University of Minnesota-Duluth
The Vibe Check
University of Minnesota-Duluth feels like a tight-knit community where the rugged beauty of Lake Superior meets collaborative, hands-on learning. It's a place where flannel and winter gear are part of the daily uniform, and students bond over braving the Minnesota cold before retreating to cozy campus study spots. The atmosphere is supportive and down-to-earth, with a strong sense of school pride, especially around hockey season.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UMD is a powerhouse for applied learning, particularly in STEM fields like engineering and environmental science, where students have access to state-of-the-art labs and research vessels on the Great Lakes. The faculty are known for being accessible and focused on undergraduate teaching rather than just research. While strong across the board, the business and marketing programs are particularly well-regarded for their real-world focus and strong connections to regional industries.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Duluth
Student life in Duluth is defined by the outdoors; when they're not in class, students are hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail, biking the scenic Lakewalk, or exploring the Apostle Islands by kayak. The city has a vibrant craft brewery scene, cozy coffee shops, and a growing number of restaurants that cater to a younger crowd. In the winter, students embrace the cold with activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and attending UMD's highly-ranked hockey games.
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Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($62,616):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The UMD campus is considered very safe, with a dedicated and responsive campus police force and a well-lit, walkable environment. Duluth itself is a generally safe city, though students should always be aware of their surroundings, especially when exploring the city's more remote natural areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Excellent hands-on learning opportunities in engineering and environmental science with direct access to Lake Superior and local research sites.
- ✓ Strong, supportive academic environment with accessible faculty and a focus on undergraduate education.
- ✓ Unbeatable access to outdoor recreation, from hiking and skiing to kayaking and sailing, right outside campus.
- ✓ More affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to a strong financial ROI.
Cons
- ✗ The remote location in northern Minnesota can feel isolating for some, with limited major city amenities nearby.
- ✗ Winters are long, cold, and snowy, which can be a significant lifestyle adjustment.
- ✗ The student population is predominantly white, which may be a factor for students seeking a more diverse campus environment.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UMD is particularly renowned for its strong programs in engineering, environmental science, and biology, leveraging its unique location on the shore of Lake Superior for hands-on research. It is also well-known for its competitive NCAA Division I hockey program, which is a major source of school spirit. The university has a strong reputation for providing a high-quality, practical education with a focus on undergraduate teaching.
No, UMD is not considered a highly selective school. With an acceptance rate of 81.75%, the admissions process is quite accessible for most applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1221, and the university uses a holistic review process, but meeting the academic benchmarks gives most students a strong chance of admission.
Campus life at UMD is a blend of academic focus and outdoor adventure. Students are generally friendly and collaborative, with a strong sense of community. On weekends, it's common for students to head out of town to hike, ski, or explore the North Shore of Lake Superior. While there is an active Greek life and club scene, the social atmosphere is less about big-city parties and more about connecting with friends in nature or at campus events.
For many students, especially Minnesota residents, UMD is an excellent financial investment. The combination of a relatively low net price ($18,464) and strong post-graduation median earnings ($62,616) provides a positive return on investment. The university's strong reputation in practical, high-demand fields like engineering and business helps graduates secure good jobs, justifying the cost of attendance.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 9,390
- In-State Tuition $14,318
- Out-of-State $19,762
- Zip Code 55812
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $18,464 and strong in-state tuition, UMD offers a solid return on investment, especially for Minnesota residents. The 10-year median earnings of $62,616 are competitive, and the realistic graduation and retention rates suggest students are well-supported in completing their degrees on time. For out-of-state students, the value is still strong, particularly when compared to private institutions with similar academic quality.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.