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Urban Colleges in North Dakota

5 schools in North Dakota. See our methodology.

North Dakota State University in Fargo accepts 95.7% of applicants while maintaining a 63.7% graduation rate, making it one of the most accessible quality education options in the state. The five urban colleges here serve 23,608 students with net prices ranging from $10,725 at Bismarck State College to $18,998 at the University of North Dakota. These institutions directly support North Dakota's energy boom and agricultural economy, with graduates earning between $39,080 and $63,552 annually. The state's Academic Scholarship program helps high achievers afford these programs, while the low cost of living stretches student dollars further than in most states. Fargo and Grand Forks anchor the largest campuses, while Bismarck and Minot offer smaller college experiences in growing regional centers.
5
Schools
$15,360
Avg. Net Price
$54,174
Avg. Earnings
56.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Urban Colleges in North Dakota

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 City-Small 2,629 $10,725 48.0%
2 City-Small 9,296 $18,998 63.3%
3 City-Midsize 9,567 $16,334 63.7%
4 City-Midsize 44 $18,227 57.9%
5 City-Small 2,072 $12,514 47.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes North Dakota's urban colleges so affordable compared to national averages?

Net prices range from just $10,725 to $18,998 across all five urban colleges, well below national averages. State funding, low regional costs, and North Dakota's Academic Scholarship program for high-achieving students help keep education accessible while the state's energy revenues support higher education funding.

How do graduation rates compare between the largest and smallest urban campuses?

The University of North Dakota with 9,296 students maintains a 63.3% graduation rate, while North Dakota State's 9,567 students achieve 63.7%. Smaller Minot State at 2,072 students graduates 47.8%, and tiny Rasmussen with just 44 students reaches 57.9%, showing size doesn't guarantee outcomes.

Where do graduates from these urban colleges typically find employment?

Graduates earn $39,080 to $63,552 annually, often in North Dakota's energy sector, agriculture, and healthcare industries. The state's oil boom, major agricultural operations, and growing medical facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bismarck create strong local job markets for recent graduates.

Does North Dakota State University's high acceptance rate indicate lower academic standards?

Despite accepting 95.7% of applicants, NDSU maintains a solid 63.7% graduation rate and graduates earn $62,203 annually. The high acceptance rate reflects North Dakota's commitment to educational access rather than academic weakness, with rigorous programs weeding out unprepared students during coursework.

Is Bismarck State College's $10,725 net price sustainable for quality education?

BSC's low cost reflects its two-year focus and state support, yet graduates still earn $54,277 annually. With 2,629 students and a 48% graduation rate, the college provides affordable workforce training for North Dakota's energy and technical sectors without sacrificing earning potential.

Related

Urban Colleges Nationally All Colleges in North Dakota Cheapest Programs in North Dakota

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.