North Dakota offers a mix of large public research universities, smaller regional colleges, and private institutions, all set against a backdrop of country living and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. Whether you’re drawn to health sciences, agriculture, or a tight-knit campus community, here’s a look at the state’s strongest options.
University of North Dakota
Founded in 1883, the University of North Dakota is the state’s oldest public university and its largest by enrollment, with 15,019 students. Based in Grand Forks, it earned the #1 spot in recent Niche rankings with an Overall Niche Grade of A-minus and an acceptance rate of 77%. The school has 37.6% of its classes with fewer than 20 students, and students consistently praise its affordability, campus amenities, and overall campus life.
North Dakota State University
North Dakota State University, located in Fargo, is the state’s largest university by a different measure, with 11,952 students and a 64% graduation rate, offering 306 degree programs. NDSU ranked first in North Dakota college rankings for 2025, and students frequently highlight strong faculty support, particularly in programs like nursing, where clinical experience prepares students directly for healthcare careers. The university is also home to the largest state-owned university research center in the country.
University of Mary
University of Mary, a private institution founded in 1959 based in Bismarck, ranked second in North Dakota college rankings and posts the highest graduation rate among the state’s top colleges at 67%. The school is known for its strong focus on health sciences and liberal arts, offering career-oriented programs for both local and out-of-state students.
Minot State University
Founded in 1913, Minot State University is a public institution with 62.2% of its classes enrolling fewer than 20 students and a student-faculty ratio of 12:1, offering a more personalized academic setting. It also holds the lowest tuition and fees among the state’s top colleges, at $8,702, making it one of the most affordable options in North Dakota.
University of Jamestown
University of Jamestown, a private institution founded in 1883, has the smallest student population among the state’s top colleges at 1,376 students, offering a tight-knit campus experience. It also carries the highest tuition and fees among North Dakota’s best colleges, at $24,990.
Dickinson State University
Founded in 1918, Dickinson State University is a public institution offering another solid regional option for students seeking a smaller-scale college experience in western North Dakota.
Valley City State University and Mayville State University
Rounding out the state’s smaller public universities, Valley City State University (founded in 1890) and Mayville State University (founded in 1889) both offer accessible, community-focused academic environments for students prioritizing affordability and close faculty relationships.
Bismarck State College
Founded in 1939, Bismarck State College is a public institution with 64.9% of its classes enrolling fewer than 20 students and a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, making it a strong option for students wanting hands-on, closely supported instruction, particularly in technical fields.
What Studying in North Dakota Costs
North Dakota remains a relatively affordable state for higher education compared to national averages. The average total cost of education is around $13,722, with tuition and fees averaging about $15,057, room and board around $9,952, and books and supplies typically costing around $1,104. Across the state’s top colleges specifically, average tuition and fees run $13,974 for residents and $17,436 for out-of-state students, with an average acceptance rate near 80% and an average student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1.
Choosing the Right North Dakota School
The right fit depends on what you’re prioritizing academically and financially.
- Largest research opportunities — University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University offer the most extensive programs and the largest research infrastructure in the state.
- Health sciences focus — University of Mary stands out for its strength in health sciences and liberal arts.
- Affordability — Minot State University offers the lowest tuition among the state’s top colleges, making it a strong choice for cost-conscious students.
- Small, close-knit environment — University of Jamestown and Bismarck State College offer smaller class sizes and closer student-faculty relationships.
Join The Discussion
North Dakota’s mix of large flagship universities and smaller regional colleges gives students a genuinely wide range of environments to choose from, all within a state known for affordability and a surprisingly lively local culture. Have you attended or visited any of these North Dakota schools, and did the experience match what the rankings suggested? For those currently deciding, what matters most to you — program strength, campus size, or overall cost?
