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 published figure, 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 nonprofit four-year institutions. 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 of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and holds an admission rate of 4%. | |||||
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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 95%, Northwestern University posts 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, shows an average net price of $16,264 alongside median earnings of $77,422 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 reports median earnings of $73,749 for its Public Administration graduates 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 admits 92% of applicants 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% |
| Graduates of Creighton University earn a median of $61,829 four years after completing, and the university reports an average net price of $31,568. | |||||
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 posts a six-year completion rate of 52% and median earnings of $60,546 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 reports an average net price of $16,210 and median earnings of $60,079 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 admits 82% of applicants, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $59,206 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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 60%, Madonna University 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 shows an average net price of $19,680 and median earnings of $57,672 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (54 graduates), Public Policy Analysis (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($57,321) | |||||
| 12 | Valparaiso University · Valparaiso, IN | $57,609 | $18,578 | $11,043 | 89.4% |
| Valparaiso University admits 89% of applicants, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $57,609 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, a private nonprofit university in La Crosse, reports $57,159 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $21,260. | |||||
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% |
| Graduates of Saginaw Valley State University earn a median of $56,961 four years after completing their Public Administration program, and the university admits 72% of applicants. | |||||
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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 85%, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign posts $56,917 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $2,038 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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% |
| Minnesota State University-Mankato ranks 16th on this list, with $56,858 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an Azimuth composite rank of 452nd among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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 of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $12,766, alongside a six-year completion rate of 58%. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (96 graduates), Public Administration (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Social Work ($56,152) | |||||
| 18 | Bemidji State University · Bemidji, MN | $56,345 | $15,261 | $10,073 | 56.0% |
| Admitting 56% of applicants, Bemidji State University posts $56,345 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $10,073 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 ($56,345) | |||||
| 19 | Saint Louis University · Saint Louis, MO | $56,306 | $24,398 | $22,501 | 75.0% |
| Saint Louis University ranks 19th on this list, with $56,306 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 80%. | |||||
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% |
| University of St Francis reports $56,259 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $13,006, while its Azimuth composite rank sits at 331st among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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% |
| With an admission rate of 78%, University of Missouri-Columbia posts $56,157 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $13,841 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 ($56,157) | |||||
| 22 | Governors State University · University Park, IL | $56,123 | $12,329 | $9,563 | 48.3% |
| Governors State University ranks 22nd on this list, with $56,123 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and a six-year completion rate of 22%. | |||||
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 of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $18,551, alongside an admission rate of 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% |
| Graduates of Ohio State University-Main Campus earn a median of $55,956 four years after completing their Public Administration program, and the university's Azimuth composite rank is 90th among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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, a public university in Rochester Hills, reports $55,754 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $9,120. | |||||
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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 71%, The College of Saint Scholastica ranks 26th on this list and posts $55,743 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates 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 ($55,743) | |||||
| 27 | Central Michigan University · Mount Pleasant, MI | No published median | $17,597 | $12,185 | 89.8% |
| Central Michigan University admits 90% of applicants and shows an average net price of $12,185 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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% |
| Concordia University-Wisconsin ranks 1309th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports $55,600 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Aurora, Aurora University graduates 60% of its students within six years and lists an average net price of $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% |
| Illinois State University reports $55,089 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $11,568 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 admits 70% of applicants and posts $55,078 in median earnings 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 ($55,078) | |||||
| 32 | Bluffton University · Bluffton, OH | $55,073 | $19,943 | $16,363 | 67.2% |
| Ranking 1301st on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Bluffton University shows 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 $54,975 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $26,565. | |||||
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 admits 84% of applicants and lists 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 graduates 71% of its students within six years and posts $54,448 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 ($54,448) | |||||
| 36 | University of Wisconsin-Madison · Madison, WI | $54,375 | $17,354 | $4,200 | 45.2% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison ranks 82nd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports an average net price of $17,354. | |||||
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, a private nonprofit university in Adrian, reports median earnings of $54,277 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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% |
| With an admission rate of 89%, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay posts median Public Administration earnings of $54,252 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 graduates 65% of its students within six years and reports Public Administration earnings 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% |
| An average net price of $12,220 coincides with median Public Administration earnings of $54,195 four years after completing at University of Wisconsin-Superior. | |||||
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 ranks 41st on this list, with median Public Administration earnings of $54,063 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% |
| Winona State University reports an average net price of $10,224 for families earning under $30,000 alongside median Public Administration earnings of $54,056 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 in Fayette, admits 96% of applicants and reports Public Administration earnings of $53,880 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 a six-year completion rate of 22% and median Public Administration earnings 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% |
| University of Wisconsin-Whitewater ranks 385th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports Public Administration earnings of $53,745 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 posts a six-year completion rate of 76% and median Public Administration earnings of $53,715 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 ($53,715) | |||||
| 47 | Fort Hays State University · Hays, KS | $53,549 | $12,569 | $7,661 | 90.3% |
| Fort Hays State University carries an average net price of $7,661 for families earning under $30,000 and reports Public Administration earnings of $53,549 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 ($53,549) | |||||
| 48 | Indiana University-Indianapolis · Indianapolis, IN | $53,376 | $11,668 | $5,701 | 76.4% |
| Indiana University-Indianapolis ranks 139th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, with median Public Administration earnings of $53,376 four years after completing. | |||||
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, a private nonprofit university in Saint Charles, reports $53,359 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $19,638. | |||||
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% |
| Ferris State University posts an average net price of $2,556 for families earning under $30,000, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $53,351 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 ($53,351) | |||||
| 51 | Purdue University Fort Wayne · Fort Wayne, IN | $53,257 | $13,171 | $8,306 | 83.9% |
| Purdue University Fort Wayne admits 84% of applicants 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 | No published median | $18,059 | $12,544 | 93.5% |
| University of Kansas ranks 183rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and graduates 69% of its students within six years. | |||||
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% |
| An average net price of $13,066 for families earning under $30,000 coincides with $53,203 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing at University of Nebraska at Kearney. | |||||
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% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Decatur, Millikin University ranks 1120th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and shows a six-year completion rate of 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 posts an average net price of $13,529 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% |
| With an admission rate of 78%, Cornerstone University reports $52,568 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and 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% |
| Southern Illinois University Edwardsville graduates 57% of its students within six years and 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 reports $52,471 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $24,468. | |||||
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 admits 82% of applicants and posts an average net price of $10,270 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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% |
| Graduates of University of Iowa earn a median of $52,451 four years after completing, and the school ranks 184th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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, a private nonprofit university in Palos Heights, reports median earnings of $52,382 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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% |
| University of Missouri-St Louis admits 63% of applicants and shows a six-year completion rate of 57%. | |||||
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 posts an average net price of $20,729 and an Azimuth composite rank of 745th among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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 Public Administration graduates earning a median of $52,014 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 carries an average net price of $17,449 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 44%. | |||||
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% |
| Minot State University reports median earnings of $51,931 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $12,703. | |||||
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 admits 71% of applicants 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 1270th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and shows a six-year completion rate of 68%. | |||||
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 posts an average net price of $23,119 for families earning under $30,000 and ranks 69th on this list. | |||||
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 reports 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 carries an average net price of $26,364. | |||||
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 posts an average net price of $1,419 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 37%. | |||||
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 | No published median | $15,407 | $13,250 | 79.6% |
| Eastern Michigan University ranks 73rd on this list and reports 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% |
| Graduates of the Public Administration program at University of Central Missouri earned a median of $51,349 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 ($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 its Public Administration graduates earned a median of $51,267 four years after completing. | |||||
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% |
| With an average net price of $15,901, University of Northern Iowa reports median earnings of $51,212 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 posts a six-year completion rate of 46% 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% |
| An average net price of $13,946 coincides with median earnings of $50,823 for Public Administration graduates at University of Akron Main Campus 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 ($50,823) | |||||
| 79 | Loras College · Dubuque, IA | $50,789 | $20,716 | $20,479 | 99.9% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Dubuque, Loras College admits 100% of applicants and reports median earnings of $50,789 four years after completing. | |||||
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 reports a six-year completion rate of 31% and an average net price of $26,337. | |||||
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. | |||||
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% |
| An admission rate of 66% and an average net price of $21,602 are reported by University of Indianapolis. | |||||
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 posts a six-year completion rate of 84% and reports median earnings of $50,611 for 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 ranks 84th on this list and reports an average net price of $15,232. | |||||
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% |
| Ranked 85th on this list, University of Illinois Springfield reports $50,516 in median earnings of 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 $50,480 in median earnings 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 its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $50,419 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% |
| Grand Valley State University ranks 210th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports $50,396 in median earnings of 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% |
| Graduates of University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee earn a median of $50,392 four years after completing, and the school shows an average net price of $15,014. | |||||
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 $50,351 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $19,793 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 graduates 62% of its students within six years and its Public Administration completers earn a median of $50,321 four years after completing. | |||||
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 |
| Briar Cliff University ranks 92nd on this list with median earnings of $50,315 four years after completing and an average net price of $23,907. | |||||
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 $50,169 in median earnings four years after completing with an average net price of $10,534 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 |
| With a six-year completion rate of 53%, Washburn University posts $50,122 in median earnings 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 $49,952 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $13,297, with an admission rate of 87%. | |||||
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 ranks 631st on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $49,855 four years after completing. | |||||
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 of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and 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% 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 $49,690 in median earnings four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 65%. | |||||
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% |
| Wichita State University reports median earnings of $49,670 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, with an admission rate of 94%. | |||||
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 reports $49,642 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $14,530 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 ranks 1255th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $49,587 for its Public Administration graduates 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 institution in Notre Dame, Saint Mary's College shows a six-year completion rate of 69% and median earnings of $49,555 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 ranks 104th on this list, with an admission rate of 83% and an average net price of $20,168. | |||||
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 reports $49,514 in median earnings of Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $10,126 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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% |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus admits 85% of applicants and 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 ranks 107th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 50% and an average net price of $12,767. | |||||
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 $7,007 and 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, a private nonprofit university in Lincoln, reports median earnings of $48,785 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 ($48,785) | |||||
| 110 | National Louis University · Chicago, IL | No published median | $12,641 | $12,462 | 95.1% |
| National Louis University admits 95% of applicants and carries 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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 40%, Indiana University-South Bend posts an average net price of $4,637 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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% |
| 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 ranks 763rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and shows 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 reports median earnings of $47,660 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $23,097. | |||||
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 shows an average net price of $11,952 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 42%. | |||||
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% |
| Ashland University reports median earnings of $47,094 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and ranks 945th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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 an average net price of $22,715 and reports median earnings of $46,785 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 | No published median | $28,384 | $16,015 | 75.4% |
| Miami University-Oxford graduates 80% of its students within six years and carries an average net price of $28,384. | |||||
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 shows an average net price of $6,455 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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, a private nonprofit university in Sioux Falls, reports $46,451 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $21,383. | |||||
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% |
| With a six-year completion rate of 58%, Missouri State University-Springfield admits 91% of applicants and ranks 589th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | |||||
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 posts an average net price of $13,290 for families earning under $30,000, alongside a 76% admission rate and median earnings of $46,238 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 124 | Cleveland State University · Cleveland, OH | No published median | $14,764 | $11,958 | 91.3% |
| Ranking 211th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Cleveland State University reports a 51% six-year completion rate and an average net price of $14,764. | |||||
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 reports median earnings of $46,187 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 39%. | |||||
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 | No published median | $21,936 | $17,941 | 86.2% |
| A private nonprofit institution in Indianola, 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 reports median earnings of $45,476 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its admission rate is 92%. | |||||
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% |
| With an average net price of $15,291, Southwest Minnesota State University admits 62% of applicants and reports a 45% six-year completion rate. | |||||
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 median earnings of $45,453 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $1,694 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 posts a 75% six-year completion rate and median earnings of $44,867 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 reports median earnings of $43,989 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 median earnings of $43,470 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing, and its average net price is $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 an admission rate of 74%. | |||||
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 a six-year completion rate of 43%, alongside median earnings of $42,781 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 median earnings of $42,451 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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 has an admission rate of 38% and an average net price of $20,607, while its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $41,533 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 ranks 1394th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $41,036 for its Public Administration graduates four years after completing. | |||||
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% |
| Graduates of the Public Administration program at Grace College and Theological Seminary earn a median of $40,727 four years after completing, and the school's six-year completion rate is 69%. | |||||
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 reports an average net price of $14,493 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% |
| With an admission rate of 48%, Judson University shows a six-year completion rate of 60% and median earnings of $38,639 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 admits 98% of applicants, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $38,515 four years after completing. | |||||
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 its average net price is $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% |
| Lourdes University ranks 1392nd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Public Administration graduates earn a median of $37,088 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, a private nonprofit university in Saint Paul, reports $36,275 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (17 graduates) | |||||
| 146 | University of Illinois Chicago · Chicago, IL | No published median | $10,974 | $7,529 | 77.4% |
| Posting an average net price of $10,974, University of Illinois Chicago ranks 146th on this list and shows a six-year completion rate of 62%. | |||||
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% |
| With an average net price of $3,968, Indiana University-Kokomo reports median earnings of $34,526 for its Public Administration graduates 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% |
| Mount Mary University admits 62% of applicants and shows a six-year completion rate of 43%, alongside median earnings of $34,526 two years after completing. | |||||
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 $33,993 in median earnings for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and an average net price of $35,147 for families earning under $30,000. | |||||
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 ranks 1315th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $33,565 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 151 | Lincoln University · Jefferson City, MO | No published median | $19,092 | $20,070 | Not reported |
| Lincoln University ranks 151st on this list and posts a six-year completion rate of 21%, with an average net price of $19,092. | |||||
Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Social Work (13 graduates) | |||||
| 152 | College of the Ozarks · Point Lookout, MO | No published median | $6,100 | $6,381 | 12.0% |
| College of the Ozarks admits 12% of applicants and reports an average net price of $6,100, alongside a six-year completion rate of 64%. | |||||
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 reports median earnings of $32,569 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and a six-year completion rate of 83%. | |||||
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 ranks 154th on this list and reports an average net price of $10,796 for families earning under $30,000, with median earnings of $32,569 two years after completing. | |||||
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 reports median earnings of $31,133 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing. | |||||
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 $18,846 and median earnings of $28,598 for its Public Administration graduates 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 1247th composite rank on Azimuth's ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions coincides with an 83% admission rate. | |||||
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% |
| A private nonprofit university in Sioux Center, Dordt University shows a six-year completion rate of 70% alongside 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 posts a six-year graduation rate of 36%, while its Public Administration graduates earned a median of $26,739 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% |
| Graduates of the Public Administration program at Quincy University earned a median of $26,739 two years after completing, and the school's average net price is $20,359. | |||||
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% |
| Purdue University Northwest, a public institution in Hammond, lists an average net price of $1,432 for families earning under $30,000 and admits 72% of applicants. | |||||
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 ranks 162nd on this list with a median of $26,121 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 64%. | |||||
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% |
| Evangel University reports a median of $20,140 for its Public Administration graduates two years after completing, and its admission rate is 72%. | |||||
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, highest first. Only schools with a reported Public Administration earnings cohort in the Midwest appear. The figure captures federally aided completers who were working and not enrolled four years after finishing. 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 range and median below cover the 153 schools with a published figure. 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