North Dakota State University (NDSU), located in Fargo, North Dakota, is a prominent public research university known for its strong focus on agriculture, engineering, and the sciences. Established in 1890, NDSU has developed a rich tradition of academic excellence and innovation. The university is particularly recognized for its comprehensive agriculture program, which is integral to the state’s economy and its standing as a leader in agricultural research. With a diverse range of over 50 undergraduate programs and more than 40 graduate programs, NDSU offers students expansive opportunities for academic growth and career preparation.

The university’s campus is known for its vibrant community and supportive environment that fosters student engagement and extracurricular involvement. NDSU promotes a strong sense of school spirit through its extensive athletic programs, competing in the NCAA Division I. The Bison mascot embodies the university's commitment to teamwork and resilience. NDSU's facilities are designed to enhance student experiences, featuring modern classrooms, cutting-edge laboratories, and ample recreational resources. The university's dedication to research is showcased through various institutes and research centers that encourage collaboration among students and faculty. Notably, NDSU's alumni network is vast and influential, with graduates achieving success in a variety of fields, reflecting the university's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers.

Analysis of Key Metrics at North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University (NDSU) has seen significant fluctuations in several key metrics over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. One critical aspect is the tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition has steadily increased from $7,540 to $10,857, marking an increase of approximately 44.6%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition has risen from $18,122 to $15,511, illustrating a complex adjustment where in-state rates climb while out-of-state rates have become relatively less burdensome in recent years, potentially aiming to attract a more diverse student body.

Graduation rates also present a noteworthy shift, especially the timely graduation rate, which has increased from roughly 23.2% in 2014 to 41.2% in 2024. This is a substantial improvement that suggests enhanced support for students in navigating their academic journeys and is crucial as higher graduation rates directly correlate with overall institutional reputation and student satisfaction.

In addition to these financial and academic metrics, student retention rates underscore another aspect of institutional performance. The retention rate initially showed growth from about 78% in 2014 to approximately 82% in 2021. However, there has been a slight decline in recent years, with retention at about 75% in 2023. This decline might indicate challenges in student satisfaction or external economic factors affecting students' ability to continue their education.

Lastly, changes in student-to-faculty ratios can also inform discussions about academic quality. The ratio at NDSU has fluctuated slightly but remains in the range of 17 to 20 students per faculty member, suggesting a slight improvement in the availability of faculty support, which is essential for enhancing the learning environment.

Collectively, these metrics not only paint a picture of NDSU's evolving academic landscape but also echo the national trends in the cost of education and the imperative for universities to create supportive environments that foster student success.

Analysis of Graduation Data at North Dakota State University-Main Campus

The graduation data from North Dakota State University-Main Campus in 2023 reveals intriguing trends across various fields. Notably, the program in Registered Nursing produced the highest number of bachelor's degrees, with 216 graduates. This indicates a robust interest in healthcare professions, which aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare services in the United States. Nursing has been recognized as a critical profession, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to heightened job security and opportunities for graduates.

Conversely, other fields like Finance, Marketing, and Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies produced a fraction of the graduates compared to the nursing program. For instance, the Finance program saw only 71 bachelor's graduates, indicating perhaps a competitive job market in finance and related disciplines. Moreover, the data shows minimal output in master's and doctorate levels across many disciplines, with only one international doctoral graduate in Pharmacy, suggesting limited advancement at higher educational levels in certain areas.

International students also represent a small patronage in degree completion, particularly in multi-/interdisciplinary studies, where only two international students graduated with bachelor’s degrees. This might reflect broader national trends affecting international education, such as visa regulations and economic factors.

Overall, the data reflects both the university's strengths, particularly in health sciences, and the obstacles faced by other disciplines, potentially signaling a need for institutional support to bolster those programs. As employment landscapes evolve, universities might consider strategies to attract more international students across diverse fields and to enhance the graduation output at advanced levels.

Admissions Trends at North Dakota State University

The data surrounding North Dakota State University-Main Campus reveals significant trends in admissions and rankings over the past decade. Notably, the university's ranking has shown fluctuation, dropping from 181st in 2015 to a low of 285th in 2023 before rebounding to 231st in 2025. This trajectory indicates a varying perception in the academic landscape which can impact both student interest and institutional funding. Additionally, the admission rates for both male and female applicants have been impressively high in recent years. For instance, the acceptance rate for males climbed to approximately 94.8% and for females to about 96.3% by 2023. These figures suggest that the university maintains inclusive admission practices, yet they also pose questions regarding the selectivity and competitiveness of the institution. The enrollment statistics reflect this trend; the university has seen a steady influx of students, with over 2,500 enrolled in the most recent years. However, the number of applicants who are denied admission remains substantial, indicating that while acceptance rates are high, the number of students applying is also significant, showcasing NDSU's appeal. The number of students deferred admission has also increased in recent years, which may suggest challenges in accommodating the rising student population or a strategic decision to manage enrollment flow more effectively. As the latest rankings indicate an improvement, NDSU may continue to capitalize on its inclusive admissions approach, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility within the evolving higher education landscape.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at North Dakota State University

The data from North Dakota State University reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and the proportion of applicants submitting these scores over the years. Between 2007 and 2024, there appears to be a fluctuating acceptance rate of students submitting test scores, which dropped significantly to around 1% in recent years, notably in 2022 and 2023.

The SAT reading and math scores, as well as ACT composite scores, exhibit variability. For instance, the 25th percentile reading score ranged from 450 to 538, while the 75th percentile fluctuated between 610 and 658. This variation indicates that, despite a gradual increase in some median scores, there has been a decrease in test participation. Notably, scores tend to show a slight improvement over the years, with the upper brackets indicating a more competitive candidate pool as time progresses.

This trend signifies the growing movement towards test-optional policies in higher education. Many universities, in light of studies suggesting that standardized test scores may not be the best predictors of student success, have adopted more holistic admission processes, allowing schools like North Dakota State University to diversify their applicant profile. The situation reflects a broader national trend toward inclusivity and varying evaluation criteria in college admissions, suggesting that students might be showcasing their strengths through other experiential and qualitative aspects rather than solely standardized testing performance.

Student Demographics at North Dakota State University in 2024

In 2024, North Dakota State University reveals an interesting composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate first-year students is 2,214, with a slight majority of female students at 52.7%. This pattern of gender distribution is consistent across the board, as undergraduate continuing students also show an almost equal balance, with a male percentage of 49.3% against 50.7% of females.

Among undergraduate transfer students, the ratio slightly favors males at 51.6%. Similarly, graduate students exhibit a comparable trend, with 52.3% being female. Interestingly, there is an overall trend of a higher number of female students in nearly all categories at the university, highlighting the growing presence of women in higher education.

The data also reflects diversity among race and ethnicity. Although categorization details are not fully available, we can see a strong representation of white students within each group. This reflects broader trends in many U.S. universities, where both undergraduate and graduate populations can often be predominantly white, despite a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion initiatives.

As societal norms continue to evolve, educational institutions like North Dakota State University must ensure that their demographic profiles not only represent traditional student bodies but also foster environments that are inclusive and reflective of an increasingly diverse society. This commitment will be essential for preparing students for a globalized workforce.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at North Dakota State University

The age distribution data from North Dakota State University for 2024 reveals insightful trends about the demographics of the student body. Notably, the majority of undergraduates fall within the traditional college age range of 18 to 21, representing a significant proportion of both male and female students. Specifically, approximately 48.3% of male undergraduates and 49.7% of female undergraduates belong to this age category. This reflects a broader trend in universities across the United States, where younger students are predominant.

As students age, however, we see a gradual decline in the percentage of those remaining enrolled. The 22-24 age range includes about 30% of all students, while only approximately 5% are aged 30-34. This decrease might be attributed to various factors including career commitments, family obligations, or the pursuit of degrees through alternative pathways for older individuals.

Interestingly, while the under-18 category has relatively few participants, the representation increases significantly in the 18-19 group, indicating that high school graduates are eager to transition into college life. The reported enrollment of graduate students in older age brackets also suggests a trend of lifelong learning, as individuals in the 25-29, 30-34, and even older categories pursue advanced degrees.

Furthermore, the involvement of female students in higher education continues to rise, with a higher number of female undergraduates across most age brackets compared to their male counterparts. This aligns with national statistics indicating an increase in female enrollment at universities.

Overall, these trends at North Dakota State University highlight the importance of accommodating a diverse array of student needs across different life stages, ensuring both traditional and non-traditional learners can thrive in the academic environment.

International Student Trends at North Dakota State University

The international student population at North Dakota State University-Main Campus has undergone significant changes over the years. Since 2005, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a gradual increase, peaking at 5.32% in 2011, but this trend reversed in subsequent years, declining to a low of 0.89% in 2024. This could reflect broader national trends affecting international student enrollment, possibly tied to visa regulations, global events, or competitiveness among institutions.

In contrast, the graduate student population has exhibited a more stable demographic. The proportion of international graduate students reached a notable high of 30.26% in 2005 but fluctuated throughout the years, ending at 31.79% in 2024. This notable resilience indicates that graduate programs might be more appealing to international students compared to undergraduate offerings, possibly due to advanced research opportunities and higher potential return on investment.

The abrupt decline in undergraduate international students towards the end of the observed period raises important questions about North Dakota State University’s recruitment strategies and support systems for these students. It is imperative for institutions to evaluate their international student services and outreach initiatives to attract and retain this vital demographic, especially as they adapt to an increasingly competitive landscape. Overall, the data reflects an evolving picture of international education within the institution, emphasizing the need for strategic planning to sustain and grow international enrollments in the years to come.

Here are some notable universities surrounding North Dakota State University-Main Campus:

1. University of North Dakota - Ranked 244, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of degree programs and is known for its research initiatives and community service.

2. Saint John's University - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 80, it emphasizes a liberal arts education in the context of Catholic and Benedictine traditions.

3. College of Saint Benedict - Ranked 71, this institution is known for its commitment to the liberal arts and women's education, supporting a rich academic environment.

4. Macalester College - A top-ranked liberal arts college at 26, Macalester is celebrated for its programs in internationalism and social justice, cultivating a vibrant campus community.

5. Carleton College - Known for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, Carleton is ranked 8 and is consistently recognized for its academic excellence and innovative teaching methods.

6. Gustavus Adolphus College - Ranked 66, this college offers a unique blend of education grounded in the liberal arts and a strong commitment to service and leadership.

7. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - With a ranking of 54, this major comprehensive university is renowned for its research capabilities and diverse academic programs.

These institutions not only provide quality education but also enrich the academic landscape of North Dakota and the surrounding region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at North Dakota State University

The crime statistics at North Dakota State University from 2013 to 2023 reveal a notable trend in campus safety. Initially, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students experienced a steady increase, peaking at 16.77 in 2016. However, a significant drop is observed starting in 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and a substantial shift in student activities.

In 2020 and 2021, the average crime rate plummeted to 9.11 and 9.28, respectively, suggesting that fewer students on campus may have contributed to lower crime incidents. This phenomenon aligns with reports of decreased crime rates in many urban settings during the pandemic, as lockdowns and remote learning became the norm. Alarmingly, while the overall crime reports decreased, the data indicates various types of crime persisted, including drug-related arrests and incidents of domestic violence, underscoring ongoing safety concerns.

Interestingly, in 2022, the crime rate dropped further to 8.63, suggesting a continued positive trend in campus safety. However, the latest data from 2023 indicates a slight increase to 9.17, which might raise concerns among students and staff about reverting to higher frequencies of crime.

Ongoing efforts to improve campus security and support services for students facing challenges related to substance abuse and violence must remain a priority. Continuous monitoring of these statistics can provide insights not only for university administration but also for students seeking a safe environment during their educational pursuits. For those interested in understanding crime rates calculation, further information can be found here.