Minnesota State University Moorhead

With 76 majors and 170+ emphases, MSUM leans heavily into liberal arts but also offers professional programs in education, health sciences, and criminal justice. The $23 million Weld Hall houses the Honors College, providing rigorous coursework for high-achievers across disciplines. Students frequently cite small class sizes and accessible professors as defining traits—Reddit threads describe 'actually forming relationships with your professors' as a key advantage. While not elite in every field (Quora users note 'it's not good at everything'), the university delivers particularly strong value in education and nursing.

Campus life thrives on intimacy—with 125+ student organizations and learning communities that cluster students by major in shared housing. The university leans into Minnesota traditions (homecoming, intramurals) while supporting cultural centers for underrepresented groups. Instagram and Facebook feeds show a heavy emphasis on DIY community-building: think trivia nights, service projects, and dragon mascot antics (the school's teams are the Dragons). Moorhead's location—across the river from Fargo, ND—gives access to city amenities while maintaining a classic college-town feel.

MSUM's four-year graduation rate sits at 34-36%, below national averages, though its six-year rate climbs to 57%. About 24% of students transfer out before completing degrees. Alumni earnings vary sharply by field: education graduates (11% of alumni) earn a median $50,595, while health sciences grads (26% of alumni) command $90,384. The overall median salary six years post-graduation is $45,873—respectable given the school's low net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. but reflecting its regional employer network.

MSUM's net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost.—$17,330-$17,939 after aid—makes it one of the more affordable public options in the Upper Midwest. About 58% of students receive financial aid, with packages often covering a significant portion of the $10,000-ish annual tuition (exact figures aren't published). The university heavily promotes its net price calculator, suggesting transparency about real costs. Notably, Minnesota's reciprocity agreements with neighboring states allow residents of Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota to attend at in-state rates.

MSUM carves its niche by doubling down on the basics: approachable academics, professor accessibility, and Upper Midwest affordability. Its Honors College punches above its weight, while learning communities foster camaraderie among majors. The Fargo-Moorhead metro location offers internships and nightlife without big-city chaos. Though not a research powerhouse, it delivers reliable outcomes for teachers, nurses, and criminal justice professionals—the backbone of the regional workforce. For students seeking a 'small college feel' with public-school pricing, it's a compelling choice.