| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1887 (originally as Moorhead Normal School)
Type: Public University
Location: Moorhead, Minnesota, which is part of the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, a vibrant region straddling the Minnesota-North Dakota border.
Campus: 119 acres with a mix of historic and modern buildings, located near the Red River.
Motto: "Seek Truth, Make a Difference"
MSUM offers more than 80 undergraduate majors, 11 pre-professional pathways, and 15 graduate programs across various disciplines.
Colleges:
College of Arts & Humanities
College of Business, Analytics & Communication
College of Education & Human Services
College of Science, Health & the Environment
Popular Programs:
Nursing
Business Administration
Psychology
Education
Film Studies
Biology
Computer Science
Social Work
Graphic Design
Academic Highlights:
Honors Program: Designed for high-achieving students.
Online Learning: Several degrees and certificates are available fully online.
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1, allowing for personalized attention and smaller class sizes.
MSUM is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Individual programs have additional accreditations, such as from the AACSB (for business programs) and CCNE (for nursing).
Enrollment: Around 5,000 students, including both undergraduate and graduate students.
Student Organizations: Over 100 clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, and recreational groups.
Athletics: MSUM is a member of NCAA Division II and competes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The athletic teams are known as the Dragons.
Sports include basketball, football, soccer, track and field, volleyball, and more.
Cultural Opportunities: Students benefit from the Fargo-Moorhead area's rich cultural scene, including theaters, music festivals, museums, and outdoor activities.
Residence Halls: Offers on-campus housing options, including traditional dorms, suites, and apartments.
Wellness Center: State-of-the-art fitness and recreation facilities.
Living-Learning Communities (LLCs): Specialized housing options where students with similar interests or majors live and learn together.
Library: Livingston Lord Library, equipped with extensive resources for research and study.
Acceptance Rate: MSUM has a relatively high acceptance rate, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
Requirements for Undergraduate Admission:
Application (via MSUM website or Common App)
High school transcripts
SAT/ACT scores (optional for some students)
Graduate Admission: Varies by program; typically requires a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and GRE/GMAT scores (for certain programs).
MSUM offers affordable tuition rates, especially for in-state students and those from reciprocity states (e.g., North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin).
Scholarships and Aid: Includes merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, work-study opportunities, and grants.
Dragons Athletics: The MSUM Dragons have a loyal following and vibrant school spirit.
Film and Animation Program: One of the strongest programs in the region, with connections to the film industry.
Study Abroad Programs: Opportunities for students to study in locations around the globe.
Sustainability Initiatives: A commitment to environmental stewardship with green initiatives across campus.
Moorhead is a welcoming college town with a small-town feel, but it's part of the larger Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area (population ~250,000).
Students can enjoy art galleries, theaters, restaurants, coffee shops, and outdoor activities in the area.
The Red River provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other recreational activities.
MSUM offers over 80 undergraduate majors, including numerous minors, certificates, and emphases. Here are some of the most popular programs:
1. Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Art & Design
Animation
Art Education
Graphic Design
Studio Art
Communication & Media
Communication Studies
Film Production
Broadcast Journalism
Digital Media Management
Humanities
English
History
Philosophy
Spanish
Social Sciences
Sociology
Political Science
Criminal Justice
Women’s & Gender Studies
Anthropology
Music & Theater
Music Education
Music Performance
Theatre Arts (Acting, Directing, Stage Design)
Business Programs (AACSB Accredited)
Accounting
Business Administration
Emphases: Marketing, Management, International Business, Finance
Economics
Communication
Advertising & Public Relations
Communication Studies
Project Management
Entrepreneurship
Data Analytics
Biological and Physical Sciences
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Health Sciences
Nursing (BSN)
Health Services Administration
Exercise Science
Community Health
Environmental Sciences
Environmental Geology
Sustainability
Mathematics & Computer Science
Mathematics
Computer Science
Data Science
Pre-Professional Pathways
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Education Programs
Elementary Inclusive Education
Early Childhood Education
Secondary Education (Various subject areas)
Special Education
Human Services
Social Work
Psychology
Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences
Counseling
MSUM offers 15+ graduate programs in various fields, including master's degrees, licensure, and certificates.
Education
Master of Science (MS) in Curriculum & Instruction
Educational Leadership
Special Education
Healthcare and Human Services
Nursing (MSN)
Speech-Language Pathology
Counseling (School and Clinical Mental Health)
Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Science & Technology
Master of Science in School Psychology
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Professional Counseling
Instructional Design
Teacher Leadership
Healthcare Leadership
MSUM offers several fully online programs for students who require flexibility. These include both undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates, such as:
RN to BSN (Online Nursing)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Special Education (Graduate)
For students planning to pursue professional degrees after graduation, MSUM provides pre-professional preparation programs, such as:
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-Law
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Engineering
In addition to majors, MSUM offers certificates and minors that allow students to specialize or broaden their knowledge in specific areas:
Certificate in Project Management
Certificate in Business Analytics
Minor in Film Studies
Minor in Sustainability
Minor in Women's and Gender Studies
Minor in Cybersecurity
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Data Science |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Exercise Science |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Environmental Geology |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Sustainability |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Film Production |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Animation |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Elementary Inclusive Education |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
English (Literature & Writing) |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Music Education |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Music Performance |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Theatre Arts (Acting, Directing) |
4 years |
$18,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Educational Leadership |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Special Education |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in Counseling |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) |
2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in School Psychology |
2-3 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing |
2 years |
$13,000 |
Program Name |
Level |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year) (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Education Specialist (Ed.S.) |
Post-Master’s Program |
1–2 years |
$13,000 |
|
Master of Science in School Psychology |
Specialist Program |
3 years |
$13,000 |
Affordable Tuition Fees:
MSUM is known for its affordable tuition rates compared to many universities in the U.S. It also offers scholarships specifically for international students.
Wide Range of Programs:
The university offers 80+ undergraduate programs and 15+ graduate programs across diverse disciplines such as business, computer science, nursing, education, and the arts.
Student Support Services:
MSUM provides extensive support services for international students, including visa assistance, academic advising, and help adjusting to life in the U.S.
Safe and Welcoming Campus:
Located in Moorhead, Minnesota, MSUM’s campus is safe, friendly, and multicultural, with students from over 50 countries.
Small Class Sizes and Faculty Attention:
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, international students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship from professors.
Location Advantages:
Moorhead is part of the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, which offers cultural diversity, job opportunities, and a balance between city life and a safe, small-town feel.
1. Choose a Program
Explore MSUM's academic programs for undergraduate or graduate degrees to find the one that best suits your interests and goals.
Check the program-specific requirements for graduate degrees.
2. Submit an Online Application
Complete and submit the application online:
Undergraduate Application: Apply directly on the MSUM website or through the Common Application.
Graduate Application: Use the Graduate Studies Application Portal on the MSUM website.
Application Fees:
Undergraduate: $20 (non-refundable)
Graduate: $40 (non-refundable)
3. Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission Requirements (Freshman Students)
Application Form: Complete the online application.
High School Transcripts: Provide official transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
English Proficiency Test Scores (for non-native English speakers):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5
Duolingo: Minimum score of 90
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50
Financial Documentation: Proof of financial support for one academic year (bank statements, affidavit of support, etc.).
Copy of Passport: Include a clear copy of your passport identification page.
Optional:
SAT/ACT scores (not required but can be submitted if available).
Letters of recommendation or personal essays (optional).
Transfer Student Requirements
College/University Transcripts: If transferring from another college or university, provide official transcripts.
English Proficiency Test Scores: As listed above.
Credit evaluation may be required to determine transfer eligibility for coursework.
Graduate Admission Requirements
Application Form: Complete the graduate application.
Bachelor’s Degree: A degree from a regionally accredited institution or its international equivalent.
Official Transcripts: Submit transcripts from all previously attended institutions (translated into English if necessary).
English Proficiency Test Scores:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo: Minimum score of 105
Program-Specific Requirements:
Many graduate programs require additional documents, such as:
Statement of Purpose
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3)
Resume or CV
GRE or GMAT scores (only required for some programs)
Financial Documentation: Proof of financial support.
Copy of Passport: Include a scanned copy of the passport ID page.
4. Submit Supporting Documents
After completing your application, submit the required documents:
Upload electronic copies of transcripts, test scores, and other required documents via the application portal.
You may also email scanned copies of documents to [email protected] for initial processing.
Mailing Address for Official Documents:
Office of Admissions
Minnesota State University Moorhead
1104 7th Avenue South
Moorhead, MN 56563
USA
5. English Proficiency Requirements
International applicants who are non-native English speakers must meet English proficiency requirements through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 61 for undergraduates, 79 for graduates.
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 for undergraduates, 6.0 for graduates.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 90 for undergraduates, 105 for graduates.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50.
Applicants who have completed secondary or post-secondary education in English-speaking countries may qualify for an exemption.
6. Financial Documentation for International Students
International applicants must demonstrate their ability to fund their education and living expenses for at least one academic year by providing:
Bank Statements: Showing sufficient funds.
Affidavit of Support: Signed by the sponsor (if applicable).
Estimated expenses for 2023–2024:
Undergraduate: $30,000 per year (including tuition, fees, and living costs).
Graduate: $28,000 per year (including tuition, fees, and living costs).
7. Receive Admission Decision
MSUM reviews applications on a rolling basis and typically provides an admission decision within 2-3 weeks of receiving all required documents.
If admitted, you will receive an admission letter and an I-20 form (for student visa applications).
8. Apply for an F-1 Student Visa
After receiving the I-20 form, you can apply for an F-1 visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country:
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
Complete the DS-160 visa application form.
Schedule a visa interview at your local U.S. embassy/consulate.
Bring required documents to your interview, including:
I-20 form
Passport
Admission letter
Financial documentation
SEVIS fee receipt
9. Orientation for International Students
Once you arrive at MSUM, you are required to attend the International Student Orientation program.
The orientation helps students settle into campus life, learn about resources, and understand academic expectations.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
July 1 (Recommended) |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 (Recommended) |
Early January |
|
Summer Semester |
March 1 (Recommended) |
Late May or Early June |
Note:
It is recommended that international students apply at least 3–6 months in advance of the intended intake to allow for visa processing, travel arrangements, and orientation.
Not all programs may be available for the Summer intake, so students should confirm program availability before applying.
To apply for an undergraduate program at MSUM, international students must meet the following criteria:
High school (secondary school) completion or equivalent.
Minimum GPA (Grade Point Average): 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent in your country).
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 61.
IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 90.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50.
Students who completed high school in English-speaking countries may be exempt from these requirements.
SAT/ACT scores are optional for most undergraduate programs but can strengthen the application.
Submission of high school transcripts (official and translated into English if necessary).
Financial documentation showing the ability to fund at least one year of tuition and living expenses.
A copy of the passport identification page.
To apply for a graduate program at MSUM, international students must meet the following criteria:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program; some programs may require a higher GPA).
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58.
Completion of prior education in an English-speaking country may qualify for an exemption.
Graduate programs may have additional requirements. For example:
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2–3).
Statement of Purpose or personal essay.
Resume or CV.
Some programs may require standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT (check specific program requirements).
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions (translated into English if applicable).
Financial documentation showing the ability to cover one year of tuition and living expenses.
A copy of the passport identification page.
Students transferring from another university (either within the U.S. or abroad) must meet the following requirements:
Minimum 2.0 GPA on transferable credits.
Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
Meet the English proficiency requirements (same as above for undergraduates or graduates).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
International Student Scholarship |
Merit-based (based on academic performance, GPA, etc.) |
Up to $2,500 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
Renewable for up to 4 years (with GPA requirements) |
|
Dragon Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievements or leadership qualities |
$500–$3,000 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
Renewable for up to 4 years (with GPA requirements) |
|
Freshman Honors Scholarship |
Incoming undergraduate students with high academic records |
Up to $3,000 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
Renewable for up to 4 years (with GPA requirements) |
|
Transfer Dragon Scholarship |
Transfer students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 |
Up to $1,500 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
Renewable for up to 2 years (with GPA requirements) |
|
Departmental Scholarships |
Offered by specific academic departments based on merit or major |
N/A |
Apply directly to the department |
check with the specific department |
|
Cultural Contribution Scholarship |
Students who actively contribute to campus diversity |
Up to $1,000 per year |
Submit an essay detailing contribution to campus culture |
Renewable (requires campus involvement) |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Awarded to children or grandchildren of MSUM alumni |
$1,500 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
Renewable for up to 4 years (with GPA requirements) |
Housing Option |
Type of Accommodation |
Facilities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Residence Halls |
Shared Rooms |
- Double or single occupancy |
$3,500–$5,800 |
|
Suites |
Semi-Private Rooms |
- Shared suite with private bedroom |
$5,800–$6,500 |
|
Apartments (East Snarr Hall) |
Apartment-Style Living |
- Private bedroom with shared living room, kitchen, and bathroom |
$6,500–$7,500 |
|
Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) |
Themed Communities |
- Housing options for students with shared academic, cultural, or personal interests (e.g., Honors LLC, Wellness LLC) |
N/A |
|
Dragon Houses |
Family Housing (Off-Campus Style) |
- For students with families or dependents |
N/A |
Furnished Rooms: All rooms come equipped with basic furniture like beds, desks, chairs, closets, and Wi-Fi access.
Utilities Included: Heating, cooling, electricity, internet, and water are included in the housing costs.
Meal Plans: Most students living in residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plan costs range from $2,000–$4,500 per year, depending on the plan selected.
Laundry Facilities: Laundry rooms are available in each residence hall and included in the housing fee.
Proximity to Campus: All housing options are located within walking distance of academic buildings, libraries, fitness centers, and dining facilities.
Type of Housing |
Facilities |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Private Apartments |
- Single or shared bedrooms |
$600–$1,200 |
$7,200–$14,400 |
|
Shared Housing (Roommates) |
- Shared rooms/apartments |
$400–$800 |
$4,800–$9,600 |
|
Family Housing |
- Apartment-style housing for families |
$800–$1,500 |
$9,600–$18,000 |
Note: Costs for off-campus accommodation depend on location, amenities, and number of roommates.
1. Diverse and Welcoming Community
MSUM is home to students from more than 50 countries, making it a culturally diverse and inclusive campus. The university fosters a welcoming environment where students from different backgrounds can share their experiences, learn from each other, and thrive academically and socially.
2. Student Organizations and Clubs
With over 100 student organizations and clubs, MSUM offers something for everyone. These include:
Academic Clubs: Enhance your knowledge and network with peers in your field (e.g., Biology Club, Business Association).
Cultural and Diversity Groups: Engage with cultural organizations like the International Student Organization (ISO), Black Student Union (BSU), and more.
Sports and Recreational Clubs: Join intramural or club sports like soccer, basketball, or ultimate frisbee.
Special Interest Groups: Participate in groups focused on hobbies or passions, such as gaming, music, or volunteering.
Student Government: Represent your peers in decision-making processes through the Student Senate.
3. Athletics and School Spirit
MSUM is part of NCAA Division II athletics and competes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The school’s teams are called the Dragons, and sports like basketball, football, volleyball, track & field, and swimming are popular.
Students can cheer on their teams at games, enjoy tailgating events, and participate in spirit-building traditions.
For those who enjoy recreational sports, MSUM offers intramural leagues and fitness programs.
4. Campus Events and Activities
MSUM hosts a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year, including:
DragonFest: An annual festival filled with music, food, games, and giveaways.
Homecoming Week: A week-long celebration of school spirit with parades, games, and social events.
Cultural Festivals: Events like the International Student Organization’s Global Gala showcase cultural traditions, food, and performances from around the world.
Speaker Series and Workshops: Opportunities to attend lectures and discussions with guest speakers from diverse industries.
5. Living on Campus
Living in one of MSUM’s residence halls or apartments provides a great way to meet new friends and immerse yourself in campus life. Campus housing includes:
Residence halls for freshmen and undergraduates.
Apartment-style living for upperclassmen or students seeking more privacy.
Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) where students with shared interests or majors live together, such as the Honors LLC or Wellness LLC.
The residence halls often host community-building events such as movie nights, game tournaments, and holiday celebrations.
6. Cultural and Multicultural Opportunities
MSUM celebrates cultural diversity and provides resources for international and multicultural students:
International Student Organization (ISO): A platform for international students to connect and share their cultures.
Office of Diversity and Inclusion: Offers support for students of diverse backgrounds and hosts events like cultural workshops and awareness campaigns.
Cultural Celebrations: The campus celebrates festivals and events such as Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Diwali, and Hispanic Heritage Month.
7. Career Services and Professional Development
The Career Development Center helps students prepare for life after graduation by offering:
Career counseling and resume workshops.
Internship and job placement assistance.
Networking events with local employers and alumni.
Access to Handshake, a platform that connects students with job and internship opportunities.
MSUM also hosts career fairs, where students can meet potential employers from the Fargo-Moorhead area and beyond.
8. Academic and Wellness Support
MSUM is committed to student success and provides a range of resources:
Tutoring Services: Free tutoring for many subjects, including math, writing, and sciences.
Academic Advising: Advisors help students select courses, plan their majors, and stay on track for graduation.
Wellness Center: A state-of-the-art fitness center with gym equipment, group classes, an indoor pool, and mental health support.
Counseling Services: Free counseling sessions are available to help students cope with stress, anxiety, and personal challenges.
9. Fargo-Moorhead Community
MSUM is located in the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, which offers a mix of small-town charm and urban amenities. Students can enjoy:
Restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques.
Outdoor activities like kayaking on the Red River, hiking, and biking.
Entertainment venues like theaters, museums, and live music performances.
Seasonal events such as farmers' markets, winter festivals, and art fairs.
The low cost of living and safe environment make Moorhead an ideal location for students.
10. Student Employment Opportunities
MSUM offers on-campus employment opportunities for students, including positions in:
Dining services.
Library and administrative offices.
Residence halls as Resident Assistants (RAs). International students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the semester and full-time during breaks.
11. Study Spaces and Libraries
The Livingston Lord Library offers quiet study areas, collaborative workspaces, and access to academic resources.
Students can reserve study rooms for group projects or use campus computer labs equipped with specialized software.
12. Dragon Spirit and Traditions
Students take pride in being Dragons, and the campus fosters a strong sense of community and school spirit.
Dragon-themed events, merchandise, and traditions like the "Dragon Walk" connect students to the university's legacy.
Career Outcomes:
The placement rate for MSUM graduates is 97%, meaning most students are either employed in their field of study or pursuing further education within one year of graduation.
This high placement rate reflects the university's focus on real-world learning, internships, and industry connections.
Internship Opportunities:
MSUM places a strong emphasis on internships as part of its academic programs. Many students secure internships with local, regional, and national companies, which often lead to full-time job offers after graduation.
Popular industries for internships include business, healthcare, education, technology, arts, and social work.
Employment Areas:
MSUM graduates find jobs in a variety of industries, such as:
Business: Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management.
Healthcare: Nursing, Health Administration, Speech-Language Pathology.
Technology: Computer Science, Data Analytics, Software Development.
Education: Teaching, Special Education, Educational Leadership.
Social Services: Counseling, Social Work, Psychology.
Creative Arts: Graphic Design, Film Production, Animation.
Strong Employer Connections:
MSUM has partnerships with a wide range of employers in the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, as well as nationally. This provides students with access to a broad network of job opportunities.
Graduate School Pathways:
Many MSUM graduates pursue further education, including master's or professional degrees in fields such as healthcare, law, or education. The university's strong undergraduate programs prepare students well for graduate studies.
MSUM offers extensive career development services to help students prepare for the job market. Key resources include:
Career Development Center (CDC):
The CDC provides personalized support to students and alumni, including:
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Professional review and feedback to ensure your application materials stand out.
Mock Interviews: Practice interviews with career advisors to build confidence and improve interview skills.
Career Counseling: One-on-one sessions to help students identify career paths and create job search strategies.
Job Search Assistance: Guidance on finding and applying for jobs and internships.
Handshake Platform:
MSUM uses Handshake, an online career portal, where students can:
Search for jobs and internships.
Connect with employers.
Register for career fairs and workshops.
Career Fairs and Networking Events:
MSUM hosts career fairs and networking events throughout the year, where students can meet potential employers and industry professionals. Key events include:
Spring Career Fair: Focused on connecting students with local and regional employers.
Education Fair: Aimed at students pursuing careers in teaching and education-related fields.
Healthcare and Social Work Fair: Targets students in healthcare and human services fields.
On-Campus Employment:
International and domestic students can gain valuable work experience by working on campus in various departments, including:
Library services.
Student life and housing.
Research and administrative positions.
Internship and Cooperative Education (Co-op) Programs:
Many academic programs at MSUM include internships or co-op opportunities as part of their curriculum. These experiences allow students to gain hands-on experience in their field and build professional networks.
MSUM graduates work at prestigious companies and organizations across various industries. Some top employers include:
Sanford Health (Healthcare)
Microsoft (Technology)
Blue Cross Blue Shield (Insurance and Healthcare)
Bell Bank (Banking and Finance)
John Deere (Manufacturing and Engineering)
Fargo Public Schools (Education)
UnitedHealth Group (Healthcare)
Target Corporation (Retail and Business)
Essentia Health (Healthcare)
The average starting salary for MSUM graduates varies by field of study, but typical salary ranges are as follows:
Business and Accounting: $50,000–$65,000 per year.
Nursing and Healthcare: $55,000–$75,000 per year.
Computer Science and Technology: $60,000–$80,000 per year.
Education: $40,000–$55,000 per year.
Creative Arts and Media: $35,000–$50,000 per year.
Social Work and Counseling: $40,000–$55,000 per year.
Note: Salaries can vary depending on the specific job, employer, and location.
Certain programs at MSUM are known for their high placement rates and strong employer connections:
Nursing (BSN): Graduates often secure positions in hospitals and healthcare facilities immediately after graduation.
Business Administration: Many students receive job offers from companies in the Fargo-Moorhead area or nationally.
Computer Science and Data Analytics: MSUM graduates are in high demand in the tech industry, particularly in software development and data analysis roles.
Education: Graduates of MSUM’s teacher preparation programs often secure teaching positions in regional school districts.
Film and Animation: Alumni from the film and animation programs often find careers in media production and the entertainment industry.
MSUM shares numerous success stories of alumni who have excelled in their careers. Many graduates credit the university's supportive environment, hands-on learning opportunities, and career services for their success.
Academic Performance:
Undergraduate applicants are generally expected to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale in high school.
Graduate programs may require a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher in undergraduate studies (depending on the program).
English Proficiency (for International Students):
International students must meet the English language requirements:
TOEFL iBT: 61 for undergraduates, 79 for graduates.
IELTS: 5.5 for undergraduates, 6.0 for graduates.
Duolingo: 90 for undergraduates, 105 for graduates.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some programs (e.g., nursing, education, or counseling) may have additional admission requirements, such as higher GPAs, letters of recommendation, or standardized test scores like the GRE/GMAT.
Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM)
1104 7th Avenue South
Moorhead, MN 56563
United States
