Metropolitan State University: An Overview

Metropolitan State University, situated in the Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota metropolitan area, stands as a public institution committed to providing accessible and career-focused education. With its motto, "Where life and learning meet," the university caters to a diverse student body, particularly working adults and those seeking flexible learning options.

History and Founding Principles

Established in 1971 as Minnesota Metropolitan State College, the university was founded to address the educational needs of non-traditional students in the Twin Cities metropolitan area who were not adequately served by existing institutions. David E. Sweet was appointed as the university's first president. The institution admitted its first class of 50 students in 1972, holding classes in rented spaces throughout the Twin Cities.

Initially, Metropolitan State was an upper-division college, allowing students to complete their junior and senior years of academic study. The university adopted a non-traditional approach, emphasizing competence-based learning, where students received recognition for learning acquired outside the classroom, including prior experience. Letter grades were optional.

Growth and Evolution

During the 1980s, enrollment increased significantly, from approximately 1,000 to over 2,500 students. In 1994, the university began admitting freshmen and sophomores, implementing general education requirements and a grading policy with grade point averages. In 1992, the main campus relocated to the Dayton's Bluff area of east Saint Paul.

The university has maintained its commitment to offering classes in various locations throughout the metropolitan area. During the 2009-2010 school year, Metro State enrolled 6,000 full-time equivalent students. Sue K. Hammersmith served as president from 2008 to June 30, 2014, during which time the number of degrees conferred increased by 38%. Devinder Malhotra assumed the presidency on July 1, 2014. During the 2014-2015 school year, Metro State served 12,000 full and part-time students.

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Academic Programs

Metro State University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

62 undergraduate degree programs
A self-designed B.A. degree in liberal arts
A self-designed/individualized B.A.
25 master's degree programs
An MA or MS degree in individualized studies
An interdisciplinary Master of Arts degree in liberal studies
Eleven graduate certificate programs

In 2007, Metro State launched an applied doctor of nursing practice degree. During the fall semester of 2010, the university introduced the first applied doctorate in business administration within the Minnesota State system. The Bachelor of Science in Accounting program is the largest in Minnesota.

Accreditation

Metro State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Specific programs hold accreditation from relevant discipline-specific accreditors, such as:

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Additionally, Metro State is accredited by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB), the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Student Demographics

Based on data from the 2016-2017 academic year, Metro State University's student body comprised:

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45% students of color
4% out-of-state students
2% international students
42% male students
58% female students

The age range of students was 15 to 84. The Class of 2015 had an 82% licensure exam pass rate.

Campus and Resources

Metro State University accommodates the needs of working adults by scheduling many of its classes in the evening and on weekends. It is possible for recent graduates of Minneapolis and St.

In 2002, the Minnesota legislature approved funding for the construction of a library at the St. Paul campus, which opened in 2004. The library also houses a branch of the Saint Paul Public Library. To encourage spiritual development, the library features the David Barton Community Labyrinth and Reflective Garden.

Metro State's first graduating class consisted of 12 people on February 1, 1973. As of December 16, 2024, Metro State has 56,354 alumni.

Rankings and Recognition

In the 2026 edition of Best Colleges, Metropolitan State University is ranked No. 107 in Regional Universities Midwest. It's also ranked No. 18 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.

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The student-faculty ratio at Metropolitan State University is 14:1. The average net price for federal loan recipients is $19,523. The four-year graduation rate is 19%. Six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $54,828.

Admissions

Metro State follows a student-centered admissions model that places strong emphasis on prior learning, transfer credits, and life experience. Applicants are typically evaluated based on previous academic performance, transfer coursework, and readiness for upper-division study. Credits from accredited institutions are widely accepted. Adult learners and returning students receive dedicated advising support.

Affordability and Financial Aid

Affordability is a significant advantage of studying at Metro State. The fees for undergraduate students average around $9,000-$10,000 per year for Minnesota residents. Graduate program costs vary by discipline but generally range between $10,000 and $18,000 per year.

Metropolitan State University offers federal and state financial aid, scholarships, grants, and employer tuition-assistance partnerships. The Northstar Promise program provides free tuition to Minnesota residents whose family Adjusted Gross Income is below $80,000.

Student Life and Campus Culture

Student life at Metro State centers on professional growth, peer support, and community engagement. There are student organizations focused on leadership, cultural identity, career development, social justice, and academic interests.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

Career readiness is integrated into the Metro State experience. Many degree programs require internships, capstone projects, or applied research that directly connect students with employers. The university maintains strong partnerships with businesses, healthcare providers, school districts, and government agencies throughout Minnesota.

Metropolitan State University has a strong regional legacy, with over 70,000 alumni contributing to Minnesota’s workforce. Notable alumni include:

Melvin Carter - Mayor of Saint Paul
Mark Dayton - Former Governor of Minnesota
T. Mychael Rambo - Acclaimed actor, director, and arts advocate
Dr. Devinder Malhotra - Higher education leader
Paul Williams - Public safety and law enforcement leader

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