Choosing the right university can feel like a huge decision, especially when there are several options that look great on paper. Maryville University and Webster University, two popular choices in the St. Louis, Missouri area, have a lot to offer. But which one is the best fit for you? Let’s break it down into different aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Both Maryville University and Webster University have long histories of providing quality education. They cater to students with diverse interests, whether you're looking to dive into the arts, sciences, business, or technology. However, they each bring their own strengths, campus cultures, and academic specialties. In this article, we'll compare these universities across several important factors, including academic programs, campus life, tuition, and career outcomes. This will give you a clearer idea of what to expect and which one might be the perfect match for you.
Comparison: Maryville University vs Webster University
| Feature | Maryville University | Webster University |
|---|---|---|
| Location | St. Louis, Missouri | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Founded | 1872 | 1915 |
| Student Enrollment | ~11,000 (Undergrad + Grad) | ~10,000 (Undergrad + Grad) |
| Popular Majors | Nursing, Business, Cybersecurity | Performing Arts, International Studies, Media Communications |
| Campus Size | Suburban, 130 acres | Suburban, 47 acres |
| Tuition (Annual, 2023) | ~$26,070 | ~$30,000 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 14:1 | 9:1 |
| Athletics | NCAA Division II | NCAA Division III |
| Online Programs | Extensive | Moderate |
Academic Programs
Maryville University
One of Maryville’s standout qualities is its strong emphasis on career-ready programs. Whether you’re interested in nursing, business, cybersecurity, or healthcare, Maryville has robust programs designed to get students into the workforce quickly. They are known for offering practical, hands-on experience across many disciplines. Another highlight is their focus on online education. Maryville has become a leader in offering flexible, fully online programs, which can be a great option if you’re looking to balance school with work or other commitments.
Key Majors at Maryville:
- Nursing
- Cybersecurity
- Business Administration
- Healthcare Management
The School of Business at Maryville is another popular choice, particularly because of the numerous partnerships the university has with major companies in the St. Louis area. These industry connections allow students to gain internships and job placements with ease.
Webster University
Webster University, on the other hand, is well known for its global reach and strong focus on the arts and international studies. If you have a passion for theater, communications, or global business, Webster is a place where those interests can thrive. Their College of Fine Arts is a top draw for students interested in acting, music, and visual arts. Webster also has campuses around the world, so students have the opportunity to study abroad easily without having to worry about transferring credits or missing graduation requirements.
Key Majors at Webster:
- International Relations
- Media Communications
- Performing Arts
- Psychology
The international focus at Webster is a huge selling point. If you see yourself working overseas or in a globally-focused career, Webster’s network and curriculum may give you the edge you're looking for.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Maryville University
If you’re looking for a traditional college experience with plenty of campus activities, Maryville delivers. The school is located on a large, suburban campus with modern facilities and plenty of outdoor space. You’ll find a lot of student organizations and clubs, from academic societies to intramural sports and cultural groups. There’s a little something for everyone here, so it’s easy to get involved and find your niche.
Maryville also boasts a strong sense of community. The school has a moderate student-to-faculty ratio (14:1), which means small class sizes and personalized attention. You’ll get to know your professors and classmates well, creating a tight-knit atmosphere.
Webster University
Webster, being a bit smaller, offers a different kind of campus experience. It’s more intimate and arts-focused, with a diverse student body thanks to its global footprint. The school’s St. Louis campus is set in a suburban area but is also a bit smaller in size compared to Maryville. However, that size doesn’t take away from the vibrancy of student life. You’ll still find plenty of activities, but it’s often centered around creative endeavors like theater productions, art exhibitions, and music performances.
If you’re passionate about international experiences, Webster shines here too. With campuses in Europe, Asia, and Africa, students at Webster have the chance to interact with peers from all over the world and even attend some classes abroad.
Tuition, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Maryville University
Tuition at Maryville University tends to be a bit more affordable compared to other private institutions in the region. For the 2023 school year, tuition was around $26,070 per year, but many students receive financial aid packages that help reduce the cost. Maryville is committed to offering merit-based scholarships, so if you have strong academic credentials, you can expect some financial help. They also offer need-based aid, making education more accessible.
Scholarship Opportunities:
- Freshman Merit Awards (based on GPA and test scores)
- Transfer Scholarships
- Diversity Scholarships
The university offers flexible payment plans and financial counseling to ensure that students can manage their education expenses effectively.
Webster University
Webster University’s tuition is slightly higher, with costs for the 2023 academic year hovering around $30,000 annually. However, like Maryville, Webster offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages to help bring the cost down. The school is generous with need-based and merit-based awards, and they have specific scholarships for students in certain disciplines, such as performing arts or international studies.
Scholarship Opportunities:
- Webster University Academic Scholarships (based on GPA and SAT/ACT scores)
- Webster Talent Scholarships (for arts and media students)
- Study Abroad Scholarships
One of the standout features of Webster is its commitment to study abroad scholarships, making international education more accessible.
Online Programs
Maryville University
When it comes to online education, Maryville is a clear leader. They offer a wide variety of fully online undergraduate and graduate programs, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for flexibility. Whether you’re a working adult or just prefer learning from home, Maryville’s online programs are designed to be engaging and rigorous. Nursing, business, and cybersecurity are some of the most popular online options.
Benefits of Maryville’s Online Programs:
- 100% online coursework
- No standardized test requirements
- Accelerated course formats
Their focus on providing a seamless online experience has earned them recognition as one of the top universities for online learning in the U.S.
Webster University
Webster offers online programs as well, but their offerings are not as extensive as Maryville’s. Webster’s online degrees focus primarily on business administration, cybersecurity, and media communications. While the selection is smaller, the quality of education remains high. Webster’s online platform is interactive, and they ensure that students get plenty of one-on-one time with professors.
Benefits of Webster’s Online Programs:
- Smaller online class sizes
- Global perspective in course content
- Hybrid options available
Career Services and Outcomes
Maryville University
Maryville places a strong emphasis on career readiness. The university’s Life Coaching program pairs students with mentors who help them navigate their academic journey and prepare for their future careers. Maryville graduates are known for finding jobs quickly, especially in high-demand fields like healthcare, business, and tech.
Maryville Career Highlights:
- 94% job placement rate for graduates
- Industry connections in St. Louis
- Career fairs and networking events
Webster University
Webster also provides excellent career services, particularly for students in the arts, communications, and international relations fields. The university’s global network is a huge asset for those looking to work abroad or in multinational organizations. Webster’s alumni are spread across the globe, giving students access to a wide-reaching network for internships and job opportunities.
Webster Career Highlights:
- 85% job placement rate for graduates
- Strong internship programs in media and arts
- Global career services
FAQs: Common Questions about Maryville University and Webster University
1. Which university is better for business programs?
- Maryville University has a strong reputation for business programs with a focus on practical, hands-on learning and connections with local industries.
2. Does Webster University offer good study abroad options?
- Yes, Webster University is known for its global campuses and offers excellent study abroad opportunities with financial support.
3. Are both schools good for online education?
- While both offer online programs, Maryville University’s online options are more extensive and flexible.
Conclusion
Both Maryville University and Webster University have unique strengths that cater to different types of students. If you’re looking for a university that focuses on career-ready, practical education, especially in fields like business or nursing, Maryville is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you’re passionate about the arts, media, or international studies, and want the opportunity to study abroad, Webster may be the best fit for you.
Ultimately, your choice comes down to what you value most in a college experience. Whether it’s career readiness, global exposure, or online flexibility, you’ll find that both universities have a lot to offer.