Accredited Degree Programs, Scholarships and Resources for Top Minnesota Schools
The state of Minnesota is well-known for having an educated population—only one other state has more adults who have earned at least an associate degree in college. But more students in the state are waiting to earn their college education until later in life, in favor of working straight out of high school.
For students who are ready to go back and earn their college degree in Minnesota, online programs offer flexibility to learn while also working and taking care of family commitments. This page provides helpful resources and answers commonly asked questions about online college costs in Minnesota, helps students sort through transfer credit confusion and see how much they could make by earning a college degree.
Best Online Colleges in Minnesota
Minnesota continues to make strides to increase the affordability of higher education. Minnesota is one of only three states in the country to increase funding by more than 5% between 2017 and 2018, and students can also take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset education costs.
This guide covers important information for students considering online schools and colleges in Minnesota, including financial aid opportunities, adult education programs, and helpful online resources.
These rankings include
#1 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students who plan to attend school online can consider the University of Minnesota's remote academic programs. In addition to in-person programs at its Minnesota campus, the public school's academic options include seven online programs. Online learners can take advantage of institutional resources and a supportive online learning community to succeed academically.
The online learning platform allows enrollees to complete group projects, attend virtual office hours, and develop a supportive academic network. In addition to completing general education requirements, learners take advanced courses in their field. Students discuss their plans with academic advisors to select electives that match their goals and interests. Many enrollees pursue internships to gain professional experience, which can make them more competitive for positions after graduation.
While program costs vary, applicants can contact the financial aid office for information about specific fees and expenses. In addition to federal financial aid, students can apply to private scholarship programs.
#2 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Winona State University
Winona, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who need scheduling flexibility can consider Winona State University's online programs. Although the school's campus is in Minnesota, students can attend its 20 online programs from anywhere. The institution enrolls 2,591 online degree-seekers.
The college’s online learning community is next to none. Participants can develop connections with classmates, which may lead to jobs after graduation. Online students can pursue internship opportunities at facilities near their home. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Enrollees gain professional and academic guidance through career workshops, mock interviews, and access to career services and academic advising.
Students can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. To receive the most funding possible, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and any other awards for which they qualify. According to the institution, 90% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
#3 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners searching for a high-quality education can consider Bemidji State University. The public institution enrolls 2,213 students in 17 online programs. Learners with personal or professional responsibilities can choose online programs that allow them to complete assignments according to their schedule.
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Participants can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to develop professional skills and improve their resume. Learners also gain access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, and receive academic and professional guidance for the duration of their degree program.
The school offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible applicants. Institutional scholarships and fellowships feature eligibility requirements, which students can learn about from financial aid officers. Of its enrollees, the school reports that 90% receive some type of financial aid.
#4 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Bethel University
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bethel University delivers top-quality educational programming in an online format. In addition to delivering in-person programs on campus in Saint Paul, the school offers 36 online programs. Working professionals in online programs can complete assignments and class requirements on evenings and weekends.
Like on-campus students, those pursuing a degree online receive opportunities to develop connections with classmates and instructors. Through experiential learning opportunities, learners gain field-specific practical skills they can apply to professional roles after graduation. The institution's career center provides enrollees with resources such as resume assistance and interest inventories. Toward the end of their degree, students can partake in career workshops and mock interviews to prepare to enter the workforce.
Financial aid counselors provide insights for applicants exploring funding options and determining the best way to pay for school. Enrollees can apply for a variety of funding opportunities, including private scholarships and federal grants, to improve their chances of receiving an award. Of the school's student body, 100% of degree-seekers qualify for some form of financial aid.
#5 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the University of Minnesota Crookston, learners can choose flexible online programs to continue working while earning a degree. In addition to programs at its campus, the school offers 19 academic options in an online format. The institution's enrollment includes 1,266 online degree-seekers, who take classes remotely.
The school offers a supportive community for online students. Through online learning, participants can develop long-lasting connections with colleagues throughout the country. Opportunities such as internships allow students to develop their professional skills while bolstering their resume. Online learners can access institutional resources such as academic advising. During job fairs, enrollees can network with prospective employers and make professional connections.
The federal government provides funding to support students with financial need. The financial aid office can help learners identify funding options to pursue, such as grants and scholarships. According to the institution, 93% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
#6 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
University of Minnesota Duluth
Duluth, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at the University of Minnesota Duluth receive a high-quality online education. Students who prefer to learn online can select one of the public institution's four distance programs. Online learning features flexibility which can make obtaining a degree easier for working professionals, who often need to set their own schedule.
Online enrollees can communicate with peers and professors remotely. Hands-on experiences such as internships and research projects help participants gain practical skills. Academic advisors help learners choose courses that align with their professional goals, customizing the curriculum to their needs.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. Financial aid officers help students understand financial aid options, such as scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 90% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
#7 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
The College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners with personal and professional responsibilities can pursue their degree online from The College of Saint Scholastica. The school provides 25 options for online students, with programs available in many fields. The institution delivers its remote programming to 1,312 online enrollees.
The school maintains a supportive online learning community. While enrolled in their online program, participants can connect with classmates using tools such as videoconferencing. Opportunities such as internships allow students to develop their professional skills while bolstering their resume. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. Enrollees can attend career workshops and job fairs to explore their professional options.
Financial aid helps many students minimize debt and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Learners can also receive institutional funding based on financial need or academic merit. The institution indicates that 99% of its enrollees use financial aid to defray their educational costs.
#8 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
St. Catherine University
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Enrollees interested in careers across industries can benefit from St. Catherine University's excellent online programs. The school's 1,593 online programs meet the same academic standards as its in-person programs. With flexible scheduling options, the institution's online programs make higher education more accessible for students with families and full-time employment.
The virtual classroom environment allows enrollees to connect with classmates and instructors. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Academic advisors help students select classes that align with their interests and career goals. Learners who are nervous about attending job interviews can participate in mock interviews to prepare for their job search.
Many of the institution's programs feature unique fees. Admissions counselors assist applicants prior to enrollment and can offer detailed cost information. In addition to institutional funding, enrollees can apply for private scholarships based on their field and background.
#9 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
An excellent choice for online students, Saint Cloud State University offers high-quality remote academic programs. In addition to delivering in-person programs on campus, the school offers 17 online programs. The flexibility of online programs allow many learners to work full time while earning their degree.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. Research projects present opportunities for learners to bolster their resume while contributing knowledge to their field. Enrollees can meet with academic advisors to ensure they choose classes aligning with their career goals. Students nearing degree completion can use options including career workshops and mock interviews to improve their qualifications and expand their professional network.
When preparing for the cost of education, applicants can speak with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Many scholarship programs support enrollees in specific fields of study. According to the school, the number of degree-seekers receiving financial aid amounts to 94% of the student body.
#10 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Concordia University Saint Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Concordia University Saint Paul is a leader in online education. In addition to delivering in-person programs on campus, the school offers 57 online programs. The flexibility of online programs allows many learners to work full time while earning their degree.
Online students at the institution benefit from an online learning community, which can lead to professional connections. To enhance their resume and gain practical skills, learners can pursue internships in their field. Academic advisors help enrollees select courses based on their personal interests and professional aspirations. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
When preparing for the cost of education, applicants can speak with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Along with need-based aid, enrollees can apply for scholarships based on academic merit. The school reports that 98% of its students receive some form of financial aid.
#11 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Hamline University
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A top online school, Hamline University educates learners across disciplines. Along with providing in-person programs, the private institution offers 14 online options. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.
Online enrollees can benefit from attending instructors' online office hours. Through academic opportunities such as research projects, internships, and independent studies, participants can customize their program to their goals. Learners can benefit from online advising sessions and career services, such as mock interviews.
The institution delivers funding to eligible applicants, reducing the overall cost of earning a degree. Students can consult financial aid officers for information about institutional and outside funding options. At the school, 100% of enrollees obtain financial aid to help cover the cost of earning a degree.
#12 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
University of Northwestern St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the University of Northwestern St. Paul, online students can access programming of equivalent quality to in-person academic options. In addition to on-campus programs in Minnesota, the school delivers 14 online programs. Many online programs feature enrollment and scheduling flexibility, making higher education more accessible for busy learners.
The institution's online learning environment helps students make professional connections and receive academic support. Through experiential learning opportunities, learners gain field-specific practical skills they can apply to professionals roles after graduation. Institutional resources include academic and career guidance, which help enrollees stay on track to graduate and prepare for the workforce. Students nearing graduation can participate in opportunities such as career workshops to prepare to pursue their professional goals.
Exploring various funding options with the help of financial aid counselors can help applicants reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. Enrollees often receive institutional and external funding, including scholarships and federal financial aid. With 100% of the student body receiving financial aid, the school's programs can be very affordable.
#13 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Mankato, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers online programs of premier quality. Delivering 37 online programs in various fields, the school educates 6,348 online enrollees, in addition to those studying on campus. The flexibility of online programs allows many learners to work full time while earning their degree.
Like on-campus students, those pursuing a degree online receive opportunities to develop connections with classmates and instructors. Learners often complete internships in their field to prepare to succeed in job interviews and the workforce. Institutional resources, such as job boards and the alumni network, can help enrollees locate job opportunities after graduation. As they near completion of their program, students can participate in career workshops to prepare to secure employment.
Financial aid counselors provide insights for applicants exploring funding options and determining the best way to pay for school. Many scholarship programs support enrollees in specific fields of study. With 88% of the student body receiving financial aid, the school's programs can be very affordable.
#14 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Regardless of their professional aspirations, enrollees can receive a high-quality education through Saint Mary's University of Minnesota's online programs. Learners based in any location can earn their degree through one of the school's 21 online programs. Attending the institution online allows students to complete assignments according to their schedule.
Many instructors maintain virtual office hours, allowing enrollees to seek individual help. Degree-seekers who complete internships or research projects can leverage their experience when pursuing jobs after graduation. Students can access academic advising to ensure they remain on track to graduate. Resume assistance and mock interviews help learners put their best foot forward when approaching employers after graduation.
Some classes require additional fees. Admissions counselors can provide detailed cost information and help applicants understand the amount they should budget for their education. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
#15 Online Schools and Colleges in Minnesota
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Minnesota State University Moorhead's academic options include top-quality online programs that prepare enrollees to succeed in their chosen profession. The school's offerings include 21 online programs, through which 3,126 learners pursue their degree. The flexibility of remote programs allows many students to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree.
Enrollees can expand their professional network by connecting with peers through the virtual learning platform. The supportive online community enables participants to collaborate with peers and faculty on subject-specific research projects or pursue other experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional services promoting student success. Career resources include job fairs, career workshops, and resume assistance, which help learners prepare to secure a position in their field.
Educational expenses can vary based on the program. Admissions counselors can provide details about program fees and the overall cost of earning a degree. The federal government assists eligible enrollees through scholarships, grants, and low-interest student loans.
City Spotlight: Colleges in Minnesota
Mankato, MN
Saint Paul, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis's 392,880 city residents tend to be well-educated Americans—the U.S. Census reports that 88 percent of the city's high school students graduate and 45.5 percent of all residents 25 and older have completed a bachelor's degree or higher. A 2013 study by Central Connecticut State University ranked Minneapolis as one of the nation's most-literate cities. The community is diverse, rich with cultural and recreational opportunities and, according to the Regional Chamber of Commerce, maintains a commitment to sustainability and economic development.
Colleges and Universities in Minneapolis
| COLLEGE | SIZE | TUITION | TYPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | 64,349 | $11,650 | Public |
| Augsburg College | 4,935 | $29,794 | Not For Profit (Private) |
| Dunwoody College of Technology | 1,978 | $16,182 | Not For Profit (Private) |
| North Central University | 1,471 | $16,770 | Not For Profit (Private) |
| Minneapolis College of Art and Design | 782 | $30,386 | Not For Profit (Private) |
| Herzing University-Minneapolis | 288 (all are undergraduates) | $13,090 | Non-Profit |
| Minneapolis Community and Technical College | 14,573 | $4,523 | Public |
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Minnesota?
Students in Minnesota can choose from many online programs, which may feel overwhelming. To ease the process of finding the right school, learners can search for online programs through the Minnesota Office of Higher Education. Students can also use the following resource to learn more about online schools and programs in Minnesota.
How Much More Do College Grads in Minnesota Make?
Nearly half of Minnesota residents between the ages of 25 and 64 possess an associate degree or higher, giving the state the second-highest educational attainment percentage in the country. The following table outlines national average salaries by level of educational attainment, illustrating that higher levels of education typically correlate with higher salaries.
| Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree | Bachelor's Degree | Master's Degree | Doctoral Degree |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 | $62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Paying for Online College in Minnesota: Tuition and Financial Aid
While efforts to help Minnesota students pay for school continue, state funding has yet to catch up to the pre-recession rates of 2008, per the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The table below outlines tuition rates for private and public institutions in Minnesota and how they compare to the national average.
| Type of School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public | $11,226 | $20,736 | $9,037 (In-State), $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
| Private | $32,416 | N/A | $30,731 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Minnesota
When weighing the costs of their education, students should consider expenses beyond tuition, such as travel, technology, and distance education fees.
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1
Distance Education Fees
Some schools and programs require online students to pay distance education fees to cover the cost of online course administration.
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2
Internet Costs
Online students typically need to pay monthly internet fees to access distance education material.
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3
Residencies
Some online programs include on-campus residencies, which may require learners to pay for travel and room and board.
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4
Technology and Materials
Online learning may require students to buy textbooks, software, and other learning materials.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Minnesota
Some programs allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency, while others offer tuition discounts for in-state students. Qualifications for in-state tuition vary by institution, but they may include residing in Minnesota for a particular length of time or working for a state organization. Students should research the in-state tuition requirements at each prospective school.
Grants for Minnesota College Students
Who Can Apply: Minnesota residents from low- and moderate-income families who attend eligible state schools qualify for this grant.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Minnesota residents attending a state college or university who demonstrate financial need qualify for this opportunity.
Amount: Up to $1,100/year
Who Can Apply: Dependents and spouses of public safety officers who were killed in the line of duty qualify for this grant.
Amount: Up to $14,760/year
Who Can Apply: This grant awards students pursuing a teaching career. Applicants must intend to teach in a geographical shortage area or belong to an underrepresented group in Minnesota.
Amount: Up to $7,500/term
Who Can Apply: Candidates planning to attend a Minnesota institution who lost a parent to a military service-caused condition qualify for this grant.
Amount: Up to $750
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Minnesota
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards and benefits students in several ways. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only recognize and accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited schools. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.
Regional and National Accreditation
Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. National accreditation typically applies to for-profit technical and vocational schools, while regional accreditation applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation(CHEA) oversees six organizations that provide regional accreditation depending on a school's location. Minnesota schools receive accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.Subject-Specific Accreditation
Some programs within a school may also receive accreditation, such as business, nursing, and social work schools. Several industries require students to hold a degree from an accredited program to receive licenses or certifications. Students should research whether their intended career requires or prefers degrees from an accredited program.How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Most schools and programs offer accreditation information on their websites. Students can also verify accreditation status through CHEAand Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programsdatabases.
Online College and Adult Education in Minnesota
Minnesota offers many programs and initiatives to support nontraditional students. Students can learn about several of Minnesota's adult education programs and resources below.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Minnesota
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Forty-eight percent of Minnesota adults between the ages of 25 and 64 possess an associate degree or higher.
Minnesota ranks second among states for educational attainment in adults between the ages of 25 and 64.
Source: Education Attainment
Adult Education Programs for Minnesota Students
Online College Resources for Minnesota Students
The following list outlines several helpful resources for current and prospective Minnesota students, including information on financial aid opportunities, program availability, and state higher education policies.