CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Dunwoody College of Technology

Minneapolis, MN 55403-1192 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -45 | Affordability Score: 75/100

Tuition (In-State): $27,836 | Out-of-State: $27,836

Acceptance Rate: 98.9% | Graduation Rate: 64.5% | Retention Rate: 76.2%

Median Earnings (10yr): $61,511 | Median Debt: $16,000

SAT Average: 1120

Student Body Size: 1,533 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 31.7% | Federal Loan Rate: 54.7%

Average Faculty Salary: $7,599/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Dunwoody College of Technology is $27,836 per year, which is 29% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $27,836/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $111,344 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Dunwoody College of Technology:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $22,072/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $22,324/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $24,219/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $27,706/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $33,568/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $5,764/year, paying just 79% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Dunwoody College of Technology has an acceptance rate of 98.9%, placing it in the Open Admission (85%+) category. This means roughly 388 students apply each year.

Dunwoody College of Technology accepts the majority of applicants, making it an accessible option for students across a range of academic backgrounds.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1120, 6% above the national average. This is within the mid-range nationally.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

64.5% of students at Dunwoody College of Technology complete their degree, 4% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

First-year retention rate: 76.2% (6% below the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of Dunwoody College of Technology earn a median salary of $61,511 ten years after enrollment, 50% above the national average. This represents a $26,511/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $795,330 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $16,000, 26% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $174/month, with a total repayment of $20,880 (including $4,880 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.26x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Dunwoody College of Technology pays for itself in approximately 5 years. This is an excellent return on investment.

Financial Aid Profile

31.7% of students at Dunwoody College of Technology receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 4% below the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.

54.7% of students take federal loans, 16% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $7,599/month, 13% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Dunwoody College of Technology enrolls 1,533 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 63/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 60%, Hispanic 7%, Black 7%, Asian 5%.

Dunwoody College of Technology: Technical Vocational Training with Industry Focus

Report Card: Overall Grade C

Dunwoody College of Technology receives an overall grade of C based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: D+
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: B
  • Affordability: B+

College Analysis

Dunwoody College of Technology is a Private Nonprofit institution in Minneapolis, MN with approximately 1,533 students. Academics: Focused on technical and vocational training with strong industry partnerships. Value: Moderate tuition with relatively low median debt, but poor ROI. Outcomes: Graduates have strong earning potential but lower graduation rates.

The Verdict: Is Dunwoody College of Technology Worth It?

Dunwoody College of Technology presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $27,836 and a median 10-year earning potential of $61,511, the immediate return on investment appears reasonable, especially considering the median debt of $16,000. The debt-to-earnings ratio suggests that graduates can likely pay off their loans within a few years. However, the ROI score of -45 indicates a longer-term financial outlook that may not be as robust as some other institutions, potentially due to the specific technical fields of study or the relatively modest median earnings compared to the cost of education. The strength of Dunwoody lies in its direct pathway to employment in high-demand technical fields. If a student is seeking practical, hands-on training for a specific career in areas like advanced manufacturing, IT, or skilled trades, and aims for immediate job placement rather than advanced degrees, Dunwoody can be a good investment. For those seeking a broader academic experience or aiming for careers requiring extensive graduate study, the value may be less apparent. Overall, Dunwoody is a solid choice for career-focused technical education, offering a decent, though not exceptional, financial return, making it a potentially good deal for the right student.

Return on Investment

Despite the strong earning potential, the poor ROI and lower graduation rates make the degree less worth the cost compared to peer institutions.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Dunwoody College of Technology: $16,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $182/month. Total repaid: $21,840 ($5,840 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.5 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $21,840.

Strengths

  • Strong industry partnerships and career readiness
  • Moderate tuition with low median debt

Weaknesses

  • Poor ROI and lower graduation rates
  • Limited academic breadth compared to traditional universities

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1120. Retention Rate: 76.2%.

Dunwoody College of Technology excels in providing hands-on, career-focused education, evident in its strong programs across various technical disciplines. Notable departments include Engineering Technologies, Architecture & Building Sciences, and Graphic Design & Visual Communication. Programs like the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, the Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology, and the Bachelor of Architecture are highly regarded for their industry relevance and comprehensive curriculum. Faculty members often bring extensive real-world experience from their respective industries, enriching the learning environment with practical insights. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the college's focus on technical expertise suggests a commitment to hiring skilled professionals. Research opportunities are typically project-based, integrated directly into coursework and capstone projects, allowing students to tackle real-world challenges. Dunwoody offers robust academic support services, including tutoring, academic advising, and career services, all designed to help students succeed in their demanding technical programs. The college also emphasizes continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring graduates are prepared for the evolving demands of the technology sector. Honors programs are not a prominent feature, as the emphasis is on universal high achievement within specialized technical fields.

Financial Aid Guide for Dunwoody College of Technology

Pell Grant recipients: 31.7%. Students taking federal loans: 54.7%.

Dunwoody College of Technology's financial aid is designed to make its specialized technical education accessible. Given the tuition of $27,836, understanding the aid landscape is crucial. The college offers a mix of federal, state, and institutional aid. Merit-based aid is often tied to academic achievement demonstrated through high school transcripts and potentially portfolios for design programs, though specific scholarship amounts vary. Need-based aid, determined by the FAFSA, plays a significant role, with grants and loans provided based on demonstrated financial need. For students with a median family income, a substantial portion of tuition might be covered by a combination of grants (like the Pell Grant, if eligible) and federal student loans. Work-study opportunities are available, allowing students to earn money through on-campus jobs while gaining valuable experience. Typical aid packages can range significantly, but for a student with moderate need, expect grants and scholarships to cover perhaps 30-50% of tuition, with the remainder financed through federal loans and potentially private loans. Scholarship tips include applying early, researching external scholarships specific to technical fields, and highlighting any relevant work experience or projects in applications. Negotiating aid is generally less common at institutions like Dunwoody compared to larger universities, as their aid structure is often more standardized based on established criteria, but it's always worth a conversation with the financial aid office if circumstances change.

Hidden Costs at Dunwoody College of Technology

  • Student activity fees can range from $100 to $300 per semester, supporting campus events and organizations.
  • Textbooks and course materials can cost between $800 and $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program's technical requirements.
  • Housing costs for off-campus apartments in Minneapolis can vary widely, but budgeting $800 to $1,500 per month for rent is realistic.
  • Transportation, including public transit passes or the cost of maintaining a personal vehicle, could add $50 to $200 per month.
  • Lab fees and specialized equipment costs, particularly for programs like Automotive or Welding, might total $300 to $700 per year.
  • Personal supplies and tools, essential for many technical programs, could require an initial investment of $200 to $500, with ongoing replenishment.
  • Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can add approximately $2,000 to $3,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Dunwoody College of Technology, a private nonprofit institution in Minneapolis, MN, focuses on career-oriented technical education, preparing graduates for immediate entry into the workforce. The college boasts strong connections with a variety of industries, particularly in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and technology. Major employers that actively recruit from Dunwoody include 3M, Medtronic, Target, Andersen Windows, Mortenson Construction, and various regional healthcare systems like Allina Health and Fairview Health Services. Alumni tend to cluster in roles such as engineering technologists, skilled trades (electricians, HVAC technicians, welders), IT specialists, and healthcare support professionals. While Dunwoody is not primarily a research institution, its emphasis on practical application means graduate school placement is less common, with most students prioritizing direct employment. The career services department is a significant asset, offering robust internship pipelines and job placement assistance. Many programs have dedicated internship coordinators who work with students to secure hands-on experience with companies like Graco, Polaris, and Ecolab. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration of alumni within the Twin Cities metropolitan area and the broader Upper Midwest, though graduates in fields like IT and advanced manufacturing may find opportunities nationwide. The college's reputation for producing job-ready graduates is well-regarded by employers in its core technical fields.

Campus Life & Culture at Dunwoody College of Technology

Dunwoody attracts a driven student body primarily focused on acquiring specialized technical skills for immediate career entry. The student population tends to be pragmatic and hands-on, thriving in an environment that values practical application and problem-solving over theoretical exploration. The geographic mix is likely concentrated in Minnesota and surrounding Midwestern states, with a strong representation of students eager to enter the skilled trades and technology sectors.

Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis offers a focused, career-oriented campus experience. With a student body of just over 1,500, the atmosphere is intimate and collaborative, fostering strong connections among students and faculty. The campus itself is a hub of activity, featuring modern labs and workshops that are central to the student experience. Social life isn't centered around traditional large-scale events but rather on shared interests and project-based learning. Students often connect through clubs related to their technical fields, such as the Robotics Club or the Automotive Technology Association, which provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. While there isn't a formal Greek life system, informal study groups and project teams often become tight-knit social circles. Housing is primarily off-campus, with students finding apartments in the surrounding Minneapolis neighborhoods, many of which are easily accessible via public transportation. Dining options are concentrated around campus and in the downtown Minneapolis area, offering a variety of choices from quick bites to sit-down meals. Athletics are not a major focus at Dunwoody, aligning with its technical mission. The overall vibe is one of serious academic pursuit combined with practical application, where students are driven by their passion for technology and innovation. The campus culture values hard work, problem-solving, and a sense of camaraderie built around shared technical goals.

Campus Highlights

  • Industry-standard labs and workshops equipped with cutting-edge technology.
  • Strong emphasis on hands-on learning and project-based education.
  • Close ties to industry employers for internships and job placement.
  • Located in the vibrant urban environment of Minneapolis, offering numerous cultural and recreational opportunities.
  • Dedicated career services team focused on technical career paths.
  • A community of motivated students focused on building tangible skills.
  • Faculty with extensive real-world industry experience.

Location & Regional Advantages

Dunwoody College of Technology's location in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers significant advantages for its career-focused student body. The Twin Cities metropolitan area is a robust economic hub with a diverse industrial base, providing a fertile ground for Dunwoody graduates. Key sectors like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and construction are well-represented, with numerous Fortune 500 companies and innovative startups calling the region home. This proximity to major employers facilitates strong internship and employment pipelines. Companies such as 3M, Medtronic, General Mills, Target, and UnitedHealth Group, along with a thriving construction and trades scene, offer ample opportunities for graduates in fields like engineering technology, IT, and skilled trades. The cost of living in Minneapolis is generally moderate compared to coastal tech hubs, making the median debt of $16,000 more manageable. Quality of life in the Twin Cities is high, with abundant parks, cultural attractions, and a vibrant arts and music scene. While the winters are famously cold, the region's strong sense of community and outdoor recreational opportunities during warmer months are appealing. Safety is comparable to other large metropolitan areas. This strategic location allows Dunwoody to effectively connect students with local and regional career paths, fostering a strong alumni network within the Upper Midwest.

How to Get Into Dunwoody College of Technology

Dunwoody College of Technology's high admission rate (98.9%) indicates a focus on access and providing opportunities to students passionate about technical careers, rather than extreme selectivity. The admissions process is designed to ensure students are a good fit for their chosen technical program. While Early Decision or Early Action aren't heavily emphasized due to the school's mission, applying earlier in the admissions cycle is always advisable to secure your spot and financial aid. The admissions office primarily values a strong interest in a technical field, demonstrated through coursework, projects, or work experience, and a commitment to hands-on learning. While GPA is considered, it's often viewed in the context of the rigor of the high school curriculum. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not a factor, as Dunwoody focuses on practical aptitude and program-specific prerequisites. Essays, if required, should highlight your passion for technology, problem-solving skills, and career aspirations. Demonstrated interest can be shown by attending virtual or in-person information sessions, contacting admissions counselors, and visiting campus if possible. The timeline recommendation is to apply at least 3-6 months before your intended start date to allow ample time for application review and financial aid processing.

How Dunwoody College of Technology Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Hennepin Technical College, Century College, Rasmussen University (Minneapolis Campus), Northwestern Health Sciences University

Advantages

  • Strong industry partnerships and employer recognition in specific technical fields.
  • Focus on hands-on, applied learning leading to direct job placement.
  • Located in a major metropolitan area with diverse industry hubs.

Disadvantages

  • Higher tuition compared to many public technical colleges.
  • Lower graduation rate suggests potential challenges for some students in completing programs.
  • Median earnings, while solid, may not reach the levels of some four-year universities.

Best For

  • Students interested in traditional four-year liberal arts education should consider other institutions.
  • Students seeking a high graduation rate may want to explore other options.

Avoid If

  • Students with a clear career path in a technical or vocational field should avoid this college if they prioritize a higher graduation rate.
  • Students looking for a broader educational experience should consider other institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dunwoody College of Technology

How much does it cost to attend Dunwoody College of Technology?

In-state tuition at Dunwoody College of Technology is $27,836 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $27,836 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $16,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Dunwoody College of Technology?

Dunwoody College of Technology has an acceptance rate of 98.9%.

What is the graduation rate at Dunwoody College of Technology?

Dunwoody College of Technology has a graduation rate of 64.5%.

How much do Dunwoody College of Technology graduates earn?

The median earnings for Dunwoody College of Technology graduates 10 years after enrollment is $61,511. With median debt of $16,000, graduates earn roughly 3.8x their debt level annually.

How big is Dunwoody College of Technology?

Dunwoody College of Technology has approximately 1,533 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Minneapolis, MN and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Dunwoody College of Technology worth the cost?

Dunwoody College of Technology has an ROI score of -45 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $27,836 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $61,511, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Dunwoody College of Technology located?

Dunwoody College of Technology is located in Minneapolis, MN. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,533 students.

How much student debt do Dunwoody College of Technology graduates have?

The median student debt for Dunwoody College of Technology graduates is $16,000. With median earnings of $61,511 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 26%.

Is Dunwoody College of Technology a good college?

Dunwoody College of Technology has a graduation rate of 64.5% and median post-graduation earnings of $61,511. High admission rate with a strong focus on technical and vocational training.

How does Dunwoody College of Technology compare to similar colleges?

Industry partnerships enhance job placement and career readiness. While Dunwoody College of Technology offers strong earning potential and industry-focused education, its poor ROI and lower graduation rates compared to peer institutions make it less attractive.

What career prospects do Dunwoody College of Technology graduates have?

Graduates from Dunwoody College of Technology are well-prepared for technical and vocational careers in high-demand fields.

What should prospective students know about Dunwoody College of Technology?

Dunwoody College of Technology is positioned in a niche market for technical and vocational training, offering a strong value proposition for students seeking industry-focused education.

What makes Dunwoody College of Technology stand out?

Low median debt compared to tuition, but poor ROI.

What are the pros and cons of attending Dunwoody College of Technology?

Graduates have strong earning potential, but lower graduation rates.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.