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Cottey College

Nevada, Missouri · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #9 US News

FindU Grade

CValue
N/ACampus
C+Academics
CAdmissions
BStudent Life
C+Overall

About

Cottey College is located in Nevada, Missouri. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 266 students.

cottey.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$26,209
Out-of-state tuition$26,209
Room & board$9,450
Avg aid package$18,402
Students receiving aid45%
Pell grant recipients45%

Cottey College offers an affordable education, recognized as a #2 Best Value School in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. While tuition is approximately $38,802, merit scholarships range from $8,000 to full tuition based on GPA and test scores. The college also participates in programs like Dream Big, Stay Close, offering tuition-free education to eligible students in Vernon County and surrounding areas.

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Admissions

Test scores

ACT · middle 50%14–24
136

Application info

Acceptance rate66%
Average GPA3.39
Student–faculty ratio6:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$20

Cottey College has a selective admission policy with an acceptance rate between 60-69%. The college looks for students with a minimum GPA of 2.6, though ACT/SAT scores are optional. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the campus, which qualifies them for a $1500 scholarship that is renewable annually.

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Academics

Graduation rate59%
Retention rate61%
Student–faculty ratio6:1
Full-time faculty84%

Cottey College provides a close-knit learning environment focused on personalized learning and development for students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1 and small class sizes, students receive individual attention from professors. The curriculum integrates leadership development and experiential learning, including entrepreneurial and stock trading labs, preparing students for successful careers.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$35,422
Avg starting salary$25,100
Job placement rate92%
Earn more than HS grad57%
Loan default (3 yr)7%
Loan repayment (3 yr)59%

Cottey College prepares women to lead and make an impact on the world, with graduates becoming learners, leaders, and global citizens. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and a Leadership Development Plan to individualize growth for each student. Graduates benefit from a strong alumnae network, career planning services, and internship opportunities through the Kolderie Center.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
266Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

73% WhiteRacial diversity
White 73%Hispanic 11%Black 7%Asian 2%Other 8%
Campus housingYes

Cottey College fosters a unique, inclusive, and supportive community where friends become family. With over 40 clubs and organizations, students can explore their passions and develop leadership skills. The college also has many traditions that help students get involved, creating a strong sense of belonging and community spirit.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Current Student

The school has a positive atmosphere. I’ve always felt comfortable and safe, the school being an all girls establishment helps in that realm. There are some professors that I feel could improve their teaching methods in order to help students succeed in their education. The school offers tons of incredible opportunities to help prepare us for our next steps in life.

Current Student

This is a great college if you're looking for an amazing, close-knit community. I made my best friends here. The location (Nevada, MO) is not fabulous...but there are campus trips with transportation provided and it's close to Pittsburg, Joplin, Branson, and not far from the KC area.

Current Student

I really enjoyed Cottey so far. I have close relationships with my teachers and advisors, and the campus feels like one big family. They take academics very seriously and everyone pushes you to be the best student you can be. I have had the opportunity to be involved in a wide variety of things, I was a lead in the production Disney Descendants, I was able to design hair for the other show eleemosynary, I participated in traditions, I was a part of the cross-country team and inducted into APO.

Current Student

I was promised a lot more than what the school is. I will be returning but with lower expectations. While it's hard to adjust to I've realized the opportunities there are much better than those at the college I currently attend. People want to help you, it's a small community but they want you to succeed. Not to mention all the random interactive and free activities on campus.

About Cottey College

Cottey College prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour security patrol, campus emergency phones, and a mobile campus emergency alert system. The college also has an honor code with a no drinking/drugs policy. The campus is considered relatively unsafe, with a rather poor rating for on-campus crime.

Cottey College offers undergraduate research grants through the Serenbetz Institute, providing up to $2,000 for baccalaureate students with a 3.0 GPA or higher. These grants support investigations that contribute to a discipline, requiring a campus presentation and reflective letter. Students who conduct research for academic credit or capstone research are not eligible for this funding opportunity.

Cottey College welcomes international students from approximately 20 countries, fostering a diverse and global environment. The college provides international student support services and opportunities for international experiences, including a spring break trip paid for by the college. The student body typically represents 40 states, Canada, and other countries.

Endowment$110,107,244
Avg faculty salary$82,632

Cottey College FAQ

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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