| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Fayette, Missouri
Type: Private Liberal Arts University
Affiliation: United Methodist Church
Founded: 1854
Motto: "Responsible Citizenship in a Diverse World"
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
CMU offers over 40 majors across various disciplines, including:
Business & Economics
Health Professions (Nursing, Athletic Training, Pre-Med, etc.)
Education
Fine & Performing Arts (Music, Theatre, Art, etc.)
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Social Sciences & Humanities
CMU has both traditional on-campus programs in Fayette and online/hybrid degree options for flexible learning.
CMU consists of:
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) – Located in Fayette (Main Campus)
College of Graduate and Extended Studies (CGES) – Offers online and regional campus programs
Student Population: ~3,000 students
Athletics: Competes in NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) under the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC).
Mascot: Eagle (CMU Eagles)
Sports Offered: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Track & Field, Volleyball, Golf, and more.
Students can engage in various clubs, organizations, and leadership programs, as well as music and theater performances.
Admission Requirements:
High school diploma (or equivalent)
SAT/ACT scores (may be optional)
GPA and transcripts
Some programs may have additional requirements
Tuition & Fees: Varies by program and student status
Scholarships & Aid: CMU offers merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and athletic scholarships.
Strong Methodist heritage with a focus on ethical leadership.
Small class sizes for personalized learning.
Robust online and extended learning programs.
Active performing arts and athletics programs.
1. Business & Economics
Accounting (B.S.)
Business (B.S.) (with specializations in marketing, finance, management, etc.)
Economics (B.A., B.S.)
2. Health Professions & Sciences
Athletic Training (B.S.)
Biology (B.A., B.S.) (with Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dental, Pre-Veterinary options)
Chemistry (B.A., B.S.)
Health Sciences (B.S.)
Nursing (B.S.N.) (Traditional & RN-BSN)
Pre-Health Professional Programs (Pre-Medicine, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, etc.)
Sports Management (B.S.)
3. Education
Early Childhood Education (B.S.E.)
Elementary Education (B.S.E.)
Secondary Education (B.S.E.) (Various subject areas)
Special Education (B.S.E.)
Physical Education (B.S.E.)
4. Arts & Humanities
Art (B.A., B.S.)
Communication Studies (B.A., B.S.)
English (B.A.)
History (B.A., B.S.)
Music (B.A., B.M.) (Music Education, Performance, etc.)
Philosophy & Religion (B.A.)
Theatre Arts (B.A., B.F.A.)
5. Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Biochemistry (B.A., B.S.)
Computer Science (B.S.)
Environmental Science (B.S.)
Mathematics (B.A., B.S.)
Physics (B.S.)
6. Social Sciences
Criminal Justice (B.S.)
Political Science (B.A.)
Psychology (B.A., B.S.)
Sociology (B.A.)
CMU also offers a variety of graduate programs, primarily through the College of Graduate & Extended Studies (CGES).
1. Education
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) (with specializations in Curriculum & Instruction, Literacy, etc.)
Master of Music Education (M.M.E.)
2. Business & Leadership
Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) (with Leadership or Education focus)
Master of Science in Athletic Training (M.S.A.T.)
3. Health & Allied Sciences
Master of Science in Clinical Counseling (M.S.C.C.)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) Estimated |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Economics |
|
|
|
Accounting (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Business (B.S.) (Marketing, Finance, etc.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Economics (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Health Professions & Sciences |
|
|
|
Athletic Training (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Biology (B.A., B.S.) (Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, etc.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Chemistry (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Health Sciences (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Nursing (B.S.N.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Sports Management (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Education |
|
|
|
Early Childhood Education (B.S.E.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Elementary Education (B.S.E.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Secondary Education (B.S.E.) (Various Subjects) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Special Education (B.S.E.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Physical Education (B.S.E.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Arts & Humanities |
|
|
|
Art (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Communication Studies (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
English (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
History (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Music (B.A., B.M.) (Education, Performance) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Theatre Arts (B.A., B.F.A.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) |
|
|
|
Biochemistry (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Computer Science (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Environmental Science (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Mathematics (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Physics (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Social Sciences |
|
|
|
Criminal Justice (B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Political Science (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Psychology (B.A., B.S.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
|
Sociology (B.A.) |
4 Years |
$27,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) Estimated |
|---|---|---|
|
Education Programs |
|
|
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
1–2 Years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) |
1–2 Years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Music Education (M.M.E.) |
1–2 Years |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
|
Health & Allied Sciences |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) (Education or Leadership) |
2 Years |
$6,800 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Science in Clinical Counseling (M.S.C.C.) |
2 Years |
$6,800 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Science in Athletic Training (M.S.A.T.) |
2 Years |
$6,800 – $8,000 |
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – CMU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
Small Class Sizes – Personalized attention with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.
STEM & Business Programs – Popular programs in Business, Nursing, Computer Science, and Engineering.
Safe & Supportive Campus – Located in Fayette, Missouri, a small and friendly town.
Internship & Career Opportunities – Career counseling and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for international students.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admission Requirements:
Completed Application Form (Online)
Academic Transcripts (High School or Equivalent)
English Proficiency Test Scores (Any one of the following):
TOEFL: 61 iBT or higher
IELTS: 5.5 or higher
Duolingo English Test: 90+
SAT/ACT (optional)
Financial Proof – Bank statement showing ability to pay tuition & living expenses.
Copy of Passport
Application Fee (if applicable)
Graduate (Master’s) Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Academic Transcripts
English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Resume & Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (varies by program)
Financial Proof
Step 1: Choose a Program
Review CMU’s undergraduate programs in areas like Business, Nursing, Computer Science, Education, and more.
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Apply Online: N/A
Pay the application fee (if applicable).
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
High School Transcripts (translated into English if applicable)
English Proficiency Test Scores (for international students)
TOEFL: 61 iBT or higher
IELTS: 5.5 or higher
Duolingo English Test: 90+
ACT/SAT Scores (optional, but can help with scholarships)
Copy of Passport (for international students)
Financial Proof (Bank statement for international students)
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
CMU reviews applications within 2-4 weeks.
If accepted, CMU will send an acceptance letter & I-20 form (for international students).
Step 5: Pay Enrollment Deposit
A $200 enrollment deposit may be required to secure your spot.
Step 6: Apply for Visa (For International Students)
Use the I-20 Form to apply for an F-1 Student Visa at the U.S. Embassy.
Schedule a visa interview and prepare required documents.
Step 7: Register for Classes & Orientation
CMU will provide details on course registration, housing, and orientation.
Arrive on campus and start your studies!
Step 1: Choose a Graduate Program
CMU offers Master’s programs in fields like Education, Nursing, Counseling, and Athletic Training.
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Apply via the CMU Graduate Admissions Portal: N/A
Pay the application fee (if required).
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (official, from an accredited university)
Resume & Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (varies by program)
English Proficiency Test Scores (for international students)
TOEFL: 79 iBT or higher
IELTS: 6.0 or higher
Duolingo: 100+
Financial Proof (For international students)
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Application review takes 2-6 weeks.
If accepted, CMU will send an admission letter & I-20 Form (for international students).
Step 5: Apply for Visa (For International Students)
Apply for an F-1 Visa at the U.S. Embassy using the I-20 Form.
Step 6: Course Registration & Orientation
Finalize course enrollment and housing.
Attend CMU orientation before starting classes.
Semester |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
Fall Intake (Main) |
June 1 |
August |
|
Spring Intake |
November 1 |
January |
|
Summer Intake |
March 1 |
May |
Note: Some programs may have different deadlines, so always check with CMU’s admissions office.
Eligibility for U.S. & International Students
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Minimum GPA: 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
SAT/ACT (Optional but recommended for scholarships)
English Language Requirements (For International Students)
International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency:
Test Name |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
61 or higher |
|
IELTS |
5.5 or higher |
|
Duolingo English Test |
90+ |
Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or those who have completed education in English may be exempt.
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (Some programs may accept a lower GPA with additional requirements)
Work Experience (If Required by Program)
Test Name |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
79 or higher |
|
IELTS |
6.0 or higher |
|
Duolingo English Test |
100+ |
Some graduate programs may have additional requirements like:
Letters of Recommendation
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume or CV
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
President’s Scholarship |
GPA: 3.9+ |
Up to $12,000 |
Yes |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
GPA: 3.5 – 3.89 |
Up to $10,000 |
Yes |
|
Achievement Scholarship |
GPA: 3.0 – 3.49 |
Up to $8,000 |
Yes |
|
Founders Scholarship |
GPA: 2.5 – 2.99 |
Up to $6,000 |
Yes |
|
Talent & Performing Arts Scholarship |
For students in music, theater, or art (Audition Required) |
N/A |
Yes |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Awarded to student-athletes based on performance (Coach Recommendation Required) |
N/A |
Yes |
|
United Methodist Award |
For students who are active members of the United Methodist Church |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
Yes |
|
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship |
For transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society |
Up to $2,000 |
Yes |
Note: Some scholarships can be combined, but total financial aid cannot exceed tuition costs.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Available in limited fields (Education, Counseling, Nursing) |
Tuition Reduction or Stipend |
Yes |
|
CMU Alumni Graduate Scholarship |
For CMU alumni pursuing a master’s degree |
Up to $2,000 |
Yes |
|
United Methodist Graduate Award |
For graduate students active in the United Methodist Church |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
Yes |
Residence Hall Name |
Room Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Burford Hall |
Double Room |
Traditional dorm, shared bathrooms, community spaces |
$4,400 |
|
Howard-Payne Hall |
Double Room |
Historic building, shared lounge, central location |
$4,400 |
|
Woodward Hall |
Double Room |
Community-style hall, study lounges |
$4,400 |
|
Holt Hall |
Suite-Style (2-4 students) |
Private bathrooms, newer facilities |
$5,000 |
|
McMurry Hall |
Apartment-Style |
Kitchen, living space, private/shared rooms |
$5,800 |
Note: All residence halls have Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, study areas, and security access.
Meal Plan Type |
Meals Per Week |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Unlimited Plan |
Unlimited + Flex Dollars |
$5,000 |
|
14-Meal Plan |
14 meals per week |
$4,500 |
|
10-Meal Plan |
10 meals per week |
$4,000 |
Meal plans are required for students living in residence halls.
1. Campus Community & Atmosphere
CMU is located in Fayette, Missouri, a small, welcoming town that offers a safe and friendly environment for students. The campus fosters a strong sense of community, where students can build meaningful relationships with peers and professors.
2. Student Organizations & Clubs
CMU has over 50 student organizations, including:
Academic & Professional Clubs – Business Club, Biology Club, Criminal Justice Club, etc.
Cultural & Diversity Groups – International Student Association, Multicultural Club
Service & Leadership Organizations – Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Ministries
Performing Arts & Creative Groups – Choir, Band, Theater, Dance Team
Greek Life – Fraternities & Sororities for leadership and networking
Special Interest Clubs – Gaming Club, Environmental Club, Debate Team
Students are encouraged to start new clubs based on their interests.
3. Athletics & Intramural Sports
CMU is part of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC).
Men’s & Women’s Varsity Sports: Football, Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Volleyball, Track & Field, Golf, Cross Country, and more.
Intramural Sports: Dodgeball, Flag Football, Basketball, Volleyball – open to all students.
Fitness Center & Gym: Free for students, includes cardio equipment, weights, and group exercise classes.
4. Housing & Dining
Most students live in on-campus residence halls with options ranging from traditional dorms to apartment-style housing. Dining options include:
Cafeteria (Main Dining Hall) – Buffet-style meals with diverse food options.
Grab-and-Go Cafés – Starbucks, sandwich shops, and convenience stores.
Special Dietary Options – Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free meals available.
5. Events & Activities
CMU hosts numerous events throughout the year, including:
Homecoming & Spirit Week – A major celebration with parades, football games, and parties.
Theater & Music Performances – Student-run productions, concerts, and recitals.
Cultural Festivals – International student events showcasing global traditions.
Guest Lectures & Workshops – Industry leaders and motivational speakers visit campus.
Game Nights & Movie Screenings – Fun nights for students to relax and socialize.
6. Career & Internship Opportunities
Career Services Office – Helps with resume building, job searching, and interview preparation.
Internships & Work-Study Programs – Available for students in business, healthcare, and education.
Alumni Networking Events – Connect with successful graduates for career guidance.
International students can also apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training) to gain work experience in the U.S.
7. Health & Wellness Services
Student Health Center – On-campus medical and counseling services.
Mental Health Support – Counseling sessions for stress management, anxiety, and academic pressures.
Fitness & Recreation – Gym, yoga, and wellness programs to promote a healthy lifestyle.
8. Campus Safety & Security
24/7 Campus Security Patrol – Ensures a safe environment for all students.
Emergency Alert System – Notifies students of any campus-wide emergencies.
Escort Services – Safe walking programs for late-night campus travel.
CMU is known for being a safe and student-friendly campus with a strong sense of community.
9. Transportation & Nearby Attractions
Walking-Friendly Campus – Everything is within a short walking distance.
Shuttle Services & Public Transport – Available for shopping and off-campus trips.
Nearby Cities: Columbia, MO (30-minute drive) for shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.
Outdoor Activities: Parks, hiking trails, and lakes for weekend getaways.
10. International Student Support
CMU has a dedicated International Student Office to assist with:
Visa and immigration support
Housing arrangements
Cultural adaptation and mentorship programs
Small, close-knit campus with personalized support
Diverse student organizations and active campus life
Strong athletic programs and recreational sports
Career and internship opportunities for future success
Safe and welcoming environment for all students
CMU provides a well-rounded college experience, ensuring that students enjoy both academic success and personal growth.
1. Career Services & Placement Support
CMU's Career Development Center assists students with:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students create professional resumes.
Mock Interviews & Career Coaching – Prepares students for job interviews.
Internships & Work-Study Programs – Provides real-world experience in various fields.
Job Search Assistance – Access to job listings, recruitment fairs, and employer connections.
Graduate School Preparation – Guidance for students interested in pursuing master’s or PhD programs.
CMU has a high graduate employability rate, with many students securing jobs within six months of graduation.
2. Internship & Work Experience Opportunities
CMU encourages students to gain practical work experience through:
Internships in Local & National Companies – Available in business, healthcare, IT, and education.
Student Teaching Programs – For education majors to gain classroom experience.
Clinical Training for Nursing & Healthcare Students – Hands-on practice at partner hospitals and clinics.
STEM Research Opportunities – Available in biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
Internship Locations:
Healthcare: Hospitals, research labs, clinics.
Business: Finance firms, marketing agencies, and management consultancies.
Technology: IT firms, software development companies.
Public Sector: Government offices, NGOs, and law enforcement agencies.
3. Top Hiring Companies & Employers
CMU graduates are recruited by leading organizations, including:
Healthcare & Nursing: Boone Hospital Center, University of Missouri Health Care, Mercy Hospital.
Business & Finance: State Farm, Edward Jones, Cerner Corporation, Commerce Bank.
Education & Teaching: Public & private schools across Missouri and the U.S.
Technology & IT: IBM, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, AT&T.
Law Enforcement & Criminal Justice: Missouri State Highway Patrol, FBI, U.S. Department of Justice.
4. Graduate School & Further Studies
Many CMU students continue their education at top graduate schools, including:
University of Missouri
Washington University in St. Louis
University of Kansas
Saint Louis University
Popular graduate programs pursued by CMU alumni include:
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
M.S. in Computer Science & Data Analytics
M.S. in Nursing & Healthcare Management
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
5. Job Placement Rate & Average Salaries
Field |
Placement Rate (Within 6 Months) |
Average Salary (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Finance |
90% |
$50,000 – $70,000 |
|
Healthcare & Nursing |
95% |
$60,000 – $90,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
92% |
$45,000 – $60,000 |
|
Computer Science & IT |
88% |
$65,000 – $100,000 |
|
Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement |
85% |
$50,000 – $70,000 |
Note: Salaries depend on location, job role, and experience level.
6. Work Authorization for International Students
CMU helps international students with work opportunities under U.S. visa regulations:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Internship opportunities during studies.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Allows international students to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation (STEM students may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension).
H-1B Visa Support: Assistance in finding employers who sponsor work visas.
7. How to Get Career Assistance at CMU?
Visit the CMU Career Services Office for career coaching and job search help.
Attend job fairs, networking events, and employer recruitment sessions.
Use Handshake & LinkedIn to apply for internships and full-time jobs.
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Central Methodist University (CMU) has a high acceptance rate of approximately 92%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that most students who meet the admission requirements have a good chance of being accepted.
CMU is accessible to a wide range of students.
Meeting the minimum GPA and English proficiency requirements increases chances of admission.
Strong applications with higher GPAs and extracurricular activities may qualify for scholarships.
High School GPA: Minimum 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
SAT/ACT: Optional (can improve scholarship opportunities)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): 61+
IELTS: 5.5+
Duolingo: 90+
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
GPA: Minimum 3.0 preferred (Some programs accept lower GPAs with additional requirements)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): 79+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo: 100+
Main Campus Address:
Central Methodist University
411 Central Methodist Square
Fayette, Missouri 65248, USA
Location Overview:
CMU is located in Fayette, Missouri, a small, safe, and friendly town in the central part of the state.
The campus is approximately 30 minutes from Columbia, MO, a larger city with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Nearest Airport: Columbia Regional Airport (COU) – 40-minute drive from campus.
