North Dakota State College of Science
Out-of-state tuition
$6,973
In-state $5,974
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
3,367
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
49.9%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 51.4%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is a prominent institution located in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Established in 1903, it has a rich history of providing quality education and vocational training. NDSCS is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning, which is reflected in its diverse range of programs designed to equip students with practical skills. The college offers more than 80 programs in various fields, including health sciences, engineering technologies, and business, making it a leading choice for students seeking career-focused education. The college also prioritizes student success, providing robust support services, including academic advising and career counseling, which help students transition smoothly into the workforce.
The campus culture at NDSCS is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a sense of community among students. The college promotes a balanced student life, encouraging participation in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and organizations. The NDSCS Wildcats compete in the NJCAA, offering students opportunities to engage in sports and showcase their talents. Moreover, NDSCS is dedicated to maintaining modern facilities, including advanced laboratories and learning spaces that enhance the educational experience. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on student achievement, North Dakota State College of Science continues to be a significant contributor to the region's educational landscape and workforce development.
Analysis of Key Metrics at North Dakota State College of Science
The data from North Dakota State College of Science reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student demographics, graduation rates, and retention rates over recent years.
First, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $4,094 in 2014 to $5,928 in 2024, reflecting a rise of approximately 45% over the decade. This continuous escalation in tuition costs poses a challenge for affordability, particularly for in-state families. Conversely, the out-of-state tuition has seen a more dramatic increase, jumping from $9,902 in 2014 to $6,926 in 2024, suggesting that the institution is becoming increasingly competitive in attracting non-resident students despite the burden of higher costs.
In terms of student demographics, the ratio of male to female undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with male students consistently representing between 53% to 57% of the undergraduate population. This balance indicates that the college maintains a diverse student body, which is essential in fostering an inclusive academic environment.
However, graduation rates have raised concerns. The four-year graduation rate has dropped significantly from 43.2% in 2013 to 31.5% in 2023. This decline indicates potential challenges in student support and academic success, necessitating a closer examination of the factors contributing to this trend. Additionally, the retention rate has fluctuated but remained relatively stable, hovering around 70%. This stability suggests that while students may be retained, the college may struggle to support them adequately to complete their degrees within four years.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio, which has decreased from 13:1 in 2014 to 10:1 in 2023, reflects a positive trend toward more personalized student attention. This shift may enhance the educational experience but raises questions about resource allocation and faculty hiring to maintain such ratios amidst declining enrollment numbers.
In summary, while North Dakota State College of Science exhibits positive attributes such as a stable male-to-female student ratio and improving student-to-faculty ratios, the concerning trends in tuition increases and graduation rates warrant attention and action to ensure a supportive and successful educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 180 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 190 mi
- Also known as
- NDSCS
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Rod Flanigan (President)
- Phone
- 7016712403
- City
- Wahpeton, North Dakota
- Address
- 800 N 6th St, Wahpeton, ND 58076-0002
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data at North Dakota State College of Science
The graduation data from North Dakota State College of Science reveals significant insights into the trends in various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of graduates was found in Agricultural Business and Management, with 44 graduates earning associate degrees. This aligns with the growing emphasis on agriculture in North Dakota, where the agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the state’s economy.
In the medical and health fields, the Registered Nursing program produced 33 graduates, reflecting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in the region. This is particularly relevant given the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare systems worldwide, which continue to highlight the necessity for a robust nursing workforce. Conversely, there were no graduates reported in higher degree programs such as bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate levels across several disciplines, suggesting a potential area for development and enrollment growth.
Engineering and technical programs also showed a modest output, with Diesel Mechanics Technology and Welding Technology producing 67 and 14 associate graduates, respectively. These figures indicate a solid interest in technical trades, which are essential for maintaining infrastructure and supporting various industrial sectors.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating from these programs, which might highlight the need for strategies to attract more international enrollment. Overall, the data suggests that while the college excels in certain vocational areas, there are opportunities to expand graduate offerings and attract a diverse student population to meet future workforce demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician. | $60,380 | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $60,380 | |
| Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $60,380 | |
| Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician. | $60,380 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $60,380 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Assisting/Assistant. | $47,594 | |
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $47,594 | |
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $38,374 | |
| Pharmacy Technician/Assistant. | $38,374 | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $64,632 | |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training. | $52,770 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $38,471 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician. | - | |
| Building Construction Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | $55,969 | |
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $55,969 | |
| Agricultural Mechanization, General. | $72,244 | |
| Agricultural Mechanics and Equipment/Machine Technology/Technician. | $72,244 | |
| Agronomy and Crop Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,265 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | $51,827 | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | $51,827 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Aircraft Pilot | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - |
Students
3,367 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 78.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 935
- First-year undergraduates 756
- Transfers and others 1,676
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,367)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at North Dakota State College of Science for 2023
The enrollment data from North Dakota State College of Science in 2023 presents a detailed view of the student population across various categories. This year, the total number of undergraduate freshmen is 749, comprising 68.4% male and 31.6% female students. The undergraduate continuing students count is slightly higher at 891, with a gender distribution of 60.9% male and 39.1% female. The number of undergraduate transfer students is comparatively smaller at 128, showing a more balanced gender ratio of 55.5% male to 44.5% female.
Interestingly, the overall number of graduate students is 1,174, where females have a slight edge at 53.9%, compared to 46.1% males. This shift in gender dynamics highlights a growing trend of female representation in higher education, particularly at the graduate level.
Diving deeper into the ethnic composition, the data indicates that a significant portion of the student body is composed of White students, with the majority across all categories. This reflects a broader national trend within many colleges and universities, where diversity continues to be an area for improvement. As educational institutions strive to create a more inclusive environment, it is crucial to support and promote underrepresented groups to ensure a more balanced and diverse student body.
Overall, while the enrollment figures showcase a healthy distribution of students, attention must be given to enhancing diversity and gender equity, particularly in fields where disparities persist.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at North Dakota State College of Science
The age composition of students at North Dakota State College of Science presents a clear trend towards younger demographics, with a significant majority of students being under 24 years old. The largest group consists of students aged 18-19, accounting for approximately 43% of the total male students and 36% of total female students. This trend aligns with national statistics, indicating that traditional-aged students (those between 18 and 24) continue to dominate enrollment in higher education institutions.
Interestingly, as students age, the number of enrolled individuals diminishes sharply. For example, only 8% of male students are in the 22-24 age range, and this further decreases in older age brackets. The representation of students aged 25 and older is notably low, with only 7% of the total male student population and 11% of the total female population falling within this category. This may reflect societal trends where younger individuals are increasingly prioritizing higher education immediately following high school.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male and female students indicates a potential area for improvement, as graduate education often requires a different set of motivations and demographics. The starkly lower number of mature students might suggest that the college could benefit from outreach programs aimed at adult learners or those seeking to return to education after a break.
Overall, the data indicates a predominance of younger students at the college, which is a common trend seen across many educational institutions. However, the college may want to explore strategies to attract and support older students and graduate candidates to create a more diverse educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
19 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at North Dakota State College of Science
The data on international student enrollment at North Dakota State College of Science reveals a significant decline in the number of international undergraduates over the years. From a peak of 1.41% in 2016, the percentage of international students dropped to 0.27% by 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where international student enrollments have faced challenges due to various factors, including changing immigration policies, the COVID-19 pandemic, and increasing competition from institutions in other countries.
In the early years of the data, particularly from 2004 to 2009, the percentage of international students was relatively low, fluctuating around 0.32% to 0.89%. However, there was a notable increase from 2010 onwards, reaching its zenith in 2016. The fluctuations in enrollment numbers could be indicative of the college's efforts to attract a diverse student body, as well as broader economic and geopolitical factors influencing students' decisions to study in the U.S.
The challenges faced by international students, such as visa complications and the impact of the pandemic, have likely contributed to the recent downturn in enrollment figures. This decline poses a concern for the institution, as a diverse student population enriches the educational experience and fosters global perspectives among all students. As universities adapt to these changes, it will be crucial for North Dakota State College of Science to explore strategies for revitalizing its international student recruitment efforts in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$15,069
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $6,973
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,974
- Room and board
- $8,096
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$51.7M
Expenses$49.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 74 | - |
| Baseball | 25 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NJCAA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 72 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 9 |
| Baseball | 22 | - |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo · 43.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of North DakotaGrand Forks · 116.0 mi
U.S. News #227
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 116.6 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 120.4 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 135.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 185.8 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 186.0 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Bethel UniversitySaint Paul · 186.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 189.0 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable schools nearby North Dakota State College of Science:
-
North Dakota State University-Main Campus - Ranked 249 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of North Dakota - Also a comprehensive university, it ranks 236 and is known for its strong research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.
-
Saint John's University - A liberal arts college with a rank of 82, Saint John's emphasizes a holistic education in a vibrant campus community.
-
College of Saint Benedict - Closely associated with Saint John's University, this institution ranks 73 and provides a robust liberal arts education with a focus on women's empowerment.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - Ranked 53, this major public research university offers a wide array of programs and is part of the prestigious University of Minnesota system.
-
Macalester College - This liberal arts college is highly regarded, ranking 27, known for its international diversity and social justice initiatives.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Trends at North Dakota State College of Science
The crime statistics from the North Dakota State College of Science over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the reported incidents per 1,000 students. In 2013, the college had a crime rate of 20.29 per 1,000 students, which peaked in 2015 at 26.11, indicating a significant rise in criminal activity during that period. Notably, the college experienced its highest total crime count in 2016 with 88.8 incidents, marking a concerning trend that year.
However, the data also shows a decline in crime rates in subsequent years, particularly a dramatic drop to 9.56 per 1,000 students in 2022. This suggests successful interventions or changes in campus safety protocols, possibly influenced by national trends in crime reduction or increased awareness about safety among students. The college's crime statistics serve as an important reflection of campus safety, which is essential for attracting and retaining students.
The incidents of gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses have been particularly noteworthy in previous years, emphasizing the ongoing challenges universities face in maintaining a safe environment. With the recent statistics, it appears that the institution has made strides in addressing these issues, although vigilance is necessary to ensure that the downward trend in crime rates continues.
As educational institutions strive to create safer environments for their communities, understanding these trends and implementing effective safety measures will be crucial. For more insights on calculating crime rates and comparing them across different settings, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of North Dakota State College of Science include Rick Berg (Former U.S. Representative from North Dakota and businessman), Andre Smith (Former basketball player in Europe and Asia) and Donald Grant Nutter (15th governor of Montana).
-
Rick Berg 1959–
Former U.S. Representative from North Dakota and businessman
-
Andre Smith 1985–
Former basketball player in Europe and Asia
-
Donald Grant Nutter 1915–1962
15th governor of Montana
-
Scott Matthew 2000–
Australian singer-songwriter
-
Gene Anderson 1939–1991
Professional wrestler, Minnesota Wrecking Crew member
-
Gilmore Schjeldahl 1912–2002
Inventor of the plastic-lined airsickness bag
-
Creighton Leland Robertson 1944–2014
Ninth Episcopal bishop of South Dakota
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.