Frequently asked questions about choosing one of Minnesota's Private Colleges

• Why is a college education so important?
• What is a “liberal arts education”?
• Why would I want to pay private college tuition when the same education is available at a public school for a lot less?
• Can grads get a good job with a liberal arts degree these days?
• Do you have to be a straight-A student to get into a private college?
• When should we start thinking about college?

Why is a college education so important?

With rapid advances in technology and the global economy’s growing interconnectedness, the world of work is becoming more complex. Labor experts estimate that 70 percent of the occupations in ten years don’t even exist yet. There will be an increased demand for talented, capable, productive employees to fill new job openings. The workers who thrive will have a broad base of fundamental skills — analytical thinking, good oral and written communication, the ability to synthesize information. They will be able to learn new skills and adapt to changing economic conditions and professions and will be comfortable with different cultures and viewpoints. In short, they are the kind of well educated people that Minnesota’s private colleges graduate.

What is a “liberal arts education”?

A liberal arts education emphasizes development of general knowledge and intellectual capacity over preparation for a specific vocation or profession. Although students at liberal arts colleges generally select a major and may earn a professional degree, they receive broad exposure to many fields and disciplines. The curriculum helps hone their skills in inquiry, research, analysis and communication. They gain an understanding of context and how things are connected and fit into the whole. This prepares students for work in a variety of jobs, adaptation in a changing world and leadership in their communities. Read more about a liberal arts education.

 

Why would I want to pay private college tuition when the same education is available at a public school for a lot less?

Minnesota’s private colleges offer advantages — small class sizes, close relationships with professors, opportunities to get involved in activities or international study — that for some students make the difference between a good education and a great one. That higher quality comes at a higher cost, but it may be the most important investment you make. And, because students from private colleges are more likely to graduate in four years, they pay tuition for a shorter period of time and begin earning a salary a year or more sooner. See affording a Minnesota private college education.

Can grads get a good job with a liberal arts degree these days?

Graduates of Minnesota’s private colleges are very successful in every field you can imagine. A high-quality education in the liberal arts and sciences provides a broad understanding of how the world works, plus fundamental skills for career success. Employers recognize and appreciate these qualities.

Do you have to be a straight-A student to get into a private college?

Minnesota’s private colleges look at more than just grades when they’re considering candidates for admission. Our colleges want serious students who are well prepared for college work, and motivated to succeed. See applying to one of our schools.

When should we start thinking about college?

The best colleges require success in a challenging high school curriculum, with up to four years each of math, English, science and foreign languages — students need to start these classes as soon as they enter high school to complete some requirements. See preparing for college or helping your student prepare for college.