Founded in 1869, it was originally named the Third State Normal School. At that time, the school was established in the city of St. Cloud, Minnesota, with an old house purchased by the state legislature for $3,000, five teachers, and 53 students, including 43 women. It was later known as St. Cloud Teachers College and St. Cloud State College, before being renamed St. Cloud State University in 1975. Today, St. Cloud State University is the largest campus in the Minnesota State University system, offering more than 200 programs ranging from undergraduate to graduate levels. Recognition of an American University Diploma Obtained Online
Campus Location and Environment
St. Cloud State University’s main campus is situated on 100 acres along the banks of the Mississippi River, featuring beautiful oak trees and riverfront views. The university is located one hour’s drive from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, offering the comfort and safety of a small-to-medium-sized city while providing easy access to internships and job opportunities in the metropolitan area. The Atwood Memorial Center serves as the hub of student life, and eight residence halls conveniently meet students’ housing needs. Students also have easy access to a wide range of well-equipped academic, athletic, and cultural facilities on campus.
Academic Strengths and Rankings
In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, St. Cloud State University is ranked 95th in the Midwest and 33rd among public universities in the Midwest, up three spots from last year. Program Accreditation: The Herberg School of Business is one of only seven business schools in Minnesota accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); the nursing program was ranked the best in Minnesota by U.S. News & World Report. See the table below for more details:
| Field of Study | School/College | Rankings & Accreditation | Graduate Salary Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing | College of Health and Public Service | Ranked #1 in Minnesota by U.S. News 2026 | Average annual salary: approximately $63,900 |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering | College of Science and Engineering | ABET Accredited | Average Annual Salary: Approximately $64,700 |
| Business | Herberg School of Business | AACSB Accredited (Only 7 in the State) | Flexible options including MBA and more |
| Computer Science | College of Computing, Engineering, and the Environment | Nationally recognized | Average annual salary of approximately $57,500 |
| Cybersecurity | School of Computing, Engineering, and the Environment | One of the first in the U.S. to receive NSA accreditation | Largest number of graduates in the university |
Employment Rates and Career Development Center Support
Saint Cloud State University boasts a 97% employment rate in the first year after graduation, with 96% of graduates securing jobs directly related to their field of study. The average annual salary six years after graduation is approximately $47,000. The university’s Career Development Center offers employment services ranging from resume refinement to mock interviews, and partners with businesses to host job fairs, enabling students to connect with employers from the moment they enroll.
Scholarship Types and Financial Aid System
St. Cloud State University Scholarships St. Cloud State University offers a variety of scholarships, including academic and cultural exchange scholarships, to help international students cover the reduced tuition costs. Annual undergraduate tuition is approximately $11,258 (after discounts). International students may apply for Cultural Sharing and Academic Sharing Scholarships; there are over 500 Huskies Scholarships funded by alumni and the community across the university, and a single application allows students to be matched with all eligible scholarships; 50% of financial aid for incoming freshmen is need-based, with an average award amount of $14,846.
Why It’s So Popular
St. Cloud State University’s appeal lies in providing students with a balanced and down-to-earth college experience. An admission rate of over 95% demonstrates that the university’s flexible admission policies and merit-based selection ensure a high caliber of students. More than 1,000 students from over 80 countries study and live here; You can participate in over 30 study abroad programs, finding your place in Europe, Asia, or Africa; the university boasts strong athletic programs, with the ice hockey and basketball teams competing in Division II of the NCAA, nicknamed the “Huskies.” From generous scholarships and high graduation rates to the tranquility along the Mississippi River and its convenient location, this is a university with a “warm and welcoming atmosphere.”
