Missouri’s vibrant economy offers a wealth of opportunities for college degree holders in 2025, driven by thriving industries like healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and finance. With dynamic job markets in cities such as St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield, the Show-Me State is an attractive destination for graduates seeking high-paying and stable careers. This article highlights six great Missouri jobs requiring a college degree, focusing on roles with strong demand, competitive salaries, and growth potential. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional relocating to Missouri, these career paths leverage your college degree to unlock rewarding opportunities in the state’s dynamic job market. Let’s tale a look at some great Missouri jobs!
Why a College Degree Matters in Missouri’s Job Market
Missouri’s economy is robust, with a 4.1% unemployment rate in July 2025, slightly below the national average, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. A college degree provides a significant advantage, opening doors to roles with higher salaries and long-term stability in key industries like healthcare and technology. From St. Louis’s manufacturing hubs to Kansas City’s finance sector, employers value the skills and expertise that come with a bachelor’s degree. Below, we explore six great jobs for college degree holders in Missouri, each offering strong career prospects in 2025.
1. Software Engineer
Average Salary: $90,000–$125,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
St. Louis and Kansas City are emerging tech hubs, driving demand for software engineers who design and develop applications for industries like healthcare, logistics, and fintech. Companies like World Wide Technology and Cerner (now Oracle Health) are key employers. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, with employers valuing coding experience and certifications.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 25% growth in software development jobs through 2032, with Missouri’s tech sector expanding rapidly in urban areas. Remote and hybrid roles add flexibility. Key Skills: Python, Java, cloud computing (AWS, Azure), and problem-solving.
Top Employers: Boeing, Edward Jones, and Kansas City-based startups.
Pro Tip: Build a strong GitHub portfolio and attend tech events like KC Tech Week to network with recruiters.
2. Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $75,000–$100,000
Degree Required: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Healthcare is a cornerstone of Missouri’s economy, with world-class medical centers in St. Louis and Kansas City driving demand for registered nurses (RNs). RNs provide patient care, administer treatments, and collaborate with medical teams in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. A BSN is increasingly required, particularly at top facilities like Barnes-Jewish Hospital, ranked among the nation’s best.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Missouri’s nursing demand is projected to grow 7% through 2033, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with a low 1.1% unemployment rate for nursing majors. High-demand areas include Springfield, Jefferson City, and rural regions. Key Skills: Patient care, critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability.
Top Employers: Mercy Health, University of Missouri Health Care, and CoxHealth.
Pro Tip: Pursue certifications in specialties like critical care or oncology to boost job prospects in Missouri’s competitive healthcare market.
3. Data Analyst
Average Salary: $70,000–$95,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field
Data analysts are in high demand across Missouri’s healthcare, finance, and manufacturing sectors, interpreting complex datasets to drive business decisions. St. Louis and Kansas City are hubs for data-driven roles, with companies leveraging analytics for growth. A bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field is typically required, with proficiency in tools like SQL and Tableau highly valued.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Missouri’s growing reliance on data-driven strategies fuels demand for analysts, with flexible roles offering remote or hybrid options. The role provides a pathway to higher-paying data science positions. Key Skills: SQL, Python, data visualization, and critical thinking.
Top Employers: Centene Corporation, Emerson Electric, and Anheuser-Busch.
Pro Tip: Complete online courses in Power BI or machine learning to enhance your skill set and appeal to Missouri employers.
4. Financial Analyst
Average Salary: $70,000–$95,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Finance, Economics, Business, or related field
Kansas City’s status as a financial hub drives demand for financial analysts, who evaluate market trends, create financial models, and provide insights for businesses and clients. Missouri’s insurance and banking sectors also offer opportunities. A bachelor’s degree in finance or economics is essential, with CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) credentials boosting prospects for senior roles.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Missouri’s finance sector is expanding, with entry-level roles accessible to recent graduates and clear paths to advancement in corporate finance or investment banking. Key Skills: Excel, financial modeling, data analysis, and communication.
Top Employers: Commerce Bank, UMB Financial, and State Farm.
Pro Tip: Secure internships at Kansas City-based financial institutions to gain experience and build industry connections.
5. Manufacturing Engineer
Average Salary: $80,000–$110,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Missouri’s manufacturing sector, one of the largest in the U.S., drives demand for manufacturing engineers who optimize production processes in St. Louis and Springfield. The state’s focus on automotive and aerospace creates opportunities. A bachelor’s degree in manufacturing or mechanical engineering is required.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Missouri’s manufacturing sector is rebounding, with a 5% job growth projected through 2032, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The emphasis on automation boosts demand for engineers. Key Skills: Lean manufacturing, CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), and project management.
Top Employers: General Motors, Boeing, and Hussmann.
Pro Tip: Gain hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs with Missouri manufacturers to build a strong resume.
6. High School Teacher
Average Salary: $50,000–$70,000
Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Education or specific subject area (e.g., Math, Science)
Missouri’s growing population and focus on education drive demand for high school teachers, particularly in STEM subjects. Cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia face teacher shortages, making this a stable career choice. A bachelor’s degree in education or a specific subject, plus state certification, is required.
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education reports a need for over 1,800 teachers annually, with a 7% projected growth through 2032, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Benefits like pensions and summer breaks add appeal. Key Skills: Classroom management, subject expertise, and communication.
Top Employers: St. Louis Public Schools, Kansas City Public Schools, and charter schools.
Pro Tip: Obtain Missouri teaching certification (MEGA) early and gain experience through student teaching to stand out.
Tips for Landing College Degree Missouri Jobs
- Network Locally: Attend career fairs in St. Louis or Kansas City and join professional groups like the Missouri Technology Association to connect with employers.
- Customize Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and skills tailored to Missouri’s industries. Include keywords like “college degree Missouri jobs” on LinkedIn to boost visibility.
- Pursue Certifications: Consider certifications like PMP for project management, AWS for tech, or Six Sigma for engineering to enhance your credentials.
- Use Job Boards: Explore platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Missouri’s Jobs.mo.gov for listings, especially for state-specific opportunities.
- Prepare for Interviews: Research Missouri-based companies and practice answering industry-specific questions to showcase your enthusiasm and knowledge.
Conclusion
A college degree unlocks a range of high-paying and rewarding jobs in Missouri’s diverse economy in 2025. From software engineering in St. Louis’s tech scene to manufacturing engineering in Springfield, these roles offer competitive salaries and growth opportunities in one of the nation’s most dynamic job markets. By leveraging your education, building relevant skills, and networking strategically, you can secure a top-tier position in Missouri.
Start your path towards a degree today and and tomorrow (/within two years) begin your job search on platforms like Jobs.mo.gov or Indeed, and take the first step toward a successful career in the Show-Me State.
For more information on job opportunities, visit https://jobs.mo.gov or explore salary data at https://www.bls.gov.