Choosing the right university is a big decision, and it’s important to find the school that fits your needs and future goals. If you’re considering Maryville University and Webster University, this guide will break down everything you need to know. From academics to campus life, we’ll explore the strengths of each to help you decide which one’s best for you.
Introduction: Maryville University and Webster University Overview
When you’re choosing between Maryville University and Webster University, you’re looking at two well-respected institutions in the St. Louis area. Both schools offer unique experiences, so knowing what makes each one stand out can help you make the best choice.
Maryville University
- Location: St. Louis, Missouri
- Type: Private
- Founded: 1872
- Student Population: Over 10,000 students
- Known For: Focus on innovation, online programs, health professions
Webster University
- Location: St. Louis, Missouri (with global campuses)
- Type: Private
- Founded: 1915
- Student Population: About 12,000 students
- Known For: International reach, diverse programs, strong liberal arts
Academic Programs: What Can You Study?
Both universities offer a wide range of programs, but they differ in focus.
Maryville University’s Strengths
Maryville is known for offering career-focused programs with a particular strength in healthcare and business fields. They’ve been pushing hard on online education, which makes it a great option if you’re looking for flexibility. Some standout majors include:
- Nursing
- Cybersecurity
- Business Administration
- Physical Therapy
- Data Science
Maryville prides itself on preparing students for real-world jobs, and its curriculum often involves hands-on learning and internships.
Webster University’s Strengths
Webster offers a more traditional liberal arts education, with a strong emphasis on creativity and global perspectives. Its global campuses mean students can study abroad easily. Popular programs include:
- International Relations
- Media Communications
- Psychology
- Business Management
- Performing Arts
Webster is great for students who want a well-rounded education with a focus on global engagement.
Tuition and Financial Aid: What’s the Cost?
College isn’t cheap, so comparing costs is a must. Let’s break it down.
| University | Tuition (Annual, Approx.) | Room & Board | Average Financial Aid Awarded |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryville University | $29,000 | $12,000 | $22,000 |
| Webster University | $28,500 | $11,800 | $23,000 |
Maryville University Tuition
While tuition at Maryville sits around $29,000 a year, most students receive significant financial aid, bringing the actual cost down. Maryville has strong scholarships for academic achievements and offers flexible online program pricing, which can make it more affordable depending on your situation.
Webster University Tuition
Webster’s tuition is slightly lower at $28,500 per year, and they also offer plenty of scholarships, especially for students interested in international study. Webster has a reputation for being affordable for military and veteran students, offering specific grants and discounts.
Tip: Always apply for scholarships early! Both schools offer a lot of financial aid, but deadlines matter.
Campus Life: What’s It Like to Live There?
The experience of being on campus can be as important as what you learn in the classroom. Here’s a peek at what it’s like to live at Maryville and Webster.
Maryville University Campus Life
Maryville’s campus is a mix of suburban life and modern facilities. It’s about 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis, so you get a quieter campus with easy access to city life. Student clubs, athletics, and career services are active here, and students are often involved in community service projects. It’s a close-knit campus with a focus on innovation and leadership.
- Athletics: NCAA Division II
- Greek Life: Yes
- Housing: On-campus dorms, apartments
Webster University Campus Life
Webster’s main campus is known for its diversity and global atmosphere. With students from all over the world, it’s a more international experience, and it’s closer to the city of St. Louis. Webster’s focus on the arts and global learning makes for a vibrant student body. It’s ideal if you’re interested in study abroad or want to be around people with a wide variety of interests.
- Athletics: NCAA Division III
- Greek Life: No
- Housing: On-campus dorms, international housing options
Online Learning: How Flexible Are They?
In today’s world, online education can make or break your decision, especially if you need flexibility due to work or other commitments.
Maryville University Online Programs
Maryville is known for its robust online offerings. You can complete degrees entirely online, and they have specialized programs designed to work with your schedule. Their cybersecurity and nursing online programs are highly rated, and they’ve been named one of the most innovative online universities in the country.
Webster University Online Programs
Webster also offers online programs, but they’re not as extensive as Maryville’s. Webster focuses more on hybrid learning, where students mix on-campus and online classes. It’s a good option if you want the flexibility of online learning but still want to experience some face-to-face interactions.
Career Services and Alumni Networks: How Do They Help After Graduation?
What happens after you get your degree? Both schools offer career services, but the approach is different.
Maryville University Career Services
Maryville puts a heavy focus on job placement. They have strong relationships with local businesses and healthcare providers, and many programs require internships. Graduates often land jobs quickly in fields like healthcare, business, and technology.
Webster University Career Services
Webster is known for its global alumni network, which can help if you’re looking to work abroad. They also offer plenty of support for students pursuing creative careers or international relations jobs. Their career services focus on giving you the tools to build a career in a global context.
Which School is Right for You?
Now that we’ve broken down both schools, it’s time to think about which one fits your needs better. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are you more career-focused or looking for a broad, liberal arts education?
- Do you prefer a smaller, suburban campus or an international, artsy environment?
- Is online flexibility important to you, or do you want a mix of in-person and online classes?
- Do you want to study abroad or stay closer to home?
FAQs: Answering Common Questions
Q: Is Maryville more affordable than Webster?
A: Both schools are close in cost, but financial aid and scholarships at each can significantly lower the total amount. Make sure to apply for aid early!
Q: Which school has better online programs?
A: Maryville is known for its strong online programs, especially in nursing, business, and technology fields. Webster offers online classes but leans more towards hybrid learning.
Q: Can I study abroad at both schools?
A: Yes, but Webster is famous for its international campuses, making it easier to study abroad. Maryville offers study abroad too, but it’s not a central focus.
Q: Which school has a better career placement rate?
A: Both schools have good career services. Maryville focuses on local job placement in healthcare and business, while Webster’s global network makes it great for those interested in international careers.
Conclusion: Making the Final Choice
At the end of the day, Maryville University and Webster University both have a lot to offer, but they cater to different types of students. If you’re looking for a career-driven education with online flexibility, Maryville might be the right fit. But if you want a global, creative, and liberal arts-focused experience, Webster could be perfect for you.
Trust your gut, visit the campuses, and think about where you see yourself thriving. Either way, you’re choosing between two excellent schools that are ready to help you achieve your goals.