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Rasmussen University-Minnesota
St. Cloud, MNPrivate for-profit
$10,595
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad rate
89.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best software engineering degree programs: U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Carleton College, St Olaf College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $4,433 to $65,043/year
Normandale Community College offers the most affordable option at $5,347/yr
Software Engineering degree programs available: 15 associate's, 5 master's, 1 doctoral in Minnesota
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
10 online software engineering degree programs in Minnesota
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Minnesota community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
15 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
Software Engineering degree programs near 53+ cities across Minnesota
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Minnesota Software Engineering programs
We rank 46 accredited software engineering 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 Software Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota Worth It?
Answer
$106,790
Yes. The best software engineering degree programs in Minnesota deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $106,790 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $19,614/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Software Engineering Degree Rankings in Minnesota
Compare the top-ranked Software Engineering programs in Minnesota by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Software Engineering Programs in Minnesota
1
Programs ranked
$10,595
Avg tuition/yr
53%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota offers 15 accredited associate's degree programs in software engineering, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Normandale Community College, Anoka-Ramsey Community Co..., Saint Paul 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 $6,135/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 software engineering schools in Minnesota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their software engineering degrees in Minnesota.
Best Bachelor's Software Engineering Programs in Minnesota
4
Programs ranked
$22,431
Avg tuition/yr
57%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota ranks among the nation's top destinations for software engineering education, with 25 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 11 public and 14 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Carleton College, St Olaf College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Minnesota software engineering 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 $65,043 annually, with an average of $28,074/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 97%. 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 software engineering degrees in Minnesota, these top-ranked software engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Dunwoody College of Technology
Minneapolis, MNPrivate nonprofit
$25,214
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad rate
63.6
Hakia Score
Best Master's Software Engineering Programs in Minnesota
2
Programs ranked
$11,980
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Minnesota offers 5 master's degree programs in software engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Metropolitan State, Saint Cloud State, 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 $10,991/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 software engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MNPublic
President Barack Obama visits the University of Minnesota$15,148
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
85.4
Hakia Score
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$8,811
Tuition/yr
40%
Grad rate
57.7
Hakia Score
Software Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in Minnesota
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $19,614/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $49,035/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,904/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $117,684 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $29,420 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Software Engineering Students in Minnesota
State Aid Programs
Minnesota offers strong financial aid opportunities for software engineering students through both state and federal programs. The Minnesota State Grant is one of the largest state need-based grant programs in the nation, providing critical support for Minnesota residents pursuing higher education. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. These resources apply to software engineering programs at all institution types, from community colleges to research universities, making quality education more accessible across the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, many Minnesota institutions offer institution-specific scholarships and merit-based awards. The Minnesota Office of Higher Education coordinates state aid programs and provides comprehensive guidance on available funding. Students enrolled in ABET-accredited software engineering programs may also qualify for discipline-specific scholarships. Using the College Scorecard, prospective students can estimate aid packages and compare net prices across Minnesota's 52 institutions offering software engineering degrees. Planning ahead and exploring all aid sources can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of earning a software engineering degree in Minnesota.
Software Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Minnesota
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a software engineering 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.
Software Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a software engineering 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
Software Engineering 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 Software Engineering Graduates in Minnesota
Find software engineering jobs in Minnesota. These major employers across Minnesota metro areas are actively hiring software engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Software Engineering Jobs in Minneapolis-St. Paul
MNTarget
retail-tech
UnitedHealth Group
healthcare
Best Buy
retail-tech
3M
manufacturing
Medtronic
medtech
Transfer Pathways for Software Engineering Degrees in Minnesota
State Transfer System
Minnesota's transfer ecosystem is facilitated by the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC), a statewide system enabling seamless general education transfer between institutions. The MnTC ensures that 18 associate's degree programs across Minnesota's community colleges can transition smoothly into bachelor's degree programs at four-year institutions, eliminating redundant coursework and accelerating degree completion. This articulation framework is essential for students beginning at community colleges like Normandale Community College (tuition $5,347), Anoka-Ramsey Community College (tuition $4,942), and North Hennepin Community College (tuition $4,502), which collectively serve thousands of software engineering students annually (Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC)).
How Transfers Work
Transfer agreements between 29 two-year institutions and 27 four-year bachelor's programs create clear pathways to advanced degrees. Students completing associate's degrees in software engineering can transition directly into junior-level coursework at universities like Metropolitan State University (tuition $8,571), Saint Cloud State University (tuition $8,811), and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. The Minnesota State Grant program provides need-based financial aid to resident students throughout their transfer journey (Minnesota State Grant). Many four-year institutions offer guaranteed admission and course credit recognition for MnTC-compliant transfer credits. Students interested in exploring career pathways should consider computer science programs and mobile development specializations to expand employment opportunities (Minnesota Office of Higher Education).
Why Pursue a Software Engineering Degree in Minnesota?
Industry & Workforce
Minnesota offers a strong and diverse software engineering education landscape with 52 institutions offering programs across all degree levels, from associate's degrees through doctoral studies (IPEDS). The state produced 1,341 bachelor's degree completions in software engineering in 2023, demonstrating strong program capacity and student demand. The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities leads the state with 812 completions, making it a powerhouse for software engineering education in the region. For students seeking advanced credentials, 6 institutions offer master's programs, with 155 total completions annually, providing clear pathways to leadership roles in the field (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Minnesota's tech ecosystem spans major metropolitan areas and employment centers. The Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington metro, along with Rochester and Duluth, host significant concentrations of software engineering employers including Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, and Mayo Clinic. Public in-state tuition averages $10,088 at four-year institutions, making Minnesota competitive on affordability (IPEDS). Students can explore related fields like web development and mobile development to expand career options. The state's commitment to education quality is reflected in top-ranked programs at Carleton College and the University of St Thomas, which consistently rank among national best bachelor's programs.
Software Engineering Program Availability in Minnesota
41 Programs
Minnesota offers 41 accredited software engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Software Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Minnesota
Employment Outlook
Minnesota's software engineering job market is strong and growing, supported by a strong educational infrastructure and major technology employers. The state hosts 52 institutions offering software engineering programs across associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels (IPEDS), with 1,341 bachelor's completions annually demonstrating consistent workforce development. The Twin Cities metro area, encompassing Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Bloomington, serves as the primary hub for software engineering opportunities, attracting talent from across the region and nation. Beyond the metro, secondary markets in Rochester and Duluth provide additional career pathways in specialized sectors.
Salaries by Metro
Current employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights Minnesota's competitive compensation packages and job availability (BLS State Data). The state's major employers, including Mayo Clinic, Target, UnitedHealth Group, and 3M, actively recruit software engineers for roles spanning healthcare technology, retail systems, financial technology, and manufacturing innovation. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities alone produces 812 completions, establishing a substantial pipeline of local talent. For prospective graduates seeking comparative opportunities, explore national best bachelor's programs and national online options to understand how Minnesota institutions compete nationally.
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 Software Engineering Programs in Minnesota
Online Programs
10 available in Minnesota
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$17,653/yr$19,614/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 Software Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Wisconsin
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $7,500
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Iowa
- Total Programs
- 26
- Median Tuition
- $30,800
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 5
- Median Tuition
- $7,800
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in North Dakota
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 200
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 52
- Median Tuition
- $5,100
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 90
- Median Tuition
- $7,600
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 119
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Software Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota: FAQ
What are the best software engineering degree programs in Minnesota?
The best software engineering degree programs in Minnesota based on our methodology are: 1) University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (92% graduation rate), 2) Carleton College, and 3) St Olaf College. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Minnesota offers 41 total accredited programs across 24 public and 15 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 25 bachelor's programs.
How much do software engineering degree programs cost in Minnesota?
Software Engineering degree program costs in Minnesota vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $19,614/year, while private institutions average $43,151/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,904/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $78,456 at public schools to $172,603 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 software engineering degree graduates earn in Minnesota?
Software Engineering 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 software engineering degree programs in Minnesota?
Yes, Minnesota offers 10 accredited online Software Engineering 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 Rasmussen University-Minnesota and Minnesota State College Southeast. 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 software engineering degree graduates in Minnesota?
Major Software Engineering 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 a software engineering degree program worth it in Minnesota?
A software engineering degree program in Minnesota offers strong ROI with a $106,790 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $19,614/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 software engineering degree programs take in Minnesota?
Standard completion times for software engineering 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 software engineering degree students in Minnesota?
Minnesota software engineering 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.