Best
Private Colleges in Saint Paul in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Saint Paul, Minnesota, combines management, accounting, marketing, economics, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Many programs also teach communication, data analysis, and strategic planning. Students can explore degrees at the University of St. Thomas, Saint Catherine University, Concordia University, St. Paul, and Metropolitan State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, sales representatives, project coordinators, or operations managers across industries, nonprofits, and businesses throughout Minnesota.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers coursework in developmental psychology, research methods, statistics, social behavior, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior. Popular options include the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, and St. Catherine University, each offering psychology study opportunities. Graduates pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, or community support worker; clinical practice often requires graduate training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Saint Paul, Minnesota combines programming fundamentals, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, and computer systems. Students often build projects, solve practical problems, and explore cybersecurity or artificial intelligence. Saint Paul institutions offering computer science study include the University of St. Thomas, Macalester College, and Metropolitan State University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or web developers, working across technology, healthcare, finance, government, and education.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Saint Paul, Minnesota, can prepare you to support people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group therapy, and supervised clinical practice. Popular local options include the University of St. Thomas and St. Catherine University, both offering graduate counseling study. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health clinicians, or substance-use counselors.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Saint Paul, Minnesota, can lead to practical-nursing certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees, depending on the college. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, and community health, with clinical practice. Colleges include St. Catherine University, Metropolitan State University, Concordia University, St. Paul, and Saint Paul College. Graduates may work as licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, or care coordinators in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare settings.

Best Colleges in Saint Paul, MN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $44,050, compared with $58,841.60 at schools in the top 10%. Average financial aid coverage is 100% overall and 79.14% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 79.14%. Schools receive an average of 4,464.71 applicants, compared with 9,290.4 at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 1,331, while the median number of female applicants is 2,139.
• Average test scores are 1,237.4 on the SAT and 25.2 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 4,374.57. Average enrollment is 254.14 men and 381.29 women.
• The average graduation rate is 67%, compared with 80.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 65% for men and 73% for women.
• Among the institutions, 5 offer associate's degrees, 7 offer bachelor's degrees, 9 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 6 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial aid, and weigh acceptance rates and applicant numbers alongside test scores and graduation rates. Consider which degree levels are available and whether the enrollment and school type suit your preferences.

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

The average total cost of studying in Saint Paul, MN, is $44,806. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed price: what you pay for a degree depends on your school, program, living arrangement, and time to completion. The reported cost figures offer a helpful snapshot as you compare local colleges and map out a realistic budget.

• Average tuition and fees: $46,303.
• Average room and board: $13,563.43.
• Average books and supplies: $1,090.

Saint Paul students often consider the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, Metropolitan State University, and Concordia University, Saint Paul. Compare each school's cost of attendance with your needs: housing, commuting, and course materials affect additional expenses. Living at home may reduce housing costs, while scholarships, grants, or federal aid can make a degree feel financially more attainable. Ask financial-aid offices for personalized estimates, and confirm whether quoted costs cover one year or the entire program.

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

In Saint Paul, MN, expect about four years for a full-time bachelor's degree and about two for an associate degree; part-time study takes longer. At the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, or Metropolitan State University, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and transfer credits. An adviser can map an encouraging path.

Saint Paul's average graduation rate is 67.0%; schools in the top 10% average 80.4%. Rates average 64.0% for men and 69.71% for women. These figures indicate that many students do graduate, while outcomes vary. Ask colleges how they calculate graduation rates and what advising, tutoring, or financial support can help you persist.

To graduate sooner, consider these options:

• Apply AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits accepted by your college toward degree requirements.
• Transfer eligible credits from prior college coursework after confirming equivalencies before enrolling.
• Take summer courses or heavier approved loads, if your schedule and finances allow.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Saint Paul, MN, earn a median alumni salary of $52,349. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $62,899 - a promising benchmark as you consider how a degree could support your next career step.

Saint Paul students can explore institutions such as the University of St. Thomas, St. Catherine University, Hamline University, and Concordia University, St. Paul. Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and career path, but these figures offer a useful starting point for planning.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Saint Paul?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of St. Thomas is a strong choice if you love classic campus architecture. Its historic buildings, tree-lined grounds, and striking Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas create a polished, collegiate atmosphere. For a prospective student, it's a lovely place to stroll between classes and enjoy the changing Minnesota seasons.

What is the most selective college in Saint Paul?

Macalester College is generally considered Saint Paul's most selective college. Its competitive admissions process reflects strong interest from students drawn to its liberal arts focus and international outlook. If you're applying, give yourself time to build a thoughtful application that shows your academic strengths, curiosity, and the perspectives you'd bring to campus.

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

Macalester College offers a small-campus option in Saint Paul, with 2,068 enrolled students and an 87% graduation rate. Its 29% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a selective environment. The listed total study cost is $67,874, while median alumni salary is $39,802. As a liberal arts college in the city, Macalester lets a prospective Saint Paul student consider studying close to neighborhoods and services. Compare its higher cost with completion outcomes and salary data when weighing affordability and fit.

University of St Thomas-Minnesota is a larger Saint Paul study option, enrolling 9,410 students. Its 76% graduation rate and 85% acceptance rate offer useful context for applicants comparing access and completion. Total study cost is $52,820, and median alumni salary is $57,681. As a university with a Saint Paul campus, it may suit students wanting a broader campus community without leaving the city. Carefully consider how its scale, cost, and outcomes align with your academic plans and budget before applying.

Hamline University provides another Saint Paul option, with 2,670 enrolled students. The graduation rate is 60%, and the acceptance rate is 88%, figures applicants can use to compare completion and admissions selectivity. Its total study cost of $48,784 is below the listed costs of the first two colleges, while median alumni salary is $43,181. Located in Saint Paul, Hamline can keep daily study connected to the city. Review cost alongside graduation and salary figures when planning your degree and career.

Bethel University, based in nearby Arden Hills, offers a suburban alternative for a student living in Saint Paul. It enrolls 3,803 students, with a 71% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $44,050, and median alumni salary is $52,349. These figures provide a comparison with colleges in the city, especially when considering location and travel. For Saint Paul applicants, weigh the nearby setting against transportation needs, affordability, and the outcomes that matter to you.

University of Northwestern-St Paul, located in nearby Roseville, gives Saint Paul students another area choice. Its enrollment is 3,175, graduation rate 68%, and acceptance rate 93%. The total study cost is $36,980, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $48,243. Its name identifies it as a university in the Twin Cities area. A prospective student should consider travel from Saint Paul alongside affordability, completion rates, and alumni salary when deciding whether it fits their educational goals.