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University of Minnesota-Duluth

Duluth, MN | Public | University

University of Minnesota-Duluth has an acceptance rate of 88.8%, annual tuition of $14,610, average net price of $18,743, and a national rank of #542 (Grade B+), with a 64.7% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 7,336 undergraduates, and median earnings of $66,056 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

University of Minnesota-Duluth is a public university in Duluth, MN. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, and 81.1% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 77.6%, roughly 27.7 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B+
Ranking
#542 of 1,947
How We Rank Schools Public school option
At a Glance
Ranking
#542 of 1,947 (Top 27.8%)
Tuition
$14,610
Net Price
$18,743
4-Year Tuition
$58,440
Acceptance Rate
88.8%
Transfer Rate
25.3%
Student Population
7,336
Student-Faculty
16:1
Grad Rate (150% time)
64.7%
Grad Rate (8-year)
64.8%
Retention Rate
81.1%
4-Yr Earnings
$66,056
ROI
77.6%

Who is University of Minnesota-Duluth Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students seeking strong career outcomes

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#542 of 1,947
Top 27.8% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
72.2 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
3.61 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B+
#555 of 1,947
Affordability
B-
#1,276 of 1,947
Support
B
#951 of 1,947
Career Outcomes
B+
#337 of 1,947

University of Minnesota-Duluth graduates 64.7% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings) and keeps 81.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$7,256-$24,453 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Likely
64.7% graduate within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings). 47.2% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
94.8% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $66,056. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use University of Minnesota-Duluth's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$110,720
$27,680 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$85,096
$18,743 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 47.2% | 6-Year Rate: 64.7% | 8-Year Rate: 64.8%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 47.2% and six-year completion is 64.7%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$27,680
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$18,743
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

Cost of Undergraduate Attendance

Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.

View cost of attendance line items
Costs to Consider Price
Tuition and Fees $14,610
Books and Supplies $760
On-Campus Room and Board $11,110
On-Campus Other Expenses $2,440
Total On-Campus Cost $27,680

Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.

Students Receiving Aid

Pell Grant
18.8%
Federal Loan
0.0%

Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.

EDsmart Insight: About 18.8% of University of Minnesota-Duluth students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.

$0 - $30,000
$7,256
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$8,145
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$11,965
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$17,056
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$24,453
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $7,256 to $24,453 depending on family income. Use University of Minnesota-Duluth's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$32,652
$30K-$48K families
~$36,652
$48K-$75K families
~$53,842
$75K-$110K families
~$76,752
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $17,056/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $24,453/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
77.6%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $66,056
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $62,616
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $22,024
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 75.3%
  • Employment Rate 94.8%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for University of Minnesota-Duluth graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.

Graduates earn a median of $66,056 four years after graduation — roughly 9% above the national median.
Payback Period
1.29 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

University of Minnesota-Duluth vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of Minnesota-Duluth's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of Minnesota-Duluth's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: University of Minnesota-Duluth graduates earn $66,056 median four years after graduation, +9% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
88.8%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 590-675
  • SAT Math 590-675
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 23-28
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 7,336
  • Full-Time Students 95.1%
  • Part-Time Students 4.9%
  • Retention Rate 81.1%
  • Grad Rate (150% time) 64.7%
  • Grad Rate (8-year) 64.8%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 16:1

How to Get Into University of Minnesota-Duluth

1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of Minnesota-Duluth requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.

2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.

3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 88.8%, University of Minnesota-Duluth is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.

4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.

Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.

EDsmart Insight: With a 88.8% acceptance rate, University of Minnesota-Duluth is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1180 and 1350 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of Minnesota-Duluth undergraduates. Marketing, Biology, General, and Psychology, General draw the most students.

  • Marketing 7.0%
  • Biology, General 6.6%
  • Psychology, General 5.8%
  • Mechanical Engineering 5.7%
  • Finance and Financial Management Services 5.5%
  • Communication and Media Studies 3.8%
See more majors
  • Accounting and Related Services 3.6%
  • Computer Science 3.3%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)

  • 1. Computer Science $94,445
  • 2. Mechanical Engineering $91,075
  • 3. Chemical Engineering $90,849
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $89,756
  • 5. Statistics $83,264
  • 6. Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications $81,784
  • 7. Finance and Financial Management Services $81,046
  • 8. Civil Engineering $80,494
  • 9. Industrial Engineering $77,781
  • 10. Accounting and Related Services $76,462

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians (Master's Degree) $77,782
  • 2. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degree) $55,600
  • 3. Education, General (Master's Degree) $50,147
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Social Work (Master's Degree) $45,354

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $94,445—24% more than Accounting and Related Services ($76,462). Graduate: Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians programs lead with $77,782 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of Minnesota-Duluth. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Marketing (Bachelor's Degree, 152 graduates)
  • Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 144 graduates)
  • Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 126 graduates)
  • Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degree, 125 graduates)
  • Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degree, 121 graduates)

What This School Offers Online, at a Glance

College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.

Online Bachelor's Degrees (62 programs)▼
  • Marketing
  • Biology, General
  • Psychology, General
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Computer Science
  • Education, Other
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Criminology
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Civil Engineering
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Political Science and Government
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Chemistry
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Public Health
  • History
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Statistics
  • Social Work
  • Economics
  • Mathematics
  • Journalism
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Graphic Communications
  • Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
  • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • Philosophy
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Sociology
  • Music
  • Physics
  • Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Anthropology
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Cognitive Science
  • Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
  • Area Studies
  • Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
  • Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
  • Engineering Physics
  • Urban Studies/Affairs
  • Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Computer Software and Media Applications
  • Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
Online Master's Degrees (35 programs)▼
  • Social Work
  • Education, General
  • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • Psychology, General
  • Chemistry
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians
  • Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
  • Civil Engineering
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Computer Science
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Physics
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Music
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Engineering-Related Fields
  • Zoology/Animal Biology
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Political Science and Government
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Materials Engineering
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Engineering, General
  • Criminology
Online Doctoral Degrees (10 programs)▼
  • Zoology/Animal Biology
  • Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Natural Resources and Conservation, Other
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Forestry
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Education, General
  • Chemistry
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)▼
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Education, Other
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Educational/Instructional Media Design
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (9 programs)▼
  • Educational/Instructional Media Design
  • Museology/Museum Studies
  • Construction Engineering Technologies
  • Geography and Cartography
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • American Sign Language
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)▼
  • Education, General
  • Medicine

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 7,336
  • Full-Time Students 95.1%
  • Part-Time Students 4.9%
  • Male Students 51.2%
  • Female Students 48.8%
  • Caucasian 83.5%
  • Asian 2.6%
  • Hispanic 4.4%
  • Black 2.2%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 18.8%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of Minnesota-Duluth's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of University of Minnesota-Duluth's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does University of Minnesota-Duluth support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
55.9%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
67.9%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
11.9 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Minnesota-Duluth, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: The student body is 83.5% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 18.8% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does University of Minnesota-Duluth support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
55.9%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
67.9%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
11.9 pts
equity gap to monitor

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.

Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity

Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity

Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Minnesota-Duluth, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

University of Minnesota-Duluth serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #542 nationally with a 77.6% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.

At $18,743 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $66,056 median earnings. The 64.7% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 81.1% retention suggests adequate student support.

University Value: University of Minnesota-Duluth's Strengths

Ranked #542 with a B+ grade, University of Minnesota-Duluth prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.

Primary Strengths: Universitys like University of Minnesota-Duluth excel at providing affordable education ($18,743 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.

Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.

Honest Assessment: University of Minnesota-Duluth's 81.1% retention and 64.7% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($66,056 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.

Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, University of Minnesota-Duluth's 77.6% ROI and $18,743 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.

Key Takeaways

  • 64.7% graduation rate sits 2.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 81.1% first-year retention is 4.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 77.6% return on investment is 27.7 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $66,056 run about 9% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $18,743 is roughly $1,336 lower than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 16:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 81.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 94.8% employment rate within three years sits 26.6 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Pell participation at 18.8% trails the national share by 15.6 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Located in Duluth, MN, University of Minnesota-Duluth operates as a public university and receives a B+ from EDsmart. It holds a #542 national ranking Completion earns B+, Support B, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability B-.

Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.

81.1% of learners come back after year one while 64.7% graduate within 150% of normal time. Return on investment currently measures 77.6% for this program.

Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $18,743 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $27,680.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,937 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $22,024 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 18.8% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.

Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.

EDsmart Career Snapshot

Graduates report median earnings of about $66,056 four years after graduation. That sits about 9% above the national median.

Employment outcomes report about 94.8% of alumni working within three years.

Plan around an ROI of about 77.6% according to the Scorecard data.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

88.8% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.

The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.

Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the University of Minnesota-Duluth admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.

Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.

EDsmart Verdict
3.61 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

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Other Minnesota campuses you might consider

Hamline University
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Bethel University
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B+ #535 of 1,947
University of Minnesota-Rochester
Rochester, MN
B+ #441 of 1,947
Winona State University
Winona, MN
B #647 of 1,947

Frequently Asked Questions

What is University of Minnesota-Duluth's acceptance rate?

University of Minnesota-Duluth's acceptance rate is 88.8%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does University of Minnesota-Duluth cost?

At University of Minnesota-Duluth, listed tuition and fees are $14,610 per year, and the average net price after aid is $18,743. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is University of Minnesota-Duluth's ranking?

University of Minnesota-Duluth ranks #542 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is University of Minnesota-Duluth's graduation rate?

At University of Minnesota-Duluth, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 64.7% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 64.8%, and first-year retention is 81.1%.

What are University of Minnesota-Duluth's job outcomes?

Graduates of University of Minnesota-Duluth report median earnings of $66,056 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is University of Minnesota-Duluth's student population?

University of Minnesota-Duluth enrolls about 7,336 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
  • Endowment$282.9M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate25.3%

Data Source & Methodology ▼