Private Four-Year Universities in Minnesota
Augsburg University
Overview
Augsburg University is a private liberal arts university located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Known for its commitment to social justice and experiential learning, Augsburg offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1869 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants, Augsburg University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in faith and service. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Augsburg University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
- Graduate Studies
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Psychology, and Biology.
Student Life
Augsburg University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Urban Campus: Located in the heart of Minneapolis with access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Commitment to Social Justice: Strong emphasis on community service and social responsibility.
- Experiential Learning: Opportunities for internships, research, and real-world projects.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive campus environment with students from various backgrounds.
Admissions
Augsburg University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Augsburg University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, healthcare, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Martin Sabo: Former U.S. Congressman.
- Ann Bancroft: Polar explorer and educator.
- Torrey Westrom: Minnesota State Senator.
Bethel University
Overview
Bethel University is a private Christian university located in Arden Hills, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to faith, Bethel offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1871 by Swedish Baptists, Bethel University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Christian values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Bethel University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Adult and Professional Studies
- Bethel Seminary
- Graduate School
Popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Psychology, and Biology.
Student Life
Bethel University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Christian Foundation: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Arden Hills with modern facilities and natural beauty.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Bethel University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Christian values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Alumni
Bethel University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, ministry, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Robert W. Kasten: Former U.S. Senator.
- Dan Smith: CEO of Best Buy.
- John Piper: Theologian and author.
Carleton College
Overview
Carleton College is a private liberal arts college located in Northfield, Minnesota. Known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, Carleton offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1866 by the Minnesota Conference of Congregational Churches, Carleton College has a long tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education that fosters critical thinking and creativity.
Academic Offerings
Carleton College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Economics
- English
- History
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Psychology
The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and encourages study abroad experiences.
Student Life
Carleton College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Liberal Arts Focus: Strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning.
- Residential College: All students live on campus, fostering a close-knit community.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Northfield with modern facilities and historic buildings.
- Global Learning: Opportunities for study abroad and international internships.
Admissions
Carleton College’s admissions process is highly selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Carleton College alumni are leaders in various fields, including academia, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Walter Alvarez: Geologist known for the dinosaur extinction theory.
- Christopher Lehmann-Haupt: Former book critic for The New York Times.
- Thorstein Veblen: Economist and sociologist.
College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University
Overview
The College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) are partner liberal arts colleges located in St. Joseph and Collegeville, Minnesota, respectively. Known for their strong academic programs and community-focused education, CSB and SJU offer a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1913 (CSB) and 1857 (SJU) by Benedictine monks and nuns, these institutions have a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. They operate as separate colleges for men and women but share a unified academic program and campus facilities.
Academic Offerings
CSB and SJU offer undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Communication
- Education
- Environmental Studies
- Political Science
- Theology
The colleges also emphasize interdisciplinary programs and global education.
Student Life
CSB and SJU provide vibrant campus lives with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The colleges emphasize community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Benedictine Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on community and service.
- Dual Campus Experience: Unique partnership allows students to benefit from resources at both campuses.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
CSB and SJU’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the colleges’ Catholic values. The colleges seek students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
CSB and SJU alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, education, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Eugene McCarthy: Former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate.
- Tim Pawlenty: Former Governor of Minnesota.
- John Hawkes: Academy Award-nominated actor.
Concordia College
Overview
Concordia College is a private liberal arts college located in Moorhead, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to global learning, Concordia offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1891 by Norwegian settlers, Concordia College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Lutheran values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Concordia College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Business
- Education
- Music
- Nursing
- Political Science
- Psychology
The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and emphasizes study abroad experiences.
Student Life
Concordia College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and leadership development.
Unique Features
- Global Learning: Strong emphasis on study abroad and international programs.
- Lutheran Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Moorhead with modern facilities and historic buildings.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Concordia College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the college’s Lutheran values. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
Concordia College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Cindy Schreiber: Former North Dakota State Senator.
- Paul D. Fjelstad: Composer and conductor.
- Ole and Lena: Folk humor figures known for their stories and jokes.
Gustavus Adolphus College
Overview
Gustavus Adolphus College is a private liberal arts college located in St. Peter, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to social justice, Gustavus offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1862 by Swedish Lutherans, Gustavus Adolphus College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Lutheran values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Gustavus Adolphus College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Economics
- History
- Music
- Political Science
- Psychology
The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and emphasizes study abroad experiences.
Student Life
Gustavus Adolphus College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Lutheran Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in St. Peter with modern facilities and historic buildings.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Gustavus Adolphus College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the college’s Lutheran values. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
Gustavus Adolphus College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Melinda Doolittle: American Idol finalist and singer.
- Rev. Dr. Mark Hanson: Former Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
- Tim O’Brien: Author of “The Things They Carried.”
Hamline University
Overview
Hamline University is a private liberal arts university located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to social justice, Hamline offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1854 by Methodist pioneers, Hamline University is the oldest university in Minnesota. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Hamline University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Liberal Arts
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Law
Popular majors include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Education, Political Science, and Psychology.
Student Life
Hamline University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Commitment to Social Justice: Strong emphasis on community service and social responsibility.
- Urban Campus: Located in the heart of St. Paul with access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Experiential Learning: Opportunities for internships, research, and real-world projects.
- Diverse Community: Inclusive campus environment with students from various backgrounds.
Admissions
Hamline University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who are passionate about learning and community engagement.
Alumni
Hamline University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, law, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Evelyn Anderson: First woman to serve as a judge in Minnesota.
- Cheryl Reeve: Head coach of the Minnesota Lynx.
- Walter Mondale: Former Vice President of the United States.
Macalester College
Overview
Macalester College is a private liberal arts college located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to internationalism, Macalester offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1874 by Rev. Edward Duffield Neill, Macalester College has a long tradition of academic excellence and leadership in higher education. The college emphasizes a global perspective and a commitment to multiculturalism.
Academic Offerings
Macalester College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Anthropology
- Biology
- Economics
- International Studies
- Political Science
- Sociology
The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and encourages study abroad experiences.
Student Life
Macalester College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- International Focus: Strong emphasis on global citizenship and international programs.
- Urban Campus: Located in the heart of St. Paul with access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Macalester College’s admissions process is highly selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The college seeks students who are intellectually curious and committed to making a positive impact.
Alumni
Macalester College alumni are leaders in various fields, including academia, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Kofi Annan: Former Secretary-General of the United Nations.
- Tim O’Brien: Author of “The Things They Carried.”
- Danai Gurira: Actress and playwright.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Overview
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a private Catholic university located in Winona, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, Saint Mary’s offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1912 by Bishop Patrick Richard Heffron, Saint Mary’s University has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
Saint Mary’s University offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Education
- Graduate School of Business and Technology
- School of Health and Human Services
Popular majors include Business Administration, Education, Nursing, Psychology, and Theology.
Student Life
Saint Mary’s University provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Winona with modern facilities and natural beauty.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
Saint Mary’s University’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Catholic values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
Saint Mary’s University alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- Patrick McMullan: Renowned photographer.
- Joe Queenan: Satirist and author.
- Anthony Trollope: 19th-century novelist.
St. Olaf College
Overview
St. Olaf College is a private liberal arts college located in Northfield, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to the arts, St. Olaf offers a range of undergraduate programs.
History
Founded in 1874 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants, St. Olaf College has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Lutheran values. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
St. Olaf College offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Economics
- Music
- Political Science
- Psychology
The college also offers interdisciplinary programs and emphasizes study abroad experiences.
Student Life
St. Olaf College provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The college emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Lutheran Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Strong Liberal Arts Foundation: Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
- Beautiful Campus: Located in Northfield with modern facilities and natural beauty.
- Renowned Music Program: Strong emphasis on the performing arts, particularly music.
Admissions
St. Olaf College’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the college’s Lutheran values. The college seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
St. Olaf College alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
- Ole Rolvaag: Novelist and author of “Giants in the Earth.”
- Michael Osterholm: Epidemiologist and public health expert.
- Tracie McMillan: Journalist and author.
University of St. Thomas
Overview
The University of St. Thomas is a private Catholic university located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to service, St. Thomas offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
History
Founded in 1885 by Archbishop John Ireland, the University of St. Thomas has a long tradition of providing high-quality education grounded in Catholic values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education that integrates intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth.
Academic Offerings
The University of St. Thomas offers programs across various schools, including:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- Opus College of Business
- School of Engineering
- School of Law
- School of Social Work
Popular majors include Business Administration, Engineering, Education, Law, and Psychology.
Student Life
The University of St. Thomas provides a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The university emphasizes community engagement and personal growth.
Unique Features
- Catholic Tradition: Integration of faith and learning with a focus on service and ethical leadership.
- Urban Campus: Located in the heart of St. Paul with access to cultural, professional, and social opportunities.
- Strong Business Program: Notable for its Opus College of Business.
- Community Engagement: Numerous opportunities for volunteerism and service learning.
Admissions
The University of St. Thomas’s admissions process is selective, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s Catholic values. The university seeks students who are dedicated to academic excellence and community service.
Alumni
University of St. Thomas alumni are leaders in various fields, including education, business, and public service. Notable alumni include:
- John Doerr: Venture capitalist and author.
- Jimmy Francis: Mayor of South St. Paul.
- R.T. Rybak: Former Mayor of Minneapolis.