What Is It Known For?
Valley City State University (VCSU), located in Valley City, North Dakota, is known for its strong commitment to providing quality education, particularly in education, business, and technology. Established in 1890, VCSU has a long history of offering students opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Serving around 1,000 students each semester, the university prides itself on its supportive, close-knit community. As part of the North Dakota University System, VCSU benefits from a broad network of resources, giving students access to a variety of opportunities to enhance their academic and professional journeys.
Degrees & Certifications
Valley City State University provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to prepare students for success across multiple career paths.
Key offerings include degrees and certifications in areas such as:
- Master of Education Programs
- Business Information Systems Master’s Degree
- Nursing Program
- Bachelor of Arts in Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
- Bachelor of Science in Music
- Bachelor of Science in Health Science
Class Schedules
Valley City State University understands that life doesn’t stop for school. That’s why they offer classes during the day, in the evening, and online, with many programs blending in-person and virtual learning for added flexibility. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or other commitments, VCSU makes it easier to fit education into your schedule.
Many programs also include hands-on experiences like externships or clinical practice, giving students a chance to apply what they’ve learned in real-world settings.
Is It Legit?
Yes. Valley City State University is fully accredited and recognized by several esteemed organizations, including:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) accreditation for its music programs.
- National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts accreditation for the Community School of the Arts.
Acceptance Rate
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Valley City State University has an acceptance rate of 83%. The university considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process, but they are not required for admission.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition at Valley City State University varies by residency, with North Dakota residents paying $6,619 annually, and non-resident and international students paying $11,583. Additional costs include room and board, which is $7,715, a university and technology fee of $1,961, and an estimated $1,100 for course books and supplies.
Graduate students enrolled in online programs pay $6,605 annually, along with a university fee of $1,471. VCSU also offers a Net Price Calculator to help estimate costs based on your circumstances.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Management
- Business Administration
- Human Resources & Management
- Managerial Accounting & Finance
- Marketing
Healthcare
- Allied Health
- Health Science
Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Computer Information Systems
- Computer Science
Campus Locations
Valley City 101 College Street SW Valley City, North Dakota 58072
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Valley City State University (VCSU) has a consistently positive reputation for being a small, welcoming, and accessible campus suitable for a wide variety of students. However, the feedback is quite limited in detail, preventing a deeper analysis of academic or administrative specifics.
Overall Score: 4.1/5 Stars
Common Praises
Welcoming and Friendly Environment: The school is frequently described as having a “Friendly staff and students” and being a “great place to learn and grow.”
Highly Accessible Campus: Reviewers appreciate the campus layout, noting it is “so easy to find places” and that everything is “labeled” and reachable “on foot.”
Inclusive for All Ages: VCSU is recommended as the “Best place to further your education for all ages” for both traditional and non-traditional students.
Great School: General sentiment, though brief, points to a positive overall experience, calling it a “Great School.”
Momentum
The momentum is stable but shallow. The overall rating is good, and the campus continues to receive recent positive mentions (including one just three weeks ago). However, the reviews are generally very brief, lacking the necessary detail to assess recent trends in the academic programs or student services that would be most important to prospective students.