Our Value

Billy Sveen, Bethel University, dissects a rat for his research, isolating the h
St. Olaf student Aaron Harcus with the poster explaining his research project
Saint Mary’s University student Jennifer Koezly works on her research in the lab
Bethel University student Hannah Wichterman coaches an RN as a part of her PULSE
A Concordia University student draws blood for a research study on hemoglobin
Concordia College’s Marnie Rosenheim completed research on international perspec
Saint Mary's University student Stephanie Valentine presents her research
Saint John’s University student Daniel Maxbauer completes field work on Rusinga

There are lots of ways to choose a college, but in the end, it is about value. High school students and their parents weigh their choices, looking for the right mix of opportunities. They think about what would help start a career — and advance it later. They also consider the cost of that investment. Each year, thousands of families choose one of Minnesota's Private Colleges. Here are some reasons why.

Academic excellence

Students at private colleges know they're not just a number. Small classes and plenty of opportunities to work closely with faculty create a higher quality experience — one that contributes to student success. Compared to students at public institutions, ours have higher odds of graduating on-time.

Variety

These 17 colleges are diverse, from their majors to the meals. Whether there are 600 or 6,000 undergraduates on campus, our students keep things interesting too. That means you're sure to find a college that feels right for you.

Affordability

Families from all income levels find private colleges affordable. That's possible in large part because nine out of every 10 students receive financial aid that they never have to pay back. As a result, students on average end up paying only about half of the full tuition price.

Community and ethics

Our colleges nurture a strong sense of community. Students learn plenty outside the classroom, including about their own values. The result is a well-rounded education and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Career value

The knowledge and skills gained at our colleges are exactly what employers seek; a liberal arts education is more relevant than ever in our global economy. Students also graduate well prepared for graduate and professional schools. And the real world experiences that our colleges encourage — internships, research and overseas study — are key.

Liberal arts education

The liberal arts matter. Though the concept has been around for hundreds of years, a liberal arts education is more relevant than ever today.

Alumni views

Just what a student will get out of their college experience depends on many variables. But choosing a private nonprofit college can make a difference. A new survey of college alumni finds several areas of distinction for Minnesota's Private Colleges, in comparison to flagship public universities in the six-state area.