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Colleges / MN / Marshall
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Southwest Minnesota State University

Public Marshall, MN · Town · Plains · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
45%
Graduation Rate
$51,342
Earnings (10yr)
$15,291
Net Price
62%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of about 2,315 students, Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) is a solid choice for those seeking a personalized educational experience. It tends to attract students who are focused on practical fields, with popular programs in Education, Business & Marketing, Health Professions, Computer Science & IT, and Psychology. The acceptance rate of 62% suggests that SMSU is accessible for many, making it a good fit for students who want to get involved in a supportive community while pursuing their academic goals.

After graduation, students can expect to earn around $51,342 within ten years, which reflects the university's commitment to equipping graduates with relevant skills for the job market. While the graduation rate sits at 45%, the data indicates that many students find pathways to success and upward mobility. The affordability of SMSU is also noteworthy, with a net price of $15,291, making it a reasonable option for those mindful of student debt.

In terms of finances, the median debt for graduates is $20,500, which is manageable for many. The low percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 12% suggests that most students may come from a range of financial backgrounds. Students who thrive here often appreciate a collaborative environment and are motivated to leverage the practical skills offered in their chosen fields. Overall, SMSU presents a balanced choice for students looking to pursue their education without overwhelming financial burdens.

Rankings

How Southwest Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation45%Earnings 10yr$51KNet Price$15KRetention74%Median Debt$21KPell Grant Rate12%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$11K$0-30K$11K$30-48K$13K$48-75K$21K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$10,361
In-State Tuition
$10,361
Out-of-State
$15,291
Avg Net Price
$20,500
Median Debt
12%
Pell Grant Rate
15%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$10,559
Family Income $0–$30K
$11,175
Family Income $30K–$48K
$13,153
Family Income $48K–$75K
$20,701
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$43,282
6 Years After Entry
$48,039
8 Years
$51,342
10 Years
0.4x
Debt-to-Earnings
67%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$43,282 6yr $48,039 8yr $51,342 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.63
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
4.3%
Volunteering Rate
1.00
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 62%
Retention Rate 74%
SAT Average 1050
ACT Range 16–23
Full-Time Faculty 52%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,672
Diversity Index 0.50
First-Gen Students 27%

Top Programs

Education 21%
Business & Marketing 14%
Health Professions 14%
Computer Science & IT 5%
Psychology 5%
Humanities 5%
Criminal Justice 3%
Communications 3%