Cheapest Journalism Colleges in Minnesota

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities delivers journalism education at just $17,139 net cost while producing graduates earning $40,298 annually, creating the best financial return among Minnesota's 11 programs. This advantage becomes stark when compared to private alternatives, where costs can reach $30,525 at University of St. Thomas. Minnesota's media market, anchored by companies like Target's marketing divisions and UnitedHealth's communications teams, provides journalism graduates with opportunities beyond traditional newsrooms. The state's public universities dominate affordability rankings, with three of the four cheapest options being state-funded institutions.

Programs

$17,139 – $30,525

Net Price Range

$34,992

Avg. Program Earnings

68.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Minneapolis, Minnesota	$17,139	$16,488	84.8%	74.9%
2	Concordia University-Saint Paul Saint Paul, Minnesota	$17,566	$25,000	58.8%	69.1%
3	Minnesota State University Moorhead Moorhead, Minnesota	$17,816	$10,336	54.6%	56.6%
4	University of Minnesota-Duluth Duluth, Minnesota	$18,464	$14,318	64.5%	80.7%
5	Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Winona, Minnesota	$21,034	$43,160	67.7%	96.8%
6	North Central University Minneapolis, Minnesota	$23,574	$29,460	63.6%	90.8%
7	The College of Saint Scholastica Duluth, Minnesota	$23,949	$40,454	63.0%	96.6%
8	University of Northwestern-St Paul Saint Paul, Minnesota	$25,140	$36,830	68.4%	92.5%
9	Concordia College at Moorhead Moorhead, Minnesota	$25,651	$30,020	71.8%	65.5%
10	Bethel University Saint Paul, Minnesota	$28,439	$42,930	75.2%	72.5%
11	University of St Thomas Saint Paul, Minnesota	$30,525	$52,284	75.2%	77.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Minnesota-Twin Cities the top value for journalism students?

At $17,139 net cost, UMN-Twin Cities graduates earn $40,298 annually while carrying just $19,500 in debt. The program maintains an 84.80% graduation rate, the highest among affordable options in the state.

How much do private journalism programs cost compared to public options?

Private programs average $24,473 in net costs, while public universities average $17,806. University of St. Thomas tops private costs at $30,525, nearly double Minnesota State University Moorhead's $17,816.

Does choosing a cheaper program affect graduation rates?

Minnesota State University Moorhead has the lowest net cost among public options at $17,816 but only a 54.60% graduation rate. However, UMN-Twin Cities proves affordable programs can excel with 84.80% graduation rates.

Where do Minnesota journalism graduates find the best earning potential?

UMN-Twin Cities graduates earn $40,298 annually, significantly above Minnesota State Moorhead's $29,685. The $10,613 earnings difference helps justify the slightly higher costs at flagship institutions.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.