Overview
Founded in 1971, Metropolitan State University was established as part of the Minnesota State system to provide accessible higher education for working adults and nontraditional students in the Twin Cities. It has built a reputation for flexible scheduling, evening and weekend classes, and strong transfer-friendly policies, making it a popular choice for students balancing work, family, and school. The university emphasizes applied and professional programs, particularly in business, law enforcement, human services, and health-related fields.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | St. Paul, Minnesota |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Total students | 7,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open Admission |
| Graduation rate | 35% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $16,000 |
| Room & board | $0 (no traditional dorms) |
| Average financial aid | $7,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Law Enforcement
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Computer Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.