Northland Community and Technical College outranked more than six hundred US community colleges in a recent report issued by finance website WalletHub. Northland ranked 31st on the list of 668 schools, while the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system ranked fifth overall.
WalletHub surveyed two-year colleges nationwide to determine where students get the best education at the most affordable price. Schools were ranked based on scores for 19 critical indicators like total cost, academic quality, student-to-faculty ratio, graduation rate, and graduate career outcomes.
As inflation drives up the costs of living, books, and supplies, in addition to skyrocketing tuition rates, WalletHub’s report comes at a critical time for students finalizing their plans for higher education. Their analysis revealed a stark contrast — during 2022 to 2023 academic year, tuition and fees for full-time, in-state enrollment at a public two-year college averaged just $3,860 per year compared to $10,950 at a public four-year institution and $39,400 at a four-year private school.
“Cost has become an even bigger consideration for students and their families,” said Northland’s President Sandy Kiddoo. “We are so proud that for this academic year, Northland froze tuition rates with the support of the Minnesota State Legislature.”
According to Kiddoo, Northland also doubled student scholarships last year. Whether keeping tuition costs as low as possible or opening an on-campus food pantry, Northland is always seeking new and innovative ways to remove barriers to academic and career success.
“This latest national ranking is a great indication of how Northland and our system work to provide an affordable, high-quality education,” Kiddoo said. “At the same time, we can maintain our academic environment that delivers career-ready graduates to support our local communities and industry.”
