Graduation milestones reached across the North Dakota University System

Tuesday, May 26, 2026

North Dakota’s colleges and universities are celebrating a major milestone this spring, with more than 7,500 students eligible to graduate across the North Dakota University System (NDUS) this spring semester. The spring 2026 graduating cohort includes more than 750 certificates, more than 1,800 associate degrees, more than 3,700 bachelor’s degrees, and more than 1,400 graduate-level degrees.

“North Dakota’s workforce needs continue to evolve, and our campuses are rising to meet tomorrow’s challenges,” NDUS Commissioner Brent Sanford said. “Congratulations to our graduates, who represent the next generation of skilled professionals and will strengthen our communities, industries and statewide competitiveness. This year’s graduating class reflects the state’s growing talent pipeline and the system’s continued focus on meeting North Dakota’s workforce needs.”

North Dakota’s higher education landscape has experienced significant growth and momentum over the past decade, directly supporting the state’s workforce demands:

  • High school headcount has doubled in the last ten years.
  • North Dakota residents attending NDUS institutions has increased by 7.5 percent over the same period.
  • Four‑year completion rates have risen 16 percent in the last decade, demonstrating that students are completing degrees more efficiently.
  • NDUS retention rates have increased by 3 percent over the past ten years.
  • New freshman enrollment is up by 1,200 students in just the past two years.

“This data highlights a decade of strategic investment in student success, workforce alignment and educational access. As more North Dakotans pursue higher education and complete their degrees, the state is better positioned to meet workforce needs in energy, healthcare, education, technology, agriculture and other emerging industries,” Sanford said.

Official graduation completion numbers will be released when a census report is completed and validated in fall 2026.

Stories of Student Achievement

Across NDUS campuses, students are reaching remarkable milestones, including those just graduating high school. These accomplishments highlight the system’s commitment to access, innovation and early workforce preparation:

  • Bismarck State College (BSC) Early Entry Success: Among BSC’s graduates are 42 high school students who earned associate degrees or certificates through dual credit and early‑entry coursework, receiving their college diplomas before their high school graduation ceremonies.
  • Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) Leading to Education and Advanced Preparation (LEAP) Beyond Program: This year, 39 high school students completed LEAP credentials. Their achievements include Certificates of College Studies, Certificates of Completion, Associate of Science degrees, and combinations of LEAP Beyond Associate credentials. These students represent nine North Dakota high schools and demonstrate the power of early college pathways.
  • Valley City State University (VCSU) Teacher Cohort: Approximately 20 West Fargo Public School teachers completed their master’s degrees this spring, advancing their professional skills and contributing to the state’s educator workforce.
  • Williston State College (WSC) Dual Enrollment: Eleven Williston High School students earned their associate degrees one week before graduating high school, showcasing the strength of dual‑credit partnerships.