Dickinson State University

Dickinson State University is a regional four year institution within the North Dakota University System whose primary role is to contribute to intellectual, social, economic and cultural development, especially to southwestern North Dakota. The university’s mission is to provide high quality, accessible programs; to promote excellence in teaching and learning; to support scholarly and creative activities; and to provide service relevant to the economy, health, and quality of life for the citizens of the State of North Dakota. Dickinson State Normal School was created in 1916 by a constitutional amendment approved by North Dakota voters. Classes began in 1918 with a two-year program designed to train elementary and secondary teachers. In 1931, four-year degrees were offered for the first time under the school’s new name: Dickinson State Teachers College. In recognition of the institution’s broadened curriculum, Dickinson State Teachers College became Dickinson State College in 1963. University status was granted in 1987. Dickinson State University began to offer baccalaureate programs in cooperation with NDUS regional associate degree institutions in 1998. Bismarck State College was the first site established. In the fall of 2003, DSU online made it possible for DSU to extend their programs globally.