Bemidji State University Degree Programs
Bemidji State University appears in our ranking of the 30 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s In Finance.
Located deep in the Boundary Waters, Bemidji State University provides students not only with a diverse and flexible learning environment but also a close relationship with nature in all its beauty. Bemidji State University also provides nationally ranked online learning opportunities at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. There are dozens of degree foci available for study. Some of these involve a traditional four-year track, like the BSBA in Finance while others, such as those for certificates and some licenses, involve less time.
Because of the nature of the school’s environs, the study of aquatic biology is particularly rewarding. Minnesota is, after all, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Because of its proximity to the Leech Lake Reservation, Bemidji State University offers a deep perspective on First Nations’ affairs. Several of the major course studies at the university include minors relative to the First Nations. The university provides graduate students with access to nine possible master’s degrees.
At the other end of the spectrum, the university has agreements with Minnesota high schools to have some of its courses taught in high-school classrooms. Bemidji State University calls this program “College in the High School,” and there are 18 classes available during the 2018-2019 school year. Academically gifted juniors and seniors can take these classes, each of which will reduce their possible tuition at the university by $600.
About Bemidji State University
In the year 1919, Bemidji Normal School opened its doors for 38 future teachers. It was founded and chartered by the Minnesota State Legislature because of a general lack of qualified teachers in the state, especially in the northern areas. As a normal school, it offered two-year teaching certificates. Two years later, the school was renamed Bemidji State Teachers College and expanded to offer four-year degrees. Over the next 35 years, the school expanded its program offerings. As such, it was renamed Bemidji State College in 1957. In 1975, it had expanded enough to become worthy of the title of Bemidji State University.
The nearby Lake Bemidji, or Bemijigamaa in the Ojibwe language, is an integral part of both campus life and study. Legend has it that Paul Bunyan stepped in a mudflat during a rainstorm and created the lake! In addition to being the central focus of the students of the aquatic biology department, the lake is a pleasant place for students to study, take walks, or enjoy water activities. During the winter, cries of, “HURRY, HARD!” can be heard in makeshift curling rinks while students study cold-weather species nearby.
Bemidji State University Accreditation Details
Bemidji State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, the school has earned the following accreditations:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Association of Schools of Music
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
- International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
- Council on Social Work Education Office of Social work Accreditation
- Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering
- American Chemical Society
- Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training
- Minnesota Department of Education
The final two entries on this list are considered programs with external agency review.
Bemidji State University Application Requirements
The general standard by which students are judged for admission includes a score of 21 or higher on the ACT and a high-school graduation placement of “in the top half of the class.” In certain cases, students who do not meet these requirements might be granted admission on a case-by-case basis after evaluation by the Admissions Review Committee. Each graduate program has specific admission requirements, such as letters of intent, references, and the passing of the Graduate Record Examination, among others. Students should check the website for the specifics of the graduate programs they wish to study. Any student who wants to pursue more than one course of graduate study must meet the requirements of each program.
International students must have all visas and other paperwork in place before acceptance. The process is complex, but Bemidji State University provides help during the entire process. Both undergraduate and graduate students can begin by perusing the website checklists at any time. Students from certain countries have requirements that others do not, so attention to detail is key to these students’ successful admission and enrollment.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Rather than have a set tuition rate per year, Bemidji State University accommodates students with flexible lives. Tuition is charged by the credit hour. Undergraduate classes cost $266.45 per credit hour, and graduate classes cost $419.60. Certain classes have higher or lower costs. The student fees will also vary based on whether the student studies on campus, off campus, or online. “Hybrid” students, those who study a combination of face-to-face and online classes, have their own tuition structure. Although the website is fairly self-explanatory, it is recommended that all students with questions contact the bursar’s office.
When it comes to financial aid, all students must begin with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Tuition must be paid by August 6 every year to avoid the cancellation of classes. Students who have filed a FAFSA can defer that payment until the award comes through. It is therefore imperative that students receiving financial aid adhere to all deadlines rigorously to avoid any problems.
Of course, there are also scholarships, grants, and work-study programs available for students who need help paying tuition. Bemidji State University provides some scholarships itself, and many more are available elsewhere if students qualify for them. Grants may come from the government or from private entities.
The work-study program at Bemidji State University is need-based. Students who wish to participate should check “yes” in the relevant section of their FAFSAs. Work-study students must be enrolled in at least six credit hours worth of classes. Summer workers must show that they are enrolled in at least six credit hours of classes in the following semester.
Bemidji State University is dedicated to the students of Northern Minnesota and beyond, offering a variety of degree programs that are work-life-study balanced and crafted to each student’s learning style and needs.