Top 15 Architecture Schools In Missouri And Fees (2025)
If you’re passionate about design, construction, and creating spaces that inspire, studying architecture in Missouri might be your next big step. Missouri offers a blend of affordable public universities and prestigious private institutions that prepare students for dynamic careers in architecture, design, and urban planning.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 15 architecture schools in Missouri, their program offerings, tuition fees, and unique advantages. Whether you’re a local student or coming from out of state, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the program that best fits your goals and budget.
Top 15 Architecture Schools in Missouri and Their Fees
1. University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) – Kansas City, MO
Program: Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
Duration: 5 years (150 credit hours)
Estimated Cost:
- In-State: $7,988 per semester
- Non-Resident: $17,910 per semester
- Estimated Full Program Cost: $79,875
UMKC’s Bachelor of Architecture program is one of the most comprehensive in Missouri. With a focus on urban design, sustainability, and community development, students benefit from Kansas City’s booming architectural scene. The program integrates design studios, construction technology, and professional practice — all within a hands-on, project-based learning environment.
Why Choose UMKC: Affordable for Missouri residents, NAAB-accredited, and strong ties to local architecture firms make this a top public option.
2. Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) – St. Louis, MO
Program: Master of Architecture (M.Arch) – Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts
Duration: 3 years (professional track)
Tuition: Approximately $54,000–$56,000 per year
Washington University’s Sam Fox School is one of the most prestigious architecture schools in the Midwest. The M.Arch program emphasizes design innovation, environmental stewardship, and cutting-edge technology. Students collaborate with international architects, work on urban projects, and gain exposure to both theory and real-world application.
Why Choose WUSTL: Top-ranked, globally recognized faculty, and advanced research facilities. Ideal for students seeking a high-prestige degree.
3. University of Missouri–Columbia (Mizzou) – Columbia, MO
Program: M.A., M.S., and Ph.D. in Architectural Studies
Tuition: Approx. $39,000 per year (graduate)
Online Ph.D. cost: Around $39,693 total (72 credit hours)
Mizzou focuses on architectural research, design psychology, and sustainable environments. While not a direct licensure B.Arch, it’s excellent for students interested in architectural theory, interior design, or academic careers. The university’s labs encourage exploration in lighting, digital modeling, and environmental design.
Why Choose Mizzou: Research-oriented and ideal for graduate or academic-minded students. Offers both on-campus and online study options.
4. Drury University – Springfield, MO
Program: Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
Tuition: Approximately $32,130 per year
Drury’s Hammons School of Architecture blends creative design with technical proficiency. Students engage in small class sizes, frequent faculty interaction, and design-build projects that connect education to real communities. The five-year professional degree prepares graduates for licensure.
Why Choose Drury: Personalized instruction, studio-based learning, and good value among private universities.
5. Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) – Rolla, MO
Program: Architectural Engineering (B.S.)
Tuition:
- In-State: $10,800 per year
- Out-of-State: $31,000 per year
While not a traditional architecture degree, Missouri S&T’s architectural engineering program provides a strong foundation in building systems, structural design, and sustainability. It’s perfect for students who prefer the technical side of architecture.
Why Choose Missouri S&T: Strong in STEM integration, engineering-based approach, and excellent employment outcomes.
6. Lindenwood University – St. Charles, MO
Program: B.A. in Art and Design (Architecture & Interior Design emphasis)
Tuition: $21,000 per year
Lindenwood’s program merges architectural design with creative arts, offering hands-on studio experience and exposure to CAD software. Students often intern with local design firms or pursue graduate architecture degrees after graduation.
Why Choose Lindenwood: Affordable tuition and modern design curriculum with internship support.
7. Missouri State University – Springfield, MO
Program: B.S. in Design and Applied Arts (Architecture and Interior Design Path)
Tuition:
- In-State: $10,828 per year
- Out-of-State: $19,912 per year
Though not a full architecture program, Missouri State offers design courses covering space planning, drafting, and 3D modeling. Students can later transfer to a professional M.Arch program.
Why Choose MSU: Affordable option for those wanting to start in design before advancing to architecture.
8. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) – Kansas City, MO
Program: B.F.A. in Architectural Design
Tuition: Approximately $41,000 per year
KCAI’s architecture and design program emphasizes artistic expression, spatial experimentation, and environmental design. Students work in open studios and collaborate with peers in fine arts, film, and design.
Why Choose KCAI: Ideal for creative students who want to blend architecture with art and design.
9. Saint Louis University (SLU) – St. Louis, MO
Program: B.A. in Architectural Studies (pre-professional)
Tuition: $52,260 per year
SLU’s architecture program focuses on urbanism, sustainable construction, and community engagement. Its partnership with European universities provides opportunities for study abroad and cross-cultural design projects.
Why Choose SLU: Global perspective and hands-on design projects.
10. Park University – Parkville, MO
Program: B.F.A. in Interior Architecture and Design
Tuition: $13,000 per year
While technically an interior architecture program, Park University provides foundational architectural training in spatial design, drafting, and materials. The program emphasizes sustainability and modern construction practices.
Why Choose Park University: Affordable, flexible schedules, and career-oriented curriculum.
11. Webster University – St. Louis, MO
Program: B.A. in Art with Emphasis in Design
Tuition: $31,500 per year
Webster’s design degree allows students to focus on architectural design concepts and visual communication. The program emphasizes digital modeling and presentation — crucial for architectural careers.
Why Choose Webster: Creative, interdisciplinary approach and international campus options.
12. Southeast Missouri State University – Cape Girardeau, MO
Program: B.S. in Technology Management – Construction Design Option
Tuition: $9,500 per year (in-state)
This program offers strong technical preparation for construction and design management, with courses in architectural drafting and 3D visualization.
Why Choose SEMO: Very affordable and industry-relevant, especially for construction-minded students.
13. University of Central Missouri – Warrensburg, MO
Program: B.S. in Drafting and Design Technology
Tuition: $9,200 per year
This program focuses on architectural drafting, 3D modeling, and building information management. It’s not NAAB-accredited but serves as a strong pathway to graduate architecture programs.
Why Choose UCM: Great value for hands-on technical design training.
14. Columbia College – Columbia, MO
Program: B.A. in Art – Architectural Design Concentration
Tuition: $26,000 per year
Columbia College’s architecture concentration encourages creative exploration of built environments, CAD modeling, and design portfolios.
Why Choose Columbia College: Private college with small classes and individual mentorship.
15. Missouri Western State University – St. Joseph, MO
Program: B.S. in Construction and Design Technology
Tuition: $8,500 per year
Missouri Western provides technical design education that integrates architecture, construction, and sustainability. It’s an affordable choice for students interested in architectural technology and design processes.
Why Choose MWSU: Low tuition, flexible pathways into design and construction careers.
Comparing Architecture School Fees in Missouri
| University | Program | Estimated Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| UMKC | B.Arch | $15,976 (resident) |
| WUSTL | M.Arch | $54,000+ |
| Mizzou | M.A./Ph.D. | $39,000 |
| Drury University | B.Arch | $32,130 |
| Missouri S&T | Architectural Eng. | $10,800 |
| Lindenwood | B.A. Design | $21,000 |
| Missouri State | B.S. Design | $10,828 |
| KCAI | B.F.A. Architecture | $41,000 |
| SLU | B.A. Architecture | $52,260 |
| Park University | B.F.A. Interior Arch. | $13,000 |
| Webster University | B.A. Design | $31,500 |
| SEMO | Construction Design | $9,500 |
| UCM | Drafting & Design | $9,200 |
| Columbia College | B.A. Art (Arch.) | $26,000 |
| Missouri Western | Construction Design | $8,500 |
(Note: Fees are approximate 2025 estimates; check official university sites for updates.)
Tips for Choosing the Right Architecture School in Missouri
- Check Accreditation: Only NAAB-accredited programs qualify for licensure.
- Compare Total Costs: Include tuition, housing, materials, and living expenses.
- Plan Your Path: If starting with a pre-architecture degree, ensure transferability to a professional M.Arch program.
- Look for Internships: Architecture is practice-based — experience matters.
- Ask About Scholarships: Many private schools like Drury or WUSTL offer need- or merit-based aid.
- Visit the Campus: Studio facilities and creative culture play a huge role in your learning experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right architecture school is one of the most important decisions for your design career. Missouri’s universities offer a unique mix of affordability, creativity, and professional preparation.
If you’re looking for a public option, UMKC and Mizzou stand out for affordability and research excellence. For a prestigious private experience, Washington University in St. Louis and Drury University deliver exceptional design education.
Whether your passion lies in sustainable design, urban planning, or construction technology, there’s a Missouri school tailored for your goals. Explore each program’s website for updated tuition and application details — and start designing your future today.