University of Minnesota-Morris
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#128
Down 13 from 2026
Acceptance rate
74.9%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$16,710
In-state $14,526
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
981
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
47.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.1%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Minnesota-Morris (UMN Morris), located in the picturesque landscape of west-central Minnesota, is known for its strong commitment to liberal arts education and sustainability. Established in 1960, it has built a reputation for providing a personalized education, emphasizing small class sizes with a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 12:1. This allows students to engage closely with faculty, fostering a supportive and interactive learning environment. The university prides itself on its diverse range of academic programs, with over 35 majors and numerous minors, including strong offerings in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
UMN Morris is also dedicated to sustainability and has been recognized as one of the most environmentally friendly campuses in the United States. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Morris Campus Student Center and the Science and Mathematics Building, which are designed to enhance student experience and learning. The university's commitment to community engagement is evident through various student organizations and activities that promote leadership, service, and cultural awareness. With a vibrant campus life, students participate in a variety of athletic programs, arts, and cultural events, creating a well-rounded college experience. Notably, UMN Morris has a strong track record of graduate employment, with many alumni finding success in diverse fields, showcasing the university's impact on students' futures.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Enrollment
Over the years, the tuition rates at the University of Minnesota-Morris have shown a consistent upward trend. For in-state students, tuition rose from approximately $12,584 in 2014 to $14,287 in 2024, marking an increase of about 13.5%. Out-of-state tuition has seen an even more significant rise, climbing from $12,584 to $16,437, representing a staggering increase of about 30.5%. This substantial growth in tuition fees adds to the financial burden students face, particularly for those from out-of-state, which might deter prospective students from enrolling.
Accompanying the rise in tuition is a notable decline in student enrollment. The number of undergraduate students has decreased from 1,946 in 2014 to just 1,068 in 2023, reflecting a decline of approximately 45%. This drop in enrollment could be linked to the increasing costs of education, alongside other external factors such as demographic changes and competition from other institutions. A dwindling student population can impact the university’s funding and resources, leading to potential declines in academic offerings and support services.
In terms of academic performance, the graduation rates have exhibited some fluctuations. The timely graduation rate for undergraduate students dropped from about 53.5% in 2013 to 46.2% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's ability to support students through to graduation, potentially exacerbating the challenges posed by rising tuition and declining enrollment.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has also worsened, decreasing from 13 students per faculty member in 2013 to 9 in 2023. While a lower ratio can enhance educational quality, it also suggests a reduction in the number of faculty available to support the remaining students, potentially impacting the learning environment.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, fluctuating graduation rates, and a worsening student-to-faculty ratio presents challenges for the University of Minnesota-Morris. Addressing these issues is vital for maintaining the institution's reputation and ensuring its future viability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 140 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 140 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Janet Schrunk Erickson (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 3205896035
- Address
- 309 Behmler Hall, Morris, MN 56267
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 57.4%, women 56.3%.
Best #115, lowest #128, latest #128 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at the University of Minnesota-Morris
The admissions data from the University of Minnesota-Morris reflects intriguing trends over the years, notably in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 68.5%, while the female acceptance rate was around 75.2%. These figures have fluctuated, with the male acceptance rate reaching a low of about 54.2% in 2014 and then rising to 75.4% in 2022, demonstrating a significant improvement in accessibility for male applicants.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate has shown a more stable pattern, hovering around 60% to 80% over the years. This consistent acceptance rate for female students indicates that the university is maintaining a commitment to gender equity in its admissions process. Additionally, the number of enrolled students has varied, peaking in 2011 with 419 students and dropping to 269 in 2021, likely reflecting broader trends in college enrollment amid shifting demographics and economic factors.
Moreover, the number of denied applications has generally increased, peaking in 2016 when 1,455 applicants were denied. This could suggest growing competition for a limited number of spots, particularly as the overall number of applicants fluctuates. The deferred admission numbers also reached a high in 2021, indicating that many students are considering their options more carefully, perhaps influenced by the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the data from the University of Minnesota-Morris reveals important insights into the evolving landscape of college admissions, highlighting not only the institution's efforts to adapt to changing trends but also the broader challenges faced by prospective students.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 1% submitted SAT, 28% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at University of Minnesota-Morris
The data from University of Minnesota-Morris reveals significant trends in the admission test scores and the number of students submitting these scores over the years. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated but remained relatively low, with the highest being 12% in 2007 and declining to around 6-10% in the subsequent years. This low submission rate could indicate a growing acceptance of alternative assessment methods or a shift towards holistic admissions processes.
When examining the SAT reading and math scores, there is a noticeable variation in the 25th and 75th percentile benchmarks across the years. The SAT reading scores started around 540 in 2007 and showed a general decline to around 510 by 2023, while the math scores maintained a more stable range. Such trends may suggest changes in the academic preparedness of incoming students or shifts in the institution's admissions criteria.
Furthermore, the ACT scores present a similar story, with the composite ACT scores indicating a slight downward trend. This could be reflective of broader educational trends or shifts in the demographic makeup of applicants. Lower submission rates and fluctuating scores may raise questions about the effectiveness of standardized testing as a predictor of college readiness.
Overall, the data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, where institutions are increasingly reconsidering the weight of standardized tests in their evaluation processes. As more universities adopt test-optional policies, it will be interesting to observe how these trends continue to develop in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,956 applicants in 2025, 74.9% admitted
2,215 admitted 741 not admitted Yield 10.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at University of Minnesota-Morris
The graduation data from the University of Minnesota-Morris reveals several notable trends across various disciplines for the year 2023. Biology and Biological Sciences lead the pack with 29 bachelor's degrees awarded, reflecting a strong interest in life sciences, which could be attributed to the growing global emphasis on health and environmental issues. Similarly, Computer Science shows a promising outcome with 20 graduates, indicating a sustained demand for technology-related education, likely influenced by the rise of the digital economy.
Interestingly, fields such as Psychology and Business Administration also produced substantial numbers of graduates, with 18 and 16 students respectively. This suggests that soft skills and management competencies continue to be highly valued in the job market. However, it is concerning to observe that there were no graduates in advanced degrees (master’s or doctorate) across these popular fields, which may indicate a gap in the pipeline for higher-level academic training.
On the other end of the spectrum, some disciplines, including Music and various foreign languages, had minimal graduation numbers, with only one student graduating in Music. This might reflect a more niche interest or perhaps the challenges these fields face in attracting students.
Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in most programs highlights a potential area for growth in attracting a more diverse student body, which is essential for fostering a global perspective in education.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of adapting academic offerings to align with industry demands while also enhancing efforts to diversify the student population at the University of Minnesota-Morris.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,117 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $43,205 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $31,068 | |
| Rhetoric and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,423 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |
| Statistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $61,517 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Economics, General. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $44,387 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $46,457 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | |
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| American Indian/Native American Studies. | - | |
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
981 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 73.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 649
- First-year undergraduates 220
- Transfers and others 112
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (981)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Minnesota-Morris in 2023
The student demographic data from the University of Minnesota-Morris in 2023 reveals important insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Among the incoming freshmen, there are 273 students, with a nearly equal gender distribution—approximately 47.6% male and 52.4% female. This trend of higher female representation is consistent with national statistics, which often show a growing enrollment of women in higher education.
For undergraduate continuing students, the enrollment figures rise significantly to 720, again showing a predominance of female students at 56.7% compared to 43.3% male. This reflects a broader trend across many universities where female students are increasingly enrolling and persisting in their studies at higher rates than their male counterparts.
Interestingly, the number of transfer students is much smaller, at 31, with a similarly skewed gender ratio favoring female students. The data also includes a small group of non-degree students, with 44 individuals, also exhibiting a female-majority demographic.
While the data does not provide detailed breakdowns for certain categories, it is evident that the university maintains a diverse and predominantly female student body. This demographic trend is crucial for shaping campus policies, support services, and recruitment strategies that cater to the needs of a diverse population. As educational institutions navigate these dynamics, it will be essential to ensure that both male and female students receive equitable support and resources to thrive academically and socially.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at University of Minnesota-Morris
The age composition of students at the University of Minnesota-Morris reveals a predominantly young demographic, which is characteristic of many undergraduate institutions. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, accounting for 63% of the total student body. Specifically, the 18-19 age group represents 39% of the total student population, while the 20-21 group adds another 36%. This significant concentration of younger students suggests that the university effectively attracts recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the data indicates a very low enrollment of older students, with only 4% of students aged 30 and above. This may reflect broader trends in higher education, where younger individuals are more likely to pursue undergraduate degrees immediately following high school. Furthermore, the absence of graduate male students in the 18-24 age range highlights the pathway where most graduate students typically transition from their undergraduate studies into the workforce or choose to pursue advanced degrees at a later age.
The gender distribution is also notable, with female students slightly outnumbering male students in most age categories, particularly in the undergraduate segments. For instance, in the 18-19 age group, females constitute 57% of the students, which aligns with national trends indicating a higher female enrollment in higher education institutions.
Overall, the data reflects the university's youthful and diverse student body, emphasizing the need for policies and programs that support the unique experiences and challenges faced by these young adults as they navigate their academic journeys.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
51 in 2025 · 10.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Minnesota-Morris
The data from the University of Minnesota-Morris provides valuable insights into the trends of international student enrollment over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students fluctuated, with the percentage of international students showing a significant increase during the earlier years. For instance, in 2012, the percentage of international students reached 8.49%, which was a notable peak compared to the 1.13% recorded in 2004.
This upward trend continued until around 2016, where the percentage of international students reached its highest point at 10.40%. However, following this peak, there has been a steady decline in both the total number of undergraduate students and the percentage of international students. By 2023, the percentage dropped to 3.09%, reflecting a concerning trend.
Several factors may contribute to this decline, including global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected international travel and student mobility. Additionally, changing immigration policies and competition from other institutions could also impact enrollment figures.
The decrease in international student representation could have implications for the university's cultural diversity and funding, as international students often contribute to the local economy and bring diverse perspectives to the academic environment. It is crucial for the university to assess these trends and consider strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$28,012
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $16,710
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $14,526
- Room and board
- $11,302
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$50.1M
Expenses$52.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Upper Midwest Athletic Conference
Upper Midwest Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 69 | 63 |
| Football | 71 | - |
| Soccer | 27 | 21 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 14 | 21 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 11 | 4 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 56 | 50 |
| Football | 77 | - |
| Soccer | 24 | 22 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 12 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 9 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 8 | 6 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 60 | 67 |
| Football | 67 | - |
| Soccer | 21 | 17 |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Baseball | 27 | - |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 16 |
| Tennis | 7 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 72.8 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 76.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 97.9 mi
U.S. News #250
-
North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo · 99.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 128.6 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 136.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Bethel UniversitySaint Paul · 138.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 139.2 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Macalester CollegeSaint Paul · 140.2 mi
Liberal Arts #28
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near the University of Minnesota-Morris:
-
Macalester College - Ranked 27th in the 2024 US News rankings, Macalester College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and commitment to internationalism.
-
Carleton College - With a remarkable ranking of 9th, Carleton College is another top-tier liberal arts institution that emphasizes undergraduate education and has a vibrant campus community.
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Gustavus Adolphus College - Ranked 67th, this liberal arts college is known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences, offering a supportive and engaging learning environment.
-
College of Saint Benedict - This women's college is ranked 73rd and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service, providing a holistic education.
-
Saint John's University - Ranked 82nd, Saint John's University offers a unique blend of liberal arts education and a strong sense of community, emphasizing both academic and spiritual growth.
These institutions are well-regarded for their educational offerings and contribute to a rich academic landscape in the region.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of Minnesota-Morris
The crime data from the University of Minnesota-Morris reveals a noteworthy trend in the campus safety landscape over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students has generally decreased, hitting a low of 15.61 in 2020 before slightly rising again in 2023 to 31.65. This fluctuation could be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus policies, community engagement efforts, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have altered student behavior and campus dynamics.
Specifically, the data indicates a significant reduction in incidents related to alcohol arrests and drug offenses, which is a positive sign of growing awareness and preventive measures on campus. However, the rise in the number of reported incidents in recent years, especially in 2023, raises concerns and suggests that continuous vigilance is necessary.
Moreover, the increase in crime rates can also be linked to broader societal issues, including the national discourse on crime and safety in educational institutions. Universities across the country are grappling with how to address these challenges effectively, and the University of Minnesota-Morris is no exception.
Overall, while the university has seen a decrease in crime rates over the years, the recent uptick signals the need for ongoing discussions around safety, support systems, and community involvement to ensure a secure environment for all students. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Minnesota-Morris include Rachel Brand (Former U.S. Associate Attorney General), Al Doty (Former Minnesota state representative) and Matt Little (Former Minnesota state senator and attorney).
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Rachel Brand 1973–
Former U.S. Associate Attorney General
-
Al Doty 1945–
Former Minnesota state representative
-
Matt Little 1984–
Former Minnesota state senator and attorney
-
Paul Anderson 1951–
Minnesota Republican state representative
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.