Are you ready to join thousands of students in Minnesota who are enjoying the benefits of online college? Postsecondary institutions across the state have a wide range of online degree programs and certificates for students just like you. Before you jump into a degree program, however, it’s important to find just the right school. This page breaks down the best online colleges in Minnesota and provides other helpful information related to online learning formats, accreditation, cost, and more. Keep reading to take the first step in your Minnesota online college journey.
The Best Online Colleges in Minnesota for 2024
What are you looking for in an online college in Minnesota? You want a school that gives you the skills and knowledge to earn your degree and lay the foundation for a long and successful career in your industry. You also want low student-to-teacher ratios, access to financial aid, academic counseling, and the all-important career placement. We’ve ranked the following online colleges in Minnesota based on those informational points and more. See which schools made the grade for 2024, and check out the “About the Ranking” section for a more detailed explanation of our methodology.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Minneapolis, MinnesotaPublic $$$
Whether your goal is an undergraduate or advanced degree, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities online can help you balance your education and busy life. Not only is the Twin Cities campus the flagship location in the University of Minnesota System, but it’s also well known as one of the nation’s most prestigious public research universities. Online students benefit from the same well-rounded education and established university reputation as on-campus students. Plus, they aren’t limited to degrees offered by the Twin Cities campus; they’re also eligible to take courses and earn degrees from the other four University of Minnesota campuses. Whether you’re a resident of Minnesota or studying from another state, at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, you’ll pay in-state tuition rates for online degree programs.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $538.70-$1,278.75/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: ABET
Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Services Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $1,539/credit
- Mode: Partially Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Professional Studies in Applied Sciences Leadership
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $1,539/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Crookston, MinnesotaPublic $$$
As part of the University of Minnesota System, the UMN-Crookston campus provides educational services to the northwestern reaches of the state. The physical location of this campus offers academic programs in four specific departments which include agriculture and natural resources; humanities, social science, and education; business; and math, science, and technology. As an online student of UMN-Crookston, you’ll not only have access to these programs, but you can also choose majors and minors from the wider University of Minnesota System. All courses are led by the same professors as traditional UMN programs but are provided online for students to have the convenience of learning in a time and place that works for their individual schedules. No matter what you choose, you’ll receive instruction, internship requirements, and educational research opportunities similar to what your on-campus counterparts receive.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $437/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $437/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Bachelor of Science in Marketing
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $437/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: ACBSP
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Marshall, MinnesotaPublic $$
Southwest Minnesota State University gives students maximum flexibility as they earn their degrees online. Many courses are delivered in a synchronous format, meaning students can attend class from any location as long as they can sign in for designated meeting times. Other courses are offered asynchronously, which allows students to watch lectures and participate in class discussions at their convenience. SMSU also provides a third format, called Hyflex, which balances synchronous and asynchronous instruction. Additionally, students can attend classes in person on the main campus in Marshall, Minn., at the same time they’re participating in online study. Graduates of SMSU enjoy a 99% job placement rate, and 97% of students find jobs in their field of degree study.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Education
- Credits: 34-37
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $535.17/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Winona, MinnesotaPublic $$
Winona State University understands that many modern students benefit from expanded course delivery options as they pursue their education. The university offers over 23 online and hybrid study options to accommodate these individuals. These flexible educational opportunities allow students to balance the demands of life, work, and education, without having to worry about relocating or commuting to campus to attend classes. From bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, WSU can provide you with online courses to meet your educational goals, wherever and however you choose to study. To better support online students, Winona State places a special emphasis on access to online advising and tutoring, student resources, and the WSU writing center.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor’s in Human Resource Management, Degree Completion
- Credits: 42
- Length: 1.5 years
- Cost: $277.40/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Master’s in Health/Healthcare Leadership
- Credits: 35
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $517.76
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: CAHME
Doctorate of Education
- Credits: 57
- Length: 2-4 years
- Cost: $713.30
- Mode: Fully online, 2 required residencies
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Moorhead, MinnesotaPublic $$
At Minnesota State University Moorhead, online students can take advantage of the same well-rounded learning experiences they would receive in the traditional MSU classroom setting. Whether students complete coursework online or in person, they work through the same course materials and assignments, have plenty of opportunities to dialogue with classmates and professors, and receive one-on-one feedback about their academic achievement. Unique program choices allow students to pursue their intellectual passions, while in-demand majors ensure they’ll enter a job market full of opportunity. After graduation, 94.6% of MSU Moorhead alums are either employed in their field or continuing their education with a postgraduate degree.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $294.59/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Bachelor of Science in Global Supply Chain Management
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $294.59/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Counseling
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2-7 years
- Cost: $550/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: CACREP
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Saint Cloud, MinnesotaPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Mankato, MinnesotaPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
22/1
-
Saint Paul, MinnesotaPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
New Ulm, MinnesotaPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Bemidji, MinnesotaPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
St. Louis Park, MinnesotaPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Bloomington, MinnesotaPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
St. Cloud, MinnesotaPrivate for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Minneapolis, MinnesotaPrivate not-for-profit $$$$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Anoka, MinnesotaPublic $$
Whether you want to enroll in online, part-time, or in evening courses, you have many educational options through Anoka Technical College. The school offers a variety of flexible learning options to match your unique schedule and needs. Choose from online degree programs in several academic concentrations: behavioral health and human services, health science technology, legal, administration and management, and more. The college offers more than 35 programs across its Associate of Applied Science degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Students at Anoka Technical College include high school graduates, transfer students, veterans, and more.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Behavioral Health & Human Services
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: Varies
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Administrative Office Specialist
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: Varies
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Legal Assistant
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: Varies
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Coon Rapids, MinnesotaPublic $
Anoka-Ramsey Community College offers several programs and courses online with the most credits of all two-year colleges in Minnesota. Its online courses follow the traditional semester schedule of in-person classes, but they have the flexibility of online learning. ARCC offers more than a dozen degree programs and certificates completely online, including an Associate of Applied Science, Accounting Practitioner, an Associate of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, an Associate of Science, Human Resources Associate, and many more. You can also complete certificates in Business Generalist, Retail Management, and others.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $202.52/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Science in Sales Management
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $202.52/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Science in Human Resource Management
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $202.52/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
27/1
-
Alexandria, MinnesotaPublic $$
At Alexandria Technical & Community College, you can enroll in courses on a wide range of topics. Online degree options include an Associate of Science in Accounting, Associate of Science in Computer Information Systems, Associate of Arts in Economics, Associate of Arts in English, and more. The school’s retention, graduation, and career placement services rank among the highest of all public, two-year colleges in Minnesota. With the resources of Minnesota State, the state’s largest higher education system, Alexandrian’s workforce development and continuing education programs can give you the skills needed to advance your career.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Accounting
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Medical Coding Specialist Diploma
- Credits: 45
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Cybersecurity Certificate
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 semesters
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Bemidji, MinnesotaPublic $$
At Northwest Technical College, academic programs are grouped into six different career paths: automotive service, building systems, business, child development, health care, and manufacturing technology. Many degrees and certificates in these concentrations are available in online formats. Degrees include an Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Administrative Leadership, an Associate of Science in Child Development, a certificate in Management & Entrepreneurship, and more. NTC also has a partnership with Bemidji State University to give students access to on-campus housing, meal plans, and other university services.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Business
- Credits: 60 2 years
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Health Care Administrative Leadership
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science in Sales and Marketing
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $211.55/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Hibbing, MinnesotaPublic $
At Minnesota North College, you can complete an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education or a diploma in Medical Coding and Scribing completely online. The school also has six separate campuses where in-person courses are offered and more than 100 academic programs in total. Women interested in earning degrees in law enforcement, diesel mechanics, electrical maintenance, carpentry, welding technology, and others are eligible for help with tuition, childcare, transportation, study assistance, and loan forgiveness through the EMPOWER grant.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Special Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $205.01/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Medical Coding and Scribing Diploma
- Credits: 41
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $205.01/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
North Mankato, MinnesotaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Brainerd, MinnesotaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Austin, MinnesotaPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
23/1
-
Grand Rapids, MinnesotaPublic $
At Minnesota North College, you can complete an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education or a diploma in Medical Coding and Scribing completely online. The school also has six separate campuses where in-person courses are offered and more than 100 academic programs in total. Women interested in earning degrees in law enforcement, diesel mechanics, electrical maintenance, carpentry, welding technology, and others are eligible for help with tuition, childcare, transportation, study assistance, and loan forgiveness through the EMPOWER grant.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education and Special Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $205.01/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Medical Coding and Scribing Diploma
- Credits: 41
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $205.01/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Rosemount, MinnesotaPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
22/1
-
Saint Cloud, MinnesotaPublic $
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
21/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Online College Formats in Minnesota
Online colleges in Minnesota give students many options on how they can get the education they need. But finding the program that’s right for you takes some research and reflection. Do you work better independently and prefer not to travel to campus for classes? Or do you want to meet with instructors and classmates face-to-face on occasion? Does a part-time program work better for your schedule? Whatever you need in a program, online colleges in Minnesota have options that are right for you. Keep reading to find out more about the various ways online programs might look.
Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended
If you’re interested in taking coursework on campus but still want to leverage the benefits of online learning, then a blended program is right for you. In these programs, you use the Internet to complete certain activities, but they’re designed to supplement in-person instruction. On the other hand, with a hybrid format the online components of the program replace on-campus instruction, so students may take some coursework in person and complete some online. For example, you may be able to complete classes online but still go to campus for labs or capstone courses. If these options don’t work for you, some schools allow you to complete programs entirely online without being required to travel to campus at all.
Continue reading for examples of these types of programs offered by accredited online colleges in Minnesota.
Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership at Southwest Minnesota State University (Blended/Hybrid)
Southwest Minnesota State University has a master of science in education with an emphasis in teaching, learning, and leadership. The combination of online and classroom learning allows you to connect with other educators in person while completing your coursework through the school’s learning management system. You’ll be prepared for leadership roles through a combination of core and concentration classes. During the core coursework, you’ll learn more about content and curriculum development, education research, and professional planning and assessment. Coursework for the teaching, learning, and leadership concentration enhances your knowledge of topics such as professional learning communities, education systems, and diversity in leadership. In addition, you’ll take classes covering the latest trends and issues in education. This hybrid online college program in Minnesota takes less than two years to complete.
Bachelor of Science in Accounting at the University of Minnesota (Fully Online)
The University of Minnesota’s accounting bachelor’s degree is a fully online program for those who want to practice accounting in private firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations. You’ll be exposed to concepts and skills that will help you thrive in any work environment. To provide the foundation for a successful career, the school offers coursework in the principles of accounting to build a strong understanding of the concepts accountants need to know. Also, you’ll learn specific types of accounting, including cost accounting, auditing, and income tax accounting, as well as business law and the legal and ethical standards accountants should abide by. To provide a well-rounded education, the University of Minnesota also requires that students take classes in English composition, algebra, humanities, marketing, and finance.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
You may have a hectic schedule that precludes you from taking classes during specific days and times, but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from online colleges in Minnesota. Many schools offer asynchronous programs that allow you to watch lectures and complete assignments during the times that work best for your lifestyle. However, if you’d prefer to participate in classes in real-time, the best online colleges in Minnesota also offer synchronous programs so you can watch lectures at the same time as your classmates and interact with professors and peers live.
The following are examples of these delivery methods, as offered by accredited online colleges in Minnesota.
Master of Arts in Sustainable Design at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (Asynchronous)
Minneapolis College of Art and Design, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers an asynchronous master of arts in sustainable design. This online college program in Minnesota combines various learning techniques, including videos, readings, individual and team projects, and critiques, so students get the most out of the experience. Students graduate with expertise in the history of sustainability and how it relates to art, the ways sustainable frameworks are applied to design work, and how to exhibit artwork sustainably.
Specific coursework covers the fundamentals of sustainable design, the business case for sustainability, creative leadership principles, and collaborative project design. After completing this program, graduates are qualified for positions as sustainable graphic designers, green business marketers, sustainable project designers, and sustainable packaging designers.
Master of Engineering Management at St. Cloud State University (Synchronous)
St. Cloud State University offers a master of engineering management program designed for those who want to pursue careers as business analysts, project engineers, Six Sigma specialists, and operations engineers. With this synchronous program, students gain an understanding of how to analyze data to make engineering management decisions, use qualitative and quantitative methods to justify those choices, and plan various parts of a project from start to finish. In addition, students are taught the interpersonal skills needed to be successful in the workplace, particularly in virtual, multicultural, and global team settings.
Specific classes offered in this program include organizational behavior and performance, engineering economics, global engineering management, and quality engineering. After finishing 30 credits of coursework in this online college program in Minnesota, students are expected to complete a capstone project that demonstrates their understanding of class material.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time
For some students, attending the best online colleges in Minnesota full-time is the right option so they can quickly finish their studies and look for employment. If you’re able to easily fit school into your schedule, you may want to consider full-time programs. But if your lifestyle makes it difficult to attend school full-time, there are part-time programs as well. When you enroll in a full-time degree program it will generally take four years to complete your studies, while a part-time program can take about six years, depending on the course load you feel comfortable with.
To give you a look at part-time and full-time degree programs at online colleges in Minnesota, we’ve put together the examples below.
Bachelor of Science RN Baccalaureate Completion at Minnesota State University, Mankato (Part-Time)
To be admitted to the RN baccalaureate completion program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, prospective students are expected to have an unrestricted nursing license and at least 30 total college credits from their previous undergraduate program. Also, applicants should have a minimum 2.8 cumulative grade point average and at least a C average in their nursing classes. Once admitted, nurses earn a bachelor of science degree in about four or five semesters on a part-time basis by taking 16-week classes offered completely online. The program has no mandatory login times for students, so registered nurses can more easily fit their studies into their busy schedules.
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at Metropolitan State University (Full-Time)
Metropolitan State University has a bachelor of arts in criminal justice degree that gives students a comprehensive look at the field, from the historic theories that shaped criminal justice practices to contemporary issues that professionals face today. This full-time, 120-credit program takes four years to complete. Core classes cover the foundations of criminal justice, corrections, the court system, and restorative justice. Also, students can choose electives that cover forensic science, white-collar crime, counseling and interviewing skills, and the use of psychology in the criminal justice system. After completing their classes at this online college in Minnesota, students participate in a capstone course in which they gain practical experience through an internship or research project. Whichever option they choose, the capstone is where students demonstrate what they’ve learned throughout their coursework and apply it to a specific real-world setting.
Accreditation for Online Colleges in Minnesota
Accreditation is an extremely important consideration that should be weighed heavily when deciding which online college in Minnesota to enroll in. Accreditation is a rigorous process that schools, as well as individual degree programs, undergo to certify that they’re providing the quality education you deserve so you’ll have the knowledge and skills employers look for. The best online colleges in Minnesota are evaluated by the Higher Learning Commission, which grants accreditation based on institutions’ curriculum, faculty, resources, and student support.
Specific program accreditation is something you should pay attention to as well. For example, psychology programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business provides accreditation for business degrees, and nursing programs get their accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
What Will Your Online Degree in Minnesota Cost?
Of the things you’re looking at with online colleges in Minnesota, cost is probably one of your top concerns. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, on average, students who attend public schools in Minnesota pay $11,836 for in-state tuition, while out-of-state students pay $24,620. The agency also reports that Minnesota students pay an average of $34,608 for tuition at private schools.
This data gives you a good idea of the baseline rate students pay for their tuition at public and private institutions. However, it’s important to explore the costs of the specific schools you’re interested in. The following is a look at colleges around the state to give you an idea of what you may pay.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Minnesota State University | $10,122.32/year | $10,122.32/year | $10,122.32/year | $10,122.32/year |
| University of Minnesota | $16,108/year | $35,348/year | $16,108/year | $35,348/year |
| St. Cloud State University | $10,118/year | $20,002/year | $10,118/year | $20,002/year |
| Concordia University, St. Paul | $25,000/year | $25,00/year | $10,080/year | $10,080/year |
| Crown College | $28,360/year | $28,360/year | $10,850/year | $10,850/year |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for Minnesota Online College Students
In addition to cost, you’re probably thinking about how you’re going to pay for your education. There are several avenues students can take to defray the cost, including scholarships and grants supplied by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education to help state residents. For example, the Minnesota State Grant Program provides an average of $1,857 for residents with financial need; you’ll also find merit-based scholarships available like the Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship, the Minnesota Indian Scholarship, and the Minnesota Aspiring Teachers of Color Scholarship.
In addition, you can get loans and grants through the federal government or your college. Also, look for opportunities for funding from private companies and professional organizations that cater to the field you aspire to enter after graduation. To take a deeper dive into your options, check out our financial aid guide and our scholarship guide.
Career Potential for College Graduates in Minnesota
Not quite sure what career path to choose? As you research different professions, keep an eye on which ones are in demand, meaning that lots of jobs will be available and you’ll be able to earn a good living after you’ve completed your degree. To give you an idea of how much graduates from online colleges in Minnesota can make after graduation, as well as the professions with the most projected growth, review the table below.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | 45.7% | $127,010 |
| Curators | 35% | $59,940 |
| Statisticians | 34% | $87,760 |
| Epidemiologists | 33.3% | $79,480 |
| Physician Assistants | 31.6% | $124,440 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | 30.4% | $127,850 |
| Information Security Analysts | 29.2% | $106,280 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 29.1% | $106,950 |
| Logisticians | 29% | $84,900 |
| Speech-Language Pathologists | 26.1% | $77,610 |
Online College Resources for Students in Minnesota
Minnesota MyHigherEd provides advice for older nontraditional students enrolled in online degree programs.
Choosing a College: Programs and Profiles
This page from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education provides advice on what students should look for in an academic program, as well as profiles of colleges from around the state.
This page from Minnesota MyHigherEd has information to help high school students who are preparing to go to college.
This page on the Minnesota Office of Higher Education website has information on financial aid options.
The University of Minnesota offers guidance to help students succeed in online programs, such as information on getting the most out of online lectures, staying organized when taking courses remotely, and effectively communicating with professors and classmates virtually.