Top universities that offers best online courses in Minnesota
Minnesota’s diverse online education landscape offers exceptional options across all degree levels and price points. From the University of Minnesota’s research-driven programs and Minnesota State system’s affordability to private institutions like Hamline and Saint Mary’s offering specialized approaches, students find quality education matching their needs. Community colleges like Riverland provide accessible entry points, while comprehensive universities like Mankato offer 100+ graduate programs. These institutions invest in technology, student support, and career-focused curricula that produce successful graduates.
Finding the right online university in Minnesota can transform your career trajectory without disrupting your current life. Whether you’re juggling a full-time job, raising a family, or simply prefer the flexibility of remote learning, Minnesota’s top-tier online universities deliver quality education that fits your schedule. The state has become a powerhouse in distance education, with institutions ranging from major research universities to specialized colleges offering hundreds of programs across every academic discipline.
Minnesota’s online education landscape stands out nationally. Bemidji State University earned recognition as the sixth-best online college in Minnesota by Forbes Advisor, demonstrating the competitive quality across the state’s institutions. But what exactly makes these universities exceptional? Let’s explore the ten institutions leading Minnesota’s online education revolution.
Are an online student from Minnesota who has difficulty in his/her homework assignment?
What Makes Minnesota's Online Universities Stand Out?
Minnesota’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education shows in its online offerings. Accreditation remains paramount—every university on this list maintains regional accreditation, ensuring your degree holds value with employers and transfer institutions. The University of Minnesota offers more than 100 online programs spanning bachelor’s to doctoral levels, illustrating the breadth available to Minnesota students.
Technology integration sets these programs apart. Universities invest heavily in learning management systems that facilitate seamless interaction between students and faculty. You’ll find recorded lectures, live video sessions, discussion forums, and collaborative projects that mirror on-campus experiences.
Support services matter tremendously in online education. Minnesota’s top universities provide dedicated advisors, tutoring services, career counseling, and technical support specifically for distance learners. This infrastructure ensures you’re never truly alone in your educational journey.
The flexibility these programs offer addresses real-world needs. Most courses use asynchronous delivery, meaning you access lectures and complete assignments on your schedule. Some programs incorporate synchronous elements—live sessions scheduled at specific times—to build community and facilitate real-time discussions.
1. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities: Research Excellence Meets Online Accessibility
Over 100 Online Programs Across All Degree Levels
The University of Minnesota – Twin Cities represents the flagship of Minnesota’s public university system. As one of the nation’s top public research universities, UMN brings that research excellence directly to online learners. The sheer variety staggers—from undergraduate certificates to doctoral programs, nearly every academic interest finds representation.
The University now offers more than 85 online learning programs through its campuses, with the Twin Cities and Crookston campuses leading the charge. You’ll find specialized options like financial analysis, nursing leadership, and computer science—fields where UMN’s research reputation adds significant credential weight.
What programs work best for working professionals? Graduate programs in business, education, and healthcare prove most popular among those balancing careers. The Master of Social Work, MBA programs, and various education licensures allow you to advance professionally without career interruption. Undergraduate degree completion programs help those with some college credits finally finish their bachelor’s degree.
Research Excellence Meets Online Accessibility
The University’s research status means something tangible for online students. Faculty teaching your courses often lead groundbreaking research in their fields. You’re learning from the same professors who publish in top journals, secure major grants, and shape their disciplines nationally.
UNITE Distributed Learning offers online graduate and undergraduate engineering and science courses through streaming video and web-based technologies. This platform exemplifies UMN’s technical sophistication in online delivery. Engineering students access the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus peers, with flexible timing.
The College of Science and Engineering particularly excels in online offerings. Computer science master’s programs attract students nationwide who want UMN’s technical expertise without relocating. The coursework demands match on-campus expectations—these aren’t watered-down versions.
What Makes UMN Twin Cities Unique
Three factors distinguish UMN’s online programs. First, the Big Ten affiliation brings name recognition that matters in competitive job markets. Employers know UMN graduates receive rigorous training. Second, the variety across 100+ programs means you’ll likely find your niche. Third, the University ranks as a “best value” with competitive tuition rates and outstanding academic programs focused on student success.
Research opportunities exist even for online students in certain programs. Some master’s and doctoral programs incorporate research components you can complete remotely. This access to faculty expertise and university resources elevates your learning beyond simple course completion.
The university’s graduation rate and student success metrics exceed national averages. UMN Twin Cities maintains a 93.0% freshman retention rate, far above the national average of 69.0%. While these numbers reflect overall institutional quality, they indicate the support systems benefiting all students, including those online.
How do credits transfer from UMN? The university’s accreditation and reputation mean credits transfer readily to other institutions. If you start online at UMN and later want to attend another university, your coursework will likely transfer smoothly. Similarly, UMN accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, making it accessible for degree completion.
2. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota: Values-Driven Online Education
Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota takes a distinctive approach to online education, grounding programs in Lasallian Catholic values while maintaining accessibility for students of all backgrounds. The university awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership, integrating character education with practical career skills.
The bachelor’s degree completion programs offer flexibility to balance school with part-time or full-time work. Programs include accounting, applied psychology, business administration, healthcare management, human resource management, and information technology. Each program assumes you’ve completed general education requirements and focuses on upper-division coursework in your major.
How long does degree completion take at Saint Mary’s? Most students finish within 18-24 months of continuous enrollment, though you can adjust your pace. The accelerated format lets motivated students graduate faster, while those needing slower progress can extend their timeline without penalty.
Graduate Programs for Working Adults
Saint Mary’s offers more than 50 programs including counseling and psychological services, social work, educational leadership, administrative licensures, analytics, and advanced technology. The graduate portfolio reflects workforce needs—programs align with growing career fields where master’s-level education opens advancement opportunities.
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program exemplifies this alignment. Mental health and substance abuse social workers face expected growth of 11 percent, creating demand for qualified professionals. Saint Mary’s structures the MSW for working adults, with optional specializations like addiction studies that enhance your career prospects.
Educational leadership programs serve current teachers and administrators seeking advancement. Minnesota requires specific licensure for administrative roles, and Saint Mary’s programs meet these state requirements while offering flexibility for full-time educators.
Lasallian Catholic Values in Online Education
Saint Mary’s mission of empowering students to live lives of ethical service translates to a variety of paths, serving undergraduate, bachelor’s completion, graduate, and professional students. This values integration doesn’t mean religious requirements—students from all faith backgrounds enroll and thrive.
What it does mean: coursework incorporates ethical frameworks, community engagement, and social responsibility. Business students examine corporate ethics alongside financial analysis. Psychology students explore the ethical dimensions of therapeutic relationships. This holistic approach produces graduates who consider broader societal impacts in their professional work.
The university’s iPad-based learning management system reflects innovation within tradition. Saint Mary’s long history of innovation in education continues with their learning management system on an iPad, offering mobility and accessibility. You can engage with coursework from anywhere, making education truly portable.
How does Saint Mary’s support online learners? Dedicated support teams assist with technical issues, academic advising, and career planning. Online students receive the same support services as those on campus, ensuring you access resources regardless of location. Virtual library services, writing centers, and tutoring operate specifically for distance learners.
Are an online student from Minnesota who has difficulty in his/her homework assignment?
3. Minnesota State University Moorhead: Distance Learning Specialists
Distance Learning Specialization
Minnesota State University Moorhead has built its reputation around serving distance learners effectively. The school’s online programs primarily gear toward distance learners seeking to complete their bachelor’s degrees, offering BS degrees in 13 majors. This specialization means the university’s infrastructure, policies, and support systems all optimize for remote student success.
Construction technology, digital media, and other career-focused majors attract students seeking practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on application even in online formats. You’ll complete projects simulating real workplace challenges, building portfolios that demonstrate competence to future employers.
Graduate programs expand on undergraduate offerings. Education degrees serve practicing teachers pursuing master’s credentials or additional licensure. Business programs target mid-career professionals seeking management advancement. Each program balances theoretical foundations with practical application.
Technology-Enhanced Learning Experience
MSU Moorhead invests substantially in educational technology. The university’s learning platforms incorporate video conferencing, collaborative document editing, virtual labs, and simulation software. These tools create engagement rivaling face-to-face instruction.
Virtual labs deserve special mention. Science courses—traditionally difficult online—use simulation software that lets you conduct experiments digitally. While not identical to physical labs, these simulations teach principles effectively and assess your understanding rigorously.
Discussion forums build community among distance learners. Faculty structure these interactions to ensure meaningful engagement rather than superficial participation. You’ll debate concepts, critique peer work, and collaborate on group projects—all asynchronously, on your schedule.
What technology does MSU Moorhead use? The D2L Brightspace learning management system serves as the primary platform. It integrates with various tools including Zoom for synchronous sessions, Turnitin for plagiarism detection, and specialized software relevant to specific disciplines. Technical support stands ready to troubleshoot issues quickly.
Accessibility features ensure students with disabilities access all materials. Closed captioning, screen reader compatibility, and flexible online assignment formats demonstrate commitment to inclusive education. These aren’t afterthoughts—accessibility integrates from course design forward.
4. Bemidji State University: Affordable Excellence in Online Education
Forbes Recognition for Affordability
Bemidji State University earned its place on Minnesota’s top ten through a combination of quality and value. Forbes Advisor scored 46 accredited nonprofit colleges in Minnesota using 17 data points across five categories including student outcomes, affordability, student experience, credibility, and the application process. Bemidji’s sixth-place ranking reflects strength across all these dimensions.
Affordability particularly stands out. Public university tuition rates make education accessible to middle-class families without requiring crushing debt loads. Financial aid packages often include grants, scholarships, and work-study options that further reduce costs. Many students graduate with minimal or no student loans.
Why is Bemidji State ranked sixth by Forbes? The ranking methodology emphasized student outcomes—graduation rates, career placement, earning potential. Bemidji’s graduates succeed professionally, achieving salaries that justify their educational investment. The university’s career services support students from enrollment through job placement, creating accountability for real-world results.
Online Degree Value Proposition
Value extends beyond sticker price. Bemidji State offers degree programs with direct career pathways. Education degrees lead to teaching licensure. Business programs prepare for management roles. Technical programs train for specific industry certifications employers value.
Faculty bring professional experience into virtual classrooms. Many maintain active industry connections, inviting guest speakers, arranging informational interviews, and sometimes facilitating internship placements. These connections matter tremendously for career launchers and career changers.
The application process remains straightforward and student-friendly. Rolling admissions for many programs means you can start when ready rather than waiting for semester start dates. Transfer credit evaluation happens quickly, giving you clear understanding of remaining requirements.
Student Success Metrics
Retention and completion rates matter more than enrollment numbers. Bemidji State tracks online student progress carefully, intervening when students struggle. Academic advisors reach out proactively if you miss assignments or disengage from coursework. This attention prevents small problems from becoming program-ending crises.
Graduate employment data shows program effectiveness. While individual outcomes vary based on effort and local job markets, aggregate data reveals whether programs prepare students adequately. Bemidji’s numbers demonstrate that graduates find relevant employment at rates justifying the investment.
How does Bemidji State support online learners? Comprehensive support includes academic advising, tutoring services, library access, career counseling, and technical assistance. Writing centers review papers remotely. Math tutors help via video chat. These services replicate on-campus supports for distance learners.
5. Hamline University: Liberal Arts Excellence in Online Learning
Business and Psychology Programs
Hamline University brings liberal arts tradition to online education, creating a distinctive learning experience. You can complete your bachelor’s degree fully online with a major in psychology from Hamline University, an affordable private liberal arts college in Minnesota. This accessibility matters for working adults who’ve started degrees but never finished.
The online BBA degree provides robust understanding of business practice, applicable to every industry, with graduates well-versed in management, marketing, finance, and business analytics. These aren’t narrow vocational programs—Hamline’s liberal arts foundation ensures you develop critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical reasoning alongside technical competencies.
Psychology programs attract students pursuing diverse careers. Some seek preparation for graduate school in counseling or clinical psychology. Others apply psychological principles in human resources, marketing, or organizational development. The curriculum covers developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics—core knowledge applicable across contexts.
What makes Hamline’s online programs unique? The liberal arts approach distinguishes them from purely career-focused programs. You’ll take interdisciplinary coursework connecting your major to broader humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. This breadth creates adaptable thinkers who handle complexity well—qualities employers increasingly value.
Hamline ranks as the top-ranked Regional University in Minnesota by U.S. News & World Report and 16th in the Midwest, reflecting overall institutional quality. These rankings consider factors like graduation rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, and alumni success—metrics indicating you’ll receive quality education.
Education Degree Completion
Education programs serve current paraprofessionals seeking teaching licensure. Programs are designed to prepare those already working in K-12 schools to teach, acknowledging that many education students already work in schools as assistants, support staff, or substitute teachers.
Minnesota’s teaching licensure requirements are rigorous. Hamline’s programs align precisely with state standards, ensuring graduates meet all requirements for licensure. Field experiences integrate into coursework, letting you practice teaching skills while completing theoretical components.
How long does degree completion take at Hamline? You can pursue your BA in Psychology, Bachelor of Business Administration, BA in Organizational Leadership, or BA in Education and graduate in as few as 18 months. This accelerated timeline works for motivated students who can dedicate substantial time weekly. Part-time options extend completion but offer greater work-life balance.
Interdisciplinary Approach
The organizational leadership major exemplifies Hamline’s interdisciplinary thinking. Drawing from business, psychology, sociology, and communication studies, this program prepares leaders who understand both organizational systems and human behavior. You’ll study change management, team dynamics, conflict resolution, and strategic planning.
This breadth matters in modern careers. Few jobs fit neatly into single disciplines anymore. Marketing requires psychological understanding. Management demands analytical skills. Leadership needs ethical grounding. Hamline’s approach recognizes these intersections, preparing graduates for complex professional realities.
Minnesota State Mankato’s online programs fit the needs of working professionals and busy adults who want to advance their careers, complete a degree or build new skill sets. The flexibility extends beyond scheduling—you can pause enrollment if life circumstances require, then resume without penalty.
Support structures reinforce this student-centered approach. Academic advisors work individually with each student, creating customized plans addressing specific goals and constraints. This personalization prevents you from taking unnecessary courses while ensuring you meet all requirements efficiently.
6. Minnesota State University Mankato: Comprehensive Online Options
Graduate Degree Pathways
Minnesota State University Mankato offers exceptional breadth in graduate programs. Minnesota State Mankato offers more than 100 master’s degree and graduate certificate programs and four doctoral programs, with many programs and courses available in the Twin Cities and online. This variety ensures most career interests find relevant advanced education.
The AACSB accredited Master of Accounting (MAcc) program equips you with business knowledge to enhance your career, with classes in 8-week, full online modules for added flexibility. AACSB accreditation matters significantly in business education—only about 5% of business schools worldwide achieve this distinction. It signals rigorous curriculum standards and qualified faculty.
MBA programs target professionals seeking management advancement. The curriculum balances foundational business knowledge with strategic leadership skills. Electives let you specialize in areas like finance, marketing, or human resources, tailoring your degree to career goals.
Healthcare administration programs respond to industry demand. The Master of Public Health (MPH) program is a 100% online program ideal for people who want to advance in the healthcare industry and make a difference in people’s lives. Healthcare leadership requires understanding both clinical care and business operations—these programs develop that dual competency.
Comprehensive Certificate Options
Minnesota State Mankato’s graduate certificates develop leaders that can become a force for positive social change, with options including Aging Studies, Assurance, and Business Leadership. Certificates serve multiple purposes—some students pursue them independently for skill development, others complete them as stepping stones toward full degrees.
The Aging Studies certificate addresses demographic realities. America’s aging population creates demand for professionals understanding gerontological issues. This certificate prepares you for roles in senior services, healthcare administration, social work, or policy development.
Business certificates offer targeted skill development. The Assurance certificate serves accounting professionals seeking specialized knowledge in auditing and assurance services. The Business Leadership certificate focuses on practical leadership skills applicable across industries.
What certificates does MSU Mankato offer? Beyond those mentioned, options span education, counseling, data analytics, sports management, and various technical fields. These programs allow you to use credits and degrees already earned to advance your career and enrich your life in meaningful ways.
Career-Focused Programs
Students who are 100% online learners pay Minnesota resident tuition rather than the higher non-resident rate. This policy dramatically reduces costs for out-of-state students, making Mankato competitive nationally on affordability. The financial accessibility expands opportunity without compromising quality.
Programs emphasize career relevance. Faculty maintain industry connections, inviting practitioners as guest speakers and facilitating networking opportunities. Many programs require capstone projects where you apply learning to real organizational challenges, building portfolios demonstrating competence.
Career services extend to online students. Resume reviews, interview preparation, job search strategies, and employer connections all remain available remotely. The university tracks graduate employment outcomes, using that data to continuously improve program relevance.
7. Concordia University - Saint Paul: Faith-Integrated Online Education
Wide Range of Program Offerings
Concordia University – Saint Paulthrough its CSP Global online platform serves traditional and non-traditional students with faith-integrated education. Concordia is a private Christ-centered institution with over 100 degree options, flexible ways to learn, and top alumni employers, with graduates equipped for lifelong success.
Forty undergraduate and graduate programs are offered through CSP Global, spanning business, education, healthcare, criminal justice, and more. The online delivery maintains academic rigor while accommodating working adult schedules. Most courses use asynchronous formats with occasional synchronous components for community building.
Healthcare programs prove particularly strong. Nursing, healthcare administration, and public health programs prepare students for growing fields. Minnesota’s healthcare sector—including major systems like Mayo Clinic and Allina Health—creates robust employment opportunities for qualified graduates.
Christian Values Integration
The Christ-centered mission shapes but doesn’t restrict education. CSP Global offers high-quality online degree programs that deliver marketable skills for your career while incorporating ethical frameworks rooted in Christian teaching. Students from all faith backgrounds enroll and succeed.
What does faith integration mean practically? Coursework examines ethical dimensions of professional practice. Business students explore corporate social responsibility and stakeholder ethics. Criminal justice students study restorative justice models alongside punitive approaches. Education students consider whole-child development including spiritual dimensions.
This integration adds depth without proselytizing. You’re encouraged to examine how faith traditions inform professional practice, but you’re not required to adopt specific beliefs. The approach respects diverse perspectives while providing grounding in ethical thinking.
How does Concordia support working students? Concordia delivers academic programs designed to respond to marketplace needs by teaching relevant skills and abilities that employers seek. The career focus ensures your education investment pays dividends professionally.
Flexible Scheduling Options
Accelerated course formats let you complete degrees faster. Eight-week terms mean you can take fewer courses simultaneously while maintaining continuous enrollment. This structure helps working adults balance education with employment and family responsibilities.
Transfer credit policies maximize prior learning. If you’ve earned college credits elsewhere—even decades ago—Concordia evaluates them for applicability to your degree program. Many students discover they’re closer to completion than expected, reducing time and cost to graduation.
Military-friendly policies support veterans and active-duty service members. Almost 6,000 undergraduate, graduate, and online students choose to pursue degrees at Concordia St. Paul, coming from 50 states and over 30 countries. This diversity enriches online discussions with varied perspectives and experiences.
8. University of St. Thomas: Professional Graduate Education
Graduate Program Excellence
The University of St. Thomasfocuses its online offerings primarily at graduate levels, serving professionals seeking advanced credentials. The private Catholic university brings research depth and professional school expertise to online formats.
MBA programs target mid-career professionals. The curriculum emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and global business perspectives. You’ll study with cohorts of experienced professionals, enriching discussions with diverse industry insights. Many students pursue MBAs while working full-time, applying learning immediately in their organizations.
Education graduate programs serve teachers and administrators pursuing advanced licensure or master’s degrees. Minnesota requires master’s degrees for continuing licensure, creating demand for flexible graduate education. St. Thomas programs meet state requirements while offering specializations in curriculum, administration, or specialized teaching areas.
Individual Course Options
Can I take individual courses at St. Thomas? Yes—the university offers graduate courses individually without degree program commitment. This flexibility serves several purposes. Some professionals need specific courses for licensure or certification. Others want to explore graduate study before committing to full programs.
Taking individual courses can also test whether online learning suits your learning style. Not everyone thrives in remote formats. Trying a single course limits risk while providing insight into online education demands.
Successful completion of individual courses often applies toward degree programs if you later enroll. This lets you make incremental progress, paying as you go rather than committing to full programs upfront. For budget-conscious students, this flexibility significantly eases financial planning.
Professional Development Focus
St. Thomas emphasizes career advancement. Programs include leadership development, organizational change, data analytics, and other skills relevant to management roles. The curriculum connects theory to practice through case studies, simulations, and applied projects.
Faculty bring extensive professional experience. Many maintain consulting practices or industry connections alongside teaching, ensuring coursework reflects current professional realities. This real-world grounding prevents the disconnect sometimes found in purely academic programs.
Networking opportunities extend to online students. Virtual cohort structures create peer connections that often persist beyond graduation. Alumni networks provide mentoring, job leads, and professional support throughout careers.
9. Southwest Minnesota State University: Accessible Regional Education
Fully Online Degree Programs
Southwest Minnesota State University serves southwestern Minnesota and beyond with accessible online education. The regional university’s mission centers on educational access for rural and underserved populations, making online programs central to its strategy.
Fully online degrees span liberal arts and professional fields. Business administration, education, psychology, and criminal justice provide broad career preparation. Technical programs in areas like information technology and agriculture serve regional economic needs.
The university’s smaller size creates advantages for online learners. Class sizes remain modest, ensuring individualized attention from faculty. You’re less likely to feel anonymous in a massive online course—professors know your name and track your progress personally.
Regional Accessibility
What degrees are fully online at SMSU? Bachelor’s degree completion programs assume you’ve completed general education requirements elsewhere, focusing on upper-division major coursework. This structure serves adult learners efficiently, recognizing prior college work and life experience.
Agriculture programs reflect regional economic importance. Minnesota agriculture extends far beyond traditional farming, encompassing agribusiness, food processing, agricultural technology, and sustainable practices. SMSU’s programs prepare students for this evolving sector.
Education programs address rural teacher shortages. Many southwestern Minnesota districts struggle recruiting qualified teachers. SMSU’s accessible online programs let regional residents earn teaching credentials without relocating, strengthening local schools.
Affordable Education Options
Public university tuition rates make SMSU highly affordable. Combined with online delivery eliminating commuting and housing costs, total educational expenses remain manageable for middle-class families. Financial aid—including grants, loans, and work-study—further reduces out-of-pocket costs.
The university targets working adults explicitly. Course scheduling, assignment structures, and support services all acknowledge that students balance multiple responsibilities. Faculty understand that online students often prioritize career and family alongside education, creating reasonable expectations.
Student services extend fully to online learners. Academic advising, tutoring, library access, career counseling, and technical support all operate remotely. You receive equivalent services whether attending on-campus or entirely online.
10. Riverland Community College: Community College Online Access
Community College Advantages
Riverland Community College offers online courses and programs at Minnesota’s most affordable tuition rates. Community colleges serve crucial roles in higher education—providing accessible entry points, workforce training, and transfer pathways to four-year institutions.
How do Riverland credits transfer? Minnesota’s public colleges and universities maintain transfer agreements ensuring credits move smoothly within the system. If you complete an associate degree at Riverland, you can transfer to any Minnesota State university with junior standing, having satisfied general education requirements.
Associate degrees span career-technical programs and liberal arts transfer pathways. Career-technical programs in nursing, business, information technology, and trades prepare for immediate employment. Transfer programs provide the first two years of bachelor’s degrees at substantially lower cost.
Transfer Pathways
The transfer function cannot be overstated. Many students begin at community colleges, complete associate degrees or general education requirements, then transfer to universities for bachelor’s degree completion. This pathway saves substantial money—community college tuition typically costs half of university rates.
Riverland’s online offerings let you complete these first two years from anywhere. If you live rurally or cannot relocate for college, you can start your education online at Riverland, then transfer to online programs at universities for degree completion. This pathway democratizes education access.
Workforce training certificates address immediate employment needs. Programs in healthcare, business, and technical fields can be completed in months rather than years, providing rapid skill development. These certificates often ladder into longer programs—you can earn a certificate, begin working, then return later for an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Workforce Development Programs
Community colleges maintain close employer connections. Advisory boards of industry representatives guide curriculum development, ensuring programs teach skills employers actually need. This responsiveness to labor market demands creates high employment rates for program graduates.
Online delivery expands Riverland’s reach beyond its traditional southeastern Minnesota service area. You can access these employer-aligned programs regardless of location, preparing for careers in growing fields without relocation.
The college’s open admission policy welcomes all students regardless of prior academic performance. If you’ve struggled academically or have been away from education for years, community colleges provide supportive entry points. Success support services help you develop study skills, time management, and academic confidence.
Program Comparison Tables
Table 1: Program Offerings by University
University
Undergraduate Programs
Graduate Programs
Certificates
Unique Strengths
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Bachelor’s completion, 50+ majors
Master’s, PhD programs, 85+ options
Graduate certificates
Research excellence, 100+ total programs, Big Ten prestige
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Bachelor’s completion in 6 fields
Master’s programs in counseling, social work, education, business
Graduate certificates
Lasallian values, iPad-based learning, working adult focus
Professional graduate focus, individual course options
Southwest Minnesota State University
$8,000-$10,000 per year
Yes, Minnesota State system rates
State, federal financial aid
Regional university affordability, modest class sizes
Riverland Community College
$5,000-$6,000 per year
Yes, community college rates
Federal aid, state grants
Lowest tuition in Minnesota, excellent transfer value
Note: Tuition estimates are approximate and vary by program and credit load. Contact individual institutions for exact pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right online university in Minnesota?
Start by clarifying your goals. What degree level do you need? Which field interests you? How quickly do you want to complete your program? Your answers narrow options significantly. Then consider accreditation—ensure any university you're considering holds regional accreditation. Next, examine program-specific accreditation in your field (like AACSB for business or NCATE for education). Review graduation rates, which indicate how well universities support student success. Finally, calculate total costs including tuition, fees, and potential financial aid. Don't choose solely on price—the cheapest option may not provide the best value if graduation takes longer or career outcomes disappoint.
Are online degrees from Minnesota universities respected by employers?
Absolutely. Employers increasingly recognize online education quality, especially from established universities. What matters is institutional reputation and accreditation, not delivery method. A degree from the University of Minnesota carries the same weight whether earned online or on-campus—transcripts don't distinguish delivery format. Employers care about skills, knowledge, and your ability to perform job responsibilities. Minnesota's online programs maintain rigorous academic standards equivalent to on-campus programs. Many faculty teach both formats, ensuring consistency. Focus on choosing accredited, reputable institutions rather than worrying about online delivery stigma, which has largely disappeared in professional hiring.
What financial aid is available for online students?
Online students qualify for the same federal financial aid as on-campus students, including Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and work-study programs. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility. Minnesota residents may qualify for state grants like the Minnesota State Grant. Many universities offer institutional scholarships specifically for online students. Private scholarships from community organizations, employers, and professional associations also support online learners. Some employers provide tuition assistance or reimbursement for work-related education. Military benefits including the GI Bill cover online programs at approved institutions. Contact each university's financial aid office to explore all available options and maximize your aid package.
How long does it take to complete an online degree in Minnesota?
Timeline varies by degree level, program structure, and enrollment intensity. Associate degrees typically require two years full-time or longer part-time. Bachelor's degree completion programs—for students transferring credits—often finish in 18-24 months of continuous enrollment. Full bachelor's degrees from start take four years full-time. Master's programs range from 12-24 months for accelerated formats to three years part-time. Doctoral programs require 3-5 years minimum, sometimes longer. Online programs often offer accelerated options with condensed terms, letting motivated students finish faster. Conversely, part-time enrollment extends timelines but maintains work-life balance. Your pace depends on credit load, transfer credits accepted, and program structure. Many students appreciate online flexibility to adjust pace as life circumstances change.
Can international students enroll in these online programs?
This varies by institution and program. Fully online programs often welcome international students since they don't require U.S. visas. However, some programs may have residency requirements or limited international enrollment. Immigration regulations prohibit F-1 student visa holders from enrolling in entirely online programs while residing outside the U.S., but you can study online if already residing in America on another visa type. Some universities offer hybrid programs with brief on-campus intensive sessions combined with online coursework—these may support visa requirements. International applicants should contact admissions offices directly to discuss options. Consider credential evaluation services to translate foreign transcripts for transfer credit assessment. Time zone differences matter for synchronous course components, though most programs accommodate through recorded sessions or flexible scheduling.
What technology do I need for online learning in Minnesota universities?
Basic requirements include reliable internet connection (minimum 5-10 Mbps download speed), a computer (laptop or desktop) meeting minimum specifications, webcam for video conferences, microphone and speakers or headphones, and updated web browser. Most universities use learning management systems like Canvas, Blackboard, or D2L Brightspace—these run in standard web browsers requiring no special software. Specific programs may require additional tools: video editing software for media programs, statistical packages for data analysis, CAD software for engineering. Universities typically provide software access or discounted purchases through student licenses. Mobile devices supplement learning but rarely replace computers entirely—you'll need laptops for substantial assignments and exams. Technical support helps troubleshoot issues. Before enrolling, review your program's specific technology requirements and ensure your equipment meets them. Most universities offer technology grants or loan programs if you lack necessary equipment.
What Clients Say About Us
Bruce Edwin
I couldn't have finished my research paper without the help of HomeworkHelpCare. Their professional assistance allowed me to submit a polished piece on time.
Sara Brown
Thanks to HomeworkHelpCare, my essays went from average to outstanding. The feedback and revisions I received helped me become a better writer
Seline Christine
I was struggling with organizing my ideas, but HomeworkHelpCare helped me structure my essays perfectly. Now, I feel confident in my writing skills.
Winnie Rogers
HomeworkHelpCare made my writing assignments a breeze. Their expert help improved my grades and saved me hours of stress!
