Urban Studies/Affairs at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

The first-year earnings figure of $28,000 is jarring—ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally for urban studies programs—but the trajectory tells a more nuanced story. By year four, graduates reach nearly $48,000, representing 72% growth and suggesting the program may be developing skills that employers value, even if entry-level opportunities are limited. The modest debt load of $20,550 is reasonable, though the initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.73 means graduates face a tight first year or two.

Here's the complication: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, which makes it statistically unreliable. That 60th percentile state ranking looks middling until you realize Minnesota only has five programs offering this degree, so the comparison set is extremely limited. The University of Minnesota's strong reputation (average SAT of 1359) suggests the program quality may be better than these shaky numbers indicate, but you're essentially making a decision with very little concrete evidence about outcomes.

If your child is genuinely passionate about urban planning or policy work, the low debt and strong earnings growth offer some reassurance. But given the weak initial data and small sample size, you'd be wise to have frank conversations with the department about typical career paths, internship connections, and whether graduates actually work in urban planning roles. This program requires more due diligence than most, not less.