North Dakota State University – College of Engineering

Overview

North Dakota State University (NDSU), located in Fargo, offers one of the top engineering programs in the state. Its College of Engineering is known for providing a comprehensive education in multiple disciplines, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and agricultural engineering. NDSU emphasizes practical learning and research, with students frequently engaging in projects tied to regional industries, particularly in agriculture and energy. The university’s partnerships with local industries ensure students gain hands-on experience through internships and cooperative education.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #163 for undergraduate engineering programs in the U.S.
• Number of Students: 4,000+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, and Agricultural Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 96%
• Average SAT Score: 1092
• Average GRE Score: 158 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Doug Burgum – Governor of North Dakota and former CEO of Great Plains Software.
• Arthur Link – Former Governor of North Dakota.
• Bob Backlund – WWE Hall of Fame wrestler.
• Clarence Aslakson – Pioneer in agricultural engineering.
• Richard Hieb – NASA astronaut who flew on multiple Space Shuttle missions.

NDSU’s engineering programs are especially strong in agricultural and civil engineering, reflecting North Dakota’s economic strengths.

---

University of North Dakota – College of Engineering and Mines

Overview

The University of North Dakota (UND), located in Grand Forks, is another leading institution for engineering education in the state. UND’s College of Engineering and Mines offers a variety of engineering disciplines, including petroleum, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. UND has a strong focus on research, with notable contributions in fields like aerospace, energy, and environmental engineering. Its partnerships with NASA and the energy industry provide students with unique research opportunities, particularly in areas such as space exploration and energy sustainability.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #219 for undergraduate engineering programs in the U.S.
• Number of Students: 3,000+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Mechanical, Petroleum, Electrical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 83%
• Average SAT Score: 1125
• Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Karen Nyberg – NASA astronaut.
• Byron Dorgan – Former U.S. Senator from North Dakota.
• Edward Schafer – Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Governor of North Dakota.
• Lynn Frazier – Former Governor of North Dakota and U.S. Senator.
• John Hoeven – U.S. Senator and former Governor of North Dakota.

UND’s engineering programs are particularly well-regarded for their focus on petroleum engineering and aerospace, making it a great choice for students interested in energy and aviation.

---

University of Mary – Engineering Program

Overview

The University of Mary, located in Bismarck, is a smaller private institution that offers a growing engineering program with a focus on serving the regional needs of North Dakota. While not as large as the public universities in the state, the University of Mary offers specialized engineering programs in areas like civil and mechanical engineering. The university emphasizes a strong foundation in ethics and leadership, aligning with its Catholic values. Graduates from the University of Mary’s engineering programs are well-prepared for careers in regional industries such as construction, energy, and infrastructure development.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not ranked nationally for engineering.
• Number of Students: 1,000+ in STEM-related fields.
• Degrees Offered: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 81%
• Average SAT Score: 1208
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• Joseph L. Verret – Prominent regional civil engineer.
• Christopher Dodson – CEO of Dodson Construction, a key player in regional infrastructure.
• Anne Hoehn – Energy sector executive.
• Ray Helbling – Industrial engineering pioneer in the Midwest.
• Harold Schafer – Founder of the Gold Seal Company.

The University of Mary is particularly well-suited for students looking for a faith-based engineering education with an emphasis on ethics and service to the community.

---

Minot State University – Engineering Program

Overview

Minot State University, located in Minot, offers a more limited selection of engineering programs compared to NDSU and UND but focuses on providing students with practical, hands-on experience in fields such as mechanical and electrical engineering. Minot State’s engineering program has strong ties to local industries, particularly in the energy and manufacturing sectors. The school’s smaller size allows for personalized attention, and students benefit from a close-knit academic community.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not nationally ranked for engineering.
• Number of Students: 300+ in engineering-related fields.
• Degrees Offered: B.S. in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 93%
• Average SAT Score: 1085
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• Ed Schafer – Former Governor of North Dakota.
• David Groner – CEO of Groner Manufacturing, a regional engineering firm.
• Frank Schaefer – Key figure in electrical engineering advancements in the Midwest.
• Nancy Kraus – Energy sector executive specializing in renewable energy.
• Larry Becker – Innovator in agricultural technology.

Minot State’s engineering program is ideal for students seeking a smaller school environment with close ties to the regional economy, particularly in the energy and agricultural sectors.