Is a research university right for me?–

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students. Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines. Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel. Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well. Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Is an online college right for me?–

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available. Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online. Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college. Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands. Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain. Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving. If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc. The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors. Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions. If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2024

Q: Is a liberal arts college right for me?–

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students. Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom). Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers. Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Badge for BEST IN MINNESOTA RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES

By Dr. James Barham

Published: Apr 13, 2021
Updated: Oct 26, 2023

Interested in attending a STEM school in Minnesota? Our ranking of top research universities for bachelor’s degrees displays schools that will best prepare you for STEM careers.

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2024

University of Minnesota
University of St. Thomas
St. Catherine University
Metropolitan State University
Bethel University
College of St. Scholastica

University of Minnesota
University of St. Thomas
St. Catherine University
Bethel University
Metropolitan State University
College of St. Scholastica

College of St. Scholastica 97%
St. Catherine University 93%
Metropolitan State University 82%
University of St. Thomas 77%
University of Minnesota 75%
Bethel University 72%

University of Minnesota 16 to 1
Metropolitan State University 14 to 1
University of St. Thomas 13 to 1
Bethel University 12 to 1
College of St. Scholastica 10 to 1
St. Catherine University 10 to 1

University of St. Thomas $50,366
St. Catherine University $47,870
Bethel University $41,270
College of St. Scholastica $39,410
University of Minnesota $14,006
Metropolitan State University $9,684

University of St. Thomas $26,619
University of Minnesota $18,468
St. Catherine University $17,550
College of St. Scholastica $13,551
Bethel University $11,981
Metropolitan State University $9,828

College of St. Scholastica
Bethel University
Metropolitan State University
St. Catherine University
University of St. Thomas
University of Minnesota

College of St. Scholastica
Metropolitan State University
Bethel University
St. Catherine University
University of St. Thomas
University of Minnesota

Bethel University 72%
University of Minnesota 75%
University of St. Thomas 77%
Metropolitan State University 82%
St. Catherine University 93%
College of St. Scholastica 97%

College of St. Scholastica 10 to 1
St. Catherine University 10 to 1
Bethel University 12 to 1
University of St. Thomas 13 to 1
Metropolitan State University 14 to 1
University of Minnesota 16 to 1

Metropolitan State University $9,684
University of Minnesota $14,006
College of St. Scholastica $39,410
Bethel University $41,270
St. Catherine University $47,870
University of St. Thomas $50,366

Metropolitan State University $9,828
Bethel University $11,981
College of St. Scholastica $13,551
St. Catherine University $17,550
University of Minnesota $18,468
University of St. Thomas $26,619

Table of Contents

Colleges and Universities in Minnesota

One of largest public higher education institutes in the country, the University of Minnesota has main campuses in both of the Twin Cities, Saint Paul and Minneapolis. This school costs about $15,000 in tuition, and provides its students with competitive programs in fields like nursing, education, economics, and psychology. And the options don’t stop there. There are more than 20 schools in the state with religious affiliations, including larger schools like the University of St. Thomas, which campuses in both Twin Cities, and smaller schools like Oak Hills Christian College in Bemidji.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

For students striving to keep costs low in a smaller school environment, Southwest Minnesota State University offers tuition below the national average and serves about 3,500 students. Additionally, those on track to become a teacher or health care provider may be eligible for one of Minnesota’s loan forgiveness programs after graduation. Minnesota also boasts a large network of private colleges, two of which, Walden University and Capella University, primarily cater to online students.

Ever heard the phrase, There’s an app for that? Well, in Minnesota they say something similar, There’s a festival for that. This fun state doesn’t hold back when it comes to celebrating. With events like the Grumpy Old Men Festival, World Festival, and the Perham Turtle Fest, students earning their degrees at one of Minnesota’s more than 70 colleges won’t miss out on a good time.

Discover some of Minnesota’s top programs and learn how you can earn your associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree while cashing in on some of this state’s unique experiences.

What are Minnesota’s Colleges & Universities?

Minnesota’s Best Overall

A research university is a great option for students interested in obtaining STEM degrees. Research universities invest heavily in research, which consequently provides meaningful and extensive opportunities for its students and faculty to participate in research. We’ve identified 8 research universities in Minnesota. To be included in our ranking, schools must be a fully accredited universities and must must offer doctoral degrees across the range of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2023

#1
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis , MN
#6 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #6 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #21 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
84%
Student body
61K
Median SAT/ACT
1395/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Minnesota
Cost of Degree: $16,488
Expenses: $16,378
Starting Salary: $61,200
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is University of Minnesota known for?

University of Minnesota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Nursing
Medical
Psychology
Engineering
Chemistry
Economics
Anthropology
Social Work
Biology
Mathematics

Most Influential Alumni

Arthur Compton
Deke Slayton
Ernest Lawrence
Norman Borlaug
Thomas Friedman
Melvin Calvin
John L. Holland
Christiaan Barnard
Edward B. Lewis
Roy Wilkins
Alexander Wendt
Lars Peter Hansen
Compare school
#2
University of St. Thomas
Saint Paul , MN
#3 Best Private Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Minnesota 2024 #5 Best Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
Tuition + fees
$50K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
80%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1295/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of St. Thomas
Cost of Degree: $52,284
Expenses: $16,528
Starting Salary: $62,900
Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is University of St. Thomas known for?

University of St. Thomas ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Religious Studies
Philosophy
Economics
Social Work
Computer Science
Law
Political Science
Business
Sociology
History

Most Influential Alumni

Blase J. Cupich
Richard DeMillo
John A. Ryan
Michael J. Glennon
Lee A. Piché
Tim Callahan
Aaron D. Ames
David Housewright
Michael P. Doyle
John Schneider
Stephen A. McCarthy
John Harrington
Compare school
#3
St. Catherine University
Saint Paul , MN
#8 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Minnesota 2025 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Minnesota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
64%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1302/22
Career Outlook for degree at St. Catherine University
Cost of Degree: $37,588
Expenses: $14,986
Starting Salary: $51,100
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is St. Catherine University known for?

St. Catherine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Nursing
Social Work
Sociology
Literature
Biology
Economics
Medical
Education
Chemistry
Mathematics

Most Influential Alumni

Mary P. Sinclair
Mary Rose O'Reilley
Betty McCollum
Compare school
#4
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul , MN
#9 Best Public Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Minnesota 2024 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota #9 Best Online Colleges in Minnesota 2025
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in Minnesota
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
33%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for degree at Metropolitan State University
Cost of Degree: $9,780
Starting Salary: $51,700
What is Metropolitan State University known for?

Metropolitan State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Social Work
Criminal Justice
Business
Nursing
Political Science
Sociology
Communications
Literature
Medical
Education

Most Influential Alumni

Derek Chauvin
Steve Chase
Compare school
#5
Bethel University
Saint Paul , MN
#9 Best Christian Colleges Minnesota 2025 #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Minnesota #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Minnesota
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
75%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Bethel University
Cost of Degree: $42,930
Expenses: $16,460
Starting Salary: $52,600
Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is Bethel University known for?

Bethel University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Religious Studies
Philosophy
Chemistry
Physics
Psychology
Medical
Mathematics
Communications
Literature
Nursing

Most Influential Alumni

William D. Mounce
Barth Netterfield
Gustaf Wilhelm Hammar
Kathryn Zurek
Jeff Nelson
Richard L. Greaves
Mark Johnson
Compare school
#6
College of St. Scholastica
Duluth , MN
#13 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
67%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at College of St. Scholastica
Cost of Degree: $40,454
Expenses: $15,276
Starting Salary: $56,000
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is College of St. Scholastica known for?

College of St. Scholastica’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Social Work
Chemistry
Mathematics
Computer Science
Medical
Literature
Nursing
Biology
History
Philosophy

Most Influential Alumni

Linda J. S. Allen
Aaron Halfaker
Julie Sandstede
Compare school

Find the Best Research Universities in Minnesota for Your Area of Interest

Frequently Asked Questions About Research Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Online Colleges

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you will need to choose between three kinds of schools: research universities, liberal arts colleges, and online colleges.

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students.

Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines.

Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel.

Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well.
Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Learn more about research universities by reading about the best research universities in the US.

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree.

Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students.

Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom).

Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers.

Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Learn more about liberal arts colleges by reading about the best liberal arts colleges in the US.

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available.

Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online.

Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college.

Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands.

Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain.

Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving.

If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc.

The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors.

Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions.

If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

Check out our directory of research universities throughout the U.S. for a look at the top research institutions in every state.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2024

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2024

Colleges and Universities in Minnesota

What are Minnesota’s Colleges & Universities?

Minnesota’s Best Overall

Best Research Universities in Minnesota 2023

University of Minnesota

Career Outlook for degree at University of Minnesota

Most Influential Alumni

University of St. Thomas

Career Outlook for degree at University of St. Thomas

Most Influential Alumni

St. Catherine University

Career Outlook for degree at St. Catherine University

Most Influential Alumni

Metropolitan State University

Career Outlook for degree at Metropolitan State University

Most Influential Alumni

Bethel University

Career Outlook for degree at Bethel University

Most Influential Alumni

College of St. Scholastica

Career Outlook for degree at College of St. Scholastica

Most Influential Alumni

Find the Best Research Universities in Minnesota for Your Area of Interest