Full-time students fueling BSC enrollment growth in 2024-25
Published: Aug 29 2024
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Bismarck State College (BSC) is starting the 2024-25 academic year on a high note with a significant increase in full-time student enrollment. As of Tuesday, Aug. 27, the first full day of classes, the college had seen a 13.8% rise over last year in the number of traditional college-age students and older taking 12 or more credits at BSC. This statistic does not include high school dual credit enrollment.
The official enrollment numbers for the Fall 2024 semester will be reported in September, but this early increase already underscores the college’s commitment to providing accessible and relevant education and highlights a steady, growing interest in BSC’s polytechnic education model and the in-demand career pathways offered.
Meeting workforce demands with skilled graduates
“The boost in full-time enrollment is not only a testament to BSC's value to students but also a crucial response to the increasing demand for a skilled workforce in North Dakota,” says BSC President Doug Jensen.
With the average age of a BSC student at 25 and more than half (51%) of BSC’s programs attracting students aged 25 or older, the college is uniquely positioned to supply the state with graduates who are ready to step into critical roles across various industries, both in entry- and higher-level positions.
Programs like Cybersecurity & Computer Networks, Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) and Energy Management—each with a student base averaging 25 years of age or higher—are particularly aligned with North Dakota’s evolving job market needs. These non-traditional age students often come to BSC with prior work experience or as career changers, bringing a maturity and focus that enhances their learning and prepares them to make immediate contributions to the workforce.
Empowering students for career success
For many students, BSC offers a pathway to advance in their careers or to make a significant change. Whether they are first-time college students, returning to complete unfinished degrees, or seeking to enhance their qualifications for higher-level positions, BSC provides the education and credentials needed to achieve their goals. This is especially critical in sectors like healthcare, where BSC’s on-campus nursing students are preparing to join their communities’ healthcare workforce—a sector in dire need of well-trained professionals.
The rise in full-time enrollment can also be attributed to BSC’s diverse range of certificate programs. These programs allow students to acquire targeted skills in a shorter time frame, enabling them to enter the workforce or transition into new roles quickly. This flexibility benefits both the students, who can see a faster return on their educational investment, and the state’s employers who gain access to a steady pipeline of qualified workers.
Many students, whether traditional college-age or older, have found they can graduate from a BSC certificate program, enter the workforce, and then continue their education to further their careers and move up the ladder—often with financial support from their employers. This approach allows students to gain practical experience and immediately contribute to their field while positioning themselves for future advancement.
A win for students and the state
“As BSC continues to attract a diverse and growing student population, the college is playing a pivotal role in addressing North Dakota’s workforce needs,” says Jensen. “By equipping students with the skills and knowledge required in high-demand fields, BSC is enhancing the career prospects of its graduates and strengthening the state’s economy. We are dedicated to fostering an educational environment that meets the needs of all our students, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals while supporting the continued growth and development of North Dakota’s workforce.”