Ridgewater College
Willmar, Minnesota
About Ridgewater College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1961, Ridgewater College is a 2-year college serving students in Willmar, Minnesota. With a tradition of academic excellence, Ridgewater College prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Health Professions, Agriculture, and more.
A Diverse Community in Willmar
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 18:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Ridgewater College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $8,400, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Ridgewater College emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Ridgewater College students
| First-year retention rate | 68% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $43,677 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $43,827 |
| Median debt at graduation | $12,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Ridgewater College
| Total enrollment | 2,855 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 2,855 |
| International students | 0% |
| First-generation students | 31% |
What you can study at Ridgewater College
60 programs, most of them in these fields:
Agriculture (9)
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations, Agricultural Production Operations, General, Agriculture, General, and more
Health Professions (9)
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic), Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician, Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (6)
Accounting, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Computer Information Sciences (6)
Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Science, Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, and more
Engineering Technologies (6)
Automation Engineer Technology/Technician, CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician, Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician, and more
Precision Production (4)
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist, Machine Tool Technology/Machinist, Tool and Die Technology/Technician, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (3)
Commercial Photography, Prepress/Desktop Publishing and Digital Imaging Design, Recording Arts Technology/Technician
Construction Trades (2)
Carpentry/Carpenter, Electrician
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