Springfield

With a population of about 156,000, Springfield is the third largest city in Missouri. It is the county seat of Greene County, located in southwestern Missouri along Interstate 44, which follows in the path of the original Route 66. The greater Springfield metropolitan area is home to over 400,000 people and takes in the counties of Webster, Greene, Polk, Christian and Dallas. Springfield was incorporated in 1838 and has a rich history involving the settlement of the Ozarks, Trail of Tears, the Civil War, the development of country music and the building of the transcontinental railroad. In 1865, Springfield was the site of a famous gunfight that cemented the reputation of Wild Bill Hickok. Springfield has a public bus system served with a fleet of bio-diesel powered buses. Springfield has been listed near the top of several lists in recent years as one of the best places to live in the United States.

Educational and Career Opportunities in Springfield, MO

Colleges in Springfield have over 42,000 students enrolled in a wide variety of programs. Springfield colleges offer students a quality education to prepare for any career, in a pleasant learning environment with access to the area’s bountiful recreational and cultural resources. Springfield has a strong economy with jobs in healthcare, tourism, education, government, manufacturing, entertainment and religion. Manufacturers with a presence in Springfield include Solo Cup, Northrup Grumman, Kraft Foods, Hutchens Industries, and others. The city receives over three million tourists annually. It has a large exposition and convention center and many nearby attractions in the Ozarks. Springfield is the headquarters of a diverse list of organizations, including Bass Pro Shops and the Assemblies of God. Colleges in Springfield not only provide students with excellent educations, but they are also among the largest employers in the area. Springfield colleges prepare students to engage the world in any career in today’s changing economy.