Missouri Baptist University
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
- 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
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $50,246 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $50,246 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,687 | ||||
| Forensic Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $41,065 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $46,882 | ||||
| Securities Services Administration/Management. | $46,882 | ||||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||||
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - | ||||
| Journalism, Other. | - | ||||
| Radio and Television. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Musical Theatre. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Forensic Chemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
5,699 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 65.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 890
- First-year undergraduates 297
- Graduate students 741
- Transfers and others 3,771
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,958)
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.
68 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
21 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$38.2M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Heart of America Athletic Conference
Heart of America Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 106 | - |
| Soccer | 44 | 37 |
| Baseball | 73 | - |
| Volleyball | 33 | 35 |
| Basketball | 44 | 23 |
| Other Sports | 25 | 34 |
| Wrestling | 38 | 20 |
| Lacrosse | 23 | 22 |
| Bowling | 16 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 16 | 8 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 16 | 8 |
| Golf | 14 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 8 |
| Tennis | 12 | 8 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 105 | - |
| Soccer | 46 | 44 |
| Basketball | 55 | 32 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 49 | 29 |
| Volleyball | 39 | 38 |
| Baseball | 65 | - |
| Wrestling | 30 | 23 |
| Other Sports | - | 49 |
| Lacrosse | 21 | 22 |
| Softball | - | 35 |
| Bowling | 21 | 11 |
| Tennis | 15 | 8 |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 112 | - |
| Soccer | 54 | 40 |
| Basketball | 59 | 33 |
| Volleyball | 44 | 34 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 31 | 35 |
| Baseball | 53 | - |
| Wrestling | 28 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Lacrosse | 18 | 13 |
| Bowling | 10 | 9 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Tennis | 7 | 8 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 7 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Washington University in St LouisSt. Louis · 8.2 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of Missouri--St. LouisSaint Louis · 9.5 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis · 12.3 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Principia CollegeElsah · 22.1 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Missouri University of Science and TechnologyRolla · 85.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Southern Illinois University-CarbondaleCarbondale · 93.2 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 102.7 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Bradley UniversityPeoria · 149.0 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Illinois State UniversityNormal · 151.0 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Missouri Baptist University:
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
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).
-
Helen Maroulis 1991–
Freestyle wrestler, four-time world champion
-
Lawrence Olum 1984–
Kenyan professional footballer
-
Lee Winfield 1947–2011
Former NBA basketball player and coach
-
Nick S. Christie 1991–
American racewalker and national champion
-
Dymond Guilford 1999–
American wrestler
-
Ben Harris 1976–
Former Missouri state representative
-
Joshua Fuentes 1993–
Baseball first baseman, former Colorado Rockies player
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.