Rankings / By Region

Best Colleges in Plains

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$57,865

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

62%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,167

Avg. Net Price

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The Plains region is home to a diverse array of colleges, each offering unique opportunities for students. As families consider their options, understanding the factors that contribute to success after graduation is crucial. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these institutions is $60,551, a number that can guide decisions about future investments in education.

What sets the strongest schools apart in this region are their outcomes related to earnings, graduation rates, and student debt. Schools like Washington University in St. Louis stand out not just for their high earnings of $86,182 but also for their impressive 94% graduation rate. As you explore the list below, keep these metrics in mind to help gauge which institutions may align best with your goals and values.

For example, Washington University in St. Louis and Missouri University of Science and Technology illustrate the range of choices available. While Washington University boasts higher average earnings at $86,182 compared to Missouri's $82,957, the graduation rates tell a different story: 94% versus only 64%. This contrast highlights the trade-offs families must consider between financial outcomes and completion rates as they navigate their college options.

Key Findings

Washington University in St. Louis graduates earn an average of $86,182.

The graduation rate at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is 85%.

Missouri University of Science and Technology students have an average debt of $23,250.

Carleton College's net price is $25,407, compared to Grinnell College's $17,648.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $57,865

Avg. graduation rate 62%

Avg. net price $18,167

Avg. median debt $19,852

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in the Plains region

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO

Graduation94%

Earnings$86,182

Net Price$21,786

View full profile →

Carleton College

Northfield, MN

Graduation90%

Earnings$75,525

Net Price$25,407

View full profile →

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA

Graduation88%

Earnings$62,830

Net Price$17,648

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington University in St. Louis has a strong reputation for academic excellence and student support. The university's focus on undergraduate research and small class sizes fosters a close-knit community, encouraging collaboration and innovation among students.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College, with its intimate campus of just over 2,000 students, emphasizes a liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and independent learning. The college's 90% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success and a collaborative culture where students engage deeply with their studies and each other.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College fosters an environment of academic freedom and social responsibility, cultivating a community of engaged learners. With a graduation rate of 88%, this small private college encourages students to explore their interests in a supportive atmosphere, where professors are accessible and invested in their success.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

With a median earning of $56,280 at ten years post-graduation, Truman State University in Kirksville is a solid choice for students seeking value in education. The school has a graduation rate of 68%, indicating a supportive environment for students to succeed and progress in their chosen fields.

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

Saint John's University, located in Collegeville, Minnesota, provides an intimate educational experience with a student body of about 1,400. The university has a graduation rate of 76%, reflecting its dedication to student success and a nurturing academic environment, where students can form lasting connections with peers and professors alike.

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

With a median earnings figure of $82,957 at ten years post-graduation, Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla is an appealing option for students interested in engineering and technology. The 64% graduation rate indicates a solid academic environment where students can thrive and find success in their fields.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA · 22,264 students · Public

With a student body of over 22,000, the University of Iowa is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. Graduates earn a median income of $64,762 ten years after graduation, reflecting the university's commitment to equipping students with the skills needed for successful careers.

84% accepted 74% graduate $64,762 earnings

University's full profile

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN · 2,131 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Saint Paul, Macalester College has a strong commitment to liberal arts education and global citizenship. With a graduation rate of 89%, students thrive in a supportive environment that values diversity and engagement, evident from the 17% of its student body receiving Pell Grants, indicating a focus on accessibility for low-income students.

29% accepted 89% graduate $63,878 earnings

Macalester's full profile

University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA · 7,529 students · Public

University of Northern Iowa is a vibrant institution in Cedar Falls, home to over 7,500 students. It boasts a graduation rate of 68%, reflecting its commitment to student success and a wide array of programs that cater to diverse interests and career paths.

93% accepted 68% graduate $55,177 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND · 9,981 students · Public

The University of North Dakota, located in Grand Forks, is home to nearly 10,000 students and offers a range of programs that cater to various interests. Graduates report median earnings of $63,552 within a decade of completing their degrees, highlighting the university's focus on professional preparation.

77% accepted 62% graduate $63,552 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

Fort Hays State University, located in Hays, KS, is an inviting choice with a 90% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. The diverse range of programs and vibrant campus life appeal to those looking for a well-rounded college experience. With a graduation rate of 48%, students can find the support they need to navigate their academic journey.

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

William Jewell College

Liberty, MO · 924 students · Private nonprofit

William Jewell College, located in Liberty, Missouri, is a smaller institution with just 924 students, creating an intimate learning environment. The college has a graduation rate of 64%, indicating that many students find success in completing their degrees in this close-knit community.

38% accepted 64% graduate $59,268 earnings

William's full profile

#13

Gustavus Adolphus College

Saint Peter, MN · 1,878 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $65,607 a decade after graduation, Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, MN, presents a solid return on investment for its nearly 1,900 students. The school’s 76% graduation rate speaks to a supportive environment where students can thrive, and the 61% of Pell Grant recipients indicates a commitment to accessibility for those from lower-income backgrounds.

61% accepted 76% graduate $65,607 earnings

Gustavus's full profile

#14

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS · 4,210 students · Public

89% accepted 57% graduate $50,579 earnings

Pittsburg's full profile

#15

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS · 21,217 students · Public

With a sizable student body of over 21,000, the University of Kansas creates a vibrant campus atmosphere where diverse ideas can flourish. This public university has a graduation rate of 69%, and its strong community support is reflected in a high acceptance rate of 93%, making it an accessible choice for many students.

93% accepted 69% graduate $61,945 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

Minot State University in North Dakota welcomes around 2,000 students into a supportive environment, with a 65% acceptance rate that encourages a diverse student body. The graduation rate is 46%, indicating that while not every student completes their degree, many find value in the university's offerings, especially those interested in practical, career-oriented education.

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings

Bismarck State College

Bismarck, ND · 2,839 students · Public

Bismarck State College serves a diverse group of nearly 2,839 students in North Dakota's capital. With a graduation rate of 48%, this college emphasizes practical skills and workforce readiness, preparing students for immediate entry into their careers or further education.

48% graduate $54,277 earnings

Bismarck's full profile

#18

Williston State College

Williston, ND · 651 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just 651 students, Williston State College cultivates an environment where personalized attention is the norm. The college's 41% graduation rate reflects its commitment to helping students succeed, even as many juggle work and life responsibilities alongside their studies.

41% graduate $44,017 earnings

Williston's full profile

#19

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS · 10,780 students · Public

Wichita State University is situated in a vibrant city that complements its focus on practical education, making it a compelling choice for students looking to balance academics with real-world experience. With a strong acceptance rate of 94%, this public university welcomes a diverse range of students, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed. The graduation rate is 51%, indicating that just over half of students complete their degrees within a reasonable time frame, a figure worth considering as you evaluate your options.

94% accepted 51% graduate $51,532 earnings

Wichita's full profile

#20

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO · 5,648 students · Public

64% accepted 52% graduate $49,560 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Mayville State University

Mayville, ND · 733 students · Public

40% graduate $47,828 earnings

Mayville's full profile

#22

Rockhurst University

Kansas City, MO · 1,580 students · Private nonprofit

70% accepted 75% graduate $67,102 earnings

Rockhurst's full profile

#23

Newman University

Wichita, KS · 851 students · Private nonprofit

Newman University in Wichita, KS, is a private nonprofit with a welcoming enrollment of 851 students, creating a personal learning experience. With a graduation rate standing at 53%, students often find the support they need to navigate their academic journeys and achieve their goals.

74% accepted 53% graduate $55,041 earnings

Newman's full profile

#24

University of Mary

Bismarck, ND · 2,416 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Bismarck, ND, the University of Mary serves 2,416 students and boasts a solid graduation rate of 67%. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a comprehensive education rooted in values, making it a great fit for those looking for a balanced academic and personal growth experience.

75% accepted 67% graduate $60,909 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Valley City State University

Valley City, ND · 958 students · Public

99% accepted 51% graduate $52,725 earnings

Valley's full profile

#26

Drake University

Des Moines, IA · 2,543 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 76% graduate $71,901 earnings

College of Saint Benedict

Saint Joseph, MN · 1,370 students · Private nonprofit

92% accepted 80% graduate $63,260 earnings

College's full profile

#28

Coe College

Cedar Rapids, IA · 1,164 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 62% graduate $57,125 earnings

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS · 15,142 students · Public

Kansas State University is a bustling public institution in Manhattan, known for its welcoming community and strong academic programs. With an acceptance rate of 82%, it caters to a diverse group of students, making higher education more accessible. The graduation rate sits at 71%, reflecting a solid commitment to helping students reach their academic goals.

82% accepted 71% graduate $57,262 earnings

Kansas's full profile

#30

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

#31

The College of Saint Scholastica

Duluth, MN · 1,765 students · Private nonprofit

93% accepted 66% graduate $65,934 earnings

Dickinson State University

Dickinson, ND · 1,090 students · Public

37% accepted 47% graduate $50,720 earnings

Dickinson's full profile

#33

North Dakota State College of Science

Wahpeton, ND · 1,909 students · Public

In Wahpeton, North Dakota State College of Science focuses on technical education and career readiness. With a graduation rate of 52%, it may appeal to students looking for hands-on training in various fields. The college’s emphasis on skills development prepares graduates for the workforce, which is crucial in today’s job market.

52% graduate $50,513 earnings

Barton County Community College

Great Bend, KS · 2,455 students · Public

38% graduate $40,428 earnings

Barton's full profile

#35

Hamline University

Saint Paul, MN · 1,776 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 59% graduate $61,106 earnings

Hamline's full profile

#36

Upper Iowa University

Fayette, IA · 1,994 students · Private nonprofit

96% accepted 38% graduate $52,766 earnings

Mitchell Technical College

Mitchell, SD · 990 students · Public

Mitchell Technical College in South Dakota offers a focused education with an emphasis on technical skills, attracting students eager to enter the workforce quickly. With a graduation rate of 74%, students can expect to receive practical training that aligns with industry needs, setting them up for success in their careers.

74% graduate $50,743 earnings

Mitchell's full profile

#38

Luther College

Decorah, IA · 1,379 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 73% graduate $59,850 earnings

Luther's full profile

#39

St Catherine University

Saint Paul, MN · 2,473 students · Private nonprofit

92% accepted 63% graduate $59,282 earnings

North Iowa Area Community College

Mason City, IA · 1,320 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 58%, North Iowa Area Community College has a strong commitment to helping students succeed. Located in Mason City, this college serves around 1,320 students, providing a supportive environment that encourages personal and academic growth.

58% graduate $43,462 earnings

Maryville University of Saint Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 5,658 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 69% graduate $62,105 earnings

Maryville's full profile

#42

Saint Louis University

Saint Louis, MO · 7,267 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Louis University, located in the heart of Missouri, has a strong reputation for academic excellence, boasting an impressive graduation rate of 80%. With a student body of 7,267, this private nonprofit university provides a supportive environment that encourages students to thrive both academically and socially.

75% accepted 80% graduate $70,783 earnings

Dunwoody College of Technology

Minneapolis, MN · 1,533 students · Private nonprofit

99% accepted 65% graduate $61,511 earnings

Dunwoody's full profile

#44

Kirkwood Community College

Cedar Rapids, IA · 7,591 students · Public

42% graduate $41,016 earnings

Kirkwood's full profile

#45

Lake Region State College

Devils Lake, ND · 611 students · Public

Lake Region State College, with its small community of 611 students, fosters a close-knit atmosphere that can feel like family. The college has a graduation rate of 51%, and it's a place where students can receive personalized attention from faculty and staff, helping them navigate their educational journey.

51% graduate $49,502 earnings

Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO · 4,378 students · Public

86% accepted 56% graduate $47,885 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#47

Southeast Missouri State University

Cape Girardeau, MO · 6,373 students · Public

74% accepted 57% graduate $44,030 earnings

Southeast's full profile

#48

Jefferson College

Hillsboro, MO · 2,552 students · Public

35% graduate $40,782 earnings

Jefferson's full profile

#49

Creighton University

Omaha, NE · 4,348 students · Private nonprofit

Creighton University, nestled in Omaha, NE, is a private nonprofit institution with a vibrant community of 4,348 students. With a graduation rate of 82%, this university reflects a commitment to student success and support, encouraging a high level of achievement among its graduates.

80% accepted 82% graduate $73,911 earnings

Creighton's full profile

#50

Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, IA · 1,107 students · Private nonprofit

83% accepted 57% graduate $60,787 earnings

The data reveals a clear pattern: schools with higher graduation rates often yield better financial outcomes for graduates. For instance, Washington University in St. Louis not only has the highest earnings but also a robust graduation rate of 94%. In contrast, Missouri University of Science and Technology, while still offering strong earnings at $82,957, has a concerning graduation rate of only 64%. This discrepancy suggests that investment in education is not just about potential earnings but also about the likelihood of completing a degree.

As you sift through the 50 schools listed, it's essential to weigh these metrics against your own priorities. Consider factors like location, specific program offerings, and campus culture alongside financial data. For example, if you're passionate about a particular field of study, a school with a strong program in that area might outweigh slightly higher debt or lower earnings. Tailoring your college search to both data and personal values will lead to a more fulfilling decision.

Ultimately, this data reflects a path from education to a stable life. One family’s choice to invest in Washington University in St. Louis may open doors to higher earnings and job security, while another might prioritize a lower-cost option like Grinnell College, which also fosters strong community connections. Each decision shapes the trajectory of lives, guiding students toward their futures.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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