North Dakota State University

Participating Programs

Human Sciences:
Campus Coordinator:
Melissa Selders-Ortez
Agriculture:
Campus Coordinator:
Melissa Selders-Ortez

More about Great Plains IDEA at North Dakota State University

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Founded

1890

Main Campus Location:

Fargo, North Dakota (pop. 122,359)

Accredited By

Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Undergrad Population

11,425

Graduate Population

2,371

Number of Colleges

8

Nickname

Bison

School Colors

Yellow and Green

Mascot

Thundar the Bison

TRADITIONS

Student Kelly Nelson’s design inspired by the school song won the 2011 tartan competition. As the song says, the colors reflect the prairies of North Dakota that are green in spring and yellow with bountiful grain in the fall. The tartan is approved by The Scottish Register of Tartans.

The 1919 head football coach encouraged the nickname “Bison” for a strong, fierce mascot. Vast numbers of bison once roamed the prairie of North Dakota.  Students and residents of the Fargo community pronounce the mascot with a "z" sound, rather than an "s" sound.

The Harry D. McGovern Alumni Center has a grand entrance known as the NDSU Walk of Pride. It includes floor tiles with the names of NDSU alumni, students, faculty, staff and fans to show their pride and commitment to NDSU.

NDSU Homecoming is a campus and community celebration that exceeds expectations of a top research university and successful community. The Homecoming parade, which is held in downtown Fargo, draws thousands of alumni, students, faculty, staff and community members.