Each student participates in the on-campus Work Education Program 15 hours each week and two forty-hour work weeks. Credit from participation in the Work Program, plus any federal and/or state aid for which students qualify, plus a College of the Ozarks Cost of Education Scholarship combine to meet each student's full tuition charge.

Working for an education is the continuing distinctive tradition of this college. The on-the-job experience gained at College of the Ozarks adds an extra dimension to learning. Unlike students attending many other colleges, C of O graduates start their career debt-free, well-educated, and work-experienced!

Debt is openly discouraged. The College does not participate in the federal, state, or private loan programs. College of the Ozarks' Cost of Education Scholarship means students don’t pay tuition at C of O! Other scholarships, including the summer work scholarship, assist many students with the expenses for room and board, books, and other required costs.

The Vision of College of the Ozarks is to develop citizens of Christ-like character who are well-educated, hard-working, and patriotic. To achieve this Vision, the College has Academic, Vocational, Christian, Patriotic and Cultural goals.

The Christian goal of the College is to foster the Christian faith through the integration of faith with learning, living, and service. The Patriotic Goal of the College is to encourage an understanding of American heritage, civic responsibilities, love of country, and willingness to defend it.