2024 Top Colleges for Trades and Personal Services in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Area

• 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

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  59 reviews

Freshman: I am a newly enrolled freshman at IPR, my start date is July 2nd. Originally the enrollment process seemed lengthy and extremely daunting. However with the help of the school's many knowledgeable advisers, I have been able to successfully complete the enrollment process and am on my way to the next step in life's incredible journey! What sparked my interest in IPR was when I had a friend do some recording and mixing for me, he was attending IPR at the time so we had full access to the studios 24/7! This ease of access to state of the art equipment and full access to prominent individuals working in the industry today shot my interest through the roof. Despite the tuition cost and how expensive it will be to live in the city, this is the school I needed to attend. I have experienced and heard nothing but positive things about The Institute of Production and Recording, it is an incredible school.... Read 59 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,297

• SAT range —

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  189 reviews

Junior: As a school focused on the trades and on technology, Dunwoody is constantly updating its majors offered and required corsework. As it is very small, you often get to know your instructors very well (and they you), however, there is not much choice in what classes can be taken. Personally I have no problem with this as all the classes are enjoyable and informative.... Read 189 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $24,738

• SAT range —

• Anoka, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  150 reviews

Freshman: This is the fourth college I have attended, and my favorite so far. All the programs they offer are specialized for a specific career, so if you know what you want to do this is a great place to go. You aren't required to take a lot of general education classes, which I like. They also are able to transfer in many credits from other schools, which was a plus for me. All the faculty I have interacted with so far have been extremely helpful and kind, and they seem to genuinely care about the students. The coursework is semi-difficult, but doable, and applicable to the real world and your career choice. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my choice to attend.... Read 150 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,407

• SAT range —

• Minneapolis, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  618 reviews

Junior: North Central University is one of the finest universities out there! Especially is you're going into Worship leading, music, or ASL (American Sign Language), North Central is the place to be! Located in downtown Minneapolis, there is a rich vibrancy of culture, diversity, and different views (that you're probably not used to)! Even after only being enrolled for a year thus far, North Central has made me grow like never before. The professors, students, and faculty represent Christ so well, and I've had so many fond experiences in my first year there! The worship culture there is so amazing as well. All Worship Live, PG (praise gathering), and render worship leaders humble themselves and provide a wonderful atmosphere to worship our God! I cannot write enough words to express how spectacular this university is.... Read 618 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $24,232

• SAT range 950-1160

• Rosemount, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  140 reviews

Sophomore: I'm in the finance program and my professors are also heads of the department. They are two incredibly qualified people that know what they're doing and I am glad to know that I am getting a quality education from them. My general ed professors have also been very kind and understanding with requiring extensions for circumstances, and although I do not know the extent to their knowledge on things, I can attest that they are very passionate over what they do. My favorite class of all was on Communication, as it got down to the very core of realizing that all things are done through vulnerability, and the class discussions shared were highly personal on understanding each and every one of us. While I looked down on it as first, it made me understand how human interactions worked from a global scale all the way down to a surface level.... Read 140 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,472

• SAT range —

• Bloomington, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  92 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love this school and wish I would’ve went here right out of high school! All professors are extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. The school in total is very flexible and accommodates students that also work, have a family to care for, or any other responsibilities. Classes are offered at convenient times and if you can’t make it to class the professors record their lectures for the most part, and allow you to watch it from home at a time that fits your schedule. Highly recommend!... Read 92 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,003

• 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 —

• 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 —

• 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 —

• 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 —

• Saint Paul, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  467 reviews

Senior: Saint Paul College is a public community and technical college located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA. It offers a wide range of academic and vocational programs designed to prepare students for various career paths. The college is known for its commitment to providing quality education and workforce training, helping students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen fields. The college offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs in areas such as health sciences, information technology, business, liberal arts, engineering, and more. Additionally, it promotes a diverse and inclusive learning environment that supports students from different backgrounds and experiences. Saint Paul College aims to meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students by offering flexible scheduling options, online courses, and support services to assist students throughout their academic journey.... Read 467 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,391

• SAT range —

• Brooklyn Park, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  141 reviews

Freshman: Hennepin Tech is a great school and a great place to start my college experience. Being a new student was scary and unnerving, but the office administrators and counselors were all very helpful and reassuring to me. No matter what questions I had, everyone helped me without making me feel bad or out of place for asking. I know going forward, the staff will help me succeed.... Read 141 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,194

• SAT range —

• Inver Grove Heights, MN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  260 reviews

Sophomore: I'm graduating in a few months from here! While I have been a solely online student, my experience here has been very good. I've found the teachers to be helpful and caring about your success! There are quite a few activities/clubs available as well, although the school is switching those to a completely in-person format. Overall, I'd say it's worth it to attend here, just make sure to sign up for classes early, read ratemyprofessor, and go to office hours/the writing center if you need help!... Read 260 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,184

• SAT range —

• St. Louis Park, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  121 reviews

Junior: This school has excellent professors who care about the material and you too! I usually am an introvert, but attending this school has made me branch out of my comfort zone due to the friendly environment. The only thing I would like to change is the location because it's far away from my house, but I think everyone wants something convenient. This school is excellent at working with different learning styles, so everyone understands the material.... Read 121 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $22,055

• SAT range —

• Bloomington, MN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 2.21 out of 5  14 reviews

Alum: I went to Academy College, formerly Academy Education Center, from Jan 2003 to June 2006. During this time I acquired 2 BSBA degrees. (Business Administration and Accounting). After earning 2 BSBA degrees, employers have been reluctant to give me work om the accounting field.. Labeling me as either over or under qualified for all jobs I have applied for.... Read 14 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $24,488

• SAT range —