May 13, 2022

If you’re planning for your future or the future of a loved one, education will be crucial. These best schools and best colleges in and around Rochester, MN can help put you on the path to success.

4 of the Best Schools and Best Colleges Near Rochester, MN

1. University of Minnesota Rochester

Beginning as a branch of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, this ever-growing downtown locale has established a reputation for student-centered service and scientific excellence all its own. Aspiring healthcare professionals will find an especially formative education here, as major degrees include the Bachelor of Science in Health Professions and the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.

A partnership with the nearby Mayo Clinic School of Health Science fosters even more professional opportunities. Students studying at the university can jointly earn a certificate from Mayo by undertaking coursework in specialties like respiratory care and radiography. This healthcare-centered campus graduated its first class in 2013, and with its access to the local medical community, the future is bright.

2. Rochester Community and Technical College

For students who prefer a smaller setting and more personalized interaction, this junior college presents the perfect option. It’s Minnesota’s oldest two-year college, so its reputation for educational excellence is long-standing. Students can earn degrees in both traditional academic majors and in vocational and technical fields. Offerings range from short-term courses with certification to doctoral-level studies.

Given its plentiful choices, internships and on-the-job training are central components of a student’s learning. Developing a strong regional workforce remains a top mission of this college, which is why acceptance rates are high and tuition runs on the low side. Individuals who want to take their education further also have the option of transferring to a four-year school to complete their studies.

3. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

This private, four-year liberal arts institution spans 40 majors (from accounting to zoology) and has campuses in Rochester and other nearby localities. You can also complete some of the bachelor’s, certification, and graduate programs online. Inclusivity and respect are a focus of the community and to the mission of the university, so a welcoming, friendly atmosphere is integral.

Holistic development is key as well. With an 18:1 student to faculty ratio, you will never feel left behind or lost in the crowd. A full roster of athletics like baseball, cross country, hockey, and basketball will give you plentiful chances to show your Cardinal pride. Clubs, ministries, and study abroad opportunities are just a few of the other avenues for making your student life a memorable one.

4. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

This educational branch of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic attracts top students from around the country and across the globe. The faculty consists of the most respected and experienced members of the medical field, and research opportunities are equally unparalleled.

Every year, around 1,800 trainees participate in over 300 graduate-level programs in the School of Medicine and the School of Continuous Professional Development.  This training will prepare them for a prestigious career in medicine.

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