Program Overview

University Studies

The Bachelor of University Studies degree at North Dakota State University offers a flexible, personalized approach to higher education. Designed so students can create their own degree plan with guidance from an academic advisor, each plan is tailored to align with personal and career aspirations and is approved by a university-wide committee. With no designated major, students will develop areas of emphasis, each requiring at least 12 credits, including upper-division coursework, and can choose to complement their plan with a relevant academic minor. The result is a degree that helps students meet their individual goals while preparing them for meaningful, adaptable careers post-graduation.

Explore the Curriculum

• Major: On Campus, Online Build a personalized plan and graduate ready for what's next.

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

• Human Resources Generalist
• Recruiter
• Communications Specialist
• Academic Advisor
• Career Coach

National Median Salary

$70,000 The median salary reflects national job listings for high-demand occupations in this field that require five years of experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As students gain experience, they can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations they might explore:

• Organizational Change Manager
• Consultant
• Policy Analyst

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Career Customization

Design your own academic path by tailoring coursework to meet specific career aspirations. Whether aiming for a career in government, healthcare, or business, this degree offers the flexibility to shape education to align with professional goals.

Pre-Professional Preparation

Begin the journey toward advanced education in fields like law, medicine, or physical therapy. By creating an area of emphasis, students can ensure they're prepared for the rigorous demands of professional schools.

Entrepreneurial Pathways

For aspiring entrepreneurs, the program provides the perfect foundation to explore diverse areas such as business, community development, and leadership. Customize education to gain the skills and knowledge needed to launch and manage own ventures.

Interdisciplinary Learning

Combine different academic disciplines into one cohesive degree. This broad, interdisciplinary approach helps develop a well-rounded skill set applicable to various industries, from social work to military service.

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support students in covering tuition and expenses, a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options are provided.

Admission Info

At NDSU, students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community are welcome.

Program Testimonials

• Kayla Carlson, Bachelor of University Studies with a minor in Business Administration

• Ali Johnson, Bachelor of University Studies with a minor in Biology

• Rachel Renor, Returned to complete degree after a decade

• Shaina Lynnes, Bachelor of University Studies

I am a single mom and work full-time. Flexibility was a requirement for me.

You'll never look back and regret getting it. There is no perfect time in your life to finish, so why not start now?

It was great to work with somebody who genuinely wanted me to succeed and wanted to help me on my journey.

My advisor showed me options that would allow me to balance family, school, and a career and still have success in all those areas.

Related Programs

• Cultural Diversity: Minor
• General Agriculture: Minor
• Global Studies: Major, Minor, Undergraduate Certificate
• Human Development & Family Science: Major, Minor
• Public Policy: Minor
• Women & Gender Studies: Major, Minor

Program Location

The Bachelor of University Studies program is located in the College of Arts and Sciences at North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND.