At $17,816/yr net price, Minnesota State University Moorhead graduates earn $50,527/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $16,527/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,816 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $71,264 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,527/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,527/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,260/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $12,969/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,544/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,410/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,573/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $66,325 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $64,865 | $12,500 |
| Construction Management. | Bachelor | $64,865 | $14,748 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $58,402 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $53,775 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $52,107 | |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $51,690 | $15,500 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $48,823 | $19,972 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $48,600 | $40,116 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $48,265 | $19,684 |
The Risk Factor
54.6% of students at Minnesota State University Moorhead graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Minnesota State University Moorhead delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your major choice. The $17,816 annual net price creates manageable debt loads, but the 54% graduation rate means nearly half of students leave without a degree.
Computer science, nursing, and construction management graduates earn over $64,000 annually, making these programs clear financial winners. Nursing students graduate with just $12,500 in debt while earning $64,865, creating an strong return. Construction management offers similar earnings with slightly higher debt at $14,748. Accounting provides solid middle-ground returns at $58,402.
The school's location in Moorhead limits some career opportunities compared to Minneapolis-St. Paul, particularly for business and technology majors. However, nursing and construction management graduates benefit from strong regional demand across North Dakota's oil fields and Minnesota's healthcare systems.
Your biggest financial risk is the graduation rate. If you struggle academically or aren't committed to finishing, you'll face debt without the degree needed for higher earnings. The 72% retention rate suggests many students transfer or drop out after freshman year.
This school works best if you're pursuing nursing, computer science, construction management, or accounting and want to stay in the upper Midwest. The low debt levels make it particularly attractive for first-generation college students or those with limited family financial support.
Avoid majors not listed in the top earnings programs, as they likely lead to below-average returns. With only 27% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited, so expect to pay close to the sticker price regardless of your academic profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minnesota State University Moorhead worth the cost?
With a net price of $17,816 per year and median debt of $20,000, Minnesota State University Moorhead offers reasonable value for students who graduate. However, the 54.6% graduation rate means nearly half of students leave without a degree, making completion critical for ROI.
What are the highest paying majors at Minnesota State University Moorhead?
Computer Science leads at $66,325 annually, followed by Nursing and Construction Management at $64,865 each. These programs significantly outperform the school's overall average of $50,527 and justify the investment better than other majors.
How much student debt do Minnesota State University Moorhead graduates have?
The median debt is $20,000, which is manageable compared to many four-year schools. With graduates earning $50,527 on average, most can handle this debt load if they complete their degree.
Does Minnesota State University Moorhead have a good return on investment?
The ROI depends heavily on your major and whether you graduate. Students in Computer Science, Nursing, or Construction Management see strong returns, while the below-average graduation rate of 54.6% creates significant risk for those who don't finish.