ndus

NDUS, short for the North Dakota University System, is the public higher education system responsible for coordinating the state’s public universities and colleges. Its mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality postsecondary education, support workforce development, and promote research and public service across North Dakota.

Governance and structure are centralized in the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education (SBHE), which sets policy, approves budgets, and authorizes new programs and institutions. The system is led by a chancellor, who serves as the chief executive and reports to the SBHE. A system office coordinates statewide initiatives, data collection, budgeting, and inter-institutional collaboration.

Institutions within NDUS span large research universities, regional universities, and two-year colleges. Notable higher-education institutions include the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and North Dakota State University in Fargo, along with Dickinson State University, Minot State University, Mayville State University, and Valley City State University. The system also encompasses several state and community colleges, such as Bismarck State College, Dakota College at Bottineau, Lake Region State College, and Williston State College, among others. These institutions offer a range of bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs and generally provide transfer pathways to four-year degrees.

Funding and operations arise from a combination of state appropriations, tuition and fees, and other revenus. NDUS emphasizes coordination on transfer policies, online and distance education, student advising, and capacity planning to align programs with statewide economic needs.

Overall, NDUS functions as the umbrella organization for public higher education in North Dakota, aiming to maintain a cohesive system that supports student success, economic development, and statewide educational access.