The University

An image of the clocktower at Valley City State University during the fall

Recognized as one of the top public regional colleges in the Midwest and one of America’s “Best Colleges” for 25 consecutive years by U.S. News, VCSU is an academically driven, student-centered university.

VCSU offers more than 65 undergraduate programs in art, business, communication arts, computer systems and software engineering, education, kinesiology and human performance, language and literature, mathematics, music, science, social science, and technology education.

Valley City State University holds the title for the best elementary education program in the country, outranking non-profit public and private schools. Founded in 1890 as a teacher’s college, VCSU has held fast to its heritage and maintains an outstanding reputation for developing some of the finest K – 12 educators in the region.

In early 2022, VCSU also added a Master of Science (M.S.) in Business Information Systems as a response to changing economic outlooks and workforce needs. VCSU also offers online Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree programs.

By providing full-time students with their own laptop, VCSU has remained committed to accessible, technology-driven educational opportunities for all students. Adapting educational technology and teaching methods has ensured all students receive a high-impact learning experience no matter their location or ability.

Valley City State’s 55-acre campus is bordered on the south by a forested hillside and on the north by the Sheyenne River. The campus architecture marries historic and modern buildings to create one of the most beautiful campuses in North Dakota. The central campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District, cementing VCSU’s place in North Dakota history.

Valley City, a town of 6,500 people located along the Sheyenne River, is a 60-mile commute from Fargo. VCSU is one of the largest employers in the region, having a large economic impact on the community.

Fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, VCSU was credited with a healthy, forward-looking culture with academic and strategic growth potential. VCSU is one of 11 institutions in the North Dakota University System (NDUS).