Overview
Harris-Stowe State University traces its roots to 1857, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher education west of the Mississippi River, formed through the merger of Harris Teachers College and Stowe Teachers College, the latter established to train African American teachers during segregation. Originally focused on teacher education, HSSU has grown into a comprehensive public university while retaining strong ties to its historic mission of educating underserved and first-generation college students in the St. Louis region. It is designated as a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and a State University, serving a diverse, predominantly urban student population.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Founded | 1857 |
| Total students | 1,900 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 56% |
| Graduation rate | 22% |
| Average starting salary | $40,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $14,900 |
| Room & board | $9,500 |
| Average financial aid | $9,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 2.80 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Education
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Urban Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.