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Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$61,750
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad rate
95.7
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best machine learning degree programs: Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Missouri-St Louis
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,442 to $61,750/year
U of Central Missouri offers the most affordable option at $8,325/yr
Machine Learning degree programs available: 7 master's, 1 doctoral in Missouri
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
4 online machine learning degree programs in Missouri
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard
Tech hubs in Kansas City and St. Louis
Hakia Research 2026
Machine Learning degree programs near 62+ cities across Missouri
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Missouri Machine Learning programs
We rank 25 accredited machine learning programs in Missouri using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology$104,000
Are Machine Learning Degree Programs in Missouri Worth It?
Yes. The best machine learning degree programs in Missouri deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $104,000 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,708/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Machine Learning Degree Rankings in Missouri
Compare the top-ranked Machine Learning programs in Missouri by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Programs in Missouri
17
Programs ranked
$22,606
Avg tuition/yr
79%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with 17 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 6 public and 11 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Missouri-St Louis, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Missouri machine learning programs earn a median salary of $88,400, 10% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Kansas City, St. Louis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,480 to $61,750 annually, with an average of $22,606/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 79%, with the highest reaching 98%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Missouri's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Missouri, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$11,190
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad rate
71.5
Hakia Score
#4
$8,325
Tuition/yr
57.8
Hakia Score
#5
$52,260
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad rate
56.5
Hakia Score
Show all 17 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | Public | $7,812 | — | 38.0 |
| #7 | Missouri Valley College | Marshall, MO | Private | $21,300 | 93% | 47.9 |
| #8 | Webster University | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $30,530 | — | 40.3 |
| #9 | Missouri Western State University | Saint Joseph, MO | Public | $7,740 | — | 41.2 |
| #10 | College of the Ozarks | Point Lookout, MO | Private | $20,800 | — | 45.2 |
| #11 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Private | $24,766 | 86% | 40.7 |
| #12 | Truman State University | Kirksville, MO | Public | $9,132 | — | 36.6 |
| #13 | Columbia College | Columbia, MO | Private | $12,268 | — | 39.1 |
| #14 | Southwest Baptist University | Bolivar, MO | Private | $27,290 | — | 31.5 |
| #15 | Rockhurst University | Kansas City, MO | Private | $41,900 | — | 34.7 |
| #16 | Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | Fayette, MO | Private | $26,360 | — | 32.4 |
| #17 | Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies | Fayette, MO | Private | $6,480 | 6% | 21.4 |
Best Master's Machine Learning Programs in Missouri
7
Programs ranked
$23,168
Avg tuition/yr
96%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri offers 7 master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Washington University in ..., U of Missouri-Kansas City, U of Central Missouri, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Kansas City, St. Louis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $23,168/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Missouri's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate
University Architect Jamie Kolker on the Campus Experience | Washington University$61,750
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad rate
84.5
Hakia Score
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$11,190
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad rate
73.7
Hakia Score
🥉
$8,325
Tuition/yr
71.4
Hakia Score
#4
$52,260
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad rate
52.7
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Missouri State University-Springfield | Springfield, MO | Public | $7,812 | — | 48.1 |
| #7 | University of Missouri-St Louis | Saint Louis, MO | Public | $14,400 | — | 44.9 |
Best Doctoral Machine Learning Programs in Missouri
1
Programs ranked
$61,750
Avg tuition/yr
97%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Missouri is home to 1 doctoral programs in machine learning, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Washington University in ... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Missouri PhD holders earning a median of $130,000, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Kansas City, St. Louis region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Missouri programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing machine learning degrees in Missouri, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MOPrivate
$61,750
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad rate
59.8
Hakia Score
Machine Learning Degree Costs & Tuition in Missouri
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $21,708/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $54,270/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,427/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $130,248 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $32,562 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Machine Learning Students in Missouri
State Aid Programs
Missouri students pursuing machine learning degrees have access to multiple federal and state financial aid options. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students can complete their FAFSA at Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility for aid packages. Additionally, Missouri offers the Access Missouri Grant program, a need-based state grant that provides up to $2,850 annually for eligible students at public institutions. This grant significantly reduces the financial burden for in-state learners and can be stacked with federal aid to create comprehensive funding packages.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond grants, Missouri's public universities and community colleges offer institutional scholarships, assistantships, and work-study opportunities specifically for machine learning and computer science students. Many of the state's 29 institutions offering machine learning programs, including University of Missouri-Columbia and Missouri University of Science and Technology, provide merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. The Missouri Department of Higher Education administers the Access Missouri Grant, and students should contact their institution's financial aid office to learn about additional funding opportunities. For comprehensive information about federal aid options, visit StudentAid.gov.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator, Missouri
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree in Missouri. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Machine Learning Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Missouri metro areas
Kansas City$114K
St. Louis$109K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $114K |
| St. Louis | $109K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Machine Learning Graduates in Missouri
Find machine learning jobs in Missouri. These major employers across Missouri metro areas are actively hiring machine learning degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Machine Learning Jobs in Kansas City
MOCerner/Oracle Health
healthtech
Garmin
tech
H&R Block
fintech
Sprint/T-Mobile
telecom
Machine Learning Jobs in St. Louis
MOBayer
pharma
Edward Jones
finance
World Wide Technology
tech
Mastercard
fintech
Boeing
aerospace
Transfer Pathways for Machine Learning Degrees in Missouri
State Transfer System
Missouri's streamlined transfer system makes it easy for students to transition from two-year to four-year machine learning programs. The state operates the Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42), a statewide agreement that guarantees the transfer of 42 credit hours between participating institutions (Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum). This system allows students to complete foundational coursework at community colleges such as Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, Saint Louis Community College, or Ozarks Technical Community College, where tuition averages $4,440–$7,110 annually, and seamlessly transfer to bachelor's programs at four-year universities without losing credits.
How Transfers Work
Missouri has 21 two-year institutions and 76 four-year institutions, creating abundant opportunities for articulation agreements and transfer partnerships. Students pursuing associate's degrees can use their completed coursework as the foundation for bachelor's programs at institutions like University of Missouri-Columbia (tuition: $13,008), University of Missouri-Kansas City (tuition: $11,190), or Missouri University of Science and Technology (tuition: $13,008). Many four-year universities actively recruit transfer students and offer dedicated support services, including transfer credit evaluation and orientation programs. The Missouri Department of Higher Education maintains a comprehensive directory of transfer agreements and policies. Students should also explore financial aid options, including the Access Missouri Grant, which provides need-based grants up to $2,850 per year at public institutions (Access Missouri Grant). Related programs in Data Science, Data Analytics, and Computer Science often accept transfers as well.
Why Pursue a Machine Learning Degree in Missouri?
Industry & Workforce
Missouri offers a strong and growing landscape for machine learning education, with 29 institutions currently offering programs at all degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 601 bachelor's degree completions and 2,859 master's degree completions, reflecting strong demand for skilled professionals in this field. The state's four-year institutions include several nationally ranked schools, making Missouri an attractive destination for students seeking quality machine learning education without crossing state lines.
Salary Outlook
Missouri's geographic and economic advantages make it an ideal location for machine learning study. The state hosts two major metropolitan areas. St. Louis and Kansas City, that serve as technology and healthcare hubs. Major employers including Cerner, Walmart, BJC HealthCare, and SSM Health actively recruit machine learning graduates for roles in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and software development. Public in-state tuition averages $8,649 annually, significantly below the national average (BLS State Data). For students interested in related fields, Missouri also offers strong programs in Data Science, Data Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence.
Regional Tech Hubs
Top-ranked institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis, University of Missouri-Columbia, and University of Missouri-Kansas City provide machine learning education. These schools consistently rank among the best bachelor's programs and best master's programs nationally. Missouri's commitment to accessible higher education, combined with its strong industry partnerships and competitive tuition rates, positions the state as an excellent choice for aspiring machine learning professionals.
18 Programs
Machine Learning Program Availability in Missouri
Missouri offers 18 accredited machine learning programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Kansas City, St. Louis.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Machine Learning Job Market & Salary Data in Missouri
Employment Outlook
Missouri's machine learning job market is experiencing strong growth, driven by demand across healthcare, finance, and technology sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri's major metropolitan areas, particularly the St. Louis Metro and Kansas City Metro, are emerging as significant hubs for machine learning professionals. These regions are home to Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups seeking data-driven talent. The state's relatively affordable cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs makes Missouri an attractive destination for machine learning careers, especially for professionals seeking a balance between competitive salaries and reasonable housing costs.
Salaries by Metro
The machine learning education pipeline in Missouri is well-developed, with 29 institutions across all degree levels preparing graduates for entry into the job market. Missouri's Missouri Core Transfer Curriculum (CORE 42) ensures seamless pathway progression from associate's to bachelor's and master's programs, streamlining career advancement. Public four-year institutions in Missouri offer competitive tuition rates, with average in-state tuition at just $8,649 annually, significantly lower than national averages. This accessibility, combined with strong employer partnerships in the state's major metros, creates a favorable environment for machine learning career development. Students can explore additional related fields through artificial intelligence programs in Missouri and data science opportunities to broaden their career prospects.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Missouri$67,600$150,800
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Machine Learning Programs in Missouri
Online Programs
4 available in Missouri
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$19,537/yr$21,708/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Machine Learning Programs in Other States
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $33,400
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Illinois
- Total Programs
- 64
- Median Tuition
- $32,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $19,200
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $13,900
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $7,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 15
- Median Tuition
- $6,600
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Kansas
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Machine Learning Degree Programs in Missouri: FAQ
What are the best machine learning degree programs in Missouri?
The best machine learning degree programs in Missouri based on our methodology are: 1) Washington University in St Louis (97% graduation rate), 2) University of Missouri-Kansas City, and 3) University of Missouri-St Louis. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Missouri offers 18 total accredited programs across 7 public and 11 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 17 bachelor's programs.
How much do machine learning degree programs cost in Missouri?
Machine Learning degree program costs in Missouri vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $21,708/year, while private institutions average $47,758/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,427/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $86,832 at public schools to $191,030 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can machine learning degree graduates earn in Missouri?
Machine Learning professionals in Missouri earn a median salary of $104,000, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $67,600, while senior roles exceed $150,800. Salaries vary by metro area: Kansas City ($114,400), St. Louis ($109,200) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online machine learning degree programs in Missouri?
Yes, Missouri offers 4 accredited online Machine Learning programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Webster University and Missouri Western State University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire machine learning degree graduates in Missouri?
Major Machine Learning employers in Missouri include Cerner, World Wide Technology, Bayer, Mastercard, Square. The Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Missouri universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Missouri's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a machine learning degree program worth it in Missouri?
A machine learning degree program in Missouri offers strong ROI with a $104,000 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $21,708/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($117,520), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do machine learning degree programs take in Missouri?
Standard completion times for machine learning degree programs in Missouri are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Missouri community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Missouri university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for machine learning degree students in Missouri?
Missouri machine learning degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Missouri state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Missouri's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Missouri salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.