About BSC
The Region’s Only Polytechnic College
Polytechnic is not just some fancy college jargon. It’s our mission. And our mission is you. At North Dakota’s only polytechnic institution, you’ll get hands-on learning that will prepare you to be workforce-ready on day one of your career.
But hands-on doesn’t stop in the classroom. It means we’ll walk with you from application to graduation. It means we’ll help you get the right skills and make the right connections. Through internships and externships with industry partners, you will get on the right path – whether that’s continuing your education or starting your career.
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Mission and Vision
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As North Dakota’s polytechnic institution, Bismarck State College focuses on student success through the delivery of affordable, flexible, high-quality, experiential learning that is enhanced by public-private partnerships.
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Bismarck State College will be a leader in polytechnic education, improving lives and building sustainable communities.
Fast Facts
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The 120-acre campus, in the vibrant, capital city of Bismarck, is beautifully situated overlooking the Missouri River. It has easy access to the Interstate as well as Bismarck’s many amenities. Safe and easy to navigate, Bismarck-Mandan and the surrounding area have a growing population of more than 100,000. Enjoy all the fantastic activities and experiences the Bismarck-Mandan communities have to offer. Spend a day paddleboarding at Harmon Lake or enjoy a kayaking trip down the Mighty Missouri. Join the fans in the stands at a Bismarck Larks baseball game, shop at exclusive downtown boutiques or explore the earth lodges on a hike through Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
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As the third largest college in the ND University System, BSC has approximately 4,000 students. The student/faculty ratio is 14:1.
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BSC offers 100+ career pathways, including bachelor's and associate degrees as well as stackable certificate options.
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The BSC Foundation offers close to $1.3 million in scholarships annually, so you can graduate with little to no debt.
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Total cost for tuition and fees for one year - based on 12 credits per semester - is approximately $5,000. Out-of-state residents may receive in-state tuition with reciprocity. This reciprocity agreement applies to 10 states and two Canadian provinces, including Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
History & Growth
Since 1939, BSC has always centered its energy and efforts on our students. Bismarck State College provides a quality, affordable and flexible education for students in all stages of life, both on-campus and online, and is North Dakota's only polytechnic institution.
Our programs offer hands-on learning aimed at creating professionals who are workforce-ready. For more than 80 years, BSC has trained students to be relevant, valuable contributors to their workplaces and communities.
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Established in 1939 in response to a community need for a local college, Bismarck State College was originally known as Bismarck Junior College.
During the 2000s, BSC developed partnerships with utility and energy associations to launch new programs in the power industry. BSC became the first institution to offer its energy programs online, leading to BSC's recognition as the National Energy Center of Excellence. With grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Department of Labor, the program roster continued to grow, and allowed students to access lab equipment and learn necessary job skills online.
BSC officially became North Dakota’s only polytechnic institution on Oct. 1, 2020. Since then, BSC has enhanced its focus on hands-on learning, industry integration and career-focused curriculum—including a growing number of stackable certificates and K-12 pathways that lead to degrees in high-priority occupations.
Specialized technical programs developed by industry leaders allow students to pursue high-wage and rewarding careers. BSC’s expanded mission means that students find flexible pathways to achieving their educational goals. They also discover opportunities to work while enrolled through internships or field experience in the community.
Faculty
In many areas of study, you’ll be taught and mentored by faculty who have worked in the field they teach. These individuals are highly credentialed and respected as practitioners and leaders in the industry. BSC’s faculty are dedicated to student success and bring real-world experience into the classroom, ensuring that students gain practical knowledge alongside theoretical foundations. With a focus on excellence in education, BSC has been recognized with accolades such as the prestigious Aspen Prize Top 150 recognition, highlighting its commitment to quality instruction and workforce readiness.
Learn more about BSC's recognitions.
Accreditation
Bismarck State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The college was first accredited in 1966.
