College of the Ozarks | Hard Work U.

“C of O is unique among higher education institutions in America: no tuition is charged, all students work on campus, debt is openly discouraged, and no federal, state or private loans are made.”
- Jerry C. Davis, President

Our Mission

The mission of College of the Ozarks is to provide the advantages of a Christian education for youth of both sexes, especially those found worthy, but who are without sufficient means to procure such training.

College of the Ozarks with academic, vocational, cultural, patriotic and Christian goals

Our Vision

The vision of College of the Ozarks is to develop citizens of Christ-like character who are well-educated, hard-working, and patriotic.

News

U.S. News & World Report ranks College of the Ozarks No. 1 Most Innovative School in the Midwest, No. 3 Best Regional College in the Midwest

Washington Monthly ranks C of O No. 1 Best Bank for the Buck and No. 3 Baccalaureate College

College of the Ozarks ranks No. 1 Best Bang for the Buck, No. 3 Baccalaureate College

College of the Ozarks chooses country over company, drops Nike

New commissioning program signing ceremony, Sept. 5, 2018.

College of the Ozarks to launch new Missouri Army National Guard commissioning program in 2018-19

See All News

Visit

We invite you to visit College of the Ozarks. When you come to College of the Ozarks, you will see what The Wall Street Journal described as "one of the most unusual little liberal arts colleges in the country." College of the Ozarks, founded in 1906, is a no-tuition college. Every full-time student works at a campus job to help defray his or her expenses.

Campus Map
Campus Tours for Potential Students
Directions to C of O
Sights to See for Visitors

Apply

At College of the Ozarks, we're looking for good students who have financial need. If you fit that bill, you might be a good candidate for admission! The mission of this unique institution focuses on providing a Christian education to those who are found worthy, but who are without sufficient means to obtain such training.

Give

College of the Ozarks relies heavily on charitable support to meet its annual budget. Whereas most colleges and universities charge tuition, College of the Ozarks is a no-tuition college. Approximately seventy percent of the College’s revenue comes from gift income and earnings from endowment. Annual support from benefactors keeps the “Gates of Opportunity” open wide. This funding provides students the opportunity to earn their college education. Full-time students work fifteen hours per week to cover a portion of their education. The remainder is underwritten through grants and scholarships, which are made available through donations.

Students working on computers at tuition free college

Academic Goal

To provide a sound education,
based in the liberal arts.

CofO color guard upholding patriotic values

Patriotic Goal

To encourage an understanding of American heritage, civic responsibilities, love of country, and willingness to defend it.

Student working for her education by serving coffee to a guest at The Keeter Center

Vocational Goal

To promote a strong work ethic, encouraging the development of good character and values.

Three students read the Bible together at a Christian liberal arts college

Christian Goal

To foster the Christian faith through the integration of faith with learning, living, and service.

Conducter leading band for students earning music degrees

Cultural Goal

To cultivate an appreciation of the fine arts, an understanding of the world, and adherence to personal standards.