The purpose of Merit Badge Skill Centers (Colleges, Academies, Universities & Series) is to offer Scouts an opportunity to meet with highly qualified professionals to learn and foster the development of lifelong interests. Particular emphasis is given to career and hobby oriented Merit Badges, especially those with limited availability of counselors. The Great Rivers Council hosts numerous colleges and skill centers throughout the year.
Innovation Space Merit Badge Series – Pathway to Eagle
Location: Scouting Adventure Center in Columbia, MO
The Innovation Space Merit Badge Series takes advantage of the unique opportunities provided by the Sinquefield Innovation Space. Different Merit Badges are offered throughout the year at the Scouting Adventure Center in an effort to meet the increasing demand for more merit badge opportunities.
In 2026 the Sinquefield Innovation Space is proud to offer the Pathway to Eagle Merit Badge Series at the Scouting Adventure Center.
Starting in January, the Innovation Space will host an Eagle Required Merit Badge Event.
Please subscribe to our Program Newsletter to receive monthly updates on new virtual merit badge classes.
Visit our Council Calendar to see the latest classes available.Pathway to
Spring Breakout Merit Badge Academy
March 20-22, 2026
Location: Missouri Military Academy
Looking for something to do this Spring Break? Come earn some merit badges and Webelos/AOL adventures! Join us for Spring Breakout, hosted at the Missouri Military Academy. This event is for all Scouts BSA and Webelos/AOL . All activities will be on Saturday. Camping is available on the Missouri Military Academy Campus on Friday and Saturday evening.
Visit our Council Calendar for registration information.
Lake of the Ozarks Scout Reservation Merit Badge College
May 15-17, 2025
Location: Lake of the Ozarks Scout Reservation
A great event at Lake of the Ozarks Scout Reservation. The Merit Badge College hosts over 500 Scouts and leaders annually from across the region.
We are excited to host this opportunity to open our camp, facilities, and the Sinquefield Invention Campus for Scouts to earn one of over 30 different merit badges.
Visit our Council Calendar for registration information.
Linn Merit Badge University
July 25, 2026
Location: Osage County RII Schools in Linn, MO
Join us for a great opportunity for Scouts to earn a merit badge led by the experts at State Tech. Over 40 merit badges to choose from. Make it a weekend by camping at the Linn Lions Club Fairgrounds
Visit our Council Calendar for registration information.
State Fair Merit Badge College
September 12, 2026
Location: State Fair Community College
Join us for our State Fair Merit Badge College in partnership with the State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Missouri. Offering unique merit badge opportunities utilizing the newly renovated and state-of-the-art college facilities at State Fair Community College. Take advantage of the great camping located just across the street at the State Fair Campgrounds in Sedalia, MO.
Visit our Council Calendar for registration information.
Mizzou Merit Badge University
Mid-to-late October, 2026
Location: University of Missouri
We are looking forward to you and your Troop joining us and over 1,000 other Scouts and Scouters from across the state and beyond at the largest Merit Badge University in the area.
Take Advantage of the unique state of the art facilities provided by the University of Missouri and their professional staff.
Visit our Council Calendar for registration information.
