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Founded in 1890, Valley City State University (VCSU) is a public institution in Valley City, North Dakota. Originally established as a teachers' college, VCSU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering over 65 areas of study.


Overview of Valley City State University (VCSU)


VCSU places great emphasis on technology and innovation to provide students with a learner-centric experience, making information easily accessible for academic development as well as personal growth. VCSU has earned international renown for their elementary education program, often ranking among the best in the nation. This excellent reputation extends across their entire academic offerings - solidifying VCSU as a respected educational institution.

The university's mission entails creating an engaged community that fosters both growth and quality, evidenced by their dedication to student and employee engagement, with an aim of enriching campus life overall.

Belonging to the North Dakota University System, VCSU not only serves the local community but also attracts students from across the region. The campus is characterized by its vibrant and thriving environment, making it a compelling choice for prospective students.

General Information


School Type Public
Campus Setting Town: Remote
Campus Housing Yes
Student Faculty Ratio 13 : 1
Graduation Rate 45%
Year Founded 1890

Student Enrollment


Total Students1,676

Undergraduate
1,541
Graduate
135

Undergraduate Student

Male 632
632
Female 909
909

Graduate Student

Male 55
55
Female 80
80

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VCSU  Acceptance Rate and Admissions


APPLICATIONS464

Male 253
Female 211

ACCEPTANCE376

Male 202
Female 171

Acceptance Rate81%

Male 80%
Female 81%

Enrollment 195

Male 111
Female 84
Admissions
Application Fee $35
High School GPA Required
High School Rank Recommended
High School Transcripts Required
College Prep Courses Required
Recommendations N/A
SAT/ACT Considered But Not Required
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Required
Application Deadline Rolling
Common Application Accepted No

VCSU Tuition Cost & Financial Aid


Tuition costs at Valley City State University (VCSU) depend on both residency and program selection. For in-state students, undergraduate tuition is approximately $8,500 per year. Out-of-state students face higher tuition costs, with an annual coat of around $13,500. Graduate programs vary in rates. Online graduate courses generally cost $3,672 per credit.

University fees are an additional expense and cover various services and resources available on campus. In total, standard full-time enrollment incurs annual university fees totaling approximately $1,471. Financial aid options may help ease these costs; depending on the circumstances of your case, scholarships, grants, or loans could be applicable to help offset them. Planning an education budget involves considering not only tuition and fees, but also other expenses such as housing, books, and personal supplies.

Average net price Current Year
Net Price $12,108
Average Total Aid $6,876
Students Receiving Financial Aid 100%
Room & Board $6,684

Sticker Price


  • Tuition In-State - $7,942
  • Tuition Out-of-State - $12,532
  • Books and Supplies - $1,100
  • Room & Board - $6,684
  • Other - $3,636

Popular Academic Programs at VCSU


Valley City State University (VCSU) offers an impressive variety of academic programs tailored to meet the individual needs of students. Over 65 undergraduate programs and three online master's degrees offer you plenty of choices to explore.

VCSU's undergraduate programs include fields such as:

  • Software Engineering
  • Health Sciences
  • Education
  • Fisheries and Wildlife

For advanced education, you can enroll in:

  • Master of Education (MEd)
  • Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
  • Master of Science in Education (MSEd)

The academic departments at VCSU cover various disciplines, including:

  • Art
  • Business
  • Communication Arts
  • Computer Systems and Software Engineering
  • School of Education
  • Kinesiology and Human Performance

Some unique majors that the school offers include:

  • Sport Leadership and Management
  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Technology Education
  • Spanish Education
  • Composite Majors that combine multiple disciplines

The curriculum is designed to be flexible and robust, ensuring that you can find a program that aligns with your career goals and interests. Valley City State University is dedicated to offering superior education through diverse academic offerings and comprehensive programming.

Student Population Total


Student Population 1,676

Undergraduate
1,541
Graduate
135
Evening Classes : No
Online Learning : Yes

Most Popular Programs & Majors

(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)


Education 161 Total Graduates / 63%
Elementary Education and Teaching 110 Graduates
English/Language Arts Teacher Education 10 Graduates
History Teacher Education 8 Graduates
Mathematics Teacher Education 6 Graduates
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services 24 Total Graduates / 9%
Business Administration and Management, General 23 Graduates
Management Information Systems, General 1 Graduates
Natural Resources and Conservation 16 Total Graduates / 6%
Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management 14 Graduates
Environmental Science 2 Graduates
Visual and Performing Arts 13 Total Graduates / 5%
Music, General 13 Graduates
Health Professions and Related Programs 9 Total Graduates / 4%
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other 6 Graduates
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist 2 Graduates
Athletic Training/Trainer 1 Graduates
All Other Diplomas 13%

Outcome & Salary


One of the top outcomes for graduates from Valley City State University is successful employment. Many VCSU graduates find jobs in their chosen field shortly after graduating. The university has a strong network of alumni who often provide job opportunities for recent graduates. Additionally, VCSU has career services that help students with resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies to increase their chances of securing employment.

Graduates from VCSU also benefit from furthering their education after graduating, with many going on to pursue advanced degrees in their field, be it a master's program, professional certification program, or doctoral program. VCSU serves as an ideal foundation for continuing studies while honing specialized fields of study.

VCSU graduates also have the opportunity to become leaders in their communities and industries. The university emphasizes leadership development through extracurricular activities, internships, and coursework; graduates may go on to become successful entrepreneurs, organizational decision-makers, or advocates for social change.

Valley City State University graduates enjoy a strong sense of community and pride for their alma mater, creating lifelong friendships and connections through its supportive environment. Alumni often remain involved with VCSU through events, volunteer programs, and mentorship programs - further enriching their experience as graduates of Valley City State.

Graduates Salary
College Grads Early Career Salary $45,100
College Grads Average Salary $58,000
College Grads Mid Career Salary $69,600
Return on Investment (ROI)
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential $580,000
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential $1,276,000
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year $48,432
10 Year Projected ROI $531,568
20 Year Projected ROI $1,227,568
No College Education Salary Comparison
National Average Salary $38,792
10 Year Projected Income $387,920
20 Year Projected Income $775,840

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