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Rasmussen University-Minnesota
St. Cloud, MNPrivate for-profit
$10,595
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
89.5
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information systems degree programs: U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minnesota State Universit..., Metropolitan State
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,178 to $50,788/year
Minnesota State Community... offers the most affordable option at $5,424/yr
Information Systems degree programs available: 11 associate's, 9 master's, 1 doctoral in Minnesota
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
6 online information systems degree programs in Minnesota
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Minnesota community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
11 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Target, UnitedHealth, Best Buy, 3M
Tech hubs in Minneapolis and St. Paul
Hakia Research 2026
Information Systems degree programs near 53+ cities across Minnesota
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Minnesota Information Systems programs
We rank 34 accredited information systems programs in Minnesota using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Systems Degree Programs in Minnesota Worth It?
Answer
$106,790
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Minnesota deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $106,790 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $16,648/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Systems Degree Rankings in Minnesota
Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Minnesota by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Systems Programs in Minnesota
9
Programs ranked
$5,938
Avg tuition/yr
43%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota offers 11 accredited associate's degree programs in information systems, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Rasmussen University-Minn..., Minnesota State Community..., Century College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Minnesota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $5,718/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $58,735 in Minnesota.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Minnesota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Target, UnitedHealth, Best Buy hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information systems schools in Minnesota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information systems degrees in Minnesota.
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Alexandria Technical & Community College
Alexandria, MNPublic
$5,478
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
85.6
Hakia Score
Show all 9 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Saint Paul College | Saint Paul, MN | Public | $5,486 | 40% | 77.4 |
| #7 | Century College | White Bear Lake, MN | Public | $5,475 | 31% | 75.2 |
| #8 | North Hennepin Community College | Brooklyn Park, MN | Public | $4,502 | 22% | 67.9 |
| #9 | Rochester Community and Technical College | Rochester, MN | Public | $5,565 | 29% | 64.2 |
Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Minnesota
7
Programs ranked
$26,341
Avg tuition/yr
58%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 13 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 6 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minnesota State Universit..., Metropolitan State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Minnesota information systems programs earn a median salary of $90,772, 8% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Target, UnitedHealth, Best Buy.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,356 to $47,134 annually, with an average of $21,502/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 70%, with the highest reaching 95%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Minnesota's leading technology employers. For students seeking information systems degrees in Minnesota, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Rasmussen University-Minnesota
St. Cloud, MNPrivate for-profit
$10,595
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
73.5
Hakia Score
#4
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MNPrivate nonprofit
$44,400
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
70.5
Hakia Score
#5
University of Northwestern-St Paul
Saint Paul, MNPrivate nonprofit
$36,980
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad rate
68.2
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | North Central University | Minneapolis, MN | Private nonprofit | $30,350 | 66% | 66.0 |
| #7 | Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul, MN | Public | $8,571 | 44% | 64.7 |
Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Minnesota
1
Programs ranked
$10,542
Avg tuition/yr
—
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota offers 9 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, U of St Thomas, Minnesota State Universit..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Minnesota earn a median salary of $106,790, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Target, UnitedHealth, Best Buy actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $22,648/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Minnesota's information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Minnesota
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $16,648/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $41,620/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,162/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $99,888 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $24,972 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Minnesota
State Aid Programs
Minnesota offers strong financial aid opportunities for Information Systems students through both state and federal programs. The Minnesota State Grant is one of the largest state grant programs in the nation, providing need-based financial assistance specifically to Minnesota residents pursuing higher education. This state-administered program complements federal aid options available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens doors to Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities for eligible students regardless of residency status.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, many Minnesota institutions offering Information Systems programs provide institutional scholarships and merit-based awards. Students should explore funding through individual colleges, including the state university system campuses and private institutions. The Federal Student Aid website provides comprehensive resources for understanding aid eligibility, loan options, and repayment plans. Minnesota residents should prioritize completing the FAFSA and applying for the Minnesota State Grant early in the academic year to maximize available funding. Many community colleges and public universities in the state offer additional need-based scholarships that can significantly reduce overall education costs, particularly for students with demonstrated financial need.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Minnesota
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree in Minnesota. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$120,000
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,325,139
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Minneapolis, MN)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Minnesota metro areas
Minneapolis$117K
St. Paul$112K
Bloomington$107K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $117K |
| St. Paul | $112K |
| Bloomington | $107K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Minnesota
Find information systems jobs in Minnesota. These major employers across Minnesota metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Systems Jobs in Minneapolis-St. Paul
MNTarget
retail-tech
UnitedHealth Group
healthcare
Best Buy
retail-tech
3M
manufacturing
Medtronic
medtech
Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Minnesota
State Transfer System
Minnesota's higher education transfer system is exceptionally well-developed, with the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) enabling seamless general education transfer across all public institutions. The state operates 29 two-year institutions offering associate's degrees in Information Systems, creating clear pathways to bachelor's completion at four-year universities. Programs like Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Century College, and North Hennepin Community College produce well-prepared graduates who transfer with junior standing into bachelor's programs at Metropolitan State University, Minnesota State University-Mankato, and other regional universities. This structured articulation system minimizes lost credits and accelerates degree completion while reducing overall education costs (Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC)).
How Transfers Work
Transfer pathways provide significant financial advantages for Minnesota students. Beginning at affordable community colleges with average tuition around $5,424-$5,759 allows students to complete general education and foundational IS coursework before transferring. The 75 associate's degree completions in 2023 demonstrate strong enrollment in transfer-track programs. Upon transfer to four-year institutions like Minnesota State University-Mankato ($8,356 tuition) or Metropolitan State University ($8,571 tuition), students benefit from lower overall education costs compared to starting at universities directly. Minnesota's State Grant program provides need-based financial aid for eligible residents across both community colleges and universities. Students exploring transfer options should review pathways through Information Technology and Data Analytics programs to identify complementary specializations available at transfer-accepting institutions (Minnesota State Grant).
Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Minnesota?
Industry & Workforce
Minnesota offers exceptional opportunities for Information Systems students with 40 institutions offering dedicated IS programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state produced 762 total completions in 2023, including 487 bachelor's degrees, 191 master's degrees, and 75 associate's degrees, demonstrating strong educational pathways for aspiring technology professionals. The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities leads the state with 194 completions, establishing Minnesota as a significant hub for IS education (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Minnesota's tech-driven economy provides substantial career advantages. The state is home to major technology employers including Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, and Mayo Clinic, creating direct pipeline opportunities for graduates. The Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metropolitan area ranks among the nation's top tech hubs, offering competitive salaries and abundant entry-level positions. Public four-year institutions average just $10,088 in in-state tuition, making Minnesota's IS programs significantly more affordable than the national average. Students can explore specialized tracks through related programs like Information Technology, Data Analytics, and Cloud Computing to further customize their education and career preparation (BLS State Data).
Information Systems Program Availability in Minnesota
26 Programs
Minnesota offers 26 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Minnesota
Employment Outlook
Minnesota's information systems job market is strong and diverse, supported by a strong presence of technology-driven employers and a well-educated workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Minnesota offers competitive opportunities for information systems professionals across multiple metropolitan regions. The state's major employment centers include the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metro area, Rochester, and Duluth, each supporting distinct industry ecosystems. The Twin Cities region dominates the state's tech landscape, attracting thousands of IS professionals annually and serving as a hub for both established corporations and emerging tech startups.
Salaries by Metro
Minnesota's educational pipeline supports this demand through 40 institutions offering information systems programs, including 15 bachelor's-degree-granting schools and 10 master's-degree institutions (IPEDS). In 2023, Minnesota's IS programs produced 487 bachelor's completions, 191 master's completions, and 75 associate's completions. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $10,088, making Minnesota an affordable option for students seeking quality IS education. Career pathways extend across cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, and Plymouth, with opportunities in healthcare technology, financial services, manufacturing, and retail sectors. Explore related career paths through our guides on Information Technology in Minnesota and Data Analytics in Minnesota to understand the broader technology employment landscape.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Minnesota$69,414$154,846
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Minnesota
Online Programs
6 available in Minnesota
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$14,983/yr$16,648/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Wisconsin
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $9,600
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $30,800
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $7,600
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in North Dakota
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $7,300
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 133
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 110
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Information Systems Degree Programs in Minnesota: FAQ
What are the best information systems degree programs in Minnesota?
The best information systems degree programs in Minnesota based on our methodology are: 1) University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (92% graduation rate), 2) Minnesota State University-Mankato, and 3) Metropolitan State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Minnesota offers 26 total accredited programs across 16 public and 7 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 13 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Minnesota?
Information Systems degree program costs in Minnesota vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $16,648/year, while private institutions average $36,626/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,162/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $66,592 at public schools to $146,502 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Minnesota?
Information Systems professionals in Minnesota earn a median salary of $106,790, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $69,414, while senior roles exceed $154,846. Salaries vary by metro area: Minneapolis ($117,469), St. Paul ($112,130) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota offers 6 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Pine Technical & Community College and Hamline University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Minnesota?
Major Information Systems employers in Minnesota include Target, UnitedHealth, Best Buy, 3M, Medtronic. The Minneapolis and St. Paul metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Minnesota universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Minnesota's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Minnesota?
An information systems degree program in Minnesota offers strong ROI with a $106,790 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $16,648/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($120,673), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Minnesota?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Minnesota are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Minnesota community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Minnesota university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Minnesota?
Minnesota information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Minnesota state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Minnesota's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Minnesota salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.