Insights of North Dakota

Summary

Fall Enrollment: 1,410 (2024-2025)
Types of Degrees: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Certificate, Master's Degree, Post Bachelors
Number of Programs: 71
Average Class Size: 13
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1

Academic Programs

Campus Life

At Dickinson State University (DSU), you’ll find a supportive environment whether you're a new student, transfer, or returning to finish your degree. With over 1,400 students from 36 states and 15 countries, DSU offers opportunities to explore new ideas and passions.

You’ll engage directly with professors, conduct research, join field trips, internships, and present at conferences. DSU also provides a vibrant campus life with sports like baseball, basketball, football, volleyball, rodeo, and more, along with music and arts programs.

DSU is a campus of champions, with our athletic teams earning top honors, including the 2024 North Star Athletic Association's Commissioner’s Cup and a tenth consecutive football conference championship.

Students excel both on the field and in the classroom, supported by the Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program.

Experience the Dickinson State magic by scheduling a campus visit today!

The Area

Dickinson State University is conveniently located along Interstate 94, 1.5 hours west of the state capital of Bismarck. Dickinson is 36 miles east of the historic town of Medora. Medora is the future home of the $100 million Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Dickinson offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, and is renowned for its welcoming community. Dickinson’s population has significantly increased in the last several years providing endless possibilities to students for internships, service, and job opportunities. Larger cities such as Fargo, ND; Billings, MT; and Rapid City, SD, are all within a half-day’s drive by car.

Accreditation

Dickinson State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent corporation that accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region. DSU also holds many additional department specific accreditations.

2024-25 Academic Year Costs

TUITION & FEES:* $9,118

ROOM & BOARD:** $7,486

* Full-time resident rates at 30 credits for the academic year.
** Based on a double room and 7-day all-access dining plan.

Scholarships

Dickinson State University’s strong support from the DSU Heritage Foundation provides students with more than $1.4 million in scholarships each year. DSU also offers a wide array of academic and athletic institutional scholarships and waiver options for prospective and current high-performing and historically underrepresented students.

DSU is proud of their Presidential Scholarships, which waives up to $2,000 in annual tuition costs for qualified new and transfer students. In 2024, DSU created the Blue Hawk Promise Scholarship, providing free tuition access to academic programming to students in need. Find out more about all our scholarships and waivers at www.dickinsonstate.edu/scholarships.

Priority Deadlines

ADMISSION: Rolling Admission with priority for Fall Semester: August 1, Spring Semester: December 15

SCHOLARSHIPS: Priority January 31

FINANCIAL AID: April 15

FAFSA Early application is encouraged. Application is available October 1.

DSU Course Offerings

Dickinson State University offers over 80 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, across four schools: Applied Science, Business and Entrepreneurship, Education, and Professional Studies. Their recently launched MBA, Sport Administration, and Education programs offer flexible, affordable, high-quality options.

All programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and are available on campus, online (synchronously and asynchronously), and at our Bismarck and Williston locations. With a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you'll benefit from personalized attention. Visit www.dickinsonstate.edu/programs.

Admission Requirements

High school graduates or persons who have completed a GED may apply, with applicants who have received a GPA of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher receiving preference. Students may also submit an (optional) ACT or SAT score, which will potentially provide opportunities for additional scholarship awards. As a North Dakota University System institution, DSU is allowed to waive the ACT/SAT requirements for the purpose of making admission decisions.

DSU: Discover Your Tough

At Dickinson State, we provide the tools, resources, and community to help you grow into the best version of yourself. Here’s how you’ll build your toughness:

Academic Excellence: Our challenging yet supportive academic programs are designed to test your limits and expand your knowledge.
Leadership Opportunities: From student government to on-campus organizations, we provide the perfect environment to step up and lead, no matter where you start.
Student Support Services: Counseling, advising, and tutoring programs ensure you're never alone in your journey. We support your mental, emotional, and academic growth.
Community Connections: Our close-knit campus and city communities means you’ll build meaningful relationships that support your growth both in and outside the classroom.

Forever A Blue Hawk: DSU Alumni

Join the distinguished legacy of Dickinson State University alumni who have achieved remarkable success across various fields, including Olympic competitors, influential entrepreneurs, legislative officials, and many others. Our alumni make significant contributions to their communities, whether as educators, healthcare professionals, criminal justice agents, or leaders in countless other professions. The values and skills they develop at DSU empower them to excel and leave a lasting impact in their respective fields and communities.

Why Choose DSU

Are you interested in criminal justice, education, business, nursing, fire science, welding, diesel technology, or athletics? As a student at DSU, you will have the opportunity to participate in over 35 student clubs and organizations or compete as a member of our championship-winning athletic programs. DSU offers six master’s degrees, in addition to bachelor’s, associate degrees, and certificates. DSU is a quality, affordable option, regardless if you are taking classes on-campus or online. At Dickinson State University, your opportunities are endless.

DSU - Why Choose DSU

Megan Klein

Megan Klein '17

Elementary Education

“DSU gave me the tools to succeed both on and off the court. The support from my professors, coaches, teammates, and the entire Blue Hawk community helped me discover my passion for helping others.”

In 2025, Megan was highlighted in the Women to Women Magazine. Click to read her story: https://issuu.com/sendmediacompany/docs/woman_to_woman_jan25_final.

DSU

Dickinson State University

291 Campus Drive
Dickinson, ND 58601
701.502.4390
800.279.HAWK
www.dickinsonstate.edu
dsu.hawk@dickinsonstate.edu