Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

James M. Tobin
By
Updated on June 26, 2024
Edited by
Explore the best online colleges in MN with this guide and ranking. It covers accreditation, tips for choosing a school, and answers to FAQ.

In April 2024, the Minnesota government passed a bill investing an extra $4 billion in the state’s higher education network. Lawmakers hailed the bill as a huge step forward for students and employers. The funding includes scholarship programs for students pursuing jobs in high-demand fields across the North Star State.

Given these developments, now is an excellent time to pursue a degree in Minnesota. This guide explains how the state’s college accreditation system works and provides a ranked list of the best accredited online colleges in Minnesota. Use our research to find an affordable and reputable degree program.

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What Colleges Are Accredited in Minnesota

The best online colleges in MN hold institutional accreditation from credible third-party organizations. Accreditation ensures that employers and other accredited schools will recognize the validity of your degree.

An optional type of accreditation applies to some university departments or academic programs. The following sections explore both types of accreditation and how they work.

Institutional Accreditation

Institutional accreditation covers the school as a whole, guaranteeing its academic programs and learning resources meet acceptable standards. The Higher Learning Commission has historically accredited Minnesota schools. However, any institutional accrediting body recognized by the Department of Education (ED) or the Commission on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can issue valid accreditation credentials.

You should consider institutional accreditation mandatory. If in doubt, research the school’s status with this ED database or this CHEA directory.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

Also known as specialized or programmatic accreditation, subject-specific accreditation applies to certain academic departments or degree programs. While optional in most cases, it often signals that the department or program meets especially high-quality standards. Subject-specific accreditation may also indicate that the department or program covers content or skills that match high standards in associated industries.

Examples of programmatic accreditors include organizations like the American Psychological Association, the American Library Association, the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Top Accredited Online Colleges in MN

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

University of Minnesota

  • Location-markerMinneapolis, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$13,318
  • Out-of-state$31,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$17,580
  • Out-of-state$27,204
  • Retention Rate93%
  • Acceptance Rate57%
  • Students Enrolled51,327
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Winona State University

  • Location-markerWinona, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,598
  • Out-of-state$13,698
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,488
  • Out-of-state$11,286
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate68%
  • Students Enrolled7,605
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment34%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Bemidji State University

  • Location-markerBemidji, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,858
  • Out-of-state$7,858
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,779
  • Out-of-state$7,779
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate65%
  • Students Enrolled4,897
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Bethel University

  • Location-markerSaint Paul, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$38,300
  • Out-of-state$38,300
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,700
  • Out-of-state$11,700
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate79%
  • Students Enrolled4,005
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

University of Minnesota Crookston

  • Location-markerCrookston, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,438
  • Out-of-state$10,438
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate68%
  • Students Enrolled2,768
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment46%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

University of Minnesota Duluth

  • Location-markerDuluth, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$12,194
  • Out-of-state$17,394
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$17,580
  • Out-of-state$27,204
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate75%
  • Students Enrolled10,858
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment19%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

The College of Saint Scholastica

  • Location-markerDuluth, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$37,622
  • Out-of-state$37,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$13,986
  • Out-of-state$13,986
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate76%
  • Students Enrolled3,906
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment34%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

St. Catherine University

  • Location-markerSaint Paul, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$32,522
  • Out-of-state$32,522
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$15,948
  • Out-of-state$15,948
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate67%
  • Students Enrolled4,401
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Saint Cloud State University

  • Location-markerSaint Cloud, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,394
  • Out-of-state$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,460
  • Out-of-state$11,334
  • Retention Rate67%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled13,049
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment31%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Concordia University Saint Paul

  • Location-markerSaint Paul, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$22,800
  • Out-of-state$22,800
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,550
  • Out-of-state$8,550
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate98%
  • Students Enrolled5,137
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Hamline University

  • Location-markerSaint Paul, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$41,734
  • Out-of-state$41,734
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,596
  • Out-of-state$9,596
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate68%
  • Students Enrolled3,404
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

University of Northwestern St. Paul

  • Location-markerSaint Paul, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$31,580
  • Out-of-state$31,580
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,982
  • Out-of-state$8,982
  • Retention Rate82%
  • Acceptance Rate92%
  • Students Enrolled3,525
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment50%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Minnesota State University, Mankato

  • Location-markerMankato, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,394
  • Out-of-state$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,694
  • Out-of-state$7,694
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate63%
  • Students Enrolled14,325
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

  • Location-markerWinona, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$36,050
  • Out-of-state$36,050
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,180
  • Out-of-state$9,180
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate92%
  • Students Enrolled5,548
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment33%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Best Accredited Online Colleges in Minnesota

Minnesota State University Moorhead

  • Location-markerMoorhead, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,632
  • Out-of-state$15,264
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,550
  • Out-of-state$8,550
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate65%
  • Students Enrolled5,747
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes

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 CHEA and Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs databases.

The Impact of Accreditation When Transferring Credits

Accreditation ensures the credits you earn will readily transfer to other schools. Transferring credits can dramatically reduce your graduation timeline and help you avoid the need to repeat courses at your new school.

Transfer credits are mainly affected by institutional accreditation. However, you may encounter situations where programmatic accreditation makes credits more readily transferable, especially if your new program holds the same specialized accreditation as your previous one.

Accreditation Criteria for Licensing

Programmatic accreditation is usually optional — usually, but not always. Some regulated professions require a specially accredited degree from a subject-specific agency. For instance, you must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an ABET-accredited program to qualify for an engineering license in Minnesota.

If you plan to work in a field that requires a professional license in Minnesota, check the state’s licensing standards before enrolling in any academic program.

Choosing the Right Online College in Minnesota

Choosing the “best” school may not necessarily be the same as choosing the “right” school. If you focus too much on the institution and not enough on the actual program, you could overlook an ideal study opportunity.

To that end, follow these four steps to help you find degree programs and online colleges in MN that strongly match your learning goals:

1. Check Accreditation Status

The best online colleges in Minnesota hold valid institutional accreditation. As a starting point, double-check to ensure each school’s credentials are up to date.

Programmatic accreditations are a plus but not usually mandatory, except for academic programs leading to certain professional licenses. If you’re studying for a licensure-track career, check Minnesota’s state requirements and ensure the school or program meets them before you apply.

2. Research Degree Options and Compare Them Against Your Career Goals

Colleges increasingly offer specialized degrees. For instance, computer science students can pursue a cybersecurity concentration, and education students can specialize in areas like early childhood education or curriculum and instruction. If you have specific career goals, see if the school offers specialized or concentrated programs that match it.

3. Look Into Student Satisfaction Metrics

Certain publicly available metrics and data points can indicate higher or lower levels of student satisfaction with a school or program. Check retention, graduation, and post-graduation employment rates to compare institutions.

4. Compare Costs and Financial Aid

Money matters to many students, especially as education costs keep rising. Budget-conscious students often compare tuition fees, but there’s often more to the story than a school’s “sticker price.”Research the financial aid options that each prospective school offers to students. These can significantly reduce what is known as the “net price of attendance.”

Online College Resources for Minnesota Students

NCES College Navigator

This National Center for Education Statistics resource lets you research schools by state and according to factors like institution type, major availability, and degree level. You can then connect with school-specific metrics and data points covering virtually every important consideration.

Minnesota MyHigherEd

This state government resource can connect you with valuable scholarship programs and funding opportunities. Use the search tool to research and apply for public and private scholarships, government education funding programs, loan forgiveness opportunities, and more.

Tuition and Fees Chart

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education operates this research resource, which lists current tuition rates for accredited postsecondary institutions in the state. Compare in-state and out-of-state fees, reciprocity rates, and the costs of attending private Minnesota colleges.

Occupations in Demand

Not sure what to study in college? This resource from Minnesota Employment and Economic Development profiles high-demand occupations in the state’s labor market. You can use it to identify trades and career paths with promising growth projections.