Global outlook meets Midwest neighborliness at Macalester. It's known for strong teaching across sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities. Students use labs, studios, performance spaces, a bright library, and a lively rec center, with advising, writing help, health and counseling, and career coaching close by. The vibe is curious, outward looking, and unpretentious.
Campus life hums with music, theater, cultural orgs, activism, and intramurals, and the Twin Cities feel like an extended classroom. Internships span nonprofits, media, tech, and public service, plus parks, lakes, and a real coffee scene. A flag tradition honoring students' home countries marks big moments. Alumni like Kofi Annan and Danai Gurira reflect that outlook. It feels thoughtful, energized, a touch scrappy.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
1600 Grand Ave, Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55105, USA
Explore degree programs offered at Macalester College with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Minnesota. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Minnesota vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Social Sciences (4)
Most Graduates (17.7%)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.0201
Anthropology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human beings, their antecedents and related primates, and their cultural behavior and institutions, in comparative perspective. Includes instruction in biological/physical anthropology, primatology, human paleontology and prehistoric archeology, hominid evolution, anthropological linguistics, ethnography, ethnology, ethnohistory, socio-cultural anthropology, psychological anthropology, research methods, and applications to areas such as medicine, forensic pathology, museum studies, and international affairs.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
19-3091
Anthropologists and Archeologists
$71,070
$66,210
-$4,860 (-6.8%)
25-1061
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,530
$92,320
-$10,210 (-10%)
45.0603
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of mathematical and statistical analysis of economic phenomena and problems. Includes instruction in economic statistics, optimization theory, cost/benefit analysis, price theory, economic modeling, and economic forecasting and evaluation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
15-2041
Statisticians
$112,330
$84,620
-$27,710 (-24.7%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$118,910
-$5,680 (-4.6%)
19-3011
Economists
$130,910
$116,160
-$14,750 (-11.3%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,700
-$5,860 (-9.2%)
25-1063
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
$133,140
$137,710
+$4,570 (+3.4%)
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
19-3094
Political Scientists
$137,600
N/A
N/A
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,700
-$5,860 (-9.2%)
25-1065
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,160
$116,270
+$11,110 (+10.6%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of human social institutions and social relationships. Includes instruction in social theory, sociological research methods, social organization and structure, social stratification and hierarchies, dynamics of social change, family structures, social deviance and control, and applications to the study of specific social groups, social institutions, and social problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
19-3041
Sociologists
$111,670
$83,040
-$28,630 (-25.6%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$57,700
-$5,860 (-9.2%)
25-1067
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,270
$97,440
+$170 (+0.2%)
Interdisciplinary (5)
Most Graduates (13.2%)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
A program that focuses on global and international issues from the perspective of the social sciences, social services, and related fields.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
19-3094
Political Scientists
$137,600
N/A
N/A
25-1069
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
$92,950
$102,510
+$9,560 (+10.3%)
30.2301
Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the dynamic social relations between and among majority and minority groups and different minority groups, and ways to promote mutual tolerance, inter-group cooperation, and the leadership and management of diverse groups and diversity issues in family, educational, recreational, and work settings. Includes instruction in ethnic and cultural studies, group psychology, sociology, anthropology, conflict resolution, human services and resources, and applications to various functional environments.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
19-3099
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
$106,440
$92,770
-$13,670 (-12.8%)
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$89,130
-$8,220 (-8.4%)
30.3001
Computational Science.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of scientific computing and its application. Includes instruction in scientific visualization, multi-scale analysis, grid generation, data analysis, applied mathematics, numerical algorithms, high performance parallel computing, and numerical modeling and simulation with applications in science, engineering and other disciplines in which computation plays an integral role.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
15-1251
Computer Programmers
$103,640
$103,460
-$180 (-0.2%)
15-1299
Computer Occupations, All Other
$116,700
$91,750
-$24,950 (-21.4%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$118,910
-$5,680 (-4.6%)
15-2099
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
$84,700
N/A
N/A
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
N/A
N/A
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$79,890
-$14,580 (-15.4%)
30.4401
Geography and Environmental Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on interactions between people and the natural and built environments. Includes instruction in climate science, sustainability, environmental science and policy, research methods, geographic information systems (GIS), human geography, physical geography, remote sensing, and public policy.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-1031
Conservation Scientists
$74,310
$77,910
+$3,600 (+4.8%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$80,480
-$8,160 (-9.2%)
19-3092
Geographers
$98,160
N/A
N/A
19-3099
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
$106,440
$92,770
-$13,670 (-12.8%)
19-4042
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-1029
Biological Scientists, All Other
$100,440
$94,210
-$6,230 (-6.2%)
19-1099
Life Scientists, All Other
$101,940
$85,420
-$16,520 (-16.2%)
19-4012
Agricultural Technicians
$49,680
$55,600
+$5,920 (+11.9%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$51,510
-$2,890 (-5.3%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$46,810
-$11,210 (-19.3%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$73,950
-$1,310 (-1.7%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$90,860
-$10,480 (-10.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
26.1501
Neuroscience.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the interdisciplinary scientific study of the molecular, structural, physiologic, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of the brain and nervous system. Includes instruction in molecular and cellular neuroscience, brain science, anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system, molecular and biochemical bases of information processing, behavioral neuroscience, biology of neuropsychiatric disorders, and applications to the clinical sciences and biomedical engineering.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-1029
Biological Scientists, All Other
$100,440
$94,210
-$6,230 (-6.2%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$46,810
-$11,210 (-19.3%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$90,860
-$10,480 (-10.3%)
Languages (8)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies
16.0102
Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on language, language development, and relationships among languages and language groups from a humanistic and/or scientific perspective. Includes instruction in subjects such as psycholinguistics, behavioral linguistics, language acquisition, sociolinguistics, mathematical and computational linguistics, grammatical theory and theoretical linguistics, philosophical linguistics, philology and historical linguistics, comparative linguistics, phonetics, phonemics, dialectology, semantics, functional grammar and linguistics, language typology, lexicography, morphology and syntax, orthography, stylistics, structuralism, rhetoric, and applications to artificial intelligence.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0301
Chinese Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the languages of China and associated dialects and literature. Includes instruction in philology; linguistics; dialects and pidgins; and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0302
Japanese Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the Japanese language. Includes instruction in philology; Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Japanese; dialects; and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0402
Russian Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the Russian language. Includes instruction in philology; dialects; literature; and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0501
German Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the German language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; dialects; and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0901
French Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the French language and related dialects and creoles. Includes instruction in philology; Metropolitan French; Canadian French; African and Caribbean Creoles; dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.0905
Spanish Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the Spanish language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; Modern Castillan; Latin American and regional Spanish dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
16.1200
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 16.1200 - 16.1299.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1124
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,670
N/A
N/A
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-3091
Interpreters and Translators
$64,950
$56,730
-$8,220 (-12.7%)
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.2799
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in research and experimental psychology not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$98,940
-$12,400 (-11.1%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$83,050
-$10,480 (-11.2%)
Computer & IT (1)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on computing, computer science, and information science and systems. Such programs are undifferentiated as to title and content and are not to be confused with specific programs in computer science, information science, or related support services.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-3021
Computer and Information Systems Managers
$187,990
$152,110
-$35,880 (-19.1%)
15-1211
Computer Systems Analysts
$111,960
$105,180
-$6,780 (-6.1%)
15-1221
Computer and Information Research Scientists
$152,310
$135,790
-$16,520 (-10.8%)
15-1241
Computer Network Architects
$135,890
$109,390
-$26,500 (-19.5%)
15-1242
Database Administrators
$107,440
N/A
N/A
15-1243
Database Architects
$142,620
$131,350
-$11,270 (-7.9%)
15-1244
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
$101,190
$90,720
-$10,470 (-10.3%)
15-1253
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
$110,260
$82,900
-$27,360 (-24.8%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$92,830
-$18,620 (-16.7%)
15-1299
Computer Occupations, All Other
$116,700
$91,750
-$24,950 (-21.4%)
25-1021
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,830
N/A
N/A
Mathematics (1)
Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis
27.0101
Mathematics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical specializations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
15-2021
Mathematicians
$122,520
N/A
N/A
15-2041
Statisticians
$112,330
$84,620
-$27,710 (-24.7%)
15-2051
Data Scientists
$124,590
$118,910
-$5,680 (-4.6%)
15-2099
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
$84,700
N/A
N/A
25-1022
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$92,880
$82,700
-$10,180 (-11%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
English (2)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.0101
English Language and Literature, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$96,320
+$5,920 (+6.5%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
43-9081
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
$52,730
$51,810
-$920 (-1.7%)
23.1302
Creative Writing.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the process and techniques of original composition in various literary forms such as the short story, poetry, the novel, and others. Includes instruction in technical and editorial skills, criticism, and the marketing of finished manuscripts.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1123
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,400
$96,320
+$5,920 (+6.5%)
25-1199
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
$94,470
$79,890
-$14,580 (-15.4%)
27-3041
Editors
$85,700
$51,380
-$34,320 (-40%)
27-3043
Writers and Authors
$85,780
$75,350
-$10,430 (-12.2%)
Natural Resources (1)
Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management
03.0103
Environmental Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on environment-related issues using scientific, social scientific, or humanistic approaches or a combination. Includes instruction in the basic principles of ecology and environmental science and related subjects such as policy, politics, law, economics, social aspects, planning, pollution control, natural resources, and the interactions of human beings and nature.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
13-1041
Compliance Officers
$84,980
$76,580
-$8,400 (-9.9%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$80,480
-$8,160 (-9.2%)
25-1053
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$100,360
$128,640
+$28,280 (+28.2%)
Arts (5)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0501
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study of dramatic works and their performance. Includes instruction in major works of dramatic literature, dramatic styles and types, and the principles of organizing and producing full live or filmed productions.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$117,920
+$15,680 (+15.3%)
27-2011
Actors
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-2012
Producers and Directors
$114,280
$62,960
-$51,320 (-44.9%)
27-2099
Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
50.0599
Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in dramatic/theatre arts and stagecraft not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$117,920
+$15,680 (+15.3%)
27-2011
Actors
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-2012
Producers and Directors
$114,280
$62,960
-$51,320 (-44.9%)
27-2099
Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
39-3092
Costume Attendants
$65,890
$48,830
-$17,060 (-25.9%)
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$117,920
+$15,680 (+15.3%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$72,910
-$3,540 (-4.6%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$42,980
-$36,510 (-45.9%)
50.0703
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the historical development of art as social and intellectual phenomenon, the analysis of works of art, and art conservation. Includes instruction in the theory of art, art history research methods, connoisseurship, the preservation and conservation of works of art, and the study of specific periods, cultures, styles, and themes.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$117,920
+$15,680 (+15.3%)
25-4011
Archivists
$67,620
$61,770
-$5,850 (-8.7%)
25-4012
Curators
$70,060
$71,500
+$1,440 (+2.1%)
25-4013
Museum Technicians and Conservators
$53,630
$51,340
-$2,290 (-4.3%)
50.0901
Music, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of music and the performing arts. Includes instruction in music, dance, and other performing arts media.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
27-2042
Musicians and Singers
N/A
N/A
N/A
Physical Sciences (3)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research
40.0501
Chemistry, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-2031
Chemists
$95,940
$81,710
-$14,230 (-14.8%)
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$51,510
-$2,890 (-5.3%)
19-4031
Chemical Technicians
$61,300
$53,910
-$7,390 (-12.1%)
19-4092
Forensic Science Technicians
$75,260
$73,950
-$1,310 (-1.7%)
25-1052
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
$103,030
$93,070
-$9,960 (-9.7%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
40.0601
Geology/Earth Science, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the earth; the forces acting upon it; and the behavior of the solids, liquids and gases comprising it. Includes instruction in historical geology, geomorphology, and sedimentology, the chemistry of rocks and soils, stratigraphy, mineralogy, petrology, geostatistics, volcanology, glaciology, geophysical principles, and applications to research and industrial problems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-2042
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
$112,950
$114,670
+$1,720 (+1.5%)
40.0801
Physics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy, and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9121
Natural Sciences Managers
$173,500
$112,710
-$60,790 (-35%)
19-2012
Physicists
$166,000
$204,660
+$38,660 (+23.3%)
25-1054
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,460
$126,050
+$20,590 (+19.5%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
History (1)
Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research
54.0101
History, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study and interpretation of the past, including the gathering, recording, synthesizing and criticizing of evidence and theories about past events. Includes instruction in historiography; historical research methods; studies of specific periods, issues and cultures; and applications to areas such as historic preservation, public policy, and records administration.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
19-3093
Historians
$78,470
$79,170
+$700 (+0.9%)
25-1125
History Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,710
$94,960
+$1,250 (+1.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$67,300
-$6,400 (-8.7%)
39-7011
Tour Guides and Escorts
N/A
N/A
N/A
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0702
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the development, use, critical evaluation, and regulation of new electronic communication technologies using computer applications; and that prepares individuals to function as developers and managers of digital communications media. Includes instruction in computer and telecommunications technologies and processes; design and development of digital communications; marketing and distribution; digital communications regulation, law, and policy; the study of human interaction with, and use of, digital media; and emerging trends and issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$130,640
-$19,250 (-12.8%)
15-1255
Web and Digital Interface Designers
$111,450
$92,830
-$18,620 (-16.7%)
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$78,420
-$11,920 (-13.2%)
27-3099
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
$84,870
$59,960
-$24,910 (-29.4%)
Education (1)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.0101
Education, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching, the basic principles of educational psychology, the art of teaching, the planning and administration of educational activities, school safety and health issues, and the social foundations of education.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1081
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
$78,500
$72,090
-$6,410 (-8.2%)
25-9042
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-9043
Teaching Assistants, Special Education
N/A
N/A
N/A
Philosophy (2)
Philosophical Studies, Ethics and Religious Thought
38.0101
Philosophy.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on ideas and their logical structure, including arguments and investigations about abstract and real phenomena. Includes instruction in logic, ethics, aesthetics, epistemology, metaphysics, symbolism, and history of philosophy, and applications to the theoretical foundations and methods of other disciplines.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$88,360
+$150 (+0.2%)
38.0201
Religion/Religious Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the nature of religious belief and specific religious and quasi-religious systems. Includes instruction in phenomenology; the sociology, psychology, philosophy, anthropology, literature and art of religion; mythology; scriptural and textual studies; religious history and politics; and specific studies of particular faith communities and their behavior.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$88,360
+$150 (+0.2%)
Cultural Studies (3)
Cultural Anthropology, Ethnic Studies and Social Group Research
05.0103
Asian Studies/Civilization.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the history, society, politics, culture, and economics of one or more of the peoples of the Asian Continent, including the study of the Asian diasporas overseas.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$89,130
-$8,220 (-8.4%)
05.0107
Latin American Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the history, society, politics, culture, and economics of one or more of the Hispanic peoples of the North and South American Continents outside Canada and the United States, including the study of the Pre-Columbian period and the flow of immigrants from other societies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$89,130
-$8,220 (-8.4%)
05.0207
Women's Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the history, sociology, politics, culture, and economics of women, and the development of modern feminism in relation to the roles played by women in different periods and locations in North America and the world. Programs may focus on literature, philosophy, and the arts as much as on social studies and policy.
Graduate Career Earnings in Minnesota
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Minnesota Avg
MN vs US
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$89,130
-$8,220 (-8.4%)
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate
and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$82,991
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$82,991
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$64,908
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$64,908
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$15,477 (on-campus)
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$926
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$1,680 (on-campus)
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
N/A
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for
undergraduate students
25%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$40,329
Avg. Loan
$8,072
Avg. Federal Loan
$4,989
Additional
Students with Any Grant
485
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
232
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
82
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$38,737
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Avg. Pell Grant
$5,462
Average amount of Pell Grant awarded to recipients
Avg. State/Local Grant
$6,430
Average amount of state or local grant awarded to recipients
Pell Grant Recipients
15%
Percentage of students who received Pell Grant
State/Local Grant Recipients
6%
Percentage of students who received state or local grant
Institutional Grant Recipients
88%
Percentage of students awarded institutional grants
Federal Grant Recipients
15%
Percentage of students who received federal grant
Any Grant Recipients
88%
Percentage of students who received any type of grant
Any Loan Recipients
42%
Percentage of students who received any kind of student loan
Federal Loan Recipients
37%
Percentage of students who received a federal loan
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
90%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
95%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$41,814 – $87,495
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$41,814 (25th %)$87,495 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$63,878
Median Salary After 6 Years
$46,244
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$63,878
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency
status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
88.7%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
90.7%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$23,000
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
High90.5%
Repayment by Dependency
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Macalester College
How much does it cost to attend Macalester College?
The annual tuition at Macalester College is $64,908 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $82,991 for in-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $15,477 (on-campus) and books and supplies $926.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does Macalester College offer?
Macalester College offers 42 academic programs across 16 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's.
Most popular program areas include:
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies (8 programs)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs (5 programs)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (5 programs)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (4 programs)
Cultural Anthropology, Ethnic Studies and Social Group Research (3 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for Macalester College?
Macalester College has an 28.2% acceptance rate and a 22.7% yield rate, making it highly selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
Total applicants: 8,099
Students admitted: 2,285
Students enrolled: 518
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at Macalester College?
Macalester College provides financial aid to 25% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $40,329 and average loans of $8,072.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $5,462
State/Local grants: $6,430
Institutional grants: $38,737
Federal loans: $4,989
The university supports 485 students with grants and 232 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for Macalester College graduates?
Macalester College graduates earn a median salary of $46,244 after 6 years and $63,878 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $41,814 (25th percentile) to $87,495 (75th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.