February 10, 2026 - DICKINSON, N.D. - Dickinson State University’s Spring 2026 census reflects stable enrollment compared to the previous term, demonstrating continued institutional consistency while the university advances new academic programs and regional partnerships.
The Spring 2026 census recorded a total headcount of 1,359 students, compared to 1,374 students in Fall 2025, representing a difference of approximately 1 percent. This report represents the second consecutive year of stable fall-to-spring enrollment at the University. In Spring 2025, the institution reported no change in enrollment, remaining the same as Fall 2024.
Of the Spring 2026 total, 801 students are enrolled full-time. The university also welcomed 37 transfer students and 10 new graduate students this spring. Early Entry enrollment remained steady, with 281 high school students taking college courses through Dickinson State.
This spring, 184 students are expected to graduate, contributing directly to the workforce needs of western North Dakota and beyond.
“Stable enrollment reflects the strength of Dickinson State’s mission and the responsiveness of our academic portfolio to regional workforce needs,” said Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “Our upcoming program launches in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and health-related fields are designed to align directly with employer demand and provide students with high-impact career pathways.”
As part of its forward-looking strategy, Dickinson State is preparing to launch several new academic programs pending accreditation. Planned bachelor’s degrees include Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, Information Analytics, Digital Marketing, Financial Technology (FinTech), Sports Marketing, Emergency Medical Services, and Fire Science. The university is also developing new certificate offerings in Emergency Medicine and Financial Technology, along with a graduate program in Applied Performance and Health.
Beyond new academic programs, Dickinson State continues to expand educational access across the region. In partnership with Williston State College, the university will offer face-to-face bachelor’s degree pathways in Business and Criminal Justice in Williston beginning this fall.
The university has also established new healthcare-focused graduate pathways with North Dakota State University, allowing students in western North Dakota to pursue Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) programs without leaving the region.
“Dickinson State is committed to providing high-quality, accessible education that meets the evolving needs of our students, communities, and industries,” said President Scott Molander. “From new workforce-driven majors to expanded partnerships across the state, we are positioning the university to serve as a critical talent pipeline for North Dakota’s future.”
For more information about Dickinson State University programs and enrollment, visit dickinsonstate.edu.