CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

University of St Thomas

Saint Paul, MN 55105-1078 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 70/100 | ROI Score: -66 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $54,398 | Out-of-State: $54,398

Acceptance Rate: 85.4% | Graduation Rate: 75.8% | Retention Rate: 88.4%

Median Earnings (10yr): $73,739 | Median Debt: $23,250

SAT Average: 1296 | ACT Midpoint: 25

Student Body Size: 6,245 (medium)

Pell Grant Recipients: 21.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 44.0%

Average Faculty Salary: $11,771/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at University of St Thomas is $54,398 per year, which is 38% above the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $54,398/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: $217,592 (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 University of St Thomas:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $28,131/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $26,820/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $24,357/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $25,363/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $33,232/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $26,267/year, paying just 52% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

University of St Thomas has an acceptance rate of 85.4%, placing it in the Open Admission (85%+) category. This means roughly 1,829 students apply each year.

University of St Thomas 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 1296, 22% above the national average. This reflects a strong academic student body.

The ACT midpoint is 25, 19% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

75.8% of students at University of St Thomas complete their degree, 22% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

First-year retention rate: 88.4% (9% above the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of University of St Thomas earn a median salary of $73,739 ten years after enrollment, 80% above the national average. This represents a $38,739/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $1,162,170 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $23,250, 8% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $252/month, with a total repayment of $30,240 (including $6,990 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.32x. 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 University of St Thomas pays for itself in approximately 6 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

21.8% of students at University of St Thomas receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 34% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

44.0% of students take federal loans, 6% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $11,771/month, 35% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

University of St Thomas enrolls 6,245 undergraduate students. As a large institution, students have access to a wide range of programs, research opportunities, and campus activities.

Diversity Index: 59/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 62%, Hispanic 11%, Black 9%, Asian 6%.

University of St Thomas: Medium-Sized Private Nonprofit Institution

Report Card: Overall Grade C-

University of St Thomas receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: C
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: B+
  • Affordability: C-

College Analysis

University of St Thomas is a Private Nonprofit institution in Saint Paul, MN with approximately 6,245 students. Academics: Strong graduation rate of 75.82%. Value: High tuition with moderate affordability score of 55. Outcomes: Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are $73,739.

The Verdict: Is University of St Thomas Worth It?

The University of St. Thomas presents a complex value proposition. With an out-of-state tuition of $54,398 and a 10-year median earning of $73,739, the initial financial outlook appears challenging. The ROI score of -66 further underscores this concern, suggesting that, on average, graduates take a considerable amount of time to recoup their investment, especially when factoring in median debt of $23,250. A direct comparison shows that the median earnings are only about $20,000 higher than the annual tuition, meaning it would take several years of earning the median salary just to cover the cost of one year's tuition, let alone living expenses and debt repayment. While the university offers a solid education and strong regional placement, the high sticker price relative to median earnings makes it a financially questionable choice for many. It is not a clear 'good deal,' nor is it necessarily 'overpriced' if a student secures a high-paying job or leverages the strong alumni network for significant career advancement. However, based purely on the provided financial metrics, it leans towards being an expensive investment with a long payback period. Recommendation: Proceed with caution, thoroughly explore all scholarship and financial aid options, and have a clear career path in mind that promises earnings significantly above the median.

Return on Investment

While the University of St Thomas offers strong academic and career outcomes, the high tuition and moderate affordability score may not make the degree worth the cost for all students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at University of St Thomas: $23,250. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $264/month. Total repaid: $31,680 ($8,430 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.5 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $31,680.

Strengths

  • Strong academic programs and graduation rates.
  • Robust alumni network and career services.
  • Diverse student body and strong community engagement.

Weaknesses

  • High tuition and moderate affordability score.
  • Moderate median debt for graduates.
  • High admission rate which might indicate a less competitive application process.

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1296. ACT Midpoint: 25. Retention Rate: 88.4%.

The University of St. Thomas boasts a strong academic reputation, particularly within its Opus College of Business, which is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the region. Other notable departments include the School of Law, known for its practical, experiential approach, and the Dougherty Family College, which provides a unique pathway for high-achieving students from underserved backgrounds. With a student-faculty ratio that's generally favorable (though specific data isn't provided, private institutions of this size typically maintain ratios around 15:1 or lower), students can expect personalized attention from faculty. Research opportunities are available, especially for students in STEM fields and business, often involving faculty mentorship and leading to presentations at academic conferences or publications. The Honors Program offers a challenging curriculum for academically gifted students, featuring smaller class sizes and interdisciplinary seminars. St. Thomas also strongly encourages study abroad experiences, with numerous programs available worldwide, allowing students to broaden their perspectives and gain global competencies. Academic support is robust, with the Center for Academic Excellence offering tutoring, academic coaching, and resources for students seeking to improve their study skills and performance across all disciplines.

Financial Aid Guide for University of St Thomas

Pell Grant recipients: 21.8%. Students taking federal loans: 44.0%.

Navigating financial aid at the University of St. Thomas involves understanding both merit-based and need-based aid opportunities. Given its private status and tuition of $54,398, St. Thomas is committed to making education accessible through a combination of institutional aid. Merit scholarships are often awarded automatically based on academic achievement (GPA and standardized test scores, though these are not currently reported as averages). These can range from a few thousand dollars to a significant portion of tuition. Need-based grants and scholarships are determined by the FAFSA and CSS Profile, considering family income and assets. For families with an expected family contribution (EFC) of, say, $20,000, a typical aid package might include a mix of grants, scholarships, and potentially federal loans, aiming to bridge the gap between the EFC and the total cost of attendance. Work-study opportunities are also available, allowing students to earn money through on-campus jobs. While specific dollar figures for typical aid packages vary widely based on individual circumstances and EFC, it's common for students to receive aid totaling $20,000-$40,000 annually. Scholarship tips include applying early, highlighting extracurricular achievements and leadership roles, and researching external scholarships. Negotiating aid is possible, especially if you have competing offers from similarly ranked institutions, but it's generally more effective when there's a significant change in your financial circumstances or a clear error in the initial assessment.

Hidden Costs at University of St Thomas

  • Room and board costs can add an estimated $13,000 - $16,000 per academic year, depending on the chosen meal plan and housing assignment.
  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $1,000 to $1,500 annually, with some specialized courses requiring more expensive resources.
  • Student activity fees, typically around $200 - $400 per semester, fund campus organizations, events, and student government.
  • Transportation costs, including public transit passes or parking permits (if applicable), can add $300 - $800 per year.
  • Personal expenses, such as toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and incidental purchases, can easily amount to $1,500 - $2,500 per academic year.
  • Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can cost upwards of $2,000 - $3,000 annually for the university's student plan.
  • Technology fees, often around $100 - $200 per semester, support campus IT infrastructure and services.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Graduates from the University of St. Thomas (UST) in Saint Paul, MN, are positioned within a robust regional economy, particularly in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Major employers actively recruiting UST talent include prominent companies like 3M, Target, UnitedHealth Group, Ecolab, and Wells Fargo. These organizations frequently seek graduates from UST's strong business programs (finance, accounting, marketing), engineering disciplines, and health sciences. Industries where alumni cluster are predominantly in finance and insurance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and technology. The university also boasts a solid graduate school placement rate, with alumni pursuing advanced degrees at institutions such as the University of Minnesota Law School, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, and various business schools across the country. While specific notable alumni are numerous, the university has a strong network within the Minnesota business community. Career services at UST are generally well-regarded, offering robust internship placement support and career counseling. The university emphasizes experiential learning, fostering internship pipelines with local and national companies. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration of alumni remaining in the Twin Cities, leveraging the dense network of corporate headquarters and growing industries in the region. However, graduates also find opportunities in Chicago, Denver, and other major Midwestern hubs.

Campus Life & Culture at University of St Thomas

The University of St. Thomas attracts a diverse student body, with a significant portion hailing from Minnesota and the surrounding Midwest, though students from across the U.S. and internationally also attend. The university fosters an environment where students who are engaged, community-minded, and seeking a well-rounded education that balances academic rigor with personal and ethical development tend to thrive.

The University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul offers a vibrant campus life deeply integrated with the Twin Cities. As a private Catholic university with a strong liberal arts tradition, St. Thomas fosters a community that values intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and service. The campus itself is a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities, with the iconic John R. Roach Center for the Liberal Arts and the gleaming Anderson Student Center serving as central hubs. Student organizations are abundant, covering everything from academic clubs like the Pre-Med Society and the Economics Club to cultural groups, spiritual organizations, and numerous intramural sports teams. The Tommies, as they're known, participate in NCAA Division I athletics, with hockey and basketball drawing significant crowds, especially during intense MIAC rivalries. While Greek life exists, it's not the dominant social force it is at some larger universities, allowing for a more diverse social scene. Many students live on campus for their first two years, with residence halls like Dowling Hall and Brady Hall offering a close-knit living experience. Off-campus housing in the surrounding neighborhoods of Highland Park and Mac-Groveland is popular for upperclassmen, offering a taste of urban living. The social scene often revolves around campus events, student organization activities, and exploring the rich cultural offerings of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, from museums and theaters to live music venues and diverse culinary scenes. The 'vibe' is often described as engaged, community-oriented, and academically focused, with a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and making a positive impact.

Campus Highlights

  • The Anderson Student Center: A modern, LEED-certified hub for student life, dining, and social activities.
  • The John R. Roach Center for the Liberal Arts: A historic and architecturally significant building housing many core academic departments.
  • Proximity to Downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul: Offering unparalleled access to internships, cultural events, and urban exploration.
  • Strong Catholic Identity and Mission: Fostering a community focused on ethical leadership and service.
  • NCAA Division I Athletics: The Tommies compete vigorously, creating a spirited campus athletic culture.
  • The Dougherty Family College: A unique initiative providing a transformative educational experience for high-achieving students from underserved communities.
  • Emphasis on Experiential Learning: Including robust internship programs and service-learning opportunities.

Location & Regional Advantages

The University of St. Thomas's location in Saint Paul, MN, offers significant geographic advantages for students seeking career opportunities. The Twin Cities metropolitan area is a major economic hub in the Upper Midwest, boasting a diverse job market with a strong presence of Fortune 500 companies. Key sectors thriving in the region include healthcare (with giants like UnitedHealth Group and Allina Health), finance (Wells Fargo, U.S. Bancorp), retail (Target, Best Buy), and manufacturing (3M, General Mills). This proximity provides students with ample internship and post-graduation employment prospects without the need to relocate immediately. The cost of living in the Twin Cities is generally more affordable than in coastal tech or finance hubs, making the median debt of $23,250 more manageable. Quality of life is high, with abundant parks, cultural attractions, and a vibrant arts scene. While Minnesota winters are famously cold, the region is generally safe and offers a good work-life balance. Proximity to industry hubs means direct access to networking events, industry leaders, and potential employers, significantly enhancing career prospects for UST graduates who choose to stay within the region.

How to Get Into University of St Thomas

The University of St. Thomas, with an 85.4% admission rate, is considered a moderately selective institution. While Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) are not explicitly detailed as having significant advantages, applying by these earlier deadlines (typically November 1 for EA, and January 15 for Regular Decision) can demonstrate strong interest and allow for earlier notification. The admissions committee values a holistic review, looking beyond just GPA and test scores (which are not provided as averages, suggesting a less score-reliant approach). They seek students who demonstrate academic potential, leadership qualities, community involvement, and a commitment to the university's Catholic, liberal arts mission. A strong GPA, particularly in challenging coursework, is crucial. Essays should showcase personality, critical thinking, and how a student's experiences align with St. Thomas's values. Demonstrated interest is often gauged through campus visits, attending information sessions, and engaging with admissions counselors. For students with a GPA in the B+ to A- range and a strong extracurricular profile, St. Thomas is a very attainable goal. Focus on articulating your 'why St. Thomas' in your application.

How University of St Thomas Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Marquette University, Creighton University, Drake University, Saint Louis University

Advantages

  • Stronger presence and alumni network within the Minnesota business community.
  • Proximity to a larger concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters (e.g., 3M, Target, UnitedHealth Group) compared to some peers.
  • More robust internship and co-op opportunities within the immediate Twin Cities metro area.

Disadvantages

  • Higher sticker price (tuition) compared to some comparable private universities.
  • Lower median earnings compared to some peers with similar program strengths.
  • Less national brand recognition outside of the Upper Midwest.

Best For

  • Prospective students interested in a diverse student body and strong alumni network.
  • Students seeking a career-focused education in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
  • Individuals with a strong academic background and a desire to attend a private institution.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a lower tuition cost may want to explore other options.
  • Those seeking a more affordable institution with a higher affordability score might consider alternatives.
  • Students with a lower admission rate preference might find other institutions more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions about University of St Thomas

How much does it cost to attend University of St Thomas?

In-state tuition at University of St Thomas is $54,398 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $54,398 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $23,250.

What is the acceptance rate at University of St Thomas?

University of St Thomas has an acceptance rate of 85.4%.

What is the graduation rate at University of St Thomas?

University of St Thomas has a graduation rate of 75.8%.

How much do University of St Thomas graduates earn?

The median earnings for University of St Thomas graduates 10 years after enrollment is $73,739. With median debt of $23,250, graduates earn roughly 3.2x their debt level annually.

How big is University of St Thomas?

University of St Thomas has approximately 6,245 students and is classified as a medium institution. It is located in Saint Paul, MN and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is University of St Thomas worth the cost?

University of St Thomas has an ROI score of -66 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $54,398 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $73,739, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is University of St Thomas located?

University of St Thomas is located in Saint Paul, MN. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 6,245 students.

How much student debt do University of St Thomas graduates have?

The median student debt for University of St Thomas graduates is $23,250. With median earnings of $73,739 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 32%.

Is University of St Thomas a good college?

University of St Thomas has a graduation rate of 75.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $73,739. High admission rate of 85.36%.

How does University of St Thomas compare to similar colleges?

Diverse student body with a significant white population. Compared to peer institutions, University of St Thomas offers a strong academic environment and robust career outcomes, but the high tuition and moderate affordability score may be a concern.

What career prospects do University of St Thomas graduates have?

Graduates of University of St Thomas are well-positioned for careers in a variety of fields, particularly in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

What should prospective students know about University of St Thomas?

University of St Thomas holds a strong position in the Midwestern higher education market, known for its academic rigor and career-focused programs.

What makes University of St Thomas stand out?

Moderate median debt of $23,250.

What are the pros and cons of attending University of St Thomas?

Strong alumni network in the Twin Cities area.

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