Best Public Administration Colleges in the Midwest (2026)
Updated
Regional list from Public Administration Colleges in the United States
This page ranks 163 schools in the Midwest that offer Public Administration by median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing. University of Chicago leads at $94,237, followed by Northwestern University at $82,338 and Indiana University-Bloomington at $77,422.
Across the 153 schools with a reported completion median, the median is $50,745, and the spread from the highest to the lowest reported value is $74,097.
The list is composed of 82 public and 81 private nonprofit institutions. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor ranks 16th on Azimuth's composite ranking among the 1,467 public and private nonprofit four-year institutions Azimuth ranks nationally. Indiana University-Kokomo posts the lowest average net price at $3,968.
The ranked list
| Rank | School | Median Public Administration Earnings | Average net price | Net price, families under $30K | Admission rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Chicago · Chicago, IL | $94,237 | $14,860 | -$1,264* | 4.5% |
| University of Chicago reports $94,237 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and ranks 1st on this list. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (114 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($94,237) | |||||
| 2 | Northwestern University · Evanston, IL | $82,338 | $29,167 | $1,764 | 7.7% |
| Northwestern University reports an admission rate of 8% and median earnings of $82,338 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Community Organization and Advocacy (71 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (47 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Community Organization and Advocacy ($84,712), Public Policy Analysis ($78,752) | |||||
| 3 | Indiana University-Bloomington · Bloomington, IN | $77,422 | $16,264 | $6,324 | 78.2% |
| Indiana University-Bloomington, a public university in Bloomington, graduates 80% of its students within six years and reports median earnings of $77,422 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (448 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($77,422) | |||||
| 4 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor · Ann Arbor, MI | $73,749 | $13,138 | $1,043 | 15.6% |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor ranks 16th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $73,749 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (81 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Policy Analysis ($73,749) | |||||
| 5 | St Catherine University · Saint Paul, MN | $62,227 | $19,764 | $17,890 | 91.9% |
| St Catherine University lists an average net price of $19,764, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $62,227 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (32 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (7 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($62,227) | |||||
| 6 | Creighton University · Omaha, NE | $61,829 | $31,568 | $20,472 | 79.8% |
| Creighton University reports a six-year completion rate of 83% and median earnings of $61,829 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 7 | Augsburg University · Minneapolis, MN | $60,546 | $23,873 | $21,318 | 82.0% |
| Augsburg University ranks 7th on this list, with median earnings of $60,546 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an admission rate of 82%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (20 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($60,546) | |||||
| 8 | University of Wisconsin-La Crosse · La Crosse, WI | $60,079 | $16,210 | $8,224 | 75.5% |
| University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, a public university in La Crosse, reports median earnings of $60,079 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $16,210. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (14 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($60,079) | |||||
| 9 | Loyola University Chicago · Chicago, IL | $59,206 | $36,079 | $28,992 | 81.6% |
| Loyola University Chicago posts an average net price of $36,079 and median earnings of $59,206 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (67 graduates), Human Services, General (6 graduates) | |||||
| 10 | Madonna University · Livonia, MI | $58,037 | $17,755 | $14,759 | 63.4% |
| Madonna University admits 63% of applicants and reports median earnings of $58,037 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (15 graduates) | |||||
| 11 | Michigan State University · East Lansing, MI | $57,672 | $19,680 | $7,068 | 84.8% |
| Michigan State University ranks 69th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $57,672 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (22 graduates) | |||||
| 12 | Valparaiso University · Valparaiso, IN | $57,609 | $18,578 | $11,043 | 89.4% |
| Valparaiso University reports a six-year completion rate of 70% and median earnings of $57,609 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (6 graduates) | |||||
| 13 | Viterbo University · La Crosse, WI | $57,159 | $21,260 | $13,657 | 72.4% |
| Viterbo University reports $57,159 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 68%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (11 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($57,159) | |||||
| 14 | Saginaw Valley State University · University Center, MI | $56,961 | $10,775 | $9,844 | 72.1% |
| With an average net price of $10,775, Saginaw Valley State University admits 72% of applicants and ranks 360th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (77 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,961) | |||||
| 15 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · Champaign, IL | $56,917 | $14,355 | $2,038 | 42.4% |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates 85% of its students within six years and posts median earnings of $56,917 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (76 graduates) | |||||
| 16 | Minnesota State University-Mankato · Mankato, MN | $56,858 | $19,139 | $12,339 | 88.4% |
| Ranking 16th on this list, Minnesota State University-Mankato has an admission rate of 88% and an average net price of $12,339 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (73 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,858) | |||||
| 17 | Wayne State University · Detroit, MI | $56,755 | $12,766 | $11,090 | 81.2% |
| Wayne State University reports $56,755 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 58%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (96 graduates), Public Administration (6 graduates) | |||||
| 18 | Bemidji State University · Bemidji, MN | $56,345 | $15,261 | $10,073 | 56.0% |
| With an admission rate of 56%, Bemidji State University ranks 582nd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and posts an average net price of $15,261. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (21 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,345) | |||||
| 19 | Saint Louis University · Saint Louis, MO | $56,306 | $24,398 | $22,501 | 75.0% |
| Saint Louis University, a private nonprofit university in Saint Louis, reports median earnings of $56,306 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) | |||||
| 20 | University of St Francis · Joliet, IL | $56,259 | $13,006 | $8,547 | 65.3% |
| Ranking 20th on this list, University of St Francis has a six-year completion rate of 67% and an average net price of $8,547 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 21 | University of Missouri-Columbia · Columbia, MO | $56,157 | $20,268 | $13,841 | 78.5% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia admits 78% of applicants and reports $56,157 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,157) | |||||
| 22 | Governors State University · University Park, IL | $56,123 | $12,329 | $9,563 | 48.3% |
| With an average net price of $12,329, Governors State University ranks 254th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and graduates 22% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,123) | |||||
| 23 | University of North Dakota · Grand Forks, ND | $56,001 | $18,551 | $13,126 | 76.9% |
| University of North Dakota reports $56,001 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its admission rate is 77%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (72 graduates), Public Administration (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,001) | |||||
| 24 | Ohio State University-Main Campus · Columbus, OH | $55,956 | $17,339 | $4,885 | 60.6% |
| Ranking 24th on this list, Ohio State University-Main Campus has an average net price of $4,885 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 88%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (143 graduates), Public Administration (95 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (32 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($60,678), Social Work ($50,596) | |||||
| 25 | Oakland University · Rochester Hills, MI | $55,754 | $9,120 | $4,422 | 87.8% |
| Oakland University reports $55,754 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and posts an average net price of $4,422 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (91 graduates), Public Administration (9 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,754) | |||||
| 26 | The College of Saint Scholastica · Duluth, MN | $55,743 | $27,846 | $14,433 | 93.0% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Duluth, The College of Saint Scholastica ranks 26th on this list with a six-year completion rate of 71% and an admission rate of 93%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (60 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,743) | |||||
| 27 | Central Michigan University · Mount Pleasant, MI | $55,614 | $17,597 | $12,185 | 89.8% |
| Central Michigan University ranks 414th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and posts a six-year completion rate of 59% alongside an average net price of $17,597. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Community Organization and Advocacy (111 graduates), Social Work (42 graduates), Public Administration (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Community Organization and Advocacy ($58,344), Social Work ($53,279) | |||||
| 28 | Concordia University-Wisconsin · Mequon, WI | $55,600 | $36,201 | $34,991 | 78.2% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Mequon, Concordia University-Wisconsin reports an average net price of $34,991 for families earning under $30,000 and admits 78% of applicants. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) | |||||
| 29 | Aurora University · Aurora, IL | $55,546 | $18,838 | $14,525 | 80.9% |
| Aurora University admits 81% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $55,546 four years after completing, while the school's average net price is $18,838. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (203 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,546) | |||||
| 30 | Illinois State University · Normal, IL | $55,089 | $19,398 | $11,568 | 88.2% |
| Ranking 137th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Illinois State University reports median earnings of $55,089 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (57 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,089) | |||||
| 31 | Capital University · Columbus, OH | $55,078 | $22,576 | $19,062 | 70.2% |
| Capital University graduates 60% of its students within six years, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $55,078 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (28 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,078) | |||||
| 32 | Bluffton University · Bluffton, OH | $55,073 | $19,943 | $16,363 | 67.2% |
| Ranking 32nd on this list, Bluffton University reports an average net price of $16,363 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 53%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (7 graduates) | |||||
| 33 | Carthage College · Kenosha, WI | $54,975 | $26,565 | $23,293 | 87.1% |
| Carthage College reports median earnings of $54,975 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and the school admits 87% of applicants. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) | |||||
| 34 | Northern Michigan University · Marquette, MI | $54,836 | $14,085 | $7,697 | 84.0% |
| A public university in Marquette, Northern Michigan University ranks 34th on this list and reports an average net price of $7,697 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (21 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,836) | |||||
| 35 | Bethel University · Saint Paul, MN | $54,448 | $28,556 | $22,218 | 87.8% |
| Bethel University ranks 995th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $54,448 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,448) | |||||
| 36 | University of Wisconsin-Madison · Madison, WI | $54,375 | $17,354 | $4,200 | 45.2% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 90%, University of Wisconsin-Madison reports median earnings of $54,375 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $4,200 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (71 graduates) | |||||
| 37 | Adrian College · Adrian, MI | $54,277 | $25,368 | $19,542 | 72.5% |
| Adrian College reports $54,277 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 48%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (11 graduates) | |||||
| 38 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay · Green Bay, WI | $54,252 | $13,369 | $9,144 | 88.6% |
| A public university in Green Bay, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay posts an average net price of $13,369 alongside median earnings of $54,252 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (35 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,252) | |||||
| 39 | University of Minnesota-Duluth · Duluth, MN | $54,226 | $18,743 | $7,256 | 88.8% |
| University of Minnesota-Duluth admits 89% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $54,226 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates) | |||||
| 40 | University of Wisconsin-Superior · Superior, WI | $54,195 | $12,220 | $9,679 | 93.0% |
| Ranking 40th on this list, University of Wisconsin-Superior shows an average net price of $9,679 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (27 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,195) | |||||
| 41 | Western Illinois University · Macomb, IL | $54,063 | $12,937 | $6,941 | 71.2% |
| Western Illinois University graduates 45% of its students within six years and reports $54,063 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,063) | |||||
| 42 | Winona State University · Winona, MN | $54,056 | $17,503 | $10,224 | 75.5% |
| With an admission rate of 75%, Winona State University posts median earnings of $54,056 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (85 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($54,056) | |||||
| 43 | Upper Iowa University · Fayette, IA | $53,880 | $20,942 | $17,715 | 96.5% |
| Upper Iowa University, a private nonprofit institution, ranks 1103rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $53,880 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (70 graduates), Public Administration (23 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($70,374), Human Services, General ($48,461) | |||||
| 44 | Northeastern Illinois University · Chicago, IL | $53,848 | $14,109 | $13,709 | 74.6% |
| Northeastern Illinois University shows an average net price of $14,109 and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $53,848 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (96 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,848) | |||||
| 45 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater · Whitewater, WI | $53,745 | $14,158 | $8,440 | 85.7% |
| Ranking 45th on this list, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater reports a six-year completion rate of 59% and median earnings of $53,745 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (62 graduates), Public Administration (8 graduates) | |||||
| 46 | Bradley University · Peoria, IL | $53,715 | $22,719 | $17,269 | 76.8% |
| Bradley University admits 77% of applicants and posts an average net price of $17,269 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,715) | |||||
| 47 | Fort Hays State University · Hays, KS | $53,549 | $12,569 | $7,661 | 90.3% |
| Fort Hays State University reports $53,549 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $12,569. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,549) | |||||
| 48 | Indiana University-Indianapolis · Indianapolis, IN | $53,376 | $11,668 | $5,701 | 76.4% |
| A public university in Indianapolis, Indiana University-Indianapolis shows an average net price of $5,701 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 54%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (147 graduates), Public Administration (64 graduates), Community Organization and Advocacy (7 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($60,564), Social Work ($50,246) | |||||
| 49 | Lindenwood University · Saint Charles, MO | $53,359 | $19,638 | $15,678 | 56.8% |
| Lindenwood University reports $53,359 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 49%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) | |||||
| 50 | Ferris State University · Big Rapids, MI | $53,351 | $8,624 | $2,556 | 91.4% |
| With an average net price of $8,624, Ferris State University admits 91% of applicants and ranks 198th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (45 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,351) | |||||
| 51 | Purdue University Fort Wayne · Fort Wayne, IN | $53,257 | $13,171 | $8,306 | 83.9% |
| Purdue University Fort Wayne graduates 36% within six years, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $53,257 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (36 graduates), Public Administration (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($53,257) | |||||
| 52 | University of Kansas · Lawrence, KS | $53,254 | $18,059 | $12,544 | 93.5% |
| University of Kansas posts a six-year completion rate of 69% and an average net price of $12,544 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (65 graduates), Public Administration (12 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($55,582) | |||||
| 53 | University of Nebraska at Kearney · Kearney, NE | $53,203 | $16,242 | $13,066 | 89.5% |
| A public university in Kearney, University of Nebraska at Kearney reports $53,203 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($53,203) | |||||
| 54 | Millikin University · Decatur, IL | $52,870 | $21,989 | $18,659 | 66.7% |
| Millikin University ranks 1120th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its six-year completion rate is 55%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,870) | |||||
| 55 | Saint Cloud State University · Saint Cloud, MN | $52,765 | $13,529 | $8,909 | 94.8% |
| Saint Cloud State University admits 95% of applicants, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $52,765 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (60 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,765) | |||||
| 56 | Cornerstone University · Grand Rapids, MI | $52,568 | $20,301 | $20,177 | 77.8% |
| Cornerstone University reports $52,568 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $20,177 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (7 graduates) | |||||
| 57 | Southern Illinois University Edwardsville · Edwardsville, IL | $52,480 | $14,889 | $8,483 | 97.5% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 57%, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville ranks 246th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,480) | |||||
| 58 | Cedarville University · Cedarville, OH | $52,471 | $24,468 | $18,987 | 65.3% |
| Cedarville University graduates 73% within six years, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $52,471 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,471) | |||||
| 59 | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire · Eau Claire, WI | $52,461 | $16,550 | $10,270 | 82.3% |
| University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire reports an average net price of $16,550, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $52,461 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (61 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,461) | |||||
| 60 | University of Iowa · Iowa City, IA | $52,451 | $22,531 | $15,316 | 83.6% |
| Ranking 60th on this list, University of Iowa admits 84% of applicants and posts a six-year completion rate of 75%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (51 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,451) | |||||
| 61 | Trinity Christian College · Palos Heights, IL | $52,382 | $19,125 | $12,891 | 84.9% |
| Trinity Christian College reports $52,382 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 58%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) | |||||
| 62 | University of Missouri-St Louis · Saint Louis, MO | $52,337 | $15,071 | $13,031 | 62.7% |
| With an average net price of $15,071, University of Missouri-St Louis ranks 62nd on this list and posts a 57% six-year completion rate. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (74 graduates), Public Administration (7 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,337) | |||||
| 63 | Olivet Nazarene University · Bourbonnais, IL | $52,114 | $20,729 | $17,232 | 55.9% |
| Olivet Nazarene University admits 56% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $52,114 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (23 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,114) | |||||
| 64 | Xavier University · Cincinnati, OH | $52,014 | $32,997 | $26,728 | 86.4% |
| Xavier University ranks 64th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 69% and median earnings of $52,014 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 65 | Marian University · Fond Du Lac, WI | $51,997 | $21,937 | $17,449 | 75.0% |
| Marian University reports an average net price of $21,937 and median earnings of $51,997 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 66 | Minot State University · Minot, ND | $51,931 | $12,703 | $9,492 | 64.6% |
| A public university, Minot State University ranks 66th on this list and reports median earnings of $51,931 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (45 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,931) | |||||
| 67 | Lewis University · Romeoville, IL | $51,859 | $17,028 | $10,382 | 71.3% |
| Lewis University graduates 67% of its students within six years and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $51,859 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (26 graduates) | |||||
| 68 | Mount Vernon Nazarene University · Mount Vernon, OH | $51,766 | $22,421 | $22,358 | 84.2% |
| Mount Vernon Nazarene University ranks 68th on this list, with an admission rate of 84% and median earnings of $51,766 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (31 graduates), Public Administration (7 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,766) | |||||
| 69 | Anderson University · Anderson, IN | $51,748 | $25,021 | $23,119 | 79.3% |
| Anderson University reports an average net price of $25,021 and a six-year completion rate of 54%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) | |||||
| 70 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls · River Falls, WI | $51,694 | $14,054 | $8,472 | 81.7% |
| University of Wisconsin-River Falls ranks 70th on this list, with median earnings of $51,694 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an admission rate of 82%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (15 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,694) | |||||
| 71 | Doane University · Crete, NE | $51,673 | $26,364 | $21,129 | 98.0% |
| Doane University admits 98% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $51,673 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (10 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($51,673) | |||||
| 72 | Indiana University-Northwest · Gary, IN | $51,575 | $5,130 | $1,419 | 73.4% |
| Indiana University-Northwest ranks 72nd on this list, with an average net price of $5,130 and median earnings of $51,575 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (27 graduates), Public Administration (11 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,575) | |||||
| 73 | Eastern Michigan University · Ypsilanti, MI | $51,530 | $15,407 | $13,250 | 79.6% |
| Eastern Michigan University ranks 73rd on this list and posts a six-year completion rate of 46%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (138 graduates), Public Administration (12 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($52,962) | |||||
| 74 | University of Central Missouri · Warrensburg, MO | $51,349 | $14,462 | $10,965 | 63.8% |
| University of Central Missouri reports $51,349 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $14,462. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,349) | |||||
| 75 | Bowling Green State University-Main Campus · Bowling Green, OH | $51,267 | $24,022 | $18,396 | 81.0% |
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus admits 81% of applicants and graduates 64% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,267) | |||||
| 76 | University of Northern Iowa · Cedar Falls, IA | $51,212 | $15,901 | $10,863 | 92.7% |
| An average net price of $10,863 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 68% are reported by University of Northern Iowa. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (73 graduates), Public Administration (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Public Administration ($58,307), Social Work ($50,629) | |||||
| 77 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh · Oshkosh, WI | $51,044 | $14,305 | $9,236 | 86.5% |
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh reports median earnings of $51,044 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $14,305. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (57 graduates), Social Work (48 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($51,044) | |||||
| 78 | University of Akron Main Campus · Akron, OH | $50,823 | $13,946 | $10,413 | 59.7% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 52%, University of Akron Main Campus lists an average net price of $13,946. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (75 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,823) | |||||
| 79 | Loras College · Dubuque, IA | $50,789 | $20,716 | $20,479 | 99.9% |
| Loras College, a private nonprofit institution, reports median earnings of $50,789 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an admission rate of 100%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (21 graduates) | |||||
| 80 | Defiance College · Defiance, OH | $50,745 | $26,337 | $27,196 | 47.6% |
| Defiance College posts a six-year completion rate of 31% and an average net price of $27,196 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (7 graduates) | |||||
| 81 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point · Stevens Point, WI | $50,710 | $14,559 | $8,833 | 91.8% |
| University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point reports median earnings of $50,710 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, with an average net price of $8,833 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,710) | |||||
| 82 | University of Indianapolis · Indianapolis, IN | $50,666 | $21,602 | $15,346 | 66.5% |
| Graduating 56% of its students within six years, University of Indianapolis ranks 776th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (26 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,666) | |||||
| 83 | St Olaf College · Northfield, MN | $50,611 | $23,874 | $10,404 | 48.3% |
| St Olaf College admits 48% of applicants and reports median earnings of $50,611 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (14 graduates) | |||||
| 84 | University of Detroit Mercy · Detroit, MI | $50,535 | $15,232 | $13,088 | 75.4% |
| University of Detroit Mercy lists an average net price of $15,232 and a six-year completion rate of 67%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (14 graduates) | |||||
| 85 | University of Illinois Springfield · Springfield, IL | $50,516 | $9,833 | $5,778 | 85.9% |
| Ranks 85th on this list, University of Illinois Springfield reports $50,516 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $5,778 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,516) | |||||
| 86 | Kansas State University · Manhattan, KS | $50,480 | $19,406 | $13,178 | 81.7% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 71%, Kansas State University ranks 86th on this list and posts median earnings of $50,480 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,480) | |||||
| 87 | Minnesota State University Moorhead · Moorhead, MN | $50,419 | $17,997 | $11,129 | 58.8% |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead admits 59% of applicants and shows median earnings of $50,419 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (56 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,419) | |||||
| 88 | Grand Valley State University · Allendale, MI | $50,396 | $16,317 | $12,272 | 83.0% |
| Ranking 210th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Grand Valley State University reports $50,396 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (112 graduates), Public Administration (53 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,690), Public Administration ($49,776) | |||||
| 89 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee · Milwaukee, WI | $50,392 | $15,014 | $10,329 | 90.7% |
| University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee posts an average net price of $15,014 and median earnings of $50,392 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (75 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,392) | |||||
| 90 | Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion · Marion, IN | $50,351 | $22,866 | $19,793 | 88.9% |
| A private nonprofit university in Marion, Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion reports median earnings of $50,351 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 67%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (32 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,351) | |||||
| 91 | Ball State University · Muncie, IN | $50,321 | $14,940 | $7,834 | 85.5% |
| Ball State University ranks 91st on this list, with median earnings of $50,321 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $7,834 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,321) | |||||
| 92 | Briar Cliff University · Sioux City, IA | $50,315 | $23,907 | $17,764 | Not reported |
| With a six-year completion rate of 48%, Briar Cliff University reports median earnings of $50,315 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates) | |||||
| 93 | University of Nebraska at Omaha · Omaha, NE | $50,169 | $13,441 | $10,534 | 87.0% |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha admits 87% of applicants and reports median earnings of $50,169 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (45 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,169) | |||||
| 94 | Washburn University · Topeka, KS | $50,122 | $15,280 | $20,310 | Not reported |
| Ranking 357th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Washburn University posts median earnings of $50,122 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (23 graduates), Public Administration (5 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($50,122) | |||||
| 95 | Southern Illinois University-Carbondale · Carbondale, IL | $49,952 | $13,297 | $9,415 | 86.9% |
| Southern Illinois University-Carbondale reports an average net price of $13,297 and median earnings of $49,952 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,952) | |||||
| 96 | Missouri Southern State University · Joplin, MO | $49,855 | $12,007 | $9,759 | 97.0% |
| Missouri Southern State University admits 97% of applicants and shows median earnings of $49,855 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 42%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (21 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (7 graduates) | |||||
| 97 | Western Michigan University · Kalamazoo, MI | $49,850 | $15,273 | $5,263 | 84.6% |
| Western Michigan University reports $49,850 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $15,273. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (73 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,850) | |||||
| 98 | Calvin University · Grand Rapids, MI | $49,811 | $22,992 | $19,281 | 70.9% |
| A private nonprofit university in Grand Rapids, Calvin University admits 71% of applicants and graduates 74% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,811) | |||||
| 99 | Ohio University-Main Campus · Athens, OH | $49,690 | $21,637 | $15,673 | 85.0% |
| Ohio University-Main Campus ranks 99th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 65% and median earnings of $49,690 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (35 graduates), Human Services, General (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,690) | |||||
| 100 | Wichita State University · Wichita, KS | $49,670 | $13,194 | $9,734 | 94.0% |
| With an admission rate of 94%, Wichita State University posts median earnings of $49,670 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (71 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,670) | |||||
| 101 | Spring Arbor University · Spring Arbor, MI | $49,642 | $19,353 | $14,530 | 51.5% |
| Spring Arbor University ranks 1149th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports an average net price of $19,353. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (63 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,642) | |||||
| 102 | Hope College · Holland, MI | $49,587 | $27,182 | $17,606 | 79.2% |
| Hope College graduates 80% of its students within six years, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $49,587 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,587) | |||||
| 103 | Saint Mary's College · Notre Dame, IN | $49,555 | $25,292 | $16,760 | 76.0% |
| A private nonprofit university in Notre Dame, Saint Mary's College reports median earnings of $49,555 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (18 graduates) | |||||
| 104 | Mount Mercy University · Cedar Rapids, IA | $49,542 | $20,168 | $17,070 | 82.5% |
| Mount Mercy University admits 83% of applicants and posts an average net price of $17,070 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,542) | |||||
| 105 | Northern Illinois University · Dekalb, IL | $49,514 | $13,391 | $10,126 | 69.8% |
| Northern Illinois University ranks 116th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, with median earnings of $49,514 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (11 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($49,514) | |||||
| 106 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus · Cincinnati, OH | $49,465 | $25,648 | $17,974 | 85.3% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 75%, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus reports median earnings of $49,465 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (73 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,465) | |||||
| 107 | Youngstown State University · Youngstown, OH | $49,361 | $12,767 | $9,328 | 84.5% |
| Youngstown State University posts an average net price of $12,767 and median earnings of $49,361 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (81 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,361) | |||||
| 108 | University of Michigan-Flint · Flint, MI | $49,165 | $7,007 | $1,517 | 70.5% |
| University of Michigan-Flint reports an average net price of $1,517 for families earning under $30,000, alongside median earnings of $49,165 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (37 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,165) | |||||
| 109 | Nebraska Wesleyan University · Lincoln, NE | $48,785 | $18,327 | $14,925 | 79.8% |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University reports median earnings of $48,785 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 66%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (28 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($48,785) | |||||
| 110 | National Louis University · Chicago, IL | $48,727 | $12,641 | $12,462 | 95.1% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Chicago, National Louis University admits 95% of applicants and posts an average net price of $12,641. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other (47 graduates), Social Work (16 graduates) | |||||
| 111 | Indiana University-South Bend · South Bend, IN | $48,344 | $8,653 | $4,637 | 83.8% |
| Indiana University-South Bend ranks 111th on this list, with an average net price of $8,653 and a six-year completion rate of 40%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (32 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($48,344) | |||||
| 112 | Central State University · Wilberforce, OH | $47,853 | $13,096 | $19,581 | 98.6% |
| With an admission rate of 99%, Central State University graduates 23% of its students within six years and reports median earnings of $47,853 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (14 graduates) | |||||
| 113 | Siena Heights University · Adrian, MI | $47,788 | $17,124 | $15,624 | 68.9% |
| Siena Heights University posts median earnings of $47,788 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 39%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Community Organization and Advocacy (25 graduates), Social Work (11 graduates) | |||||
| 114 | Luther College · Decorah, IA | $47,660 | $23,097 | $12,517 | 71.5% |
| Luther College has a six-year completion rate of 71% and an average net price of $23,097, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $47,660 four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (15 graduates) | |||||
| 115 | Grace Christian University · Wyoming, MI | $47,559 | $12,404 | $9,538 | 99.2% |
| Grace Christian University admits 99% of applicants and reports median earnings of $47,559 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (22 graduates) | |||||
| 116 | Wright State University-Main Campus · Dayton, OH | $47,235 | $15,415 | $11,952 | 96.3% |
| Wright State University-Main Campus ranks 116th on this list, with an average net price of $15,415 and median earnings of $47,235 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (45 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($47,235) | |||||
| 117 | Ashland University · Ashland, OH | $47,094 | $21,988 | $16,489 | 76.4% |
| A private nonprofit university in Ashland, Ashland University reports median earnings of $47,094 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 61%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) | |||||
| 118 | Columbia College · Columbia, MO | $46,785 | $22,715 | $23,967 | Not reported |
| Columbia College posts median earnings of $46,785 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 42%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (103 graduates), Public Administration (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($46,785) | |||||
| 119 | Miami University-Oxford · Oxford, OH | $46,638 | $28,384 | $16,015 | 75.4% |
| Miami University-Oxford ranks 119th on this list, admits 75% of applicants, and graduates 80% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates), Public Administration (24 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($49,572) | |||||
| 120 | Indiana State University · Terre Haute, IN | $46,548 | $10,873 | $6,455 | 80.8% |
| Indiana State University reports median earnings of $46,548 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its average net price is $10,873. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($46,548) | |||||
| 121 | University of Sioux Falls · Sioux Falls, SD | $46,451 | $21,383 | $18,145 | 82.9% |
| University of Sioux Falls reports $46,451 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 63%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 122 | Missouri State University-Springfield · Springfield, MO | $46,403 | $17,613 | $13,718 | 90.5% |
| A public university in Springfield, Missouri State University-Springfield admits 91% of applicants and posts an average net price of $17,613. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (38 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($46,403) | |||||
| 123 | Malone University · Canton, OH | $46,238 | $20,948 | $13,290 | 75.9% |
| Malone University ranks 123rd on this list and shows an average net price of $13,290 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 124 | Cleveland State University · Cleveland, OH | $46,202 | $14,764 | $11,958 | 91.3% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 51%, Cleveland State University ranks 211th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (70 graduates), Public Administration (11 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($48,571) | |||||
| 125 | Missouri Western State University · Saint Joseph, MO | $46,187 | $13,251 | $11,243 | Not reported |
| Missouri Western State University graduates 39% of its students within six years and reports median earnings of $46,187 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($46,187) | |||||
| 126 | Simpson College · Indianola, IA | $46,184 | $21,936 | $17,941 | 86.2% |
| Simpson College admits 86% of applicants and carries an average net price of $17,941 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (8 graduates) | |||||
| 127 | University of Toledo · Toledo, OH | $45,476 | $17,249 | $13,524 | 92.0% |
| University of Toledo posts median earnings of $45,476 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside a 92% admission rate. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (46 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($45,476) | |||||
| 128 | Southwest Minnesota State University · Marshall, MN | $45,467 | $15,291 | $10,559 | 62.2% |
| A public university in Marshall, Southwest Minnesota State University shows an average net price of $10,559 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 45%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (15 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($45,467) | |||||
| 129 | University of Minnesota-Morris · Morris, MN | $45,453 | $8,837 | $1,694 | 74.9% |
| University of Minnesota-Morris reports an average net price of $8,837 and median earnings of $45,453 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (24 graduates) | |||||
| 130 | Franciscan University of Steubenville · Steubenville, OH | $44,867 | $23,589 | $19,696 | 58.4% |
| Franciscan University of Steubenville graduates 75% of its students within six years and ranks 1303rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (25 graduates) | |||||
| 131 | Concordia College at Moorhead · Moorhead, MN | $44,170 | $24,902 | $20,950 | 62.7% |
| Concordia College at Moorhead reports median earnings of $44,170 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its admission rate is 63%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 132 | University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne · Fort Wayne, IN | $43,989 | $18,196 | $12,720 | 96.0% |
| University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne admits 96% of applicants and posts an average net price of $12,720 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($43,989) | |||||
| 133 | Indiana University-East · Richmond, IN | $43,470 | $8,134 | $5,154 | 67.2% |
| Indiana University-East reports $43,470 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $8,134. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($43,470) | |||||
| 134 | Southeast Missouri State University · Cape Girardeau, MO | $43,260 | $15,882 | $12,704 | 73.5% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 58%, Southeast Missouri State University ranks 134th on this list and posts median earnings of $43,260 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (28 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($43,260) | |||||
| 135 | Black Hills State University · Spearfish, SD | $42,781 | $15,911 | $11,863 | 96.3% |
| Black Hills State University admits 96% of applicants and shows median earnings of $42,781 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Community Organization and Advocacy (15 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Community Organization and Advocacy ($42,781) | |||||
| 136 | Grand View University · Des Moines, IA | $42,451 | $21,774 | $18,512 | 99.1% |
| A private nonprofit university in Des Moines, Grand View University reports $42,451 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $21,774. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (16 graduates), Human Services, General (12 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($44,106) | |||||
| 137 | Ohio Christian University · Circleville, OH | $41,533 | $20,607 | $22,113 | 38.0% |
| Ohio Christian University ranks 137th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 34% and median earnings of $41,533 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (26 graduates) | |||||
| 138 | Missouri Baptist University · Saint Louis, MO | $41,036 | $27,006 | $21,808 | 68.6% |
| Missouri Baptist University posts median earnings of $41,036 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $27,006. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($41,036) | |||||
| 139 | Grace College and Theological Seminary · Winona Lake, IN | $40,727 | $19,932 | $10,998 | 82.2% |
| With an admission rate of 82%, Grace College and Theological Seminary reports median earnings of $40,727 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (7 graduates) | |||||
| 140 | Goshen College · Goshen, IN | $39,176 | $14,493 | $12,761 | 84.1% |
| Goshen College ranks 140th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 65% and median earnings of $39,176 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) | |||||
| 141 | Judson University · Elgin, IL | $38,639 | $18,558 | $15,701 | 47.6% |
| Judson University admits 48% of applicants and reports median earnings of $38,639 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (13 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Human Services, General ($38,639) | |||||
| 142 | Bethel University · Mishawaka, IN | $38,515 | $18,610 | $17,580 | 97.7% |
| Bethel University posts median earnings of $38,515 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $18,610. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates) | |||||
| 143 | Valley City State University · Valley City, ND | $38,289 | $11,890 | $7,879 | 99.1% |
| Valley City State University reports median earnings of $38,289 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing and an average net price of $11,890. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates) | |||||
| 144 | Lourdes University · Sylvania, OH | $37,088 | $23,206 | $22,220 | 74.1% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 32%, Lourdes University ranks 144th on this list and reports median earnings of $37,088 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) | |||||
| 145 | University of St Thomas · Saint Paul, MN | $36,275 | $29,155 | $28,131 | 85.4% |
| University of St Thomas reports median earnings of $36,275 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 76%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 146 | University of Illinois Chicago · Chicago, IL | $35,205 | $10,974 | $7,529 | 77.4% |
| A public university in Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago ranks 17th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and posts an average net price of $10,974. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Policy Analysis (35 graduates) | |||||
| 147 | Indiana University-Kokomo · Kokomo, IN | $34,526 | $3,968 | -$583* | 86.5% |
| Indiana University-Kokomo carries the lowest average net price on the page at $3,968, and its Public Administration graduates earned $34,526 two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Public Administration (8 graduates) | |||||
| 148 | Mount Mary University · Milwaukee, WI | $34,526 | $20,144 | $18,155 | 62.3% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 43%, Mount Mary University admits 62% of applicants and reports an average net price of $18,155 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) | |||||
| 149 | Bethel College-North Newton · North Newton, KS | $33,993 | $32,917 | $35,147 | 93.5% |
| Bethel College-North Newton reports an average net price of $35,147 for families earning under $30,000 and ranks 1373rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (6 graduates) | |||||
| 150 | North Central University · Minneapolis, MN | $33,565 | $25,817 | $20,450 | 99.0% |
| North Central University admits 99% of applicants and its Public Administration graduates earned a median of $33,565 two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 151 | Lincoln University · Jefferson City, MO | $32,951 | $19,092 | $20,070 | Not reported |
| Lincoln University ranks 859th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and graduates 21% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 152 | College of the Ozarks · Point Lookout, MO | $32,701 | $6,100 | $6,381 | 12.0% |
| A private nonprofit college in Point Lookout, College of the Ozarks admits 12% of applicants and reports an average net price of $6,100. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (10 graduates) | |||||
| 153 | Marquette University · Milwaukee, WI | $32,569 | $31,487 | $22,269 | 81.3% |
| Marquette University posts a six-year completion rate of 83% and an average net price of $22,269 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (14 graduates) | |||||
| 154 | Huntington University · Huntington, IN | $32,569 | $19,310 | $10,796 | 75.6% |
| Huntington University reports median earnings of $32,569 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 64%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (12 graduates) | |||||
| 155 | Taylor University · Upland, IN | $31,133 | $24,865 | $16,143 | 73.5% |
| Taylor University admits 74% of applicants and graduates 74% of its students within six years. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) | |||||
| 156 | Buena Vista University · Storm Lake, IA | $28,598 | $18,846 | $12,901 | 77.6% |
| Buena Vista University reports an average net price of $12,901 for families earning under $30,000, and its Public Administration graduates earned a median of $28,598 two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (60 graduates), Social Work (5 graduates) | |||||
| 157 | The University of Findlay · Findlay, OH | $28,598 | $27,221 | $22,052 | 83.4% |
| The University of Findlay reports median earnings of $28,598 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 58%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (8 graduates) | |||||
| 158 | Dordt University · Sioux Center, IA | $28,381 | $25,807 | $22,597 | 68.5% |
| With an admission rate of 68%, Dordt University ranks 158th on this list and posts an average net price of $25,807. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 159 | Concordia University-Chicago · River Forest, IL | $26,739 | $18,436 | $16,795 | 92.8% |
| Concordia University-Chicago admits 93% of applicants and shows median earnings of $26,739 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (9 graduates) | |||||
| 160 | Quincy University · Quincy, IL | $26,739 | $20,359 | $16,502 | 50.9% |
| Quincy University ranks 1137th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Public Administration graduates earned a median of $26,739 two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Human Services, General (9 graduates) | |||||
| 161 | Purdue University Northwest · Hammond, IN | $26,715 | $6,079 | $1,432 | 72.4% |
| A public university in Hammond, Purdue University Northwest reports an average net price of $6,079 and a six-year completion rate of 43%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (12 graduates) | |||||
| 162 | Wartburg College · Waverly, IA | $26,121 | $32,908 | $21,688 | 75.8% |
| Wartburg College graduates 64% of its students within six years, and its Public Administration completers earned a median of $26,121 two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 163 | Evangel University · Springfield, MO | $20,140 | $18,669 | $16,198 | 71.6% |
| Ranked 163rd on this list, Evangel University posts an average net price of $18,669 alongside median earnings of $20,140 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (12 graduates) | |||||
* Net price can be negative: when grants and scholarships exceed the listed cost of attendance, students can receive the difference as a refund for other expenses.
How this list is ordered
Schools are ordered by the median earnings of their Public Administration graduates four years after completing, or two years for programs that report only a two-year figure, highest first. The figure captures federally aided completers who were working and not enrolled after completing. For 19 of the 163 listed programs the figure is the two-year completion median rather than the four-year one. The metric does not adjust for graduate school enrollment, cost, or who enrolls, and it is not a measure of teaching quality. The figures cited on this page cover the 153 schools with a reported completion median. The gap between first-ranked University of Chicago and second-ranked Northwestern University is $11,899, and the spread from top to bottom reaches $74,097.
Job market context in the Midwest
Public Administration graduates in the Midwest enter occupations such as Social and Human Service Assistants, Child, Family, and School Social Workers, and Healthcare Social Workers. The median annual wage across those occupations is $58,430, and a quarter of workers in those occupations earn less than $47,730. The region projects about 1,566 openings a year for every hundred graduates, with more projected openings than graduates. Projections for 2024 to 2034 put employment in those occupations about 6.2% higher. Wages and top occupations exclude management occupations; openings include them. The ranking above uses graduate earnings four years after completing; the market figures describe the broader occupations, and the two are not the same measure.
Related rankings
- Public Administration Colleges in the United States
- Best Colleges in the Midwest
- Best Public Administration Colleges in the Northeast
- Best Public Administration Colleges in the South
- Best Public Administration Colleges in the West
- Best Social Work Colleges in the Midwest
- Public Administration Colleges in the Midwest for Social Mobility
- Best Social Work Colleges for Social Mobility in the Midwest