687
Forensic Psychology.-
Liberal arts has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.$41,065
Homeland security has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$46,882
Securities Services Administration/Management.$46,882
Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy.-
Biologyhas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Biotechnology.-
Theology has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Religious/Sacred Music.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Behavioral Sciences.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Social sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Communication has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
Journalism, Other.-
Radio and Television.-
Visual and Performing artshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Music, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Technology.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Christian Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Forensic Chemistry.-
Human science has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Child Development.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-

Students

5,699 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 65.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,958)

White
4,015 · 81.0%
Black
319 · 6.4%
Unknown
194 · 3.9%
Two or more races
165 · 3.3%
Asian
136 · 2.7%
International
68 · 1.4%
Hispanic
14 · 0.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Missouri Baptist University in 2023

The demographic data from Missouri Baptist University reveals a diverse student body, characterized by varying gender ratios and ethnic compositions. In the undergraduate freshman category, there are 317 students, with a slight male majority at 53.9%. This contrasts sharply with the undergraduate junior category, where the female representation rises significantly to 57.1% among 958 students. This shift suggests a trend where female students may be more likely to persist in their studies through the undergraduate years.

Further, the undergraduate transfer students number 233, with females outnumbering males at 58.8%. This pattern continues into the graduate student population, which comprises 682 individuals and showcases a pronounced female dominance at 76.4%. Such figures indicate a strong inclination for women to pursue higher education at the graduate level, which has been a recurring theme in educational institutions across the United States.

The overall student body, totaling 3,041 individuals, reflects a balanced gender representation, with males at 40.3% and females at 59.7%. This gender distribution is consistent with national trends observed in higher education, where female enrollment has been increasingly outpacing male enrollment in recent years.

In terms of racial demographics, the data highlights the predominance of white students across various categories, although specific numbers for each subgroup within the student body are not fully disclosed. The university’s commitment to diversity could be further assessed by analyzing the ethnic breakdown once more detailed data becomes available. Overall, the findings present an encouraging picture of gender diversity, particularly in graduate education, and prompt a closer examination of the factors contributing to these trends.

Analysis of Age Composition at Missouri Baptist University

The age distribution of students at Missouri Baptist University reveals some interesting trends. A significant portion of the student body consists of individuals under the age of 24, with those under 18 making up approximately 38.9% of the total male students and 39.7% of the total female students. This indicates a strong presence of traditional-aged students, typically seen in undergraduate programs.

The 18-19 age bracket holds the largest share, accounting for 43.6% of male undergraduates and 58.2% of female undergraduates. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that many students enter college immediately after high school. However, as we move into the older age categories, particularly for students between 25-29 and 30-34, we see a notable increase in the number of graduate students, especially among females. For instance, 61.4% of the students aged 25-29 are female graduate students, suggesting that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees later in life.

Furthermore, the data also indicates a dwindling number of students over 40, which reflects a broader trend in higher education where younger students dominate enrollment figures. Interestingly, the presence of students aged 50 and above, though small, reaffirms the notion that lifelong learning is becoming more prevalent.

Overall, the demographics at Missouri Baptist University reflect a traditional college environment while also showcasing a growing trend of mature students pursuing higher education, especially among females, which aligns with current educational trends across the United States.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.4%

68 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.9%2017: 0.9%2018: 0.8%2019: 1.0%2020: 1.2%2021: 1.2%2022: 1.3%2023: 1.4%2024: 1.3%2025: 1.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students2.8%

21 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.5%2017: 1.2%2018: 1.0%2019: 2.1%2020: 3.1%2021: 2.5%2022: 2.5%2023: 2.8%2024: 2.3%2025: 2.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Missouri Baptist University

Missouri Baptist University has demonstrated a fluctuating trend in international student enrollment over the years, reflecting broader global patterns in higher education. The undergraduate population has seen a gradual increase in the number of international students, rising from 32 in 2004 to 65 in 2023. This growth represents an increase in the percentage of international students from 1.09% to 1.43%.

In contrast, the graduate student enrollment has exhibited a more pronounced increase in the proportion of international students. The percentage rose from 0.42% in 2004 to 2.79% in 2023, with the number of international graduate students increasing from 3 to 19. This significant growth in the graduate sector could be attributed to the increasing appeal of specialized master's programs, which are often designed to attract a global audience.

The overall trends highlight the university's potential to enhance its global presence and the importance of international diversity in enriching the educational environment. However, the relatively low percentages in both undergraduate and graduate programs suggest room for improvement in recruitment strategies. As universities worldwide compete for international talent, Missouri Baptist University may benefit from targeted outreach and partnerships that could boost these numbers further.

The recent global shifts in educational preferences, particularly post-pandemic, present both challenges and opportunities for institutions like Missouri Baptist University to reassess their international student engagement and recruitment efforts to ensure a diverse and vibrant campus community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$48,256

Undergraduate tuition
$33,122
Room and board
$15,134
Graduate tuition
$11,538
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 59%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.9M

Tuition and fees
$29.2M71.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.5M11.0%
Gifts and private grants
$3.6M8.9%
Investment return
$2.9M7.1%
Other
$657K1.6%

Expenses$38.2M

Instruction
$13.0M33.9%
Student services
$10.0M26.3%
Institutional support
$9.5M24.9%
Academic support
$3.2M8.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.5M6.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$61,183peers $68,006
Professor
$69,316peers $78,041
Associate professor
$62,670peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$59,675peers $63,827
Instructor
$56,261peers $55,171
Lecturer
$25,460peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Heart of America Athletic Conference

Heart of America Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football106-
Soccer4437
Baseball73-
Volleyball3335
Basketball4423
Other Sports2534
Wrestling3820
Lacrosse2322
Bowling1617
Softball-30
Track and Field (Indoor)168
Track and Field (Outdoor)168
Golf147
Cross Country138
Tennis128
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football105-
Soccer4644
Basketball5532
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4929
Volleyball3938
Baseball65-
Wrestling3023
Other Sports-49
Lacrosse2122
Softball-35
Bowling2111
Tennis158
Golf109
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football112-
Soccer5440
Basketball5933
Volleyball4434
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3135
Baseball53-
Wrestling2819
Softball-36
Lacrosse1813
Bowling109
Golf88
Tennis78
Beach Volleyball-7
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Missouri Baptist University:

  1. Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its strong research programs and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.

  2. Saint Louis University - With a ranking of 105, Saint Louis University offers a comprehensive education across various disciplines and is recognized for its commitment to service and community engagement.

  3. University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranked 124th, this flagship campus of the University of Missouri system provides diverse academic programs and is noted for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.

  4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - This top-ranked university, positioned 35th, is renowned for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs, along with a vibrant campus culture.

  5. Indiana University-Bloomington - Holding the 73rd place in the rankings, this university is known for its wide array of programs and strong emphasis on research and creative activity.

These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
10
Drug referrals
6
Stalking
3
Weapons arrests
2
Fondling
1
Burglary
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Missouri Baptist University

The campus crime statistics from Missouri Baptist University reveal significant fluctuations in crime rates over the past decade. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students peaked in 2020 at 3.01, suggesting a concerning trend that may correlate with broader societal issues, such as increased stress and social upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is notable that the years leading up to this peak, particularly 2019 with an average of 2.87, also show a rising pattern in crime incidents.

Interestingly, 2021 stands out as an anomaly, with a steep decline in the crime rate to just 0.12, indicating a potential improvement in campus safety or changes in reporting practices. This sharp drop, however, raises questions about its sustainability and whether it reflects genuine improvements or underreporting of incidents.

Subsequent years, like 2022, show an increase to an average of 1.73, suggesting that while there may have been a temporary dip, the underlying issues contributing to crime on campus have not been resolved. The types of crimes reported, such as drug and alcohol-related offenses, reflect ongoing challenges that many universities face in maintaining student safety and well-being.

In summary, while fluctuations in crime rates can be expected, the data from Missouri Baptist University highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe educational environment for all students. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Missouri Baptist University include Helen Maroulis (Freestyle wrestler, four-time world champion), Lawrence Olum (Kenyan professional footballer) and Lee Winfield (Former NBA basketball player and coach).

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.