University of Missouri-St. Louis Profile

The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) is a prominent public metropolitan research university that is part of the prestigious University of Missouri System. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and its College of Business Administration stands out as a key contributor to the university’s academic excellence, particularly in the fields of business, accounting, criminology, philosophy, and communication.

UMSL has garnered recognition for its commitment to delivering a rigorous academic experience, and its academic programs are highly regarded both regionally and nationally. With prestigious accreditations, exceptional faculty, and top-tier research programs, UMSL provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s globalized economy.

Academic Excellence and Accreditation

UMSL's reputation for academic excellence is underscored by its accreditations and affiliations with respected organizations. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for academic quality. This accreditation allows UMSL to offer degrees that are recognized by employers and academic institutions worldwide.

One of the key highlights of UMSL is its College of Business Administration, which is home to one of the most highly regarded business schools in the region. The college has earned the coveted Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, a mark of distinction that places UMSL in an elite group of business schools worldwide. The AACSB accreditation is awarded only to institutions that demonstrate excellence in business education, and it serves as a testament to the quality of education students receive at UMSL.

Moreover, UMSL's College of Business Administration is the only college in St. Louis to hold separate AACSB accreditations for its business and accounting programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. This dual accreditation speaks to the strength of UMSL's business curriculum and the effectiveness of its faculty in preparing students for leadership positions in various business sectors. The College of Business Administration offers a wide array of degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and specialized graduate programs in areas such as accounting, finance, international business, and marketing.

In addition to the AACSB accreditation, UMSL’s business programs also benefit from the expertise of its faculty members, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields. The university’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation ensures that students receive an education that is both relevant and adaptable to the demands of the business world.

Ranking and Recognition

UMSL has consistently earned recognition in national rankings for its academic quality and impact. The university’s overall position in national rankings reflects its growing reputation as a leading research institution.

1. Tier 2 National Universities (U.S. News 2011): UMSL is ranked among Tier 2 National Universities by U.S. News & World Report (2011). This ranking places the university in the upper echelon of U.S. institutions, recognizing its commitment to high academic standards and its ability to offer a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs that attract students from across the nation.

2. Washington Monthly’s National Rankings (2010): In Washington Monthly’s 2010 rankings, UMSL was ranked 239th among national universities. These rankings are based on factors such as research output, service to the community, and social mobility, underscoring UMSL’s dedication to advancing education and contributing to the region's development.

3. Finance Program Ranking (Journal of Finance): The finance program at UMSL was ranked among the top 12% nationally by a survey published in the Journal of Finance. This survey evaluated the research impact and influence of finance programs at 661 universities across the United States. The ranking reflects the program’s ability to produce research that influences the broader field of finance and enhances the educational experience for students.

4. International Business Program Ranking (U.S. News 2006): UMSL’s International Business Program has received notable recognition, ranking 8th in U.S. News & World Report's 2006 list of the best undergraduate international business programs in the country. This recognition speaks to UMSL’s strong curriculum in global business, preparing students for careers in multinational corporations, international trade, and economic development.

5. Top Ranking for Criminology and Criminal Justice (U.S. News 2010): The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at UMSL is also highly ranked, earning a 4th place ranking among criminology doctoral programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report (2010). This ranking highlights UMSL’s expertise in criminology and criminal justice, making it a prime destination for students pursuing advanced studies in law enforcement, criminal justice policy, and forensic science.

6. Logistics & Operations Management Program (The Princeton Review): UMSL’s Logistics and Operations Management Program has received recognition as one of the top 15 programs in the United States by The Princeton Review in its April 2009 issue of Entrepreneur Magazine. This ranking reflects UMSL’s leadership in supply chain management education, which is critical for students pursuing careers in logistics, operations, and global trade.