2024 Best Colleges for Political Science in Minnesota

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  468 reviews

Alum: Over my 25 years as an Academic Physician, I can say with confidence that my Mac education enabled me to be the doctor I am. Mac taught me to think critically, consider others empathetically, and stay curious about the world around me. These are the factors that truly drive my everyday practice, research, and teaching/mentoring of medical students. Mac today is even more solid than a generation ago, maintaining its excellence in teaching while supplementing with hands on internship opportunities. Thank you Macalester!... Read 468 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $30,939

• SAT range 1340-1480

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,808 reviews

Senior: The UofM Twin Cities is an amazing public university! It offers just about any program you can think of and many of these programs are ranked extremely well in the United States, as well as around the world. Much of the faculty is involved in groundbreaking research, which enables students to be involved in research as well. The academic standards are rigorous but not too demanding to be successful. The location in the Twin Cities is wonderful for access to opportunities in the community for internships and partnerships. There are tons of student groups and activities for students to get involved in, which helps makes the large school feel smaller and offers opportunity to build a close knit community here. Having Division I sports means there is always a fun sporting event to go to, many of which are free for current students. There is a fair amount of diversity, although this is an area I would like to see growth in. I also would like to see a decrease in tuition costs.... Read 4,808 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $17,468

• SAT range 1310-1490

• Saint Peter, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  897 reviews

Freshman: I really loved the small close knit community at Gustavus. If you want to have all your professors know you by name and care about you as a person I would recommend Gustavus. I also at on the Swim & Dive team and the atmosphere and work ethic is absolutely astounding on this team. This college is small, but it has so many opportunities that you should definitely take advantage of! It’s amazing how much freer and alive I feel here at Gustavus. I love it!... Read 897 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $27,657

• SAT range 1080-1340

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,285 reviews

Alum: UST is an amazing campus with an intuitive layout and stunning buildings! I love how they managed to secure a few sizable grassy quads that make such a difference from the typical concrete jungle of the city. It also has a prestigious reputation academically and the philosophy department in which I spent most of my time was absolutely fantastic. Class size was also not too big so as to make the student feel like a number, but also not too small that participation was lacking. I was less pleased with with some of the renovations completed during my time there that seemed to take away from the original aura of the campus. I also attended the school in large part for its Catholic identity. However, I was saddened to discover such an identity was nominal at best. I would have liked to see the president of the university make a more significant effort to sustain the schools long-held Catholic heritage instead of undermine through various policies and decisions.... Read 1,285 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $30,099

• SAT range 1120-1380

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  789 reviews

Freshman: St. Olaf has been great in my first year. The community is very real on campus, there is a true meaning to being an Ole. As someone that didn't buy into the admissions buzz words, I can tell you that are for the most part serious. The campus is continuously improving what is already a beautiful campus (especially in the fall!). As a Bio Pre-med major I feel like I am getting a very well rounded education at St. Olaf (Aside from STEM I have taken classes like Japanese Woodblock Printing or Ecospirituality where we've tapped maple trees for class). I am even planning on studying abroad next interim!... Read 789 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $27,729

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Collegeville, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  403 reviews

Junior: Saint John's University is a great school. There is a good balance between academic and social life. The academic aspect of Saint John's University is beneficial to ensure you get an excellent education. The class sizes are small, which allows for better student-to-teacher interaction. Most, if not all, the teachers set up opportunities to help students that need it outside of class. There is also a variety of class schedules for each class. There is a diverse variety of majors, from STEM and Business to Gender Studies. Attending this University will provide you with the resources necessary to fulfill your academic and career needs. The social life of Saint John's University is excellent as well. Many programs aim to have students interact with the nature around them. Many retreats, walking trails, and events involve interaction with the outdoors. There are also a variety of clubs that are specific for majors or even recreational events.... Read 403 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $27,750

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Moorhead, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  793 reviews

Senior: Rigorous academics, and a value on education, beyond the confines of a classroom. Close-knit campus community, and alumni- with many opportunities for hands-on learning, networking, internships, and opportunities for undergraduate research. Very friendly campus community, with big city amenities, and two large universities close by. Having toured other small colleges, Concordia stood out to me due to it’s friendly, down-to-earth community, and emphasis on being globally aware, and engaged. I’d like to see more international students coming to campus. There is a definite emphasis on attracting, and retaining a diverse student body, but would love to see more cultures represented. Concordia college has many excellent resources available- whether that be for furthering education, internship placement, research opportunities, or medical school preparation. The music program, and faculty are amazing! Winters are brutal here, but that makes studying abroad all the more enticing!... Read 793 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,890

• SAT range 1080-1330

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  883 reviews

Sophomore: I love Hamline! The faculty is very helpful all around, there are many opportunities and resources here.... Read 883 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $20,239

• SAT range 1170-1280

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,059 reviews

Sophomore: St. Catherine University honestly feels like my home away from home. It is a homey and calming atmosphere to it especially with the smaller campus size. It is tucked away in a great neighborhood called Highland Park in St. Paul, MN. Instantly on campus you feel welcomed as many people smile and even say "Hi" as you go by. There is a place for everyone on this campus and the professors know you by name. You are not just a number here as faculty know you and teach you how to bloom into the person you would like to become. Overall, I love it here!... Read 1,059 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,252

• SAT range 890-1210

• Morris, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  464 reviews

Junior: My time so far at UMM has been pretty great! The community here is really thriving and everyone is really welcoming and inviting. I think there are a number of things that could improve (such as residence hall conditions, dining hall, etc.), but the university is working on improving and changing these things. Academics at Morris are really good, and you are always challenged to improve and most professors are very nice and understanding if you need help or accommodations.... Read 464 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $11,652

• SAT range 1070-1260

• Mankato, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,254 reviews

Sophomore: I enjoy the campus atmosphere. I made a lot of good friends, and none of my professors were terrible. Overall, very welcoming and enjoyable! I like the different events that are put on, especially the ones showcasing minorities. The push for diversity, equity, and inclusion is good to see as well. I would like to see a change in the accessibility resources department, however, because many of my friends have had bad experiences with getting accommodations, including my disabled friend who is in a wheelchair. The university dining center needs some work as well, because many of my friends (myself included) have gotten food poisoning more than once.... Read 1,254 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $15,832

• SAT range 886-1106

• Saint Joseph, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  641 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love St. Bens! Everyone there is so welcoming and the monastery population is so kind! Although it is an all girls school, they do an amazing job of integrating the Johnnies and vice versa. I have truly found my best friends at this school and get an amazing education in their nursing program.... Read 641 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $28,269

• SAT range 1110-1220

• Duluth, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,196 reviews

Sophomore: The atmosphere here is so welcoming! I met two of my best friends immediately on day one of classes in my freshman year. In highschool I always had a hard time making friends, but everyone is so friendly and kind here at UMD. One of the best parts is the fact that the entire campus is connected indoors (except for one further building) so in the winter, you don't have to worry about weather while moving between buildings. The dorms are also connected via tunnels, which is especially helpful if you don't want to worry about putting on winter gear before your 8am. Most of the professors are incredible and very helpful, and you can tell they're invested in helping each individual student. One of my professors from my first semester is the reason I decided on a STEM major, he rekindled my love for biology. The dining center is also wonderful. Especially this year, they have had so many dietary-inclusive options, including multiple vegan options at each meal.... Read 1,196 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $16,960

• SAT range 1160-1270

• Moorhead, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  807 reviews

Sophomore: I love attending MSUM! The campus community is friendly and welcoming. The class sizes are small, so students have the opportunity to build strong relationships with classmates and staff. There are many job opportunities that suit the varied interests of students. There are also a variety of clubs and organizations (major-oriented, religious, political/advocacy, just for fun, etc.). I'm an education major, and I can say that the education professors truly care for their students and want them to succeed. We also receive many great opportunities for field experience, as we start practicums as freshmen. The community is great as well. There is always something to do in the Fargo-Moorhead area and there are many great dining options. MSUM is excellent, however, I would like to see more diversity of all forms on campus. I also think that the dining hall is average and I would like to see more vegan options offered. Despite these aspects, I love this campus and all that it has to offer.... Read 807 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1040-1180

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  643 reviews

Freshman: I am the first generation in my family to go to college, so it was a little scary at first. But orientation helped a lot, even for shy people like me. I got to meet new classmates and experience life as an Auggie. My first classes were great! I recommend joining a cooking-related class, those are the happy places. So far, my professors are excellent. Classes are very engaging even if you are sleepy or tired. I'm only giving 4 stars just to be fair since I am a freshman.... Read 643 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,871

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Saint Cloud, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,222 reviews

Junior: Overall, the professors are amazing. You can see the love they have for their students, and how much they want us to succeed. But, dorm life (including food plans) need to change significantly. The dorms are not the nicest and the food needs major improvement. I'd also like to see more variation in how courses are offered (more online) when possible because I'd like to be a student without having to be ON campus to do the classes Campus life is so lively. There is something going on at all times of the day, many groups that a student can choose to join, and so much around campus as well!... Read 1,222 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $13,615

• SAT range 1000-1250

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  808 reviews

Alum: Bethel University offers a great CHRIST-centered education! While I attended during covid, the community was still intentional about building relationships. The faculty and staff are well-equipped and caring individuals who really care about the students belonging and then becoming all that GOD calls them to be as they discover their future vocation.... Read 808 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $28,840

• SAT range 1090-1340

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: In addition to the beautiful campus and friendly staff, theres a lot to love. In the (almost) five weeks i've been at Winona State University, I have fell in love with it more than I thought I would. The size of the college in terms of campus and student body is a great pro to attendance. Because of the size you're able to gain meaningful relationships with professors and peers, and if you need assistance with a certain class its not difficult to get it. The size of the university also makes finding answers to questions regarding financial aid, courses, locations, etc... much easier than with a larger university. The classes are academically challenging but in a way that urges you to take an extra step in your understanding, and the professors are there to support you. Overall I'm really happy with my choice, theres not much I would change!... Read 944 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $17,283

• SAT range 970-1280

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  1,081 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Northwestern has truly been an answered prayer. The community, friendships, and relationships that have grown over the course of my time at Northwestern is astounding. UNW is a place where everyone of all backgrounds can find a place that they feel comfortable in to express their ideas and opinions. I am grateful for the academic enrichment that UNW offers, and the compassionate professors that I have had. Not only do my professors care about my education, but I know that they also care about my faith and well-being. Here at Northwestern, I have had the opportunity to strengthen my faith in every aspect, and feel comfortable having important conversations with those that I have met through this school. One thing that I would like to change here is related to my major. I am a psychology major and the program definitely lacks variety in electives and courses in general. It is hard to gain a degree that is versatile for the workplace. Other than that, I do love it here!... Read 1,081 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,965

• SAT range 1110-1330

• Bemidji, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  582 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at BSU. The first time I stepped foot on campus it felt like home. There's a warm (despite the cold!) embrace of students, no matter where they come from. The professors care deeply about student success, and they show that by going above and beyond what is normally expected of a college professor. The administration is also very caring. Due to my involvement with many student organizations, I was fortunate to meet and get to know many of the top leaders at BSU. They always had an open door. I attribute my success today from my four-years at Bemidji. The beautiful campus, the welcoming atmosphere, and an academically strenuous curriculum are just some of the reasons I still brag about my undergraduate experience. I would return in a heartbeat if I could.... Read 582 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $15,594

• SAT range —

• Marshall, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  324 reviews

Freshman: Good afternoon fellows, My name is Emmanuel and I have been admitted as a freshman at southwest Minnesota state university to study hospitality administration and management but I have financial challenge and that's why I earlier on applied to be notified by Niche app should any scholarship pops up and lucky me I just got a reply. Here is my SEVIS id number to enable you check at my school N0033622591. I will be grateful to having a scholarship that will enable me enroll for this program at southwest Minnesota state university because for all I have read and seen from the reviews of alumni and international students I really need to experience a world class learning from SMSU. Thank you . Emmanuel.... Read 324 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $14,061

• SAT range 950-1080

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  557 reviews

Senior: Saint Mary’s has such wonderful professors that are extremely helpful and accessible. Not only do they help students understand class information. They provided helpful interview tips and advice and even quiet spaces with good wifi and professional backdrops for interviews. Little things like these are not required from professors, yet our Saint Mary’s staff truly does the little things to go above and beyond. Campus life is wonderful. Living in the beautiful bluffs of Winona, Minnesota is really something special. Our university is tucked up in a little corner of Winona, it provides me comfort and safety not being in the middle of a downtown area. Our campus life offers new learning buildings, workout facilities, and up-to-date residence halls. When you are ready to step off campus Winona has many different restaurants, look-outs, outdoor activities, and stores to keep you busy!... Read 557 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $21,606

• SAT range 1030-1200