Best
Private Colleges in North Dakota in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Dakota combines business knowledge with practical decision-making skills. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and organizational behavior, often with options in entrepreneurship or analytics. Popular choices include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, Minot State University, and the University of Mary. Graduates commonly pursue roles as management trainees, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, sales representatives, or operations supervisors across industries statewide.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Dakota combines coursework in human development, research methods, statistics, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology with research opportunities. Popular options include the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota State University in Fargo, and the University of Mary in Bismarck. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, market research assistant, or community outreach worker. Clinical positions typically require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Dakota offers preparation for technology careers through courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students develop problem-solving skills and complete projects, exploring artificial intelligence or networks. Colleges include North Dakota State University in Fargo, the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, Minot State University, and the University of Mary in Bismarck. Graduates may become software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or database administrators.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Dakota combines psychology theory with supervised practice. Typical coursework includes counseling techniques, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural approaches. Students may complete internships in schools, clinics, or community agencies. North Dakota options include the University of North Dakota, Minot State University, and the University of Mary in Bismarck. Graduates commonly pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors, subject to credentialing requirements.

Nursing

North Dakota nursing programs blend classroom study with supervised clinical placements. Courses commonly cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child health, mental health, and community care. Students can study at the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, the University of Mary, or Minot State University. Graduates with licensure often work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies, providing patient care, education, and treatment coordination.

Best Colleges in North Dakota Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,614.5, compared with 21,970.0 at schools in the top 10%.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, versus 63.0% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 63.0%. Schools receive an average of 980.67 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 1,641.0 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 565.0, compared with 400.0 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,020.0 and 21.0, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 1,190.5. Average enrollment includes 147.0 men and 154.33 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42.5%, compared with 58.0% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 46.0% for both men and women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are six coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare the cost and financial aid available, and consider how acceptance rates and applicant numbers relate to your preferences. Also weigh SAT and ACT figures, enrollment, graduation rates, degree options, and whether a school's student population and setting suit your needs.

How much does studying at a college in North Dakota cost?

The average total cost of studying in North Dakota is $13,258.83, giving you a starting point as you compare options such as the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota State University in Fargo, or Minot State University. This figure is an average; your bill will vary by school, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

Expense averages provided include $14,812.17 for tuition and fees, $8,931.80 for room and board, and $1,056.40 for books and supplies. These figures are separate averages and may not combine into the overall total, so use each college's current cost estimate to build a realistic budget.

Living on campus can make housing and meals easier to plan, while commuting or buying used books may lower expenses. Compare scholarships, grants, and residency-based rates with each school's financial aid office. Checking estimates for the same academic year helps you make a confident, affordable choice.

How long does it take to finish college in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes two; master's programs require another one to two years. At the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota State University in Fargo, or Minot State University, your timeline depends on your program, course load, and whether you attend year-round. Part-time study, work, family responsibilities, or needing prerequisite courses can extend the schedule.

Graduation rates show the average rate is 42.5%, compared with 58.0% among the top 10% of schools; rates average 44.5% for both men and women. These figures show that finishing is not automatic, but planning and support can help you stay on track.

• Bring in AP, dual-credit, or transfer credits to reduce courses left.
• Take summer classes or heavier course loads when manageable.
• Ask UND, NDSU, or Minot State about accelerated, online, and credit-for-prior-learning options.

Salary

Graduates of North Dakota colleges and universities have a median alumni salary of $43,842. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $57,117.50 - a promising benchmark if you're considering studying and building your career in the state.

Options such as the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, and Minot State University can help you prepare for work close to home. Your actual earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career field, and experience, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you compare programs.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in North Dakota?

Beauty is personal, but the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks is a lovely choice. Its historic campus combines leafy paths, green spaces, and distinctive older buildings, giving it a welcoming feel through the seasons. For a prospective student, it's easy to imagine enjoying a peaceful walk between classes or spending time outdoors with friends.

What is the most selective college in North Dakota?

The University of Jamestown is a strong candidate among the state's four-year colleges, though rankings can shift depending on the year and how each school reports admissions. Acceptance rates don't tell the whole story: program requirements and your academic profile matter, too. If you're applying, check the latest admissions information and ask the college about your specific program.

What is the richest university in North Dakota?

If "richest" means the size of its endowment, the University of North Dakota is generally a leading answer. Endowment totals vary by year and by what assets are included, so comparisons aren't always exact. For students, a larger endowment can support scholarships, research, and campus resources, but it doesn't automatically mean lower costs or more aid for every student.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in North Dakota Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Bismarck, the University of Mary is a private Catholic, Benedictine university offering a campus-based option in North Dakota's capital. It enrolls 3,861 students, with a 67% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $19,940, while median alumni salary is $50,931. For a North Dakota student seeking a faith-informed university near state services and employers, these figures offer a useful starting point; confirm current tuition, fees, housing, and program availability directly before applying or enrolling.

Based in Ellendale, Trinity Bible College and Graduate School is a small Christian institution centered on biblical studies, ministry preparation, and related academic programs. Its 275 enrolled students point to a close-knit campus environment in rural North Dakota. The reported graduation rate is 46%, acceptance rate 26%, total study cost $16,870, and median alumni salary $36,753. Students considering this specialized path should compare program outcomes and financial aid, and ask how campus life and practical ministry opportunities fit their goals.

University of Jamestown, located in the city of Jamestown, is a private university known for a broad liberal arts foundation and a residential campus experience. It enrolls 1,507 students; its graduation rate is 49%, and its acceptance rate is 88%. Total study cost is reported as $24,000, with median alumni salary of $53,823. For North Dakota residents, staying in-state can make visits and local connections convenient; compare net price, specific majors, and career support when weighing this option carefully, too.

Located in Belcourt, Turtle Mountain Community College is a tribally controlled institution serving students in the Turtle Mountain region, with an educational mission connected to local community needs. Enrollment is 872, and the reported graduation rate is 43%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is listed as $2,184, and median alumni salary is $32,586. For North Dakota students seeking an affordable, community-rooted college, ask about available degrees, transfer pathways, student services, and which costs the published total includes, actually.

United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck is a tribally controlled college with career-focused technical and academic programs, serving Native communities and other learners. It enrolls 576 students, reports a 21% graduation rate, and does not provide acceptance-rate data here. The listed total study cost is $4,200, and median alumni salary is $36,605. Its location offers North Dakota students access to Bismarck's services and employers; prospective applicants should verify program-specific credentials, financial aid, and support options before choosing their program carefully.