Best
Colleges in Saint Paul in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Saint Paul, Minnesota, builds skills in management, finance, marketing, and organizational decision-making. Courses commonly include accounting, economics, business law, human resources, statistics, operations, and strategic management. Saint Paul options include the University of St. Thomas, Metropolitan State University, and Concordia University, St. Paul. Graduates often pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, sales representatives, or management trainees across industries, with advancement shaped by experience.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers insight into behavior, thought, and mental health. Programs cover developmental psychology, cognition, social psychology, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Options include the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, Macalester College, and Metropolitan State University. Graduates pursue roles in human services, case management, community outreach, research assistance, or recruiting. Clinical and counseling positions usually require advanced degrees, licensure, and supervised experience, so undergraduate study alone may not qualify.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Saint Paul, Minnesota, combines programming, mathematics, and practical problem-solving. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and may pursue internships with local employers. Popular Saint Paul options include the University of St. Thomas, Metropolitan State University, Hamline University, and Concordia University, St. Paul. Graduates commonly become software developers, systems analysts, web developers, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists in many industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Saint Paul, Minnesota, combines psychology with helping skills. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, group counseling, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and trauma-informed care. Students may gain supervised experience in clinics or schools. Saint Paul options include the University of St. Thomas, Concordia University, and St. Catherine University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, case managers, or community support specialists, subject to licensing requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Saint Paul, Minnesota, combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, adult health, pediatrics, and community health. Saint Catherine University, Saint Paul College, and Metropolitan State University offer nursing study options in the city, from practical nursing through bachelor's-level pathways. Graduates commonly pursue work as registered nurses or licensed practical nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and community agencies, including home health settings.

Best Colleges in Saint Paul, MN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $40,792.0, compared with $57,336.2 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $16,544.2.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, versus 81.62% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 81.62%. Schools receive an average of 3,993.88 applicants, compared with 9,209.8 at schools in the top 10%.
• The median number of applicants is 1,061.0 men and 2,137.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,237.4 on the SAT and 25.2 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 4,660.25; the averages reported for enrolled men and women are 234.62 and 350.25, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 64.12%, compared with 79.3% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 61.0% for men and 68.5% for women.
• By degree level, 5 institutions offer associate's degrees, 8 offer bachelor's degrees, 10 offer master's degrees, and 6 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 7 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid together, since the overall median cost is lower while reported aid coverage is higher than at top-10% schools. Also weigh acceptance rates, applicant volume, test scores, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and the reported enrollment figures against your academic goals and preferences.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is $40,276.62. For a prospective student, that figure offers a useful starting point, but your actual bill will depend on the college, program, financial aid, and living arrangements. Saint Paul has several well-known options, including the University of St. Thomas, Macalester College, Hamline University, and St. Catherine University, so comparing their aid offers and program costs can help you find a good fit.

For budgeting, the average figures provided are:

• Average tuition and fees: $41,809.25
• Average room and board: $13,851.00
• Average books and supplies: $1,148.57

Use each college's net-price calculator to estimate your costs after grants and scholarships, and ask about Saint Paul scholarships, payment plans, and program fees. Living at home or sharing housing may change your expenses. Comparing offers can help you choose a campus and degree path that feels exciting while keeping your budget in view.

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

In Saint Paul, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. A master's program commonly adds one to two years. At local options such as the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, Metropolitan State University, and Saint Paul College, your actual timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and how many credits you bring.

Across the schools represented by the data, the average graduation rate is 64.12%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 79.3%. Rates average 61.29% for men and 66.38% for women, showing that completion is achievable, though persistence matters. You may finish sooner by planning with an academic adviser and using options such as:

• Use AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits earned in high school.
• Transfer applicable credits from another accredited college.
• Take advantage of summer classes or accelerated sections, checking prerequisites and workload carefully before enrolling early.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Saint Paul, MN, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $53,017. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $61,595, offering an encouraging benchmark as you plan your career.

Saint Paul students may consider institutions such as the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, Macalester College, or the College of St. Catherine. Your earnings can vary based on your field, experience, and employer, so use these figures as a broad guide rather than a guaranteed starting salary.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Saint Paul?

There are about nine higher-education institutions in Saint Paul if you include colleges, a community college, a law school, and a seminary. They include Macalester College, Hamline University, the University of St. Thomas, Saint Paul College, and Metropolitan State University. Counts differ depending on what you include, so "about nine" is a useful estimate.

What is the main college in Saint Paul?

Saint Paul doesn't have one officially designated "main" college. The University of St. Thomas is one of the city's best-known universities, while Saint Paul College is a prominent public two-year college. Which feels like the best fit depends on what you want to study, the kind of campus experience you prefer, and your plans after graduation.

Where do college students go in Saint Paul?

Students spend time around their own campuses, and many also visit Grand Avenue for cafés, restaurants, and shops. Summit Hill and Cathedral Hill offer inviting neighborhood spots, while Como Park and the Mississippi riverfront are good choices for fresh air and a change of pace. Campus events and student spaces are easy places to meet people, too.

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

Macalester College gives Saint Paul, MN, students a small campus experience with 2,068 enrolled students and a liberal arts focus. Its 87% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 29% acceptance rate indicates selective admission. Annual total study cost is $67,874, and median alumni salary is $39,802. Students seeking close faculty engagement and broad academic exploration may find its setting appealing. Living in Saint Paul also places cultural venues, parks, and internships within reach of campus.

The University of St. Thomas-Minnesota offers Saint Paul, MN, students a larger private-university setting, enrolling 9,410 students. Its 76% graduation rate and 85% acceptance rate provide useful context when comparing academic outcomes and admission selectivity. The total cost of studying is $52,820, while median alumni salary is $57,681, the highest figure among these five colleges. With its broad campus community and career-oriented opportunities, it may suit students seeking varied programs and an urban location in the Twin Cities metro area.

Hamline University is a Saint Paul institution that can offer students a close-knit university experience in Minnesota's capital. It enrolls 2,670 students, with a 60% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. Its total cost of studying is $48,784, and median alumni salary is $43,181. For students, Hamline's location offers access to city amenities, community organizations, and internship settings. Consider whether its academic offerings and campus environment match your goals, alongside affordability and outcomes when comparing colleges in Saint Paul.

Bethel University, located in Arden Hills near Saint Paul, MN, gives students access to a suburban campus within the Twin Cities area. It enrolls 3,803 students, with a 71% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $44,050, and median alumni salary is $52,349. Its mid-sized population may appeal to those seeking a campus community while remaining close to Saint Paul. Compare program choices, commuting needs, and financial aid to judge fit for your education.

The University of Northwestern-St. Paul is a Christian university in Roseville, near Saint Paul, MN, offering students a campus-based option in the Twin Cities. It enrolls 3,175 students, and reports a 68% graduation rate and a 93% acceptance rate. Its total cost of studying is $36,980, the lowest among these five schools; median alumni salary is $48,243. Students may appreciate its community and faith-based perspective. Review academic programs, campus life, and transportation options before deciding whether it fits your goals.