PrivateTownCottey College
Nevada, Missouri 64772
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for biology — close-knit campus
Cottey College is a private institution in Nevada with particular strength in biology and business. With an average SAT of 1190, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 266 undergraduates with a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
61% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $35,422 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $18,154.
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History Beginnings Cottey College, circa 1910 Cottey College was founded by Virginia Alice Cottey (known as Alice Cottey) in 1884; she originally called it Vernon Seminary, based on the county.
- •After teaching at Central College in Lexington, Missouri, since 1875, Cottey decided she wanted to establish her own school.
- •Vernon Seminary opened in 1884 as a primary, intermediate, and collegiate preparatory school.
- •In 1886, the school's name was officially changed to Cottey College.
- •By 1932, the college consisted only of the higher education part, offering a two-year program.
Source: Wikipedia
Admissions
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
44.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
5.4%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$11,000
Programs (20)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
61%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
1
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MO state average