The cheapest colleges in Minnesota have a lot to offer. Low-tuition colleges have many degree options including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs. Studying at an affordable school will let you focus on your education without worrying about money.
When choosing a college you should consider factors like graduation rate, acceptance rate, and school reputation. If you’re focused on keeping costs as low as possible, you can also look into the cheapest online colleges in Minnesota which will have some of the lowest costs overall. This article breaks down the most affordable colleges in Minnesota to help make your college search as easy as possible.
How Much Does College Cost in Minnesota?
In-state undergraduate students in Minnesota pay an average tuition of $11,748 per year, according to state-specific data collected by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The same source also states that out-of-state undergraduate students in Minnesota pay an average of $24,442 per year in tuition.
Higher education can be very expensive, and costs are often prohibitive. However, it is not necessary to pay a high tuition cost to receive a quality education. If you attend one of the cheapest universities in Minnesota you’ll be able to get a good education at a reasonable price.
Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul | $276/credit hour | $474/credit hour |
| Capella University | Minneapolis | $357 – $415/credit hour | $440 – $815/credit hour |
| Concordia University – St. Paul | Saint Paul | $420/credit hour | $395 – $885/credit hour |
| University of Minnesota | Twin Cities | $538/credit hour (in state), $1,278/credit hour (out of state) | $9,234/semester (in state), $14,289/ semester (out of state) |
| Winona State University | Winona | $4,050/semester (in state), $7,301/semester (out of state) | $444/credit hour (in state), $671/credit hour (out of state) |
| Bemidji State University | Bemidji | $4,497/semester | N/A |
| Martin Luther College | New Ulm | $8,455/semester | $325/credit hour |
| North Central University | Minneapolis | $13,570/semester | $570/credit hour |
| Bethany Lutheran College | Mankato | $14,165/semester | $14,165/semester |
| Crown College | Saint Bonifacius | $14,180/semester | $575 – 590/credit hour |
Cheapest Universities in Minnesota: A Closer Look
Below is a deeper look at the cheapest universities in Minnesota, including both public colleges and private colleges. You can compare all the schools in terms of undergraduate and graduate tuition rates. Each section also provides information on the school’s acceptance rates, graduation rates, accreditations, and more.
Metropolitan State University is located in St. Paul, Minnesota. It has a population of 10,500 students studying across its 75 academic programs. Popular colleges include community studies and public affairs, liberal arts, and management.
Metropolitan State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $276/credit hour
- Graduate Tuition: $474/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Metropolitan State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $9,395
- Books and Supplies: $1,500
- On-Campus Room and Board: N/A
Popular Metropolitan State University Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. Throughout this program, artists and creative writing faculty members give workshops and mentor students.
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting. This program prepares professionals to become certified public accountants and to work in other accounting roles. Students learn about accounting principles, tax management, and financial management.
- Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy. This is a unique program for professional dental hygienists to advance in the field of oral health.
Capella University is a private university for online learning. It offers degrees in areas like business, nursing, psychology, and much more. Students seeking any education level will find a variety of programs to choose from including certifications, bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctoral degrees that are available completely online.
Capella University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $357 - $415/credit hour
- Graduate Tuition: $440 - $815/credit hour
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Capella University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $14,148
- Books and Supplies: $422
- On-Campus Room and Board: N/A
Popular Capella University Programs
- Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy. This is a five-course program in which graduate students learn about play therapy methodologies and their applications.
- Master of Business Administration. This is a one-year program with a flexible schedule to help professionals earn MBAs to enhance their career prospects in the business world. Students can specialize in project management, human resource management, or health care management.
- Doctor of Information Technology. This program is designed to help professionals solidify project management skills and knowledge in in-demand aspects of information technology. Candidates must complete a capstone project and two virtual residencies.
Concordia University is a Christ-centered private university located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It has various undergraduate, graduate, and online programs for students in a student-centered learning environment.
Concordia University - St. Paul Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $420/credit hour
- Graduate Tuition: $395 - 885/credit hour
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Concordia University - St. Paul NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $23,900
- Books and Supplies: $2,000
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,900
Popular Concordia University - St. Paul Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Management and Leadership. This program will help you acquire and enhance management, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This is an online program that offers students the flexibility to develop skills at their own pace. Students complete 120 credits at the minimum in less than three years.
- Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration. The curriculum covers topics in nutrition and athletic training and coaching as well as in business.
The University of Minnesota is a public research university in the Twin Cities. It has a student body of more than 50,000 students and over 4,000 faculty members. Most University of Minnesota students choose on-campus housing during their first year and also enjoy access to many clubs and student organizations.
University of Minnesota Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $538/credit hour (in state), $1,278/credit hour (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $9,234/semester (in state), $14,289/semester (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Minnesota NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $15,027
- Books and Supplies: $1,000
- On-Campus Room and Board: $10,358
Popular University of Minnesota Programs
- Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics. Students in this program complete a minimum of 122 credits in core courses and electives. The ABET-accredited degree program is offered at the Twin Cities campus.
- Bachelor of Science in Apparel Design. The program offers a theoretical background, research experience, and hands-on learning opportunities that will help you build a strong portfolio.
- Master of Professional Studies in Applied Sciences Leadership. This is an integrated program suitable for professionals looking for roles in government and non-profit organizations.
Winona State University is one of the oldest schools in Minnesota. It was founded in 1858 and now has two main campuses as well as around 80 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs. In addition to strong academics, students also get opportunities to participate in sports, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.
Winona State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $4,050/semester (in state), $7,301/semester (out of state)
- Graduate Tuition: $444/credit (in state), $671/credit (out of state)
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Winona State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $10,184
- Books and Supplies: $900
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,270
Popular Winona State University Programs
- Bachelor in Academic and Behavioral Strategist. This program prepares students to teach in K-12 classrooms and trains them to instruct students with disabilities.
- Bachelor in Applied and Professional Writing. Students in this 40-credit program focus on enhancing their writing skills for careers in technical writing, marketing, and journalism.
- Master in Performance Analytics. The program is offered in both on-campus and online formats. Students learn to utilize various tools for performance optimization, and can typically complete the program in just four semesters.
Bemidji State University was founded in 1919. It offers a wide range of undergraduate programs including earth, geography, modern languages, and political science. Students have access to campus facilities including kayaks, theaters, and fitness centers.
Bemidji State University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $4,497/semester
- Graduate Tuition: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Bemidji State University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $9,806
- Books and Supplies: $890
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,160
Popular Bemidji State University Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. This is a 75-credit program divided into business core courses and computer science courses. Students gain business skills as well as technical skills.
- Master of Science in Biology. This program is offered fully online or in a hybrid thesis-based format to learn advanced concepts in biology. The school offers graduate assistantships to help graduate students manage finances and gain experience in teaching and research.
- Master of Business Administration. This is an online program in which students learn about concepts in business administration, leadership, and professional development.
Martin Luther College offers many undergraduate and graduate programs for its student body. It also provides a faith-based Christian learning environment with a Lutheran focus. Students are able to acquire academic qualifications to become educated ministers.
Martin Luther College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $8,455/semester
- Graduate Tuition: $325/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Martin Luther College NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $16,910
- Books and Supplies: $800
- On-Campus Room and Board: $6,680
Popular Martin Luther College Programs
- Bachelor of Middle and Secondary Education. This program will prepare students to become a major in middle and secondary school education and apply for the Minnesota teaching license for grades 5 to 8. It has 11 tracks that allow future teachers to prepare to instruct in specific areas like mathematics, music, or social studies.
- Master of Science in Educational Administration. This program is offered online for education majors who are interested in working in leadership roles.
- Master of Arts in Theological Studies. This is an ideal program if you want to help others grow spiritually by becoming a teacher or staff minister.
North Central University has many degree program options for students to gain professional skills and experience. The main campus offers a focused and academically-driven community faculty. NCU is located in downtown Minneapolis which has lots of opportunities for entertainment, fitness, and internships.
North Central University Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $13,570/semester
- Graduate Tuition: $570/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
North Central University NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $27,200
- Books and Supplies: $1,625
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,680
Popular North Central University Programs
- Bachelor of Business Administration. There are 124 required credits in this program. Graduates are prepared for various business careers such as business analyst, human resources manager, or purchasing manager.
- Bachelor of Digital Media. This program is suitable for students interested in digital media, storytelling, or communications.
- Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership. This is an accredited program focusing on leadership strategy in management. Students can specialize in worship arts leadership, church leadership, or business administration leadership.
Bethany Lutheran College is a Christian school that brings spiritual value to education through faith-based learning. This school has a range of majors in liberal arts including history, nursing, and philosophy. Although the tuition per semester is on the higher end of the schools we’re looking at, almost 100 percent of students receive financial aid in various forms, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Bethany Lutheran College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $14,165/semester
- Graduate Tuition: $14,165/semester
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Bethany Lutheran College NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $28,660
- Books and Supplies: $800
- On-Campus Room and Board: $8,120
Popular Bethany Lutheran College Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. This program teaches business foundations and provides tracks in finance and investments, marketing, entrepreneurship, and other major business areas. The curriculum is designed to provide hands-on learning that allows students to understand broad concepts through case studies and internships.
- Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics. Students in this program must complete 43 credits or more to graduate. It’s ideal for prospective teachers who want to pursue state licensure.
- Master in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The online degree program curriculum consists of online courses and three residencies. Students gain practical experience through work at outpatient care centers, psychiatric hospitals, and churches.
Crown College is a small, rural university located in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota. It’s a faith-friendly university where students can find mentorship, friendship, and a close-knit community. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 98 percent of students receive financial aid in the form of federal grants, scholarships, and student loans.
Crown College Overview
- Undergraduate Tuition: $14,180/semester
- Graduate Tuition: $575/credit
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Crown College NCES Cost Estimations
- Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $28,110
- Books and Supplies: $1,316
- On-Campus Room and Board: $9,480
Popular Crown College Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Business. In this program, students learn business skills and decision-making strategies from experienced faculty.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. This online program is designed to help you earn the skills necessary for entry-level careers in criminal justice. During the course, students dive into various aspects of criminology and justice.
- Master of Arts in Global Leadership. This program is offered to online learners and is taught by highly qualified faculty.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Minnesota
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| Hibbing Community College | $198/credit hour (in state), $242/credit hour (out of state) | Associate, Certificates, Diplomas |
| Bemidji State University | $302/credit hour (undergraduate), $478/credit hour (graduate) | Associate, Licensure Programs, Bachelor’s, |
| Capella University | $357 – $415/credit hour (undergraduate), $440 – $815/credit hour (graduate) | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| Concordia University – St. Paul | $420/credit hour | Associate, Bachelor’s |
| Crown College | $440/credit hour (undergraduate), $590/credit hour (graduate) | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
Cheapest Colleges in Minnesota by In-State Tuition
- Rasmussen University | $260/credit
- Southwest Minnesota State University | $266/credit
- Metropolitan State University | $276/credit
- Walden University | $280/credit
- Capella University | $357 – $415/credit
Cheapest Colleges in Minnesota by Out-of-State Tuition
- Southwest Minnesota State University | $266/credit
- Metropolitan State University | $276/credit
- Walden University | $280/credit
- Capella University | $357 – $415/credit
- Concordia University – St. Paul | $420/credit
Why Is College So Expensive?
College is a great investment for your career, but the cost of attendance can be very high. The main costs contributing to expensive education are tuition, additional fees, and housing expenses. Below are some of the top factors that make college expensive.
Housing and Food
The college experience can become very expensive if housing and food are not budgeted for correctly. Sometimes students don’t allot enough money for housing and food expenses in their budget or make the most economical choices. Get a clear idea of your expenses when considering living on or off campus, and be realistic about the cost of food needed during this time.
Fees
Prestigious accredited schools often have fees in addition to high tuition rates. However, most of these schools also offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities. If you want to get the most out of your education, put your best foot forward by maintaining good grades and a consistent GPA to be eligible for merit-based scholarships and scholarship renewals.
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses are difficult to estimate and accumulate month after month. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can spend an average of $25,799 on housing, $9,835 on insurance, and $7,050 on healthcare annually in Minneapolis. To offset these costs, college students can make intentional choices about where and how they live when planning their budgets.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Study in your state. The best way to save money on college tuition is by choosing a school in your state that offers a discount on in-state tuition fees. This will help you cut down on costs. Keep in mind that attending one of the cheapest online colleges in Minnesota can potentially save you even more money.
- Make your food and drinks at home. You will be surprised how much you can save by cooking at home. Making your coffee at home will also save you more than you’d expect.
- Choose a cheaper mode of transport. If you are a student trying to save money, it is best not to own a car or make monthly payments. Finding alternative modes of transportation will be more affordable.
- Take advantage of on-campus facilities. Most colleges offer amenities like discounted gyms, housing, healthcare, and libraries. Make sure to use these facilities and resources instead of more expensive alternatives.
- Apply for financial aid. Many of the cheapest colleges in Minnesota offer scholarships, grants, and other kinds of financial aid that make it easy for students to earn their degrees while remaining financially stable.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in Minnesota
- Look for financial aid options by finding out what school and program-specific opportunities are available. This information should be available on school websites and you can also always contact individual financial aid offices to get the most direct answers to your questions.
- Submit an application for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) system for financial aid.
- Provide the required financial information for the FAFSA form and submit it online.
- Next, search for and apply for any grant and scholarship options available to you.
- If awarded any financial aid, note what requirements and parameters apply in order to renew the award for future years of study.
Scholarships for Students in Minnesota
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Steve and Darla Frantz Leadership Scholarship | LeadMN | $1,250 | Undergraduate students in Minnesota with 2.5 GPA or more, priority given to students with military experience |
| Workforce Development Scholarship | Minnesota Legislature | $2,500 | Students of Minnesota state community and technical colleges enrolled in on-campus and online programs |
| Workforce Development Scholarship | State of Minnesota and the Friends of Saint Paul College Foundation | $2,500 | Minnesota residents enrolled in 9 credits or more in Saint Paul College |
| HSF Scholarship | Holly Scanlan Foundation | $5,000 | Minnesota residents who have a family member who has cancer and are in need of financial assistance. GPA requirement of at least 2.75 |
| Alexander Campbell Religious Leadership Award | Bethany Lutheran College | Varies | Children of ministers at Bethany College |
| The Aspire Scholarship | Wallin Education Partners | $8,000 | Students in technical associate degree programs |
| Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program for High School Seniors | Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and The Sallie Mae Fund | Up to $10,000 | Undergraduate students |
| St. Catherine of Alexandria Scholarship | St. Catherine University | $28,000 | Students with outstanding academic performance at St. Catherine University |
| Bethany Grant | Bethany Lutheran College | $10,500 | Students who have a GPA of 2.8 or above |
| Ciresi Walburn Leadership Fellows | Ciresi Walburn Foundation | $40,000 | Black male students |
How to Choose a Cheap College in Minnesota
Trying to find the right school can be nerve-wracking. Below are some of the best tips on how to choose an affordable college in Minnesota to study for your associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or graduate degree. Keep reading to learn some strategies you can keep in mind while you’re choosing an educational path.
Program Flexibility
Many of the best schools offer online degree programs that give students a lot of flexibility. If you study online it can be easier to offset the cost of tuition by maintaining part-time or even full-time employment. Studying online also means that you won’t have to commute to school which can help keep costs low.
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Tuition rate
Some colleges have per-credit tuition rates and program curriculums with specific total credit hour requirements. This allows students to plan their finances and avoid paying for too many additional courses. Other schools have per-semester tuition rates that you can consider as one-time payments. Either way, be sure to carefully research the cost of tuition.
Consider scholarships and grants
There are plenty of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options provided by the state and by universities to help qualified students to pursue higher education. You can find scholarships offered by schools often based on different kinds of merit or based on academic achievement. Some colleges offer freshmen scholarships to ease the financial burden for students during their first year of study.
Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in Minnesota
| Job Title | Average Salary in Minnesota | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | $111,400 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Project Management Specialist | $94,750 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Operations Research Analyst | $92,640 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | $90,340 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Chiropractor | $83,600 | PhD |
| Landscape Architect | $81,630 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Market Research Analyst | $81,360 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Survey Researcher | $70,110 | Master’s degree |
| Paralegal | $61,790 | Associate degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in Minnesota: Explained
- Average Salary: $110,140
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $111,400
- Overall Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
Software developers mainly create software applications based on their analysis of client needs. They are also responsible for maintaining, testing, and documentating the software development process. There are roles for software developers in small-scale software development contexts and on large development teams.
- Average Salary: $98,420
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $94,750
- Overall Job Outlook: 5 - 10% from 2020 to 2030
Project management specialists ensure that a project’s scope is appropriate and communicates and coordinates with stakeholders. To be a specialist in this field you must have a diverse project management portfolio and extensive project management experience.
- Average Salary: $82,360
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $92,640
- Overall Job Outlook: 25% from 2020 to 2030
Operations research analysts are employed in the finance, insurance, management, and manufacturing fields. They also sometimes work for federal defense organizations. The main responsibilities of operations research analysts include collecting data, developing testing models, and producing reports.
- Average Salary: $80,600
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $90,340
- Overall Job Outlook: 5% from 2020 to 2030
Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for assessing an organization’s hardware systems. They assess the hardware needs depending on an organization’s size and performance requirements. Network administrators are generally able to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Average Salary: $75,000
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $83,600
- Overall Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030
Chiropractors are health professionals who are licensed to treat patients for issues related to the nervous system, muscles, and more. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques, stretching exercises, and massage therapy. They can also offer clients nutritional advice.
- Average Salary: $67,950
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $81,630
- Overall Job Outlook: No change from 2020 to 2030
Landscape architects are designers of building sites, residence properties, and other sites. They need to have experience in computer design and drafting software. They also have to be familiar with geographic information systems.
- Average Salary: $63,920
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $81,360
- Overall Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
Market research analysts are responsible for gathering data, analyzing, and presenting data. They help marketing and sales teams understand consumer preferences, market conditions, and competitors. To land a job as a market research analyst, you will need to have good analytical and critical thinking skills to produce quality research reports.
- Average Salary: $59,740
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $70,110
- Overall Job Outlook: 4% from 2020 to 2030
Survey researchers apply problem-solving, communication, and research skills to conduct surveys for research and analysis purposes. They can be responsible for designing surveys in a wide array of fields like marketing, healthcare, economy, business, or even politics. To work in this field you need at least a master’s degree.
- Average Salary: $56,230
- Average Salary in Minnesota: $61,790
- Overall Job Outlook: 12% from 2020 to 2030
Paralegals conduct research to support legal work. They are employed by legal departments of organizations, law firms, and government institutions. Strong research skills will help you become a paralegal.
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in Minnesota Worth It?
A cheap college in Minnesota is worth it because it will help you achieve your short-term goals and long-term goals. You will be able to gain specific skills in your chosen career, get career advice from professional services, and participate in research work and internships that will prepare you for the job market. Don’t forget that it’s entirely possible for you to earn a quality education from an accredited school without drowning in college debt.
Cheapest Colleges in Minnesota FAQ
Some of the cheapest colleges in Minnesota are Rasmussen University, Capella University, Bemidji State University, Crown College, and Martin Luther College. For an associate degree, consider Ridgewater College, Carleton College, Concordia College, and Dunwoody College of Technology. All of these schools offer an affordable price per credit hour.
The best part-time jobs for college students include barista, bartender, and dog sitter. Students also have access to many freelancing platforms which can be more convenient. If your school and program offer work-study opportunities, definitely consider those since they can give you paid professional experience in your field of study.
You can go to school full time by saving money for a year and then enrolling in school. Scholarships can also make studying without working possible. Students are able to use scholarship awards to cover tuition and potentially other costs of living.
The Minnesota State Grant is offered to students from low-income households in Minnesota. The state provides this grant to help students pursue their educational goals. To apply for the Minnesota State Grant, all you have to do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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