Colleges in Minnesota

Why go to College in Minnesota?

Minnesota

Minnesota offers an array of educational opportunities for students living in rural or urban areas, and whether they’re interested in a large university or a small college. The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system has a reputation for academic excellence, and is comprised of seven state institutions and 31 state community and technical colleges. The system has made affordability one of its hallmarks, as well, so students can receive a high-quality education at an affordable price.

Population
Minnesota has a population of approximately 5,519,952, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It is one of the most educated populaces in the nation with 92.4% over 25 with a high school diploma, and 33.7% over 25 with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Climate
Minnesota’s climate is continental with very cold winters and hot summers. The state usually begins to experience wintery conditions in November, long before the official start of winter in December. In the northern part of the state, the summers are less humid, whereas southern Minnesota receives more heat and humidity.
Number of Higher Learning Institutions
The state has 169 colleges and universities, and its state system is comprised of seven state institutions and 31 state community and technical colleges.
Sporting Events
The state has a professional team in each of the four major sports: football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. College sports are also well-represented; the University of Minnesota is a member of the Big Ten, the oldest college conference in the nation. Most other colleges in the state also field teams at various competitive levels.
Nightlife
Across the state are hubs of entertainment where students can attend concerts, listen to speakers, see films or exhibits, and sample any number of restaurants and cafes. Notably, the state has a thriving music and arts scene that has spawned many local legends.

What Options are Available for Colleges in Minnesota?

On-Campus

Attending classes on campus is still the most common way of learning in Minnesota. This method engages students in multi-sensory learning that blends real-time instructor-led lectures, class discussions, and peer interaction. While these features are also found in many distance learning programs in Minnesota, some students may prefer a traditional classroom setting in order to remain focused and/or manage their time effectively.

One advantage to attending college on campus is the access to numerous extracurricular activities and living experiences, such as state-of-the-art fitness centers, intramural sports, and close proximity to peers. Studying on campus may be more expensive because of fees, rent, and other costs, but many students consider it a worthwhile investment because of these experiences.

Online Programs

An increasing number of students are choosing to learn from a distance via online learning, as it provides them the affordability and flexibility an on-campus education may not. Schools one of the many learning management systems, such as Blackboard or Canvas, to deliver the coursework synchronously or asynchronously. With synchronous learning, students log on at established times to attend classes and complete assignments. Asynchronous learning offers the most freedom: students log onto classes at their own convenience, but meet established guidelines for homework and other assignments. There is also a hybrid learning model that blends the two.

Online learning requires students possess good time-management skills, and self-motivation is essential to succeed in an online learning format. To determine a student’s suitability for online learning, they should participate in a demo offered by many institutions that provides hands-on experience with the school’s online model of delivery. Students who can thrive in an online environment benefit from added flexibility without compromising educational quality, which leaves time to manage family, career, and other personal obligations.

Hybrid Programs

Online programs that blend face-to-face and web-based learning are called hybrids. Online colleges in Minnesota offer hybrid programming that may vary, with between 25% to 85% of courses delivered online and the rest completed on campus. The online portion of hybrid courses may also be delivered asynchronously or synchronously.

Students who want the would like the flexibility of online learning, and the social and instructional benefits of on-campus learning, will benefit from hybrid models. Some degree programs may even require a hybrid format since there are requirements that necessitate time on campus. For instance, a biology major may complete textbook learning online, but head to campus for lab exercises and research.

Popular Degree Programs in Minnesota

Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of most livable states in the country, in part because it hosts leading medical, manufacturing, and bioscience firms. These companies set the pace for the development of medical devices, create cutting-edge solutions to complex health problems, and buoy the state’s economy through manufacturing. The most popular majors among students in the state reflect the needs of these industries.

  • Social Sciences

    Social science degrees are tops in Minnesota, which includes degrees in law, education, healthcare, and communications. The state’s significant base of companies in manufacturing, biosciences, and other sectors require a range of employees to support these businesses. A thriving business hub also needs professionals to address the needs of workers themselves, such as teachers to educate children and professionals to address healthcare.

  • Business management and administration

    A degree in business management and administration provides businesses in the state with professionals versed in the knowledge and skills to staff administrative support and managerial positions. These businesses require qualified people in accounting, marketing, and human resources, key areas of study covered in this degree program.

What are the Best Online Colleges in Minnesota?

An increasing number of students are turning to online education as an affordable way to attend college while juggling competing work or family obligations. Online schools in Minnesota are among the best in the world, and offers a thriving economy that is one of the strongest in the nation. This section uses a rigorous methodology to determine the ranking of the best online schools in Minnesota. Students will find it an invaluable resource in decision-making about which online college in Minnesota is most suitable.

1

The College of Saint Scholastica Duluth, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 61%
GRADUATION RATE 70%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 31%
RETENTION RATE 84%
DEFAULT RATE 5%

Founded in 1912 in Duluth, the College of Saint Scholastica is a private institution of around 4,000 students. Regarded as one of the top online colleges in Minnesota, the school is home to a robust distance education program that offers degrees in the areas of business and technology, education, health sciences, and nursing. Some of CSC's unique degree programs include physical therapy, organizational behavior, and an MBA in rural healthcare. Many courses are taught in a synchronous format, which allows students to interact with peers and teachers through live virtual meetings. CSC's learning platform offers tools that make it easy to collaborate and perform group work, giving online learners a virtual space that mimics the engagement of classroom learning. The school also provides substantial resources for online degree candidates, including personal academic advisors, counseling, and tutoring services.

2

University of Northwestern-St Paul Saint Paul, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 87%
GRADUATION RATE 66%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 34%
RETENTION RATE 82%
DEFAULT RATE 4%

Based in Roseville, UNWSP is an evangelical school that is known as one of the best online colleges in Minnesota. Online students can pursue an associate degree in Bible studies or a bachelor's degree in biblical studies. Several master's degrees are also available in subjects such as education, human services, theological studies, and organizational leadership. UNWSP conducts its online programs in an asynchronous format, with no required class meetings. Most degrees are also available entirely online, making it possible for students to complete their degree without ever visiting campus. Many graduate programs do hold information sessions on campus to help applicants understand what to expect from classes, but these sessions are optional. Prospective online students can talk to admissions counselors to receive information about the online learning experience.

3

Bethel University Saint Paul, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 95%
GRADUATION RATE 74%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 13%
RETENTION RATE 84%
DEFAULT RATE 3%

An evangelical, nondenominational Christian college that serves around 6,000 students, Bethel operates a main campus in Arden Hills, a suburb of St. Paul. One of the top online schools in Minnesota, Bethel offers dozens of online programs at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and certificate levels. Some of the school's unique programs include nurse-midwifery, higher education leadership, and global business. Bethel is also home to an online seminary program that offers several religious degrees in areas such as Christian thought and theological studies. For students who can attend some on-campus intensives, the school offers three hybrid programs: children's and family ministry, doctor of ministry, and transformational leadership. Intensive sessions last one or two weeks and take place once or twice each academic year.

4

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Minneapolis, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 45%
GRADUATION RATE 77%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 1%
RETENTION RATE 93%
DEFAULT RATE 3%

One of the largest online colleges in Minnesota, UMN delivers many of its distance education programs fully online. UMN offers undergraduate degrees in areas such as applied health, psychology, and international business. Among its unique program offerings is a bachelor's degree in tribal administration and governance. Master's degrees are also available in public health administration, computer science, and integrative health and well-being. Though some courses include practicum experiences that require students to work in a professional setting, these experiences can typically be arranged locally within a student's own community. Other courses use a primarily online format, with at least 80% of course material conducted through distance education. Online students pay the same tuition as in-state residents.

5

Crown College Saint Bonifacius, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 53%
GRADUATION RATE 56%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 44%
RETENTION RATE 68%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

Based in St. Bonifacius, Crown is a private Christian college that offers online degrees in both religious and secular subjects. Among the school's undergraduate options are degrees in alcohol and drug counseling, Christian ministry, disaster and emergency management, global and cultural studies, and pastoral leadership. At the graduate level, degrees are available in areas such as business administration, global leadership, organizational leadership, and ministry leadership. Many online courses are taught in an accelerated, seven-week format that allows students to earn credits quickly. Several programs also provide internship and practicum opportunities so that students can apply their learning in professional environments. While the school maintains connections with many different businesses and organizations, online learners can also arrange their own internship experiences closer to home.

6

Concordia University-Saint Paul Saint Paul, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 55%
GRADUATION RATE 46%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 57%
RETENTION RATE 70%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

A Christian liberal arts college associated with the Lutheran Church, Concordia University-St. Paul enrolls around 4,500 students annually. Though the school is private, CSP's reasonable tuition and deep discounts for distance education students make it one of the most affordable online colleges in Minnesota. Online learners can choose from dozens of undergraduate and graduate degrees in subjects such as radiologic science leadership, exercise science, creative writing, and sports management. CSP is focused on professional preparation for all online degree candidates, with career resources that help graduates find work quickly. The school's resources and training pay off for most students, with 92% of graduates securing employment soon after completing their education.

7

Minnesota State University-Mankato Mankato, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 67%
GRADUATION RATE 49%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 7%
RETENTION RATE 74%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

With more than 15,000 students, Minnesota State University-Mankato is the second-largest college in Minnesota, and the school offers more than a dozen fully online degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. MSU's bachelor's degrees are completion programs that require students to earn their lower-division credits at another institution or through campus courses at MSU. Focused mainly on professional education, the school offers programs in applied organizational studies, international business, technical communications, dental hygiene, and nursing. Undergraduate students can also pursue unique minors in subjects such as aging studies, ethnic studies, nonprofit leadership, and urban studies. Graduate options focus mainly on education and human services in areas such as educational technology, school library studies, and autism spectrum disorders.

8

University of Minnesota-Crookston Crookston, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 77%
GRADUATION RATE 45%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 35%
RETENTION RATE 65%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

With around 1,800 enrolled students, University of Minnesota-Crookston is one of the smallest colleges in the UM system, but its size does not detract from its status as one of the best online schools in Minnesota. Undergraduate students can earn several unique online degrees in areas such as sports and recreation management, international business, manufacturing management, and applied health. UMC's undergraduate minors are business-oriented, with options including marketing, finance, accounting, and management. For graduate students, the university offers a fully online MBA in partnership with the University of North Dakota. Combining academic resources and faculty, the two schools' online MBA program features live virtual class sessions that allow students to engage with faculty and collaborate on group work.

9

Minnesota State University Moorhead Moorhead, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 77%
GRADUATION RATE 43%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 11%
RETENTION RATE 74%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

One of the top online schools in Minnesota, MSUM offers dozens of online undergraduate and graduate degrees that focus primarily on business and education. Students can select from several programs in curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, special education, and school administration. Business students can study global supply chain management, operations management, and business administration with several concentration options. MSU offers most of its distance programs in an "online plus" format, which provides face-to-face options for some or all parts of the program curriculum. While no campus visits are required for these degrees, students able to travel can take advantage of classroom meetings when it suits their schedules.

10

Bemidji State University Bemidji, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 94%
GRADUATION RATE 46%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20%
RETENTION RATE 66%
DEFAULT RATE 9%

Situated on the shores of Minnesota's Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University offers seven fully online degree programs in areas such as accounting, applied engineering, marketing communication, and psychology. Undergraduates can also choose from several unique minors, such as fraud examination and geography. All BSU's online degrees are completion programs, and applicants must have earned at least two years worth of college credit. Aside from its fully online degree programs, the university offers three hybrid degree programs in elementary education, nursing, and social work. Unlike many online schools in Minnesota, BSU does not charge extra tuition for out-of-state online students, making it affordable an affordable option for distance learners.

11

Oak Hills Christian College Bemidji, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 29%
GRADUATION RATE 43%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 10%
RETENTION RATE 57%
DEFAULT RATE 11%

A nondenominational Christian school located near Bemidji, Oak Hills offers four fully online programs: an associate degree in business administration, an associate degree in Bible studies and ministry, a bachelor's in business administration, and a bachelor's in leadership and ministry. Oak Hill's online courses are geared mainly toward working professionals, and the school offers a generous Credit for Prior Learning program that allows students to earn academic credit for relevant work experience. Staff and faculty work with online learners to help determine which previous experiences translate into course credit, including workshops, training seminars, self-study, and military service. Oak Hills places no limit on the number of credits students can earn from prior experience, making it an excellent option for working professionals.

12

Metropolitan State University Saint Paul, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 100%
GRADUATION RATE 30%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 18%
RETENTION RATE 72%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

Based in the Twin Cities, Metro State is regarded as one of the best online colleges in Minnesota for its comprehensive student support services and range of online programs. The school's undergraduate degrees focus primarily on business, with options including human resources management, finance, marketing, and supply chain and operations management. Students can also enroll in three business-oriented graduate programs: public and nonprofit administration, management information systems, and business administration. As a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, Metro State allows students to access the Minnesota Online portal, which aggregates the various online courses and degree programs available across different member colleges. Online learners can select from 6,500 courses, giving them a wide variety of class options to complete their degree.

13

Saint Cloud State University Saint Cloud, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 86%
GRADUATION RATE 42%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 4%
RETENTION RATE 72%
DEFAULT RATE 7%

Serving over 15,000 students, SCSU is one of the largest members of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and one of the top online colleges in Minnesota. The school offers two bachelor's degree completion programs in elective studies and nursing, allowing students to complete their undergraduate education at SCSU after earning credits at another institution. Nursing applicants must hold current licensure, while elective studies students must hold the credit equivalent of an associate degree. The college also offers 17 fully online graduate degrees and certificates, including notable programs in applied behavior analysis, electrical engineering, information media, and public safety executive leadership. Online degree candidates receive a wide variety of support services from the college, including library resources, student disability services, technical support and training, proctored testing services, and free online tutoring.

What are the Best Online Community Colleges in Minnesota?

Students from all backgrounds use two-year and community colleges to earn their associate degrees in any number of disciplines. Since community colleges are cheaper than four-year institutions, many students complete the first two years of their four-year degree at these schools, and do so completely online. Minnesota is an attractive draw to students seeking a quality education at a reasonable price.

This section provides students with a ranking of the best online community colleges in Minnesota. Devised with a rigorous methodology, it is is an invaluable resource to help students determine which online schools in Minnesota meet their academic and financial needs.

1

Alexandria Technical & Community College Alexandria, MN

GRADUATION RATE 64% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 27% RETENTION RATE 71% DEFAULT RATE 12%

Alexandria Tech serves as a leader among online community colleges in Minnesota. The school of 4,000 boasts some of the best graduation, retention, and placement rates among any of the state’s two-year colleges. Founded in the 1960s, Alexandria offers students the opportunity to complete the first half of a four-year degree and earn certificates that help them integrate seamlessly into the workforce.

The school offers dozens of programs in fields like healthcare, art and design, law enforcement, industrial technology, sales, and transportation. Students can also pursue an individualized studies program online. This generalist degree builds credits that transfer to one of the many universities with which Alexandria Tech maintains articulation agreements. The college also holds partnerships with many national and state businesses and industries.

2

Minnesota West Community and Technical College Granite Falls, MN

GRADUATION RATE 44% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 32% RETENTION RATE 67% DEFAULT RATE 16%

Minnesota West counts itself among the best online community colleges in Minnesota. The Worthington-based school offers more than three dozen programs through its virtual campus, including degrees like computer networking, business management, and the college’s associate in liberal arts. The university also maintains brick and mortar learning centers in the southwestern communities of Canby, Jackson, Luverne, Marshall, Pipestone, and Granite Falls.

The college’s Luverne Educational Center for Health Carriers provides some of the best allied health learning facilities in the Midwest. Articulation agreements with dozens of universities from Ohio to Colorado create a pathway to a baccalaureate degree for many students. The majority of students enrolled at Minnesota West attend on a part-time basis.

3

Riverland Community College Austin, MN

GRADUATION RATE 38% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 21% RETENTION RATE 64% DEFAULT RATE 18%

Located in Austin, Riverland offers its 4,000 students access to associate degrees and more than 50 programs. Students can attend school at campuses in Austin, Albert Lea, and Owatonna, or they can enroll online. The school hosts over 350 courses and 20 programs on the web, and its students earn more credits online than through any of its other centers.

Riverland’s most popular programs include its associate of arts in liberal arts, which many students use to earn credits for transfer to a four-year university. The college uses its associate program to create pathways to bachelor’s degrees in a wide variety of disciplines. Other notable programs at Riverland include business, nursing, farm business management, and law enforcement. Most students attend part-time. Riverland’s tuition and fees cost about half of what students pay to attend four-year public schools in the state.

4

Northland Community and Technical College Thief River Falls, MN

GRADUATION RATE 37% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 22% RETENTION RATE 60% DEFAULT RATE 17%

Northland offers technical programs that propel students into the workforce and a liberal arts degree that serves as the first two years of a bachelor’s. Based in East Grand Forks -- with satellite centers in Thief River Falls and Roseau -- Northland serves a student body of 5,000. The college also offers 23 degrees in aerospace, business, healthcare, liberal arts, and manufacturing through its online campus.

Students can pursue traditional two-year programs like business, computers, nursing, and communications, and they can enroll in disciplines less commonly found in online community colleges in Minnesota -- including geospatial intelligence and imagery analysis, automation and production technologies, and specialized tracks like the dietetic technician program. The school boasts its own state-of-the-art aerospace center and offers training in fine arts such as painting, theater, and music.

5

Ridgewater College Willmar, MN

GRADUATION RATE 41% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 12% RETENTION RATE 63% DEFAULT RATE 15%

Among other online community colleges in Minnesota, Ridgewater developed a reputation for career preparedness. The Willmar-based school boasts a 96% job placement record for its graduates. With an additional campus in Hutchison, and an online arm offering 14 programs, the public college serves about 5,000 students annually.

Highlights at Ridgewater include the school’s liberal arts and sciences program, which provides a transfer option for many students with bachelor’s aspirations. Among online community colleges in Minnesota, Ridgewater’s programs in computer-aided drafting, multimedia design technology, law enforcement, early childhood, and health information technology win distinction. Degree candidates benefit from small classes and an extensive support network which features online tutoring, student success workshops, and peer mentoring.

6

Minnesota State Community and Technical College Fergus Falls, MN

GRADUATION RATE 34% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20% RETENTION RATE 60% DEFAULT RATE 17%

One of the largest schools in Minnesota’s community college system, Minnesota State maintains campuses in Moorhead, Fergus Falls, Wadena, and Detroit Lakes. The college’s 8,000 students also enroll in 25 online programs. M State also offers associate degree transfer programs, workforce development, and continuing education. The school boasts a very high success rate among other online community colleges in Minnesota.

The school serves as the top transfer institution for students attending Minnesota State University - Moorhead, North Dakota State, University of North Dakota, and Concordia College. Some of M State’s most noteworthy programs include allied health, business, mental health, paralegal, and pharmacy technology. The college prides itself on affordability, and more than half of the student body attends tuition free.

7

Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical Winona, MN

GRADUATION RATE 26% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 24% RETENTION RATE 60% DEFAULT RATE 17%

Set in Red Wing and Winona, Minnesota Southeast serves about 3,000 students annually. Most students attend part-time. The school offers more than 30 programs in the liberal arts and technical fields, with 20 of those programs available entirely online. Known nationally for its training in guitar and band instrument repair, the college emphasizes student-centered, personalized education with an average 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

The college hosts web-delivered programs in computer security, accounting, software development, and medical support that rank among the best degrees available at online community colleges in Minnesota. The school also offers an array of liberal arts courses online, allowing students to earn credits that they can take into a four-year bachelor’s program.

8

Dakota County Technical College Rosemount, MN

GRADUATION RATE 32% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 13% RETENTION RATE 58% DEFAULT RATE 13%

Dakota County Technical College is one of five standalone technical schools in Minnesota’s system of two-year colleges. The majority of the Rosemount institution’s 2,000 students pursue degrees that lead to immediate jobs, and the college offers unique programs in brewing, heavy-duty truck repair, civil engineering technology, and veterinary technology. The school also serves as also home to a GM Automotive Service program.

Though it focuses on vocational training, Dakota County also hosts a dozen degree and certificate programs through its virtual campus, including accounting, marketing, and business administration. Dakota Tech delivered about 20% of its credits online in 2017. The college champions sustainability, and the campus aims for green policies wherever possible. With an average age of 29, the school caters to a slightly older demographic than many of the other online community colleges in Minnesota.

9

Central Lakes College-Brainerd Brainerd, MN

GRADUATION RATE 41% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 14% RETENTION RATE 58% DEFAULT RATE 19%

Central Lakes College sits near the lakes region communities of Brainerd and Staples. Known for agriculture education and technical training, the school also hosts seven programs that present students with unique opportunities. For example, few other schools offer online degrees in enology and viticulture. CLC’s other online offerings include degrees in agriculture science and computer information technology and an associate transfer program.

CLC’s program list includes a variety of unique programs, including natural resources law enforcement, robotics manufacturing, Ojibwe studies, wildlife tourism, and sustainable greenhouse production. The college’s 6,000 students attend largely on a part-time basis, and more than 95% of them find work in their field upon graduation. The school also boasts its own Veterans Resource Center.

10

Lake Superior College Duluth, MN

GRADUATION RATE 26% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 21% RETENTION RATE 55% DEFAULT RATE 15%

Lake Superior Community College offers an array of liberal arts and technical programs to residents of the Duluth area and beyond. LSC’s facilities stand out among the online community colleges in Minnesota. They include a Center for Cyber Security, a state-of-the-art Emergency Response Training Center, and a Center for Advanced Aviation. The school offers more than 200 classes and 21 degree programs, including a transfer degree and many degrees in business, computing, and law.

Students at LSC can launch careers in a year or less or gain credits towards a four-year-degree. The college holds articulation agreements with a host of Midwestern universities, including most of the public post-secondary schools in Minnesota. Online learners at LSC enjoy customized education, small class sizes, and the third-lowest tuition in the Minnesota public college system.

11

North Hennepin Community College Brooklyn Park, MN

GRADUATION RATE 13% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 16% RETENTION RATE 65% DEFAULT RATE 14%

North Hennepin Community College’s campus sits just north of Minneapolis in Brooklyn Park. With 10,000 students, the Hennepin County school numbers among the largest community colleges in Minnesota. The diverse student body overwhelmingly attends part-time, and the most popular majors include liberal arts, pre-nursing, business administration, and computer science. It also provides access to less common community college options like film, American sign language, studio arts, history, and exercise science.

North Hennepin offers more than 70 degree and certificate programs, many of them online. About 25% of the college’s course sections take place entirely online, and 17% include at least some web-delivered content. NHCC also provides a pathway to a bachelor’s through the school’s University Center partners. The college prides itself on its low tuition.

12

St Cloud Technical and Community College Saint Cloud, MN

GRADUATION RATE 37% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 9% RETENTION RATE 53% DEFAULT RATE 13%

St. Cloud Tech provides its 6,000 students with 90 career-oriented and transfer degree programs. The school offers five of these online: liberal arts and sciences, business management, medical coding, and two in finance and credit. Most coursework in St. Cloud’s virtual campus is offered asynchronously. Nearly 20% of St. Cloud’s students attend classes online; most students hail from the six counties surrounding the school.

St. Cloud doubled in size in the past decade, making it one of the fastest-growing online community colleges in Minnesota. The school’s programs in biomedical equipment technology, nuclear energy technology specialist, and water environment technology offer students unique educational options. The college boasts excellent job placement numbers, with more than 95% of graduates finding employment upon graduation. All students must take the Accuplacer exam.

13

Rochester Community and Technical College Rochester, MN

GRADUATION RATE 22% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 19% RETENTION RATE 52% DEFAULT RATE 14%

One of the nation’s oldest community colleges, Rochester provides students access to more than 70 technical and transfer programs, including 17 online degree and certificate programs. These include focuses in the liberal arts, medical administrative assisting, healthcare informatics, workplace communication, and cancer registry management. Most professors teach their online classes in an asynchronous format and keep to the semester schedule.

Rochester also hosts an array of pioneering programs, including equine science, clinical neurophysiology, surgical technology, and welding technology. The college partners with local business and industry and offers service-learning programs across the country and worldwide. About half of Rochester’s 7,500 students attend full time and the other half part time. Students pay a tuition rate at Rochester similar to most online community colleges in Minnesota.

14

Inver Hills Community College Inver Grove Heights, MN

GRADUATION RATE 21% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 16% RETENTION RATE 54% DEFAULT RATE 12%

Located near the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, Inver Hills Community College offers more than 50 programs to its 4,000 students. The school’s program offerings compare favorably with other online community colleges in Minnesota. It offers an associate of arts designed for transfer into a four-year institution and three associate degrees in business fields. The college also hosts nine certificate programs online, most in business and taught in an asynchronous format.

Inver Hills won national recognition as an “adult-friendly” school, and it also developed a reputation as an ideal choice for veterans. The college’s innovative Adult Success through Accelerated Pathways program helps students earn credits for life experience and provides a flexible, independent pace for learning. The school offers tuition rates among the lowest at any of Minnesota’s public, two-year colleges.

15

South Central College North Mankato, MN

GRADUATION RATE 26% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 13% RETENTION RATE 56% DEFAULT RATE 16%

Students attend South Central College at campuses in North Mankato and Faribault and online. The two-year institution offers more than 50 programs in career-oriented technical fields and studies that seamlessly transfer to the state’s four-year universities. Many of the school’s 4,700 students earn credits equal to the first two years of a bachelor’s degree at a price much lower than any public or private university. As with other online community colleges in Minnesota, South Central provides workforce development opportunities through local businesses.

The school offers three online degrees: administration of childcare programs, child development, and administrative office specialist. Students can also pursue three certificates through the web: business software, client relations, and web programming. Most of the school’s digital coursework runs asynchronously, but some classes do require real-time attendance.

How We Ranked the Schools

To determine the best programs, we looked at the most important factors prospective students, mainly common predictors of future success and a school's commitment to online programs. This boils down to admissions rate, student loan default rate, retention rate, graduation rate, and the percent of students enrolled in online classes. All data points are taken from information provided by colleges and universities to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Each factor is weighted evenly in order to give an objective view and determine the best online master's in management information systems programs. To calculate our rankings, we looked at a school's ranking when organized by a single factor, and then averaged each category's ranking to find an overall score: Admissions Rate (20%) + Default Rate (20%) + Retention Rate (20%) + Graduation Rate (20%) + Percent of Students Enrolled in Online Classes (20%) = Final score.

Education Trends in Minnesota

Minnesota has a very educated populace, with 10.7% of adults over the age of 25 holding associate degrees; nearly 34% of adults age 25 and older hold at least a bachelor’s degree, which is above the national average of 29.7%. Although the state spends less money on postsecondary education than the national average, it remains a hub of rigorous educational programming, excelling in fields such as advanced manufacturing and biosciences.

  Minnesota United States
Source: SHEEO and U.S. Census
Postsecondary Education Spending per Full-Time Student $5,695 $6,954
Percent of Tax Revenue Allocated to Higher Education 4.3% 5.8%
Percentage of adults over 25 with associate degree 10.7% 8.1%
Percentage of adults over 25 with bachelor's degree 22.5% 18.5%
Percentage of adults over 25 with graduate degree or higher 11.2% 11.2%

Paying for College in Minnesota

College tuition is a significant investment for students and their families, and should be carefully considered in the decision-making process. While tuition at colleges in Minnesota is higher than the national average, online students save money on fees, room and board, transportation, and other expenses that most on-campus students incur. They also receive an education in one of the top collegiate systems in the nation.

Tuition Prices

Tuition at two-year and four-year colleges in Minnesota is $5,377 and $10,952, respectively, both above the national average, according to the College Board. Note that these numbers do not include other costs such as rent and transportation, which students avoid when attending college online.

Financial Aid

While a college education is an investment in one’s future, many students and their families need assistance paying for college. Financial aid comes in different forms -- scholarships, grants, and loans -- and most every school offers some combination of the three. This is determined by the specific program’s requirements, and can also be based on a student’s needs or merit.

  • Scholarships may be federally-funded, institutional (awarded by the school), or offered by private organizations or businesses based on merit or special abilities. They do not have to be repaid.
  • Grants are usually awarded based on need. They also do not need to be repaid.
  • Loans must be repaid and are federally or privately issued.

Financial aid that does not need to be repaid is obviously preferable, as it mitigates a student’s debt burden. The first step in the financial aid process is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines one’s eligibility for financial aid.

Cost for Online Programs in Minnesota

Online learning saves money because students avoid paying the additional fees, rent, transportation, childcare, and other expenses common for on-campus students. Though tuition may be the same, these fees and extra living costs can add up.

Cost of Living by Region

The cost of a student’s living expenses are impacted by where a student chooses to attend college. Rent and other expenses are more costly in areas like Minneapolis-St. Paul and the surrounding suburbs, compared to more rural areas. The cost of living will also impact a student’s debt upon graduation. The table below provides a sample of housing costs across the upper Midwest.

Scholarships for Minnesota College Students

Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship
The amount varies, but may pay full tuition and fees for one year; high school students who demonstrate academic excellence in disciplines such as English, math, or social sciences are eligible, and must plan to attend a university in Minnesota. View Scholarship
Minnesota Masonic Charities Heritage Scholarship
$10,000; Minnesota high school seniors with a GPA 3.0-3.59 qualify. Must be a Minnesota resident and plan to attend a four-year college. Other scholarships are also available from this charity. View Scholarship
University of Minnesota Diversity Scholarships
varies; there are a number of scholarships available based on need and merit. View Scholarship
University of Minnesota Crookston
$500-$2000; new incoming high school graduates who have a 3.25 GPA and ACT score of 21 or higher are eligible for these renewable academic scholarships. View Scholarship
Century College Scholarships
varies; each year the institution offers a number of scholarships based on merit and need. The requirements vary based on the individual scholarship program. View Scholarship
Saint Cloud State University Scholarships
varies; this program is open to transfer students with at least a cumulative 3.5/4.0 GPA at the college level and transferrable credits. There are also Phi Theta Kappa and Alumni Scholarships available with different eligibility criteria. View Scholarship
Barbara J. Penny Community Service Scholarship
$1,500; awarded to college and university students in Minnesota who have demonstrated a commitment to community service and leadership. View Scholarship
NIADA/Manheim Regional Scholarships
$3,500; the scholarship is meant for students with outstanding academic ability to help pay for tuition at the university of student’s choice in the Midwest, including Minnesota. View Scholarship
Presbyterian Student Opportunity Scholarship
up to $2,500; eighty needs-based scholarships are available for full-time sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are attending college, including residents of Minnesota. Must belong to the Presbyterian Church. View Scholarship

Can all Scholarships be Used for Online Programs?

Most scholarships can be applied to schools in Minnesota, whether a student is planning to attend on-campus or online. However, there may be instances in which scholarships have additional requirements that may preclude applicability for online colleges in Minnesota. Students should contact the specific scholarship sponsor to ensure that it can be used for online study.

Employment Outlook in Minnesota

The unemployment rate in Minnesota is among the lowest in the nation at 3.8%, below the national rate of 4.3%. The state’s thriving economy is due to the various industries -- such as manufacturing, healthcare, and biosciences -- that make up its economic backbone. The annual mean wage for the state is $51,330, above the national average of $49,630. Educated professionals with degrees in the social sciences and business administration can expect a job market with far more job opportunities than many other places in the nation.

  Minnesota United States
Source: BLS and BLS
Unemployment Rate, May 2017 3.8% 4.3%
Annual Mean Wage, May 2016 $51,330 $49,630

Top Employers and Industries in Minnesota

Top Industries in Minnesota

  • Education and Health Services: This industry includes jobs at all levels of education, such as teachers and teachers assistants; it also includes doctors, nurses, and administrators who staff doctor's offices, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and nursing homes, and those involved in providing social assistance.
  • Trade, Transportation, and Utilities: This industry is part of a supersector that includes wholesale and retail trade, transportation and warehousing, and utilities. It includes manufacturing and construction, and the jobs affiliated with those industries which may be technical or non-technical.
  • Professional and Business Services: This is one of the fastest growing industries and includes administrative jobs and managerial positions. Employees have professional and technical expertise in areas such as accounting, computer services, architecture, law, and engineering.

BLS


Top Employers in Minnesota

  • Office and Administrative Support Occupations: 404,120 employees
  • Sales and Related Occupations: 275,740 employees
  • Food Preparation and Serving-Related Occupations : 236,820 employees

Source: careerinfonet.org

Accreditation for Colleges in Minnesota

A school’s accreditation status is an important factor in one’s decision. Accreditation by a regional or national accrediting agency ensures the school and its programs meet high standards. In order to secure accreditation, schools complete a rigorous accreditation process every three or four years. Once the school meets the established criteria, it can earn accreditation.

Regional accreditation is the most prestigious and popular form of accreditation.

Regional accreditation is the most prestigious and popular form of accreditation. The NCA (North Central Association of Colleges and Schools) is one of the six regional accrediting bodies in the U.S., and its Higher Learning Commission accredits schools in Minnesota. Most online schools in Minnesota are part boast accreditation from this body.

Schools may also be nationally accredited by one of three of the most popular national accrediting agencies: the Distance Education and Training Council, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, and Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

Resources for Students in Minnesota

  • Career and Education Explorer: The repository provides students with an easy-to-use online tool with information about jobs in Minnesota, and the level of postsecondary education and skills needed to secure them.
  • Minnesota State Career Wise Education: A Minnesota State University career and education resource that allows students to assess their skills, set educational and career goals, and explore more than 800 careers completely online.
  • Ready, Set, Go MN: This site is sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Education and provides high school students with information about concurrent enrollment in high school and college, college enrollment options, Advanced Placement, and other ways to get a jumpstart on a college education, including distance learning.
  • Minnesota Transfer: The state has streamlined the transfer process from college to college. This site provides students with all the information they need, from the application process to financial aid and resources available.
  • Minnesota Office of Higher Education: Military students can access information about benefits that are specific to Minnesota, such as financial aid and scholarships.