Cottey College

Nevada, MO

Cottey College

Nevada, MO

Explore Cottey College's Featured Profiles:

Undergrad Business Education

Become a leader in the classroom

If you dream of shaping young minds and making a real difference, the education program at Cottey College is the perfect place to begin your journey. At Cottey, we prepare women to be not just teachers, but leaders in the classroom. Our supportive, all-women environment empowers you to find your voice and develop the confidence to inspire the next generation.

Academics that get you in the classroom
Cottey’s education program is built on a foundation of hands-on experience. Whether you choose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education or a Bachelor of Arts/Science in Secondary Education with a focus in a specific subject, you’ll benefit from extensive in-classroom opportunities long before you begin student teaching. Our curriculum is designed to be immediately applicable, allowing you to observe master teachers and work directly with students in local schools. This focus on real-world practice ensures you graduate with the skills and confidence needed to excel from day one of your career.

A community that cares
Life at Cottey is defined by its close-knit and supportive community. Students live in suite-style housing, sharing a living space, kitchen, and bathroom with a small group of suitemates. This fosters a unique sense of camaraderie and provides a strong support system. As a college owned and supported by the P.E.O. Sisterhood—a philanthropic organization dedicated to women's education—Cottey offers an unparalleled network of support and a campus culture where every student is encouraged to thrive.

 

ACCOLADES

 

Recognized for having the "best student-to-tenured-faculty ratio" in the nation | The Chronicle for Higher Education

 

Ranked #5 among the "Best Regional Colleges" in the Midwest | U.S. News & World Report, 2025

 

Ranked #4 among "Top Performers on Social Mobility" | U.S. News & World Report, 2025

Why Cottey’s education program is unique

The education programs at Cottey College are unique because they focus on the social-emotional side of teaching, as well as the art of teaching. All courses in the program address how teachers can support the growth of the whole student and the development of caring, competent teachers who will become leaders in their classrooms and at their schools.

We create caring leaders by teaching our students assessment and feedback strategies for listening to, and working alongside, their students. These strategies focus on individual needs to support the growth of the whole student. This program also teaches our students to create engaging lessons that utilize student inquiry and collaboration, again demonstrating our approach of ethics and care.

An Inside Look

What students are saying about us...

  • “I’m a first-generation American, and English is my second language. The PEO Sisterhood has supported my education financially—and even helped me do my paperwork, including the FAFSA. I’m not sure I would be in college without them.”

    • Luci Olvera
      Junior
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  • “Coming to Cottey opened many doors to unique opportunities. I took private piano lessons, joined the dance company, became a certified lifeguard, and even traveled to Spain! Cottey helped me set my sights high, and I’m ready to soar.”

    • Stephany Crooks
      Senior
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  • “During my time at Cottey College, I’ve grown into a person I’m proud of. Cottey has helped prepare me for an amazing career after graduation.”

    • Lily Miller
      Junior
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