Most
Popular Colleges in North Dakota in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Dakota combines business knowledge with skills for managing organizations. Courses typically include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, accountant, human resources specialist, operations manager, or sales representative. Popular options include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, the University of Mary, Minot State University, and Dickinson State University. Programs may offer online and on-campus study.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Dakota blends scientific study of behavior with campus communities. Coursework commonly includes research methods, statistics, developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, plus electives in neuroscience or counseling. Popular options include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, Minot State University, and the University of Mary. Graduates may pursue entry-level roles in human services, case management, behavioral health support, or research assistance; clinical practice typically requires graduate training and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Dakota combines programming foundations with practical problem-solving. Students typically study algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include North Dakota State University in Fargo, the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, and Minot State University. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, web developers, or IT support professionals, while internships provide practical experience and industry connections.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Dakota combines psychological theory, practical skills, and supervised fieldwork. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention. Students may complete internships in schools, clinics, or community agencies. Popular options include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, and the University of Mary. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, licensed mental health counselors, substance use counselors, or career counselors.

Nursing

Studying nursing in North Dakota combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students take courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and maternal and child health. Graduates may pursue work as registered nurses, public health nurses, or long-term care nurses, depending on credential and licensure. Popular colleges offering nursing study include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, University of Mary, and Minot State University.

Best Colleges in North Dakota Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 13909.5 overall, compared with 21158.0 at schools in the top 10% - a higher median cost in that group.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 70.25% at top 10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 70.25%.
• Schools receive an average of 2601.5 applicants overall, while the average at top 10% schools is 7537.9. The median applicant counts are 614.0 men and 492.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1096.17 on the SAT and 21.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 4923.88, including average counts of 369.88 men and 391.62 women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.38% overall and 64.9% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 51.0% for men and 61.5% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, 8 offer bachelor's degrees, 8 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees. There are 8 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant and enrollment figures, test scores, and graduation rates. Consider which degree levels are offered and how the overall figures compare with those for top 10% schools, while weighing the separate graduation-rate and enrollment figures provided.

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

The available North Dakota estimate puts average total study cost at $14,356.25; it does not specify a full degree's duration, so treat this as a study-cost estimate, not the complete price of earning a degree. The listed averages are $14,881.50 for tuition and fees, $9,809.25 for room and board, and $1,074.57 for books and supplies. These components total $25,765.32, so they do not reconcile with the reported total. Your actual bill will depend on institution, residency, program, housing, and financial aid.

At the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks or North Dakota State University in Fargo, compare your program's tuition and mandatory fees before planning. Minot State University and Dickinson State University are other in-state options worth checking. Ask each school whether its published cost is per semester or academic year, and whether the estimate includes housing, meal plans, and books. Check scholarships, grants, and North Dakota resident aid to see how you could lower your costs.

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

In North Dakota, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two years. Students at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks or North Dakota State University in Fargo should plan for required courses, clinical or lab placements where applicable, and their own pace; part-time study can extend the timeline.

Graduation rates offer a helpful reality check: North Dakota's average is 54.38%, while schools in the top 10% average 64.9%. The average is 59.25% for women and 49.5% for men. These figures show many students finish, though completion isn't guaranteed and varies by program and circumstances.

To finish sooner with careful planning, consider:

• Earn college credit through AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer courses accepted by your school.
• Take summer or winter courses, or choose an accelerated online program if available.
• Meet an adviser early to map prerequisites and avoid delayed graduation.

Salary

College graduates in North Dakota have a median alumni salary of $51,066. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is $57,400 - a promising benchmark as you consider options such as the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, or other colleges in the state.

Your own earnings may vary based on your field, experience, and employer, but these figures offer a helpful starting point for comparing the potential value of earning a degree close to home.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in North Dakota?

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's most attended college by total enrollment. It reported about 15,000 students in fall 2024. That large community gives students access to a wide range of programs, campus activities, and services in Grand Forks, while still keeping them connected to North Dakota.

What is the most popular school in North Dakota?

There is no official measure of which school is "most popular," since popularity could mean applications, name recognition, or student enrollment. North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a prominent choice, especially for students interested in its Fargo campus, academic programs, and Bison athletics. Your best fit depends on what matters most to you.

What is the most famous university in North Dakota?

The University of North Dakota is arguably the state's best-known university beyond North Dakota. Its aviation and aerospace programs draw attention nationally, and its Fighting Hawks hockey teams have a strong following. For a prospective student, that combination can mean access to distinctive study options and a lively campus sports culture.

What is the hardest university to get into in North Dakota?

University of Jamestown is often among North Dakota's more selective universities in comparisons based on reported admission rates. However, there is no definitive statewide ranking, and acceptance rates can change from year to year or be reported differently. Check the latest admissions profile and consider program requirements, not just the overall rate.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in North Dakota Ranking in 2026-2027

Dickinson State University gives North Dakota students a relatively small-campus option, with 1,374 enrolled students. Its 51% graduation rate and 37% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a selective admissions environment while considering completion outcomes. The listed total study cost is $7,470, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $51,201. Located in western North Dakota, Dickinson can suit students who want to remain in-state and compare affordability with graduation and earnings measures before making decisions.

Minot State University is an in-state choice in Minot, giving North Dakota residents a campus option beyond the state's largest cities. It enrolls 2,751 students, a mid-sized community among the five schools listed. The acceptance rate is 65%, while the graduation rate is 45%, figures worth weighing when comparing admissions and completion. Total study cost is $7,168, the lowest listed, and median alumni salary is $49,809. For budget-conscious applicants, these measures offer a useful starting point for evaluating value carefully.

The University of Mary offers North Dakota students a Bismarck-based option and enrolls 3,861 students. Its 67% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 75% acceptance rate indicates a comparatively accessible admissions profile. The listed total study cost is $19,940, higher than the two lowest-cost options, and median alumni salary is $50,931. Students comparing in-state study choices can consider its completion figure alongside cost, enrollment size, and reported alumni earnings when planning a degree close to home.

University of North Dakota is the largest school in this group, with 15,844 enrolled students, offering a broad-scale university setting in Grand Forks. Its graduation rate is 60%, and its 77% acceptance rate suggests many applicants are admitted. The listed total study cost is $13,856, while median alumni salary reaches $57,659, the highest figure among the five. For North Dakota residents, UND is an in-state option to compare for campus scale, cost, completion, and postgraduation earnings when choosing a degree.

University of Jamestown gives students an in-state option in Jamestown with 1,507 enrolled students, making it one of the smaller communities in this comparison. Its 88% acceptance rate is the highest among the five, while its graduation rate is 49%. Total study cost is listed at $24,000, the highest figure here, and median alumni salary is $53,823. North Dakota applicants can weigh its accessible admissions profile and reported earnings against the higher stated cost when comparing degree paths in-state carefully.