2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Minnesota

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  466 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 466 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $30,939

• SAT range 1340-1480

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  785 reviews

Sophomore: I'm currently a sophomore on the hill, and one thing I can say for sure is that the professors are INCREDIBLE! I haven't had a bad professor yet. Maybe I'm just lucky, but I think it's because St. Olaf truly has amazing faculty. The school has its fair share of issues, like every college. However, it's a still a very special place; all the people are caring and fun, the campus is beautiful, and the community is vibrant. Personally, I like the small college vibe. It's fun having so many mutual friends and it's really easy to meet people! But if you're not someone who likes recognizing people frequently around campus, St. Olaf might feel suffocating to you. Overall, it's a wonderful school that I think nearly anyone could be content at.... Read 785 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $27,729

• SAT range 1240-1430

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,786 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 4,786 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $17,468

• SAT range 1310-1490

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  555 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 555 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $21,606

• SAT range 1030-1200

• Saint Peter, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  893 reviews

Freshman: Amazing professors who are good humans, first and foremost. Driven students. Tons of interests. Many minds. Even more perspectives. Extremely intriguing and useful courses. Resources. Resources. Resources. Make use of them! Liberal arts. Nothing beats it. Cliquey. Very much so. Drama. Ugh. Worse than middle school, if you're into that. There's plenty of crowds that don't run like that, however. Just be patient with yourself to find them. Not-too-Christian. (Hope this is reformed). Homey. Small. Sincere. Personal. Trust me, it's better than what the pictures show. It's better than what's advertised. It's home for four years, and a nice one.... Read 893 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $27,657

• SAT range 1080-1340

• Mankato, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,242 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 1,242 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $15,832

• SAT range 886-1106

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  635 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 635 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $23,871

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,076 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 1,076 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,965

• SAT range 1110-1330

• Morris, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  462 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 462 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $11,652

• SAT range 1070-1260

• Duluth, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,189 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 1,189 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $16,960

• SAT range 1160-1270

• Moorhead, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  803 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 803 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1040-1180

• Winona, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  942 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 942 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $17,283

• SAT range 970-1280

• Marshall, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 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

• Saint Cloud, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,214 reviews

Sophomore: The campus is well kept and small enough to walk around but large enough to have that college atmosphere. The faculty are caring and knowledgeable of their subjects and SCSU resources. Its easy to make friends because just about everyone is friendly and there are so many clubs to join! Tuition is on the cheap end, but don't be fooled by that! You get so much, from smaller class sizes and an expansive Mass Comm dept. The art program may seem small but the professors, students, and art club opportunities you get are stellar.... Read 1,214 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $13,615

• SAT range 1000-1250

• Bloomington, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  669 reviews

Junior: My overall experience at Normandale for the past few years have been great! Applying, registering for classes, accessing information, and getting help on anything is very easy and accessible. Even on campus, everything is easy to find and with the new renovation, it looks great and everything is still organized. There are so many places to study and the fellow students are usually outgoing and willing to work with you. I would recommend this community college to everyone and am glad I chose to attend this school!... Read 669 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,354

• SAT range —

• White Bear Lake, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  481 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience with century college has been really great. I was at first at Normandale community college but then I transferred to Century College because it is much closer to my home. Since then, the commute has been great too! At Century, all of the professors are super helpful and there are always different resources for all students that attends century college. When I first joined Century, I was a bit scared and nervous, because I was new there, but eventually I got used to it. The people who goes there are all so sweet and nice. I have not yet experienced any discrimination and that is something that I am super grateful for because that is something that I am always afraid of. That fear went away as I started to learn more about the culture there and the type of people. I love how century college is also a very diverse college. There's so many different people of different ethnicity and it is amazing because I get to learn other peoples culture. I love and appreciate the... Read 481 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,901

• SAT range —

• Brooklyn Park, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  458 reviews

Sophomore: An incredible community! When I graduated high school, I worried I would dislike college just as much but was proven wrong. Although location and food aren't much to talk about, the place offers a lot. Most professors have been so supportive, keeping my attention in class (check "Rate My Professors" tho). Although lectures are inescapable, there are other modes of teaching. There are plenty of support systems and activities around campus—shown on the bulletin boards and school app. It's a great place whether or not you know what you want to pursue and a good chance you'll find something beneficial here. Besides a great place to make connections and explore degree fields, there's plenty of free stuff offered throughout the semester (food, school merch, and raffles). Plus, NHCC works to foster diversity. Of course, there are ups and downs, but making sure to use the necessary resources, putting in the work, and getting involved is vital! NHCC has encouraged me to continue my education.... Read 458 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,368

• SAT range —

• Coon Rapids, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  520 reviews

Alum: Attending Anoka Ramsey Community College was excellent! Through taking a variety of electives both on-campus and online, I discovered that the faculty radiate with excellence in their academic areas. Despite the diverse differences between studying math, psychology, and the arts, I was impressed by the skill and competence of the faculty in each class. My statistics professor, my educational psychology professor, my theater professor, and my music professors all exceeded at understanding and transmitting excitement for the content of their coursework. The campus is gorgeous and immaculate. In the music wing, two levels of recently added practice rooms overlooking the Mississippi River. The theater building features a large, serviceable stage and a cozy, welcoming audience for a variety of performance options. Even the hallways feel fresh and clean, with their tasteful wall decorations. Finally, the diversity of the on-campus student body is incredible and enriching.... Read 520 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,929

• SAT range —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  498 reviews

Junior: Metropolitan State University is the only college I have attended and still do attend. I love that the staff at Metropolitan state care for their students. They care about people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. They care about people of all ages such as teens, those who are 25+, single fathers, and mothers as well. They provide so many services such as child care, housing, food, tutoring, and more. I know that other colleges may provide some of the same services, but with Metro I am constantly reminded that I am cared for. I love how inclusive they are and it makes me feel very welcomed. I genuinely love being a student at Metropolitan State and would recommend this college to anyone and everyone!... Read 498 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $16,830

• SAT range —

• Bemidji, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  576 reviews

Senior: BSU is a quiet and outdoorsy campus that is well regarded by nearly all Minnesota residents. I personally have enjoyed the classes I have taken, though recent budget cuts have left many classes online well after COVID. Even so, I like the location of campus and the layout is great for staying active. Hopefully in the future the budget will be better balanced, as classes are only a part of the cuts. Food offered through the campus has gone downhill since 2021 despite the meal plans costing the same - these plans are also not as customizable as they should be. Recreation supported by the school has also been reduced, namely the boathouse. More and more of the attractions are losing their glimmer. In the current time, Fall 2023-Spring 2024, the school is slightly more dull.... Read 576 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $15,594

• SAT range —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  394 reviews

Senior: Going to Concordia St. Paul has been a wonderful experience. Over the years here I've learned what I really want to do with my artistic skills, and the professors and advisors helped me decide to switch my major. Ever since I switched from Graphic Design to Art Studio, as well as declaring an English Minor, I've felt so much more confident about my classes and my career! In all honesty, making friends has probably been the hardest part, mainly because of the pandemic, but I do feel like Concordia's professors and the school as a whole truly try their hardest to facilitate an environment where you build lasting relationships with your classmates. I have a handful of friends now that I am extremely grateful for, and I'm thankful that my professors encouraged us all to get to know each other!... Read 394 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $15,944

• SAT range 920-1110

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  803 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 803 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $28,840

• SAT range 1090-1340

• Northfield, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  529 reviews

Alum: I just graduated from Carleton and really enjoyed my time there! The highlight for me was definitely the people: students and professors. I had a great academic experience that positively challenged me and helped me grow. I love that Carleton is academically rigorous but doesn't feel overly competitive. I loved the student body's quirky and fun-loving feel. I also really appreciate that student life isn't centered around partying and drinking—it's there if you want it, but I didn't feel pressured. Carleton, like most other schools, has a lot of improvements that can be made on the institutional level in terms of supporting student's needs: specifically folks with disabilities and mental health issues, low-income students and students of color. I found myself constantly baffled by how out of touch the admin was with the student body's needs. There is also very little freedom to live off campus or be off the meal plan (which is cheaper), and the school is trying to restrict it even more.... Read 529 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $31,718

• SAT range 1370-1550

• Fergus Falls, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  231 reviews

Junior: Personally, I love this place. The staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful and there are lots of resources if you need them. The facility is clean and the environment is pleasant for learning or studying. There are also lots of clubs and events to get involved in as well as opportunities like scholarships! Classes, at least the ones I've been in, are small and you can get to know your professors and peers. There are programs for certain majors and plenty of classes to choose from, except some of them may be online instead of at the campus. However, if you're struggling with an online class, M State offers tutoring programs to help you get on your feet, just one of the many helpful services they make available. M State is a wonderful and affordable place to go, and I truly recommend.... Read 231 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,119

• SAT range —

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  586 reviews

Alum: SO many resources because of state funding & donors, allowing non-traditional students the extra support they need. You will experience a range of beliefs & backgrounds unlike your snotty, white 4-year liberal arts schools. Cost of attendance is so cheap, and many students receive scholarships or aid. I have had personal relationships with almost all professors, small class sizes and generally well structured online courses. Amazing, niche programs like the bicycle repair, music, print-making, herbal studies, sound arts, trades, etc. The professors are amazing. I got my AA and transferred, and the level of education at my private 4-year college is the same as community college. Seriously, save your money. Go here. I love MCTC.... Read 586 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,314

• SAT range —