Forbes named Minneapolis the third-best city in the country for young professionals in 2010 and the No. 1 city for finding employment in 2011. The city snagged these honors thanks to its overall low unemployment rate, a relatively low cost of living and a diversity of businesses hiring new workers.
While still in school, students thrive in the city thanks to a progressive outlook and active lifestyle. As of summer 2010, the city began offering free wireless Internet at more than 117 hotspots throughout the metro area. The Corporation for National and Community Service ranked it the top city nationally for volunteerism for four straight years between 2007 and 2010, and an Urban Agriculture Policy Plan is underway to promote locally grown food.
Colleges and Universities in Minneapolis
The largest of the Minneapolis universities--and one of the largest schools in the United States--is the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. With a sprawling campus spread between Minneapolis and neighboring St. Paul, the university's enrollment has reached more than 64,000, according to the school's website. The school has fostered relationships with Minneapolis' 20 Fortune 500 companies--which include Target, 3M and General Mills--but business-minded students aren't the only ones who flock to the university. The most popular majors for the class of 2010 were social sciences, engineering and biological and biomedical sciences, according to U.S. News and World Report. Artistic types are attracted to the school's Frank Gehry-designed art museum, and budding actors are within close proximity to the Guthrie, one of the foremost regional theaters in the country.
Those looking for a more intimate college experience might consider Augsburg University, a private college of about 3,000 students with a downtown Minneapolis campus. Though about a third of Augsburg undergrads major in business, according to U.S. News, the school also has strong programs in education and health-related fields. Nearby, North Central University enrolls fewer than 1,500 students and offers an education built around the school's strong Pentecostal tradition of service to others.
There are many more colleges in Minneapolis, including community colleges. For those whose obligations make attending class a difficulty, online colleges may be a good option.
Vocational and Trade schools in Minneapolis
The five-acre campus of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design features papermaking and printmaking studios, computer labs, personal studio space, a media center, galleries and more. MCAD is one of the most highly regarded art schools in the country, with successful alumni in fields ranging from fashion design to animation and fine art.
The Dunwoody College of Technology offers associate and bachelor's of science degrees as well as certificates in diverse technical fields, including automotive technology, health sciences technology and robotics and manufacturing. Its green education offerings--such as residential energy auditor training--fit into Minneapolis' eco-friendly culture. Minneapolis Community and Technical College, North Hennepin Community College and North Hennepin Technical College are among the other vocational and trade schools in the area. Some online schools also offer vocational programs.
Other Schools in the Greater Minneapolis Area
Just east of Minneapolis, its "twin," St. Paul, is home to many more colleges and universities, making the metro area a true hub for higher learning. St. Paul is especially rich in intimate liberal arts colleges with religious affiliations, including Bethel University, Concordia University, St. Catherine University and University of St. Thomas. Hamline University, the oldest university in the state, is located in St. Paul, as is Macalester College, alma mater of Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Walter Mondale, former U.S. vice president. About 45 minutes south of the Twin Cities, the town of Northfield is home to two other well-known liberal arts schools, Carleton College and St. Olaf College. When it comes to choosing an education that could be right for you, be sure to peruse our list of colleges and universities in Minneapolis to help you make a decision.