Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Minnesota

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 36 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$58,174

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

63%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,905

Avg. Net Price

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Considering a master's program in Minnesota? You're not alone. With 36 options available, prospective students are evaluating where they can invest their time and money most effectively. The average earnings for graduates in these programs hover around $58,174, which is a crucial number for anyone weighing their options.

The schools on this list stand out based on key outcomes that matter for graduate programs, such as earnings, graduation rates, net price, and student debt. The data reveals that strong programs not only lead to higher earnings but also typically reflect better completion rates and manageable debt levels. The metrics here help shine a light on what you can expect after graduation, guiding you to make an informed choice.

Take, for instance, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and Carleton College. While both schools show strong earnings potential, with graduates from Carleton earning $75,525 compared to $69,020 from the Twin Cities campus, the financial tradeoff is noticeable. Carleton has a higher net price at $25,407, versus $16,778 at Twin Cities. This data highlights how program choice can significantly influence both your immediate financial situation and future earnings potential.

Key Findings

Graduates from Carleton College earn an average of $75,525, the highest in this list.

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities has a graduation rate of 85%, significantly higher than the overall average of 63%.

The average graduate debt across these programs is $19,500, with Carleton College showing $16,750 in comparison.

University of Minnesota-Morris has the lowest net price at $8,837, making it a more affordable option.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 36

Avg. earnings at 10yr $58,174

Avg. graduation rate 63%

Avg. net price $20,905

Avg. median debt $21,698

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Minnesota ranked by graduate outcomes

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

Carleton College

Northfield, MN

Graduation90%

Earnings$75,525

Net Price$25,407

View full profile →

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN

Graduation76%

Earnings$76,786

Net Price$25,672

View full profile →

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN

Graduation89%

Earnings$63,878

Net Price$32,149

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

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Full Rankings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College, located in Northfield, Minnesota, boasts a tight-knit community with just 2,086 students. With a graduation rate of 90%, it’s clear that Carleton fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The focus on a liberal arts education encourages critical thinking and collaboration, preparing students for a wide range of careers.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 76%, Saint John's University cultivates a strong academic community in Collegeville, Minnesota. The median earnings for graduates at ten years post-enrollment reach $76,786, suggesting that students leave well-prepared for the workforce and ready to make an impact in their chosen fields.

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Macalester College

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

Macalester College in Saint Paul is known for its strong commitment to internationalism and diversity, with a student population of around 2,131. The college has an impressive graduation rate of 89%, indicating a supportive academic environment. Graduates earn a median income of $63,878 at ten years, showing that Macalester prepares its students well for the job market.

29% accepted 89% graduate $63,878 earnings

Macalester's full profile

Gustavus Adolphus College

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

Gustavus Adolphus College, located in Saint Peter, MN, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its 76% graduation rate. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing students with critical thinking skills and a broad knowledge base that serves them well in various career paths, as evidenced by a median earning of $65,607 after ten years.

61% accepted 76% graduate $65,607 earnings

Gustavus's full profile

College of Saint Benedict

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

With a graduation rate of 80%, the College of Saint Benedict in Saint Joseph, MN, cultivates a supportive environment that helps students thrive. The tight-knit community of around 1,370 students fosters collaboration and personal growth, making it a great choice for those seeking a more intimate college experience.

92% accepted 80% graduate $63,260 earnings

College's full profile

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN · 31,855 students · Public

With 31,855 students, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers a vibrant campus life in the heart of Minneapolis. An impressive 85% of students graduate, which speaks volumes about the support and resources available to help you succeed.

80% accepted 85% graduate $69,020 earnings

University's full profile

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

The University of Minnesota-Morris, with its small student body of 936, offers a unique rural campus experience. Although the graduation rate is 62%, the university emphasizes close-knit relationships between students and faculty, creating a personalized educational journey. This setting can be particularly beneficial for students who thrive in a less hectic environment.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

The College of Saint Scholastica

Duluth, MN · 1,765 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Duluth, the College of Saint Scholastica provides a nurturing atmosphere for its 1,765 students, making it an attractive choice for those who value close faculty interaction and a supportive campus culture. With a graduation rate of 66%, students here tend to thrive, benefiting from a curriculum that emphasizes both academic rigor and community engagement.

93% accepted 66% graduate $65,934 earnings

Hamline University

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

Located in the heart of Saint Paul, Hamline University fosters a close-knit community with a focus on liberal arts education. The school encourages students to explore their passions while preparing them for careers, exemplified by a solid earnings potential of $61,106 at ten years post-graduation, which reflects its commitment to practical learning.

88% accepted 59% graduate $61,106 earnings

Hamline's full profile

#10

St Catherine University

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

With a welcoming vibe in Saint Paul and a strong commitment to student success, St. Catherine University supports a diverse student body, with 40% of students receiving Pell Grants. Its focus on women's education and community engagement creates a unique environment where learners can thrive both academically and personally.

92% accepted 63% graduate $59,282 earnings

Dunwoody College of Technology

Minneapolis, MN · 1,533 students · Private nonprofit

Dunwoody College of Technology, located in Minneapolis, is known for its hands-on approach to education in technical fields. With a strong graduation rate of 65%, the college prepares students for immediate careers in high-demand industries, and its graduates earn a median income of $61,511 after ten years, reflecting the value of practical training.

99% accepted 65% graduate $61,511 earnings

Dunwoody's full profile

#12

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Winona, MN · 1,073 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota offers a nurturing environment with a focus on personal and professional growth. With a graduation rate of 67%, the university has a reputation for helping students succeed and offers a supportive community that values inclusiveness and diversity, making it a great fit for a wide range of learners.

93% accepted 67% graduate $58,170 earnings

Concordia College at Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · 1,829 students · Private nonprofit

Concordia College at Moorhead welcomes 1,829 students to a supportive campus environment that values academic achievement and personal growth. Despite a 66% graduation rate, the college encourages students to develop their potential through collaborative learning and community involvement.

63% accepted 66% graduate $59,317 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#14

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN · 3,093 students · Private nonprofit

St. Olaf College has a vibrant community of around 3,093 students, known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on the liberal arts. With a graduation rate of 84%, students here benefit from a supportive environment that fosters success. The median earnings of $65,543 after ten years reflect the college's commitment to preparing students for rewarding careers in various fields.

48% accepted 84% graduate $65,543 earnings

Augsburg University

Minneapolis, MN · 2,494 students · Private nonprofit

Augsburg University, situated in the heart of Minneapolis, serves a diverse student population of almost 2,500 students. The school has a strong commitment to inclusivity, with a 56% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating its focus on helping those from lower-income backgrounds succeed.

82% accepted 52% graduate $58,829 earnings

Augsburg's full profile

#16

University of Minnesota-Crookston

Crookston, MN · 1,729 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 88%, the University of Minnesota-Crookston welcomes a diverse range of students. It's a smaller campus with around 1,729 students, which can create a closer-knit community and personalized attention from faculty. The median earnings of $58,056 at ten years after graduation suggest that graduates have solid earning potential in their careers.

88% accepted 50% graduate $58,056 earnings

University's full profile

#17

University of Minnesota-Duluth

Duluth, MN · 7,336 students · Public

Located in Duluth, the University of Minnesota-Duluth is a larger public university with 7,336 students, offering a diverse array of programs and a vibrant campus life. The graduation rate of 65% indicates that many students find their path to success here, and the median earnings of $62,616 after ten years reflect the potential for solid career outcomes.

89% accepted 65% graduate $62,616 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Bethany Lutheran College

Mankato, MN · 669 students · Private nonprofit

Bethany Lutheran College, located in Mankato, MN, is a smaller school that cultivates a close-knit community with just 669 students. With a 57% graduation rate, it provides an environment where students can receive personalized attention and support as they work towards their degrees.

39% accepted 57% graduate $46,110 earnings

Bethany's full profile

#19

Winona State University

Winona, MN · 5,144 students · Public

Winona State University, situated in scenic Winona, MN, serves a vibrant student population of 5,144. The university has a graduation rate of 59%, which reflects a commitment to providing students with the resources they need to succeed in their studies. The supportive community encourages personal growth and academic achievement, helping students navigate their college experience effectively.

75% accepted 59% graduate $58,532 earnings

Winona's full profile

#20

Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud, MN · 5,088 students · Public

Saint Cloud State University, located in the heart of Minnesota, enrolls 5,088 students and boasts a welcoming campus culture. However, it's worth noting that the graduation rate sits at 44%, which may reflect challenges some students face in completing their degrees. Nevertheless, the school encourages resilience and offers a variety of support services to help students succeed.

95% accepted 44% graduate $55,813 earnings

Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, MN · 11,703 students · Public

Home to over 11,700 students, Minnesota State University-Mankato is a vibrant public university that emphasizes inclusivity and opportunity. With an acceptance rate of 88%, this school welcomes a diverse array of students, creating a dynamic community where everyone can find their niche.

88% accepted 54% graduate $56,922 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#22

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · 3,072 students · Public

Minnesota State University Moorhead, home to around 3,072 students, offers a vibrant college experience surrounded by the rich cultural life of Moorhead. With a graduation rate of 56%, the university fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and make lasting connections with peers and faculty alike.

59% accepted 56% graduate $50,527 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#23

Bemidji State University

Bemidji, MN · 3,139 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just over 3,100 students, Bemidji State University creates a welcoming environment for those seeking a personalized college experience. The school's commitment to supporting its students is evident in its 51% graduation rate, offering a solid foundation for academic success amidst the scenic beauty of Minnesota's north woods.

56% accepted 51% graduate $53,755 earnings

Bemidji's full profile

#24

North Central University

Minneapolis, MN · 709 students · Private nonprofit

North Central University in Minneapolis has a welcoming atmosphere with a high acceptance rate of 99%, making it an appealing option for students looking for an inviting community. The school boasts a 65% graduation rate, showing a commitment to student success and support throughout their educational journey.

99% accepted 65% graduate $45,064 earnings

University of Minnesota-Rochester

Rochester, MN · 568 students · Public

At the University of Minnesota-Rochester, the focus on health sciences creates a specialized educational environment for its 568 students. While the graduation rate is lower at 57%, the targeted programs offer a unique opportunity for those interested in careers in healthcare and related fields. The community is small but dedicated, fostering close connections among students and faculty.

71% accepted 57% graduate $69,020 earnings

University's full profile

#26

University of St Thomas

Saint Paul, MN · 6,245 students · Private nonprofit

The University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul is a dynamic institution with 6,245 students, known for its focus on liberal arts education and community engagement. A graduation rate of 76% indicates that students are finding both support and success as they navigate their academic paths, preparing them for futures in a variety of fields.

85% accepted 76% graduate $73,739 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Metropolitan State University

Saint Paul, MN · 5,616 students · Public

Metropolitan State University in Saint Paul has a welcoming atmosphere with a 99% acceptance rate, making it accessible to a wide range of students. With a focus on urban and community engagement, it caters well to those seeking practical, real-world experiences alongside their education.

99% accepted 42% graduate $64,705 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#28

Southwest Minnesota State University

Marshall, MN · 2,315 students · Public

In Marshall, MN, Southwest Minnesota State University serves about 2,315 students in a close-knit educational environment. With a 62% acceptance rate, the university fosters a sense of belonging, making it an appealing option for students looking for a supportive community.

62% accepted 45% graduate $51,342 earnings

Southwest's full profile

#29

Crown College

Saint Bonifacius, MN · 796 students · Private nonprofit

Crown College, located in Saint Bonifacius, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and faith-based education. With a graduation rate of 54%, it provides an intimate setting for students to grow both personally and academically, though the more selective acceptance rate of 23% may require a stronger application.

23% accepted 54% graduate $48,057 earnings

Martin Luther College

New Ulm, MN · 725 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community of just 725 students, Martin Luther College offers a personalized educational experience in New Ulm, Minnesota. Here, students can expect a 71% graduation rate, reflecting a supportive environment that helps many reach their academic goals.

87% accepted 71% graduate $47,491 earnings

Martin's full profile

#31

Bethel University

Saint Paul, MN · 1,871 students · Private nonprofit

Bethel University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is home to 1,871 students and an impressive median earning of $63,764 within a decade of graduation. With a graduation rate of 73%, this institution creates a vibrant atmosphere where students thrive academically and socially through its emphasis on community engagement and faith integration.

88% accepted 73% graduate $63,764 earnings

Bethel's full profile

#32

University of Northwestern-St Paul

Saint Paul, MN · 1,442 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the University of Northwestern-St Paul welcomes a diverse group of 1,442 students, fostering an environment that encourages personal and spiritual growth. With a graduation rate of 68%, the school emphasizes supportive relationships and community involvement that help students navigate their college journey.

93% accepted 68% graduate $50,755 earnings

University's full profile

#33

Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, MN · 3,018 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus in Saint Paul, Concordia University has a diverse student body of over 3,000 students. A notable aspect is the 79% acceptance rate, which indicates a welcoming environment for various backgrounds and academic experiences.

79% accepted 52% graduate $59,871 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#34

Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Minneapolis, MN · 705 students · Private nonprofit

For those drawn to creativity, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design is a vibrant place for artistic expression. With a graduation rate of 59%, it attracts a diverse student body passionate about arts and design, making it a hub for future creators and innovators.

48% accepted 59% graduate $40,873 earnings

Minneapolis's full profile

#35

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College

Cloquet, MN · 557 students · Public

Located in Cloquet, MN, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College caters to a unique demographic, with an emphasis on supporting Native American students and communities. Despite a lower graduation rate of 23%, the college plays an important role in offering educational opportunities for those who might not otherwise have access to higher education.

23% graduate $45,665 earnings

Herzing University-Minneapolis

St. Louis Park, MN · 740 students · Private nonprofit

With a 61% graduation rate, Herzing University in Minneapolis supports students in turning their educational ambitions into career-ready skills. The school has a strong acceptance rate of 94%, making it an accessible option for many aspiring students who are looking for a supportive environment to thrive in.

94% accepted 61% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

When we examine the data closely, a notable pattern emerges. Carleton College outperforms the University of Minnesota-Morris in earnings, with a $75,525 average compared to Morris's $50,919. However, this comes at a higher cost, with Carleton’s net price at $25,407 compared to Morris's remarkably low $8,837. This contrast highlights the tradeoff between immediate affordability and long-term earning potential.

So, what's next after reviewing the data? Weigh these outcomes against your personal priorities. Are you leaning toward a program with a higher graduation rate even if it comes with more debt? Or is minimizing upfront costs your top concern? Think about your career goals and how these schools align with them. It's crucial to factor in not just the numbers but also the campus culture and program fit.

Ultimately, this data reflects a larger narrative about the path from graduate school to a stable career. Each decision carries weight. For one family, choosing the right program could mean the difference between entering a stable job market or struggling with debt. Understanding these numbers can empower you to make a choice that not only impacts your education but also your future financial health.

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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