Best
Colleges in North Dakota in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in North Dakota combines foundational coursework with career preparation. Typical classes include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and organizational behavior. Students may develop communication, analytical, and leadership skills through projects and internships. Popular options include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, University of Mary, Minot State University, and Dickinson State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, or operations manager.

Psychology

Studying psychology in North Dakota offers pathways to understand behavior, cognition, and mental health. Programs cover research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and counseling. Students can study at University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, or the University of Mary. A bachelor's degree may lead to roles in human services, case management, recruiting, or community support; graduate study can prepare students for counseling or clinical psychology careers, subject to licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in North Dakota offers a mix of theory and technology training. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and strengthen problem-solving skills through labs and team assignments. Popular options include North Dakota State University, the University of North Dakota, Minot State University, and the University of Mary. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or data analysts.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in North Dakota combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice with supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in school, clinical mental health, or addiction counseling. Popular options include the University of North Dakota, Minot State University, North Dakota State University, and the University of Mary. Graduates often pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, behavioral health clinicians, addiction counselors, or community mental-health specialist positions.

Nursing

In North Dakota, nursing programs combine learning with clinical experience in hospitals and healthcare settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and mental health nursing. Students build communication and decision-making skills while preparing for licensure. Colleges include the University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, the University of Mary, and Minot State University. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, public health, or specialty units.

Best Colleges in North Dakota Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 9,775.0, compared with 18,712.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top-10% figure 8,937.0 higher.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 70.25% at top-10% schools, a difference of 29.75 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.25%. Schools receive an average of 2,601.5 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 7,537.9 applicants. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 614.0 and 492.0, respectively.
• Average test scores are 1,096.17 on the SAT and 20.86 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,118.2. Average enrollment figures are 369.88 men and 391.62 women.
• The average graduation rate is 43.0%, compared with 62.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 44.0% for men and 48.0% for women.
• There are 12 institutions offering associate's degrees, 15 offering bachelor's degrees, 11 offering master's degrees, and 5 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 15 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, potential students should compare costs and financial-aid availability, consider acceptance rates and applicant numbers, and weigh test scores, enrollment, degree options, and graduation rates. The higher cost reported for top-10% schools and their higher average graduation rate are factors to consider together with each student's priorities.

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

The average total cost of studying in North Dakota is reported as $10,454.60. Use this as a broad benchmark rather than the guaranteed price of completing an entire degree: your actual expenses will depend on the college, program, and how long you study. At schools such as the University of North Dakota or North Dakota State University, comparing tuition, housing, and course-material costs can help you build a realistic budget and feel more confident planning your next step.

• Average tuition and fees: $10,859.80
• Average room and board: $9,053.50
• Average books and supplies: $1,136

These figures offer a useful sense of the expenses North Dakota students may need to consider, but they are averages, not a personalized quote. Your housing choice, course load, and program can make a meaningful difference. When researching a degree, check each institution's current cost breakdown and ask about financial aid, scholarships, and payment options. Planning early can make studying closer to home feel more manageable, whether you're considering a large research university or another North Dakota college. Remember to budget for everyday spending alongside school costs, so your financial plan reflects your own circumstances.

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

A full-time bachelor's degree in North Dakota typically takes four years; an associate degree usually takes two. At the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota State University in Fargo, or another state college, your timeline may vary with your major, course availability, work, and family responsibilities.

The reported average graduation rate is 43.0%, so completing a degree is not automatic. The average is 62.4% among the top 10% of schools; rates are 42.4% for men and 45.33% for women. These figures make planning and support important.

You can move faster by earning AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring coursework, taking summer classes, or following an accelerated schedule where offered. Ask an adviser at UND, NDSU, or your college to map requirements and avoid missed prerequisites. Online and flexible courses can help North Dakota students balance school with work or family while maintaining progress toward graduation.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in North Dakota earn a median salary of about $50,931. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median rises to approximately $59,861, offering an encouraging benchmark as you consider your education and career options in the state.

Popular choices such as the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and North Dakota State University in Fargo can prepare students for a range of careers. Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and where you work after graduation; opportunities may differ among Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and smaller communities.

• Use the state median as a general starting point, not a guarantee of what you will earn.
• Compare programs at North Dakota colleges with the careers and local job opportunities that interest you.
• Look at internships and other hands-on experience while studying, which can help you build confidence and prepare for work after graduation.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in North Dakota?

By total student enrollment, the three largest are generally the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota State University in Fargo, and Bismarck State College in Bismarck. Enrollment changes from year to year, but these schools offer students the state's biggest campus communities, with a wide range of programs and opportunities to get involved.

How many colleges are there in North Dakota?

North Dakota has 11 public colleges and universities in the North Dakota University System. The total is higher when private and tribal colleges are included; depending on which institutions and campuses are counted, the state has around 20 colleges and universities. That gives students a varied set of options, from larger research universities to smaller, community-focused schools.

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

Based in Bismarck, the University of Mary offers North Dakota students a private-campus option close to the state capital, with programs across professional and liberal arts fields. It enrolls 3,861 students and reports a 67% graduation rate and 75% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $19,940, while median alumni salary is $50,931. Its smaller scale than the state's largest universities may appeal if you want a more personal campus setting while staying in North Dakota and comparing career outcomes.

The University of North Dakota, in Grand Forks, is a large public research university and a familiar choice for students seeking broad academic offerings in-state. Enrollment is 15,844, with a 60% graduation rate and 77% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $13,856, and median alumni salary is $57,659. For a North Dakota resident, its size can mean extensive campus resources and varied student life; compare the published cost and outcomes with your intended major and personal financial-aid package carefully.

North Dakota State University in Fargo is a public land-grant institution known for research, agriculture, engineering, and a broad range of undergraduate study. It enrolls 11,952 students; its graduation rate is 64%, and its acceptance rate is 95%. The listed total cost is $13,963, with median alumni salary of $57,289. Living and studying in Fargo gives North Dakota students access to a larger-city setting while remaining in-state. Consider how NDSU's academic strengths align with your chosen career path and interests.

Minot State University is a public university in Minot, offering North Dakota students a relatively small-campus experience and a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its enrollment is 2,751, graduation rate 45%, and acceptance rate 65%. The reported total study cost, $7,168, is the lowest among these five schools; median alumni salary is $49,809. If affordability is central to your in-state college search, Minot State merits comparison, while you should also review program availability, completion support, and your expected expenses.

Trinity Bible College and Graduate School, located in Ellendale, is a faith-centered institution with a distinctive focus on biblical and ministry education. It has 275 enrolled students, a 46% graduation rate, and a 26% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $16,870, and median alumni salary is $36,753. For North Dakota students seeking a close-knit Christian campus, Trinity may suit specific vocational goals; investigate how its programs match your intended profession and consider its outcomes alongside cost and financial aid.