Edina, MN, is a vibrant city recognized for its excellent education system and proximity to some of Minnesota’s best colleges and universities. Whether you’re just graduating high school or seeking continuing education, Edina and the surrounding Minneapolis area offer a variety of outstanding public and private higher education options.
Top Public Colleges & Universities near Edina
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities – As one of the largest and most respected public research universities in the Midwest, UMN offers robust programs in business, engineering, health sciences, arts, and more. Its beautiful campus is just a short drive from Edina and is highly ranked nationally for academic excellence and research innovation.
Normandale Community College – Located in nearby Bloomington, Normandale is known for its supportive faculty, strong transfer pathways to four-year institutions, and affordable tuition. The college serves students interested in a wide range of programs, from liberal arts to healthcare and STEM fields.
Metropolitan State University – Situated in the Twin Cities with a convenient presence in nearby Minneapolis, Metropolitan State serves adult learners and transfer students particularly well. The university is celebrated for its flexible scheduling, online offerings, and community-focused education.
Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC) – Located in downtown Minneapolis, MCTC offers a diverse and inclusive environment with associate degrees and certificate programs. It’s perfect for those looking to enter the workforce quickly or continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree.
Hennepin Technical College – Eden Prairie Campus – Just a few minutes from Edina, this campus specializes in hands-on, career-focused education in technical fields like IT, manufacturing, engineering, and culinary arts.
Top Private Colleges & Universities near Edina
St. Catherine University – Known as “St. Kate’s,” this women-focused college in nearby St. Paul is renowned for its strong health sciences, education, and liberal arts programs. It’s praised for empowering leadership and academic excellence in a supportive environment.
University of St. Thomas – Located in St. Paul and Minneapolis, St. Thomas is Minnesota’s largest private university. The school is known for its outstanding business, engineering, education, and law programs, as well as a welcoming community spirit.
Augsburg University – A leader in social justice and community engagement, Augsburg sits in the heart of Minneapolis. The university offers highly respected programs in business, the arts, STEM, and more, with a commitment to real-world learning.
North Central University – Centered in downtown Minneapolis, North Central University offers a faith-based curriculum with strong programs in ministry, business, music, and communication, all set in a close-knit community.
Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) – For those drawn to creative pursuits, MCAD is a nationally recognized hub for design, fine arts, animation, and media arts. The college is celebrated for its innovative approach and ties to the Twin Cities’ rich art scene.
No matter your academic goals, Edina’s proximity to these exceptional public and private institutions ensures students have access to quality education, supportive environments, and endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.