Lindenwood vs Mizzou

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Lindenwood University and the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou)?

  Lindenwood University is a private university known for its smaller class sizes and personalized attention, while the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is a large public research university with a broader range of academic programs and a strong emphasis on research opportunities. Lindenwood is located in St. Charles, a suburb of St. Louis, offering a more suburban environment, whereas Mizzou is located in Columbia, a larger college town with a more vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Mizzou also has a stronger national reputation, particularly in journalism and agriculture.

• Which university is larger: Lindenwood or Mizzou?

  The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is significantly larger than Lindenwood University. Mizzou has a much larger student body, faculty, and campus size compared to Lindenwood.

• How do the academic programs compare between Lindenwood and Mizzou?

  Mizzou offers a wider array of undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly ranked programs in journalism, law, and medicine. Lindenwood offers a more focused selection of programs, with strengths in business, education, and fine arts. While both offer common majors like business and communications, Mizzou's breadth and depth of academic offerings are generally greater.

• What is the campus environment like at Lindenwood versus Mizzou?

  Lindenwood offers a more close-knit, community-focused campus environment due to its smaller size. Mizzou, being a larger university, provides a more diverse and bustling campus environment with a wider range of student organizations, activities, and events. Mizzou's campus is also more integrated into the city of Columbia, offering easy access to off-campus amenities.

• How do the costs of attending Lindenwood and Mizzou compare?

  Tuition costs can vary depending on the specific program and residency status. Generally, as a private institution, Lindenwood's sticker price may appear higher, but they often offer significant financial aid and scholarships. Mizzou, as a public university, typically has lower tuition for in-state residents, but out-of-state tuition can be comparable to or even higher than Lindenwood's. It's essential to compare the net cost (tuition minus financial aid) for both universities based on your individual circumstances.

• What kind of student life and extracurricular activities are available at each university?

  Mizzou boasts a vast array of student organizations, clubs, and activities, including a strong Greek life presence and NCAA Division I athletics. Lindenwood also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including NCAA Division I athletics, but on a smaller scale. Both universities provide opportunities for students to get involved in campus life, but Mizzou's larger size translates to a greater number and variety of options.

• Which university is better for research opportunities?

  The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is generally considered to be stronger in research opportunities due to its status as a major research university. Mizzou has numerous research centers and institutes, and faculty members are actively involved in cutting-edge research across various disciplines. While Lindenwood also offers research opportunities, they are typically more limited in scope and scale compared to Mizzou.

• How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

  Lindenwood's location in St. Charles, a suburb of St. Louis, offers a quieter, more suburban setting with access to the amenities of a major metropolitan area. Mizzou's location in Columbia provides a more traditional college town experience with a vibrant downtown area and a strong sense of community. Columbia is also centrally located in Missouri, making it relatively easy to travel to other parts of the state.

• What are the athletic programs like at Lindenwood and Mizzou?

  Both Lindenwood and Mizzou offer robust athletic programs. Mizzou competes in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC), offering a high level of competition and national exposure. Lindenwood also competes in NCAA Division I, providing a competitive athletic environment. Mizzou's athletic programs generally have a higher profile due to their participation in the SEC.

• Which university is known for its specific academic programs?

  Mizzou is particularly well-known for its journalism program (the Missouri School of Journalism), agriculture, and veterinary medicine. Lindenwood has a strong reputation in business administration, education, and fine and performing arts. Your choice should depend on your specific academic interests and career goals.