Minnesota is the 22ndmost populous state in the country that has adopted the slogan the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Approximately, sixty percent of the total population in Minnesota live in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Educationally, the state is home to over 150 accredited colleges and universities. Approximately thirty of those schools are community colleges that are peppered across the state. Community colleges can be found in the Twin Cities, Brooklyn Park, Ely, Duluth, Austin, and Granite Falls to name a few.

2024 Best Community Colleges in Minnesota

Alexandria Technical and Community College, located in Alexandria, Minnesota, was founded in 1961 and is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System of schools. The school currently maintains an enrollment of 4000 students annually, more than half of which are full time. The school is dedicated to providing post secondary education opportunities to residents of its service area through programs that are constantly reviewed and updated as needed to meet current and future needs.

Academics

ATCC offers a variety of programs that allow for academic transfer or career training options. Academic transfer is accomplished through the completion of the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a college or university to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree. Career training programs help students develop skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as qualified professionals. Programs are for high demand fields or industries and take between one and two years to complete, resulting in a degree or certificate upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Alexandria Technical and Community College is a public, two year, open enrollment institution that allows any interested individual to enroll through the completion of the application and payment of fees. Students should also provide previous transcripts and standardized test scores if available, and should be prepared to take a placement exam prior to registration. Participation in orientation and a meeting with an academic adviser is also encouraged. Financial aid is available through grants, loans and scholarships awarded based on need as determined by an individual's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which should be submitted annually in a timely manner.

Enrollment

2,614

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

About
Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount, Minnesota, was founded in 1969 through the approval of the state legislature and began operating in 1970 at a site formerly operated  by the University of Minnesota. The school operates several off campus sites that offer a variety of services to students and the community. Over the years increased enrollment has required the school to expand its programs and facilities, resulting in the addition of new buildings and a commitment to providing excellent services and education. The school has recently become involved in the Green Campus Commitment with the goal of achieving a neutral carbon footprint by 2020.

Academics
Dakota County Technical College offers students a large number of programs primarily dedicated to providing students with career training programs and opportunities.Such programs provide students the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. This is accomplished through the combination of theoretical and practical courses that allow for the development and implementation of methods and techniques in a controlled environment in order to build experience. Students will earn a certificate or degree upon completion that demonstrates competency and allows for employment at the entry level. Graduates from DCTC have a 94% employment rate.

Students may also use earned credits from DCTC to transfer to a four year institution. Students will apply to a college or university after the completion of studies at the school, and if accepted will transfer credits and use them toward earning a bachelor's degree. Students wishing to pursue a transfer option should visit a counselor to discuss credit transfer, curriculum, and requirements for the student's desired school or schools, due to the fact the requirements will vary by college and certain credits may be non-transferable.

Programs offered include:

Continuing education courses are also available to practicing professionals wishing to update their education or are in need of a certain number of study hours to renew a license or certification.

Admissions and Financial Aid
Any individual interested in enrollment at Dakota County Technical College may do so if they meet the minimum requirements for admission, complete and submit an application, and pay all fees including tuition. Students should supply their transcripts and test scores and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. New students are encouraged to participate in orientation to become more familiarized with the campus, services and activities and meet with a counselor to discuss future goals, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the school to determine a student's needs and aid program eligibility when putting together a financial aid packet. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year. Students may also be asked to provide additional information to the school at random to verify the FAFSA's accuracy as per recent federal regulations.

Enrollment

2,523

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Anoka Technical College, located in Anoka, Minnesota, is a public two year institution dedicated to providing career and technical training for its students. The school was founded in 1948 and is part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The school is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and School, Commission of Institutions of Higher Education. The school shares the same president as Anoka-Ramsey Community College to better serve the area of the twin cities.

Academics

Anoka Technical College offers a large number of programs in high demand fields. These programs provide career and technical training, educating students while assisting the in the development of skills necessary to perform successfully at work. Graduates of a given program will be qualified for immediate entry into the workforce.

All programs are provided in accordance with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, and are recognized as such. Diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees are available, with diploma and certificate programs typically taking less time than associate degrees due to a lack of general education courses in the curriculum.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

As a public two year technical college, ATC accepts students through an open admissions policy. Any student may apply and be admitted granted they meet certain age requirements. Students interested in enrolling must complete the application along with their chosen program and complete the placement exams to determine which courses must be taken. Financial aid is available for most programs, though programs that result in less than 16 credits are not. Students in need of aid may begin the application process through the financial aid office. Awards are typically determined based on need.

Enrollment

1,844

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Minnesota West Community and Technical College, located in Granite Falls, Minnesota, was founded in 1997 through the merger of two previous colleges, Worthington Community College and Southwestern Technical College.

The school has five campuses in total, all of which have individual histories stretching back several decades, if not more.  MWCTC is currently part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System which manages and, budgets and maintains most of the public institutions of higher learning throughout the state.

Academics

Minnesota West Community and Technical College is a comprehensive institution that provides various services and programs in order to meet the varied needs of residents within its service area. The school offers technical and career training for individuals seeking to obtain an education that allows for the development of skills and abilities related to the establishment and maintenance of long term careers.

Such programs take between one and two years to complete, often employing instructors with familiarity and expertise in the chosen field, and resulting in a degree or certificate upon completion. The school also offers transfer programs for students wishing to continue their education at higher levels. This allows students to complete their first two years at the college, followed by transfer to a four year institution to complete the final two years and receiving their bachelor's degree.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Minnesota West Community and Technical College is an open enrollment institution that maintains the most minimal of requirements to be considered for admission, specifically a high school diploma or equivalent. Interested students may submit an application for admission and pay all fees in order to enroll.

Submission of transcripts and standardized test scores is encouraged, and a placement exam may be required for students who do not have them. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships and distributed based on need as determined by the Applicant's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

3,362

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Central Lakes College at Brainerd (CLC) is the Brainerd branch of Minnesota based public institution Central Lakes College, with the other being located in Staples. Central Lakes College is technically a Liberal Arts school, but it offers a wide variety of programs for its students. CLC offers traditional associate's degrees as well as career technical programs and non-degree courses. CLC is designed as a two year college, with students also able to earn certificates in less than four years. For those interested in jump starting their college career, CLC is an attractive choice. Tuition, as of the latest published date was listed at $4,589 with 4,447 students attending on open enrollment. After obtaining an associate's, most students are able to successfully transfer into a college in the Minnesota public school system. Brainerd is a small town of 13,000 with most of the town's facilities and public activities revolve around the college. It's a very favorable environment for those looking to go to a small college town where they can focus on their academics without getting caught up in the distractions of a big city. CLC also offers a rather accommodating program for international students, which provides them with support helping them integrate into campus life. International students provide diversity in CLC that most schools aren't able to maintain. If you are looking for a two year college with a variety of program options to start your college career, CLC is a great choice. It's affordable, has diversity and doesn't have many outside distractions.

Enrollment

4,029

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

History

Ridgewater College, located in Willmar, Minnesota, was founded in 1996 and is one of the newer two year public institutions in the state. The school works with its service area to provide academic support and workforce development, working closely with community business to identify needs and offer programs that fulfill those needs.

RC maintains small class sizes and up to date technology to ensure that the needs of current and future students are met, and no individual gets lost in the shuffle while pursing higher education. They are also responsible for a large number of organizations and programs that promote cultural development and arts appreciation.

Academics

Ridgewater College offers a wide range of classes and programs that allow students to pursue their goals and interests. Individuals working toward academic transfer will complete the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution to transfer earned credits and complete the final two years and earn their bachelor's degree.

Students transferring to public schools in Minnesota will have an easier time due to agreements in place that guarantee admission if all transfer admissions prerequisites are met. Individuals transferring to out of state or private schools will have to meet the varying transfer requirements of individual schools and should consult with a counselor to develop a curriculum that assists in matching such requirements.

Career training and technical programs provide education in a career related or technical field, resulting in the development of skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as qualified professionals.

Courses are taught in both classroom and simulated settings, with such controlled environments used to develop practical experience necessary for mastering necessary skills under the supervision of experienced specialists and instructors. Such programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or associate degree that demonstrates competency.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students wishing to apply to Ridgewater College will have to fill out and submit an application, provide a copy of a high school diploma or GED score, standardized test scores for placement, and transcripts from all previously attended schools. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older. Students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum, and should participate in orientation to familiarize themselves with the campus.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, work study programs, and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used by the school to determine the extent of a student's financial need and their aid program eligibility when constructing a financial aid packet. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year.

Enrollment

3,298

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

About
Riverland Community College, located in Austin, Minnesota was founded in 1940 and was originally known as Austin Junior College. The school has over the years gone through many name changes and iterations, expanding its service area and refining its mission. Today the school is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and provides programs and services to over 4000 services annually. The school also maintains two additional campuses in Albert Lea and Owatonna to better provide coverage for its service area.

Academics
RCC is a comprehensive community college that offers a number of career training and academic transfer programs, allowing students to pursue the course of study that best suits their needs. Career training programs offer an education in specific, typically high demand industries or fields and allow the student to enter the workforce as a qualified professional in the chosen area upon completion. Such programs typically take between one and two years to complete and result in an associate degree or certificate upon completion. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education at RCC followed by transfer to a four year college or university to continue one's education, completing their final two years and earning a bachelor's degree.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
RCC admits any individual that wished to enroll through its open enrollment policy. Interested individuals may do so through the submission of a completed application for admission and payment all associated fees. Students are asked to supply all previous transcripts and standardized  test scores as well, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration to determine the level of general education courses to be taken. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Aid is awarded based on need as determined by the information provided in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the applicant. Aid must be applied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

3,263

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

About Hibbing Community College, located in Hibbing, Minnesota, was founded in 1996 through the merger of Hibbing Community College and Range Technical College - Hibbing. The school is a member of the Minnesota State College and Universities System which operates schools that date back to 1916 and are among the first two year post-secondary institutions in the United States. The school has a long history of meeting needs of residents, growing in size and offerings, and through its changes and mergers, expanding its campus, enrollment and programs.
Academics Hibbing Community College offers a variety of programs that provide students the opportunity to pursue various goals and interests. Students may choose to pursue academic transfer through the completion of the first two years of a four year education at HCC, followed by applying for transfer to a colleges and universities to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree. Schools within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System will be easier to transfer to through agreements between member schools.. Career and technical programs provide education in a specific field and prepare students for entry into the workforce as a qualified professional in a high demand field. These programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Hibbing Community College (HCC) is a public, two year, open enrollment institution that allows any student to enter completing an application for admission and paying all accrued fees. Students should supply transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration.  Participation in student orientation and meeting with a counselor to discuss goals and curriculum are also encouraged. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), used by the school to determine financial aid awards for students.

Enrollment

1,118

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Minnesota State Community and Technical College operates four campuses and serves near 10,000 students in credit courses per semester. MSCTC offers more than 120 career and liberal arts programs along with custom training programs through community partnerships. The fours campus locations are Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Moorhead and Wadena. Additionally, MSCTC offers online courses and programs.

Academics

MSCTC boasts small class sizes and a diverse mix of programs to make the educational experience of students as engaging as possible. Each campus has its own mix of courses, history and culture; but all of them offer quality education. Vocational certificates and diplomas are offered alongside 2 year degrees, and transfer programs.

Programs of study include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Students interested in attending MSCTC should apply online, submit high school and college transcripts, present immunization forms if they graduated high school before 1997, schedule assessment testing for placement, register for classes at the scheduled time, and pay all tuition fees.

MSCTC offers financial aid assistance through its financial aid department, Interested students should inquire at the office and work with a representative to find the financial aid solutions that best work for him or her. All students applying for financial aid are required to fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Athletics

The athletics teams at MSCTC are referred to as the Spartans and are members of the National Junior College Athletics Association.

Sports offered:

  • Basketball
  • Baseball/Softball
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Volleyball

Enrollment

6,222

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Northland Community and Technical College, located in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, was formed in 2003 through the merger of two previously existing schools in order to reduce costs and make easier the management and operation of schools within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The school maintains a second campus in East Grand Forks, and has over the years seen its service area grow through the merger, expansion and enrollment. The school provides full services, modern facilities, and relevant education for modern students.

Academics

Individuals may choose between programs that provide academic transfer opportunities or programs that allow for career development and training. Individuals may choose to pursue a curriculum that mirrors the first two years of a bachelor degree education at Northland Community and Technical College, allowing for low cost, local, education followed by transfer to a four year institution to complete the final two years and earn a degree. Career training programs allow students to pursue an education that provides in depth knowledge and skill development in a high demand field for the purpose of long term employment in that field upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid

Any individual who wishes to enroll at NCTC may do so through the completion and submission of the application for admission, payment of fees, and the providing of transcripts and test scores if available. Student must be at least eighteen or have a high school diploma as part of the school's open enrollment policy. Participation in orientation, meeting with a counselor, and the taking of a placement exam should be completed prior to registration. Financial aid is available in the form of loans and grants awarded based on need as determined by a student's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Enrollment

3,500

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

About
Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, located in Virginia Minnesota, is one 34 schools that comprise the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The school is a public two year institution dedicated to providing a quality education for residents within its service area. The school operates a second campus in Eveleth, and high school students from the various districts are able to take college credit courses through the school.

Academics
Mesabi Range Community and Technical College offers a variety of programs aimed at providing opportunities for its students. These include career training and technical programs that provide training and education in high demand field, assisting in the development of skills necessary to become a professional in the chosen field. These programs take one to two years to complete, resulting in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency. Academic transfer is also supported, allowing students to complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree followed by applying to a college or university for transfer to pursue higher education and earn their degree.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Admissions to MRCTC is made easy through the school's open enrollment policy that allows any individual to enter if they complete an application and pay the associated fees. Students must also supply transcripts and test scores, and should prepare for a placement exam prior to registration. Student s should also meet with a counselor to discuss goals and program enrollment. Financial aid is available in the form loans, grants and scholarships, and is applied for by completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The information provided by the FAFSA will be used by the school to construct a financial aid packet for the student.

Enrollment

1,188

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

About
Itasca Community College, located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, was founded in 1922. The school is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and in 2010 was named the fifth best community college in the United States by the Washington Monthly. The school maintains global ties, utilizing exchange programs to maintain those ties. The school is dedicated to providing the best education possible for its students, constantly reviewing programs, facilities and services and updating them as needed in order to ensure they are relevant for current and future students.

Academics
As a comprehensive community college ICC offers a number of programs that allow students to pursue academic transfer or career training. Academic transfer programs complete the first two years of a four year education followed by applying for transfer to a four year college or university to complete the final two years and earn their bachelor's degree.Career training programs provide education in a specific, typically high demand industry or field and allows the student to enter the workforce as a qualified professional upon completion. Programs typically take between one and two years to complete, resulting in an associate degree, certificate or diploma upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students who plan to enroll at ICC may do so by submitting a completed application for admission and paying all associated fees to the school. Students should supply all previous transcripts and standardized  test scores. Additionally, students may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration to determine the level of general education courses required. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships that are awarded based on need. Student need is determined by information provided in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the applicant. Aid must be applied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

1,195

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Rainy River Community College was founded in 1967 by a group of dedicated individuals who wanted post-secondary education offered in International Falls at the heart of Minnesota's north woods.

At Rainy River we foster learning by surrounding our students with an environment rich in natural wonder.  The eighty-acre campus has an eight building complex connected with heated walkways enclosing a courtyard.  The grounds feature a softball field, a lighted cross country skiing and hiking trail, and three ponds edged by decks and walkways.  The adjacent residence hall offers furnished apartment style accommodations for students.

The atmosphere within the college is as inviting as the setting.  The faculty and staff get to know and care for students on a first-name basis, and provide them with a quality education.

Rainy River's Associate in Arts Degree (AA) prepares students for transfer by completing the liberal arts general education requirements for a Bachelor's Degree.  RRCC follows the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum and helps students carefully plan their studies.  RRCC guarantees that the AA Degree will transfer to any Minnesota State College or University.

Career and technical programs include Certified Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide, Fitness Specialist, Green and Sustainable Construction Technology, Indigenous Studies, Industrial Technology, and Practical Nursing.

Enrollment

236

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

About
Lake Superior College, located in Duluth, Minnesota, is a public two year institution established in 1995. The school formed as a merger between Duluth Technical College and the Duluth Community College Center (A branch of Hibbing Community College). After the merger the two schools moved to the former site of Duluth Technical College, which began expansion in 1996 to accommodate the new addition of resources, students, faculty and service area. Lake Superior Colleges is considered one of the most technically advanced in the nation, having received recognition for its facilities and offerings in 2008 and 2009. Currently the school serves nearly 6000 students annually.

Academics
As a two year institution, Lake Superior College offers students academic transfer and career programs resulting in certificates and degrees. The large number of programs ensures that students will be able to choose the program that best suits the student's academic or career goals. Academic transfer programs offer students the opportunity to complete the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education at a significantly reduced cost. Upon completion students may apply to a four year institution to complete the final two years of a four year program and earn their bachelor's degree.

Career and technical programs allow students to learn the specific skills and abilities related to a particular career, and to perform duties and tasks professionally upon entering the workforce. Such programs provide classroom and practical educations, developing the experience required to pursue entry level positions after graduation. Career programs take between one and two years to complete, and upon completion confer unto the student a certificate or degree that demonstrates their competency in the field of study.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment at Lake Superior College must submit an application for admission and meet the minimum requirements for entry. As an open enrollment institution, student who meet these requirement will be immediately admitted. Students are required to take a basic placement exam to determine which general education courses they must begin with. Registration for courses takes place prior to the start of each semester.

Financial Aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships and work study programs. Students in need of financial assistance must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the resulting student aid report from which will be used to determine need, eligibility and awards. Students may be required to provide additional financial information prior to the disbursement of funds in order to ensure the accuracy of the information provided. Financial aid should be applied for prior to the start of the school year within the posted deadline.

Enrollment

5,281

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

The Minnesota State College–Southeast Technical is a school that is dedicated in providing quality education for employment. With its main goal to meet the training and education needs of both students and employers, Southeast Technical provides students with strong foundation on both general and technical knowledge.

Currently, Southeast Technical has three campuses that are located near the beautiful Upper Mississippi River and these include the Red Wing Campus, Winona Campus and the Tandeski Center which are all located in Winona City in Minnesota. Established in 1949, the Southeast Technical School has a total combined area of 41,000 square foot. The school was the second college under the Minnesota State College and University System awarded by the Higher Learning Commission for its distance learning accreditation. Today, Southeast Technical has the largest healthcare-related technical programs in the state. On the other hand, the school also offers unique programs like Musical String Instrument Repair and Mobile Electronics Installation.

The boards of trustees from the Minnesota State Colleges and University System set the tuition fee rate of the school. Currently, the tuition rate of Southeast Technical for all in-district, out-of-district and out-of-state students is $172 per semester credit. However, some programs may have differential costs due to additional expenditures of the program.

On the other hand, students who wish to transfer to a four-year college and university can take advantage of the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum wherein students can transfer to any local university or college he or she wishes as long as they have met the minimum transfer requirements.

Enrollment

1,850

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

About Vermilion Community College is located in Ely, Minnesota. VCC was founded in 1922 and was originally known as Ely Junior College.  The school has received many name changes over the years, with Vermilion Community College being the most current.

VCC is built on the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness which has a history of being utilized by the school for outings related to research and education. Vermillion is dedicated to student-centric education which is possible through small class sizes, a small student body, and a dedicated faculty.
Academics Vermilion Community College offers students the opportunity to pursue various goals and interests through one of the many programs offered. Students may choose to pursue academic transfer through the completion of the first two years of a four year education at VCC, followed by applying for transfer to a colleges and universities to continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.

Technical and career programs provide education in a specific field, preparing individuals for entry into the workforce as a qualified professional. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid As a public, two year institution that maintains an open enrollment policy, any student wishing to enter Vermilion Community College may do so by completing an application and paying all accrued fees. Students should supply transcripts and test scores, and may be required to take a placement exam.

Participation in student orientation and meeting with a counselor to discuss goals and curriculum are also encouraged. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), used by the school to determine financial aid awards for students.

Enrollment

660

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

Northwest Technical College started as Bemidji Area Vocational Technical Institute in 1960 offering only two programs: Carpentry and Automotive Mechanics. Over the years, this school was known in different names and along with its development is the creation of several new programs. NTC campus is located at Beimidji, Minnesota. This school now offers two-year associate degree, diploma and certificate programs designed to provide vast learning opportunities in line with the current market needs with 698 courses to choose from. Among the top programs offered at NTC are business, health, human and protective services, environmental and industrial technology career programs.These programs are aimed at equipping students with the necessary practical skills and knowledge to pursue a professional career. NTC also offers continuing education courses for professional advancement and competency development to keep up with the current industry trends. With its commitment to provide quality education at an affordable tuition, NTC employs an open enrolment system to accommodate more students wherein applicants are required to submit their high school diploma and GED. Students in this school are provided with a conducive learning environment which may be on campus, online or both with a flexible schedule. As part of NTC’s career services, graduate students are assisted in finding a suitable job within a year and they are also provided with updates on job openings. NTC also established a Learning Enrichment Center, a resource center for tutoring, testing and future employment assistance to enhance the students’ learning experience.  Courses and an application for admission can be found on the NTC site or by requesting information from this portal today.

Enrollment

1,022

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC) is located in Central Minnesota and was founded in 1948, the second technical college to do so in the state of Minnesota. Located only a block from the Mississippi River, SCTCC is a short drive to scenic roads that pass through the rolling hills and gorgeous farmland of the Central MN region and only an hour to the Twin Cities metro area. The St. Cloud community has continued to grow rapidly and offers the best in education, healthcare, public transportation, and recreational activities. SCTCC is a science and liberal arts college first and foremost, having introduced the Associate in Arts degree program in 2010. SCTCC offers students 90 study programs, including construction, computer technology, manufacturing, transportation, business management, and healthcare. More than 6,000 students are currently enrolled at SCTCC. To those students, SCTCC offers financial assistance in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships, as well as payment options. To help students acclimate to campus life, SCTCC also offers various clubs, athletic programs, and activities, as well as academic, student, and technology services. Applying to SCTCC is a five-step process:

  • Fill out and turn in the application
  • Receive acceptance letter
  • Take Accuplacer assessment test
  • Meet with an advisor
  • Attend registration
Tuition varies based on degree programs, but most classes at SCTCC are about $177 per credit hour, for both resident and non-resident students. A chart detailing tuition fees can be found at SCTCC or can be obtained by requesting information from this portal.

Enrollment

4,325

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

About Hennepin Technical College, located in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, was founded in 1972 and operates two campuses in the Minneapolis suburbs, the second being located in Eden Prairie. The school is a public, two year institution and is one of the many schools that comprise the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.

HTC maintains ties with local business and organization as part of its efforts to assist in economic and cultural development.  Faculty are similarly dedicated to providing educational excellence to current and future students through programs, facilities and services that are under constant review and renovation.
Academics Hennepin Technical College is a comprehensive community college offers a large variety of programs aimed at academic transfer or career training. Career training programs provide students with an education in a specific area of expertise, assisting in the development of the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as a qualified professional.

A program will be divided between traditional classroom courses and practical courses designed to simulate real world environments that help perfect skills and methods specific to one's chosen field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency in the area of study and is useful for seeking employment at the entry level.
Academic transfer is accomplished through the completion of the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying to colleges and universities in order to continue that education and complete the final two years, earning a bachelor's degree.

Individuals seeking transfer will find that admissions requirements are eased for those applying to public Minnesota institutions through pre-existing agreements between the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System schools. Transfer to private or out of state schools will be more difficult due to varying admissions requirements, and interested students should meet with a counselor to develop the appropriate curriculum.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Hennepin Technical College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individual interested in attending to enroll by submitting an application and paying all associated fees. Students must be eighteen years of age or older or have a high school diploma or equivalent.

You must also supply transcripts and test scores if available and may be required to take a placements exam prior to registration. Participation in new student orientation is recommended to familiarize oneself with the campus and rules, as well as meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used by the school to determine the extent of a student's need and aid program eligibility when developing the financial aid packet. Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year.

Enrollment

4,762

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Established in 1910, Saint Paul College has offered comprehensive learning opportunities to students to enhance their economic opportunity in society. Since its conception, the Saint Paul College has been teaching students a wide spectrum of programs and has been ranked as the #1 community college in the country according to Washington Monthly Magazine in 2010 and 2013.

The school is focused in collaborative learning of the student and it currently has  39 associate degree programs and 60 certificate programs. Today, the school is famous for its healthcare-related  and engineering programs. However, they are also famous for their human resource and management programs.

Saint Paul College is a 520,000 square foot campus nestled in a 30-acre land and offers great facilities to students such as an in-campus bookstore, cafeteria, veteran’s center, health and fitness facilities as well as a student center. On the other hand,  the tuition fee rate of Saint Paul College varies between $162 and $262 per credit depending on the program. However, students can still save if they apply for The Power of YOU program which is a scholarship grant unique only for Saint Paul College.

When it comes to being academically competitive, there were about 856 students who began their foundation with Saint Paul College  and have transferred to a four-year college in 2009. The school is also covered by the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum that give credit to the students’ units from Saint Paul College.

Enrollment

6,912

Student to Faculty Ratio

24:1

South Central College (SCC) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and has two main campuses, Faribault, MN, and North Mankato, MN, in addition to an online campus located at online.southcentral.edu. SCC offers more than 50 Liberal Arts and Science majors in the following subjects:

  • Healthcare
  • Arts, Communications, and Information Systems
  • Business Management and Administration
  • Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
  • Engineering, Manufacturing, and Technology
SCC’s Liberal Arts and Science programs allow for credits to be easily transferred to 4-year colleges or universities and can be completed in two years for full-time students. Certificate programs or those with a diploma may be completed in a shorter time period. All applicants applying to SCC must have a high school diploma/GED or if an applicant has no diploma/GED, he or she should demonstrate potential for being a successful student. Tuition for on-campus courses, including all fees, was $180 for the most recent surveyed year. Meanwhile, the online course tuition plus fees was approximately $212 per credit. Financial aid options are available from federal financial aid programs and SCC’s own financial aid programs.

Enrollment

2,746

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

About
Normandale Community College, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, was founded in 1968 in order to provide educational opportunities for residents of its service regions. The school was originally known as Normandale State Junior College and had an initial enrollment of 1,358 students. Today the school enrolls over 10,000 students annually and maintains a large campus equipped with modern equipment and facilities in order to best meet the needs of modern and future students. The school is one of the institutions that comprise the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. The school maintains ties to local businesses and organizations as part of its goal to assist in cultural and economic development.

Academics
Normandale Community College is a comprehensive community college offers a large variety of programs aimed at academic transfer or career training. The school's goal is to provide an atmosphere of growth and assistance for students.

Academic transfer is accomplished through the completion of the  first two years of a four year education, followed by the applying to college and universities in order to continue that education and complete the final two years, earning a bachelor's degree. Students may choose to seek graduate level study or enter the workforce with an undergraduate degree upon completion. Individuals seeking transfer will find that admissions requirements are eased for those applying to public Minnesota institutions through pre-existing agreements between the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System schools. Transfer to private or out of state schools will be more difficult due to varying admissions requirements, and interested students should meet with a counselor to develop the appropriate curriculum.

Career training programs provide interested students with an education in a specific area of study and expertise, assisting in the development of the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. A program will be divided between traditional classroom courses and practical courses designed to simulate real world environments that help perfect skills and methods specific to one's chosen field. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency in the area of study, which is useful for seeking employment at the entry level.

Programs offered include:

The school also offers programs aimed at assisting high school students develop academic skills such as research, writing, analyses and others prior to entry to a college or university. These programs are aimed at removing the gap often encountered by high school graduates when first entering a post secondary institution.

Admissions and Financial Aid
Normandale Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows any individuals interested in attending to enroll by submitting an application and paying all fees. Students must be eighteen years of age or older, or have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students must also supply transcripts and test scores if available and may be required to take a placements exam prior to registration. Participation in new student orientation is recommended to familiarize oneself with the campus and rules, as well as meet with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used by the school to determine the extent of a student's need and aid program eligibility when developing the financial aid packet. Financial aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year. Students may also be chosen at random to supply additional tax and financial information to confirm the accuracy of their FAFSA as part of recent changes in federal regulation regarding the disbursement of aid funds.

Enrollment

9,784

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

About Anoka-Ramsey Community College, located in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, began operations in 1965 to an enrollment of 600 students. The school originally operated through the Centennial High School but moved to its Coon Rapids Campus in 1967. The school has grown very large over the years, requiring the addition of a second campus in 1978 and new buildings at both locations throughout the years.

The school currently serves nearly 13,000 students annually, providing them a quality education and services as mandated to members schools of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.
Academics Anoka-Ramsey Community College offers a large number of programs that allows students to pursue academic transfer or career training opportunities. Students will be able to pursue the track that best reflects their needs and goals.

Academic transfer programs allows students to complete the first two years of a four year education at a much lower cost followed by an application to four year institutions in order to transfer one's credits and earn a bachelor's degree. As a member college of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, transfer to a four year school within the system will be made easier through transfer agreements between member schools.

Students wishing to transfer to out of state or private institutions will have to meet the varying requirements for transfer of those schools, as such it is recommended they meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum that best meets the student's desired school or schools requirements.
Career training programs provide students with the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce in their desired field of study and expertise. Students will take a combination of classroom, theoretical and practical courses that allow for the development and application of methods and ideas in simulated and controlled settings in order to gain experience and training for real world applications.

Students will earn a degree or certificate that demonstrates competency and is earned after one to two years of study depending on the program. Graduates of such programs may seek employment at the entry level as qualified individuals.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Students interested in enrollment at Anoka-Ramsey Community College may do so by meeting the minimum requirements for admission, supplying a completed application and paying all associated fees. Students should also submit transcripts and test scores and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. Students are also encouraged to participate in new student orientation to familiarize themselves with the campus and to meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum and help in the choice of program enrollment.
Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. Individuals in need of financial assistance must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used by the school's financial aid department to determine aid program eligibility and financial need, expressed through the financial packet put together and provided to the student.

Students may be chosen at random to provide additional financial information used to compare to the FAFSA to verify its accuracy as per new federal regulations. All aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year due the possibility of changing financial circumstances for the student from year to year.
Clubs and Organizations Anoka-Ramsey Community College is home to a number of clubs and organizations that allow students to participate in a variety of social, cultural, academic or personal interests as desired. They are sponsored by the school and each has its own schedule for meetings and events.

Students are encouraged to participate in one or more clubs that allow for the development of older interests or the growth and exploration of newer ones. Clubs and Organizations are also a good forum for socializing, allowing like minded individuals to meet and form bonds outside of a classroom setting.
Clubs and organizations include:

  • Drama Club
  • Creative Writing Club
  • History Club
  • Math Club
  • Swing Dancing Club

Enrollment

8,845

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

About

Rochester Community and Technical College, located in Rochester, Minnesota was founded 1915 as a junior college, with classes initially offered in a building in downtown Rochester. The college experienced growth, particularly after the second World War, resulting in the need to a larger campus in 1968. The vocational and technical institute was founded in 1969, and by 1996 the schools had formed Rochester Community and Technical College through legislation that required community and technical colleges located in the same city to merge into a single entity. RCTC is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System which is comprised of 32 universities and colleges and is the oldest post secondary institution in the state.

Academics
Rochester Community and Technical College offers a variety of programs designed to assist individuals interested in career development or academic transfer. Career development programs allow students to gain the skills and abilities necessary for employment in their field of study through theoretical and practical courses that allow for methods and techniques learned to be implemented and practiced in simulated settings. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency.

Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, followed by transfer to a college or university to complete a bachelor's degree in one's desired major. Transfer is eased for students applying to a Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System school. In addition, students may continue their education specifically at Winona State University through the “Path to Purple” program. Individuals seeking transfer to out of state or private schools should meet with a counselor to discuss curriculum and transfer requirements for the desired school or schools.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Rochester Community and Technical College is a public, two year, open enrollment institution that allows any individual seeking enrollment to do so if they meet the minimum requirements for entry, submit a completed application, and pay all accrued fees. Students should supply transcripts and test scores and take the placement exam if deemed necessary.Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in new student orientation and meet with a counselor determine goals, curriculum and program enrollment.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which will be used to determine a student's financial need and aid program eligibility prior to supplying a financial aid packet. Aid must be reapplied for prior to the start of each academic year, and some students may be chosen at random to supply additional financial information to verify the FAFSA's accuracy as per new federal regulations. Scholarships may be applied separately from external sources, each with their own criterion and reasons for awarding funds.

Enrollment

5,129

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

About Inver Hills Community College, located in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, was founded in 1970 to supply post secondary educational opportunities to residents of its service area. The school is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and has an enrollment of nearly 4000 students a semester.

Inver Hills CC campus is spread across nine different buildings.  Each building is home to various school departments and these facilities are used to support nearly thirty different degree programs at IHCC.
Academics Students enrolled at Inver Hills Community College will be able to choose from 27 different programs that allow students to pursue academic transfer or career training. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, followed by transferring earned credits to a four year institution in order to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree.

Career training programs provide an education in a high demand field or industry, providing a comprehensive education that prepares the student for employment upon completion. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or associate degree.
Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid Individuals who wish to enroll at IHCC may do so through the submission of a completed application and payment of fees. Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent or be 18 years of age or older, and should supply transcripts and test scores if available. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships.

Students in need of financial assistance should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used by the school to determine financial need and aid program eligibility.

Enrollment

4,264

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

Why Attend a Community College in Minnesota?

The diversity in schools provide ample opportunity for students to find degree programs of interest. Community colleges in Minnesota provide a guaranteed admissions policy and a lower tuition for students. The combination of both result in a higher education institution that provides an opportunity for students to earn a formal degree or certificate in a value-oriented environment. Students can either utilize a community college to jump right into the workforce or parlay an associates degree into an additional degree. More specifically, a direct-entry degree program provides students with the essential skills and knowledge to launch a career in a specific area of study. On the other hand, a degree program can help students earn an entry-level position or continue their academics to earn a bachelors degree in an adjacent field of study. In either case, the work you put into earning your degree or certificate at a community college in Minnesota can help you move your career in a positive direction.

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Minnesota:

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Minnesota:

Metro Area Links for Community Colleges in Minnesota

Community Colleges in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington

We have ranked the community colleges in the Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Bloomington area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Southwest Minnesota State University in Saint Paul, MN ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.smsu.edu

Southwest Minnesota State University Highlights
  • Serving students from Saint Paul and surrounding areas
  • 83% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are $9,300 per year
Virtual Campus Tour of Southwest Minnesota State University
Top Community Colleges in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Bloomington
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
83%Southwest Minnesota State UniversitySaint Paul, MN7,000
69%Martin Luther CollegeRosemount, MN1,000
65%Itasca Community CollegeInver Grove Heights, MN1,000
50%Herzing University - MinneapolisMinneapolis, MN-
59%Hibbing Community College - A Technical and Community CollegeBrooklyn Park, MN1,000
57%Augsburg CollegeCoon Rapids, MN3,000
54%Anoka - Ramsey Community CollegeAnoka, MN9,000
51%North Central UniversityBloomington, MN1,000
41%Alcorn State UniversityWhite Bear Lake, MN4,000

Community Colleges in Duluth

We have ranked the community colleges in the Duluth area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Metropolitan State University in Virginia, MN ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.metrostate.edu

Metropolitan State University Highlights
  • Serving students from Virginia and surrounding areas
  • 75% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are about $8,500 per year for state residents ($16,200 for out of state)
Top Community Colleges in Duluth
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
75%Metropolitan State UniversityVirginia, MN8,000
50%Dunwoody College of TechnologyEly, MN1,000
19%Northwest Indian CollegeCloquet, MN1,000

Other Community Colleges in Minnesota

The table below lists all the other community colleges in Minnesota that do not belong to any large metropolitan or urban concentrated area. The table also displays the "Rate" column, which is the percent of students completing course work.

Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
92%Carleton CollegeBrainerd, MN2,000
90%Winona State UniversityWinona, MN8,000
84%Minnesota State University - MankatoNorth Mankato, MN14,000
83%Bemidji State UniversityBemidji, MN5,000
80%College of Saint BenedictRochester, MN2,000
79%Saint Cloud State UniversitySaint Cloud, MN14,000
78%Gustavus Adolphus CollegeGranite Falls, MN2,000
68%Northwestern College - St PaulThief River Falls, MN4,000
62%Minnesota West Community and Technical CollegeFergus Falls, MN3,000
50%Minnesota State College - Southeast TechnicalWillmar, MN2,000
51%Rochester Community and Technical CollegeInternational Falls, MN5,000
43%Northwest Technical CollegeAustin, MN1,000

The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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