Best
Private Colleges in Minneapolis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Minneapolis, MN, combines business knowledge with access to a metropolitan economy. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and entrepreneurship. Programs may offer internships and concentrations such as human resources or analytics. Minneapolis institutions offering study include the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College. Graduates pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, operations supervisors, or management trainees across industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Minneapolis, MN offers coursework in developmental psychology, cognitive processes, social behavior, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students explore how people think, feel, and interact while building skills. Popular local options include the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College, which provides psychology coursework and transfer pathways. Graduates may pursue research assistant, behavioral health technician, case manager, or human resources roles; becoming a licensed psychologist generally requires graduate training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Minneapolis offers access to strong academic and technology communities. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Students also build problem-solving skills through labs and projects. Popular local choices include the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and Augsburg University, both offering computer science study. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity analysts, or data scientists locally after graduation.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Minneapolis, MN can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities across diverse settings. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group techniques, and supervised practicum or internship experience. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health clinicians, or case managers, depending on degree and licensure. Minneapolis-based options include Augsburg University and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, with program availability varying by degree level.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Minneapolis, MN combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, nutrition, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals. Programs also emphasize patient safety, ethics, and communication. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse assistants, or public health nurses, depending on degree and licensure. Popular Minneapolis colleges include the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College.

Best Colleges in Minneapolis, MN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 25,214.0, compared with 44,704.8 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 19,490.8.
• Average financial-aid coverage is 100.0% of students, versus 82.0% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 82.0%.
• Schools receive an average of 1,499.25 applicants, compared with 3,138.8 among top-10% schools. The median applicant counts are 324.0 men and 449.0 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,283.0 and 21.0, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 14,866.86; the average enrolled counts are 173.25 men and 148.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.17%, compared with 68.0% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 55.0% for men and 60.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability with your budget, and consider how acceptance rates and applicant counts relate to your priorities. Also weigh the SAT and ACT averages, enrollment figures, graduation rates - including the differences by gender - and the degree options and school types available.

How much does studying at a college in Minneapolis, MN cost?

For a student considering a degree in Minneapolis, MN, the average total cost of studying is $25,420.29. The available averages list tuition and fees at $26,623.43, room and board at $13,570.67, and books and supplies at $1,440.67. These figures are useful planning benchmarks for your budget, but they may be calculated differently, so don't add them together as one bill.

• Tuition and fees: $26,623.43
• Room and board: $13,570.67
• Books and supplies: $1,440.67

At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College, actual costs vary by program, aid, and housing. Compare school estimates, ask about grants and scholarships, and budget for transportation and personal expenses. Minneapolis has options to help you find a good fit, and a financial-aid counselor can make planning feel less overwhelming. If you balance work and classes, consider how your course load affects time to graduation, because extra semesters can increase overall spending.

How long does it take to finish college in Minneapolis, MN?

In Minneapolis, MN, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree takes two; graduate programs vary. At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, or Minneapolis College, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and study load. Work, family responsibilities, or changing majors may extend your studies, and that's normal - not a setback.

Graduation figures show degree completion takes persistence: the average graduation rate is 54.17%, compared with 68% among the top 10% of schools. Reported averages are 49% for men and 55.83% for women. Rates vary by institution and cohort.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP/IB or transfer credits, taking summer classes, choosing accelerated programs, or earning prior-learning credit where accepted. Meet with an adviser early to map prerequisites and confirm which credits count. Clear planning can make progress feel achievable and keep your Minneapolis degree on track for you.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Minneapolis, MN, have a median alumni salary of $54,261. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $78,433 - a promising benchmark if you're weighing the payoff of earning a degree in the city.

Minneapolis offers options such as the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Augsburg University, and Minneapolis College. Your own earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path, but these figures give you a useful starting point as you compare programs and picture your next steps.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Minneapolis?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is a strong choice if you enjoy a campus with a mix of impressive architecture and natural scenery. Its Minneapolis campus stretches along the Mississippi River, and the East Bank's Northrop Mall offers a memorable green space framed by historic university buildings. River views and walking paths add to its appeal.

What is the most selective college in Minneapolis?

Among well-known Minneapolis institutions, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) is a likely candidate based on reported overall acceptance rates, which are lower than those commonly reported for the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Selectivity can change from year to year, though, and admission to particular programs may be more competitive than the college-wide rate suggests.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Minneapolis, MN Ranking in 2026-2027

Minneapolis College of Art and Design offers a focused creative education in downtown Minneapolis, MN, where students can connect coursework with the city's museums, studios, and design community. It enrolls 820 students, with a 51% graduation rate and 48% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $44,784, while median alumni salary is $31,299. For aspiring artists and designers, its specialized environment may suit students seeking campus life and metropolitan creative opportunities while planning carefully for costs and career goals.

North Central University offers a faith-centered university experience near downtown Minneapolis, MN, with access to urban internships, services, and cultural activities. It enrolls 852 students, graduates 66% of students, and has a 99% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $30,350, and median alumni salary is $39,448. Students considering its smaller scale can weigh community and campus fit alongside career goals, transportation, housing, and personal budget. In Minneapolis, city-based learning and connections may complement classroom study across a range of academic interests.

Augsburg University is a private university in Minneapolis, MN, serving students in an urban campus setting near downtown and the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Its enrollment is 3,452, with a 52% graduation rate and an 82% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $44,652, while median alumni salary is $49,642. Students may value the city's cultural diversity, transit options, and community-based learning opportunities. Compare program offerings, financial aid, and commuting needs to see how Augsburg fits your educational and professional plans in Minneapolis.

Dunwoody College of Technology is a career-focused technical college in Minneapolis, MN, offering practical learning for students interested in applied fields and hands-on problem-solving. It enrolls 1,534 students, reports a 66% graduation rate, and has a 99% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $25,214, and median alumni salary is $58,880. Minneapolis-based students can explore local employers and urban resources while comparing programs, equipment, schedules, and financial aid. The college's technical focus may appeal to learners seeking direct career preparation.

Capella University is a Minneapolis-based institution known for flexible online higher education, making it an option for students balancing coursework with work or family responsibilities. It enrolls 47,761 students and reports a 20% graduation rate; acceptance data are unavailable. Total study cost is $14,400, and median alumni salary is $86,153. Prospective students should verify program formats, accreditation, transfer options, and additional fees. For Minneapolis, MN, residents, online study can reduce commuting, while requiring planning for independent learning and schedules.