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BSC historic spring enrollment breaks all-time record for the third consecutive semester | Bismarck State College

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BSC historic spring enrollment breaks all-time record for the third consecutive semester

Published: Feb 11 2026
BSC historic spring enrollment breaks all-time record for the third consecutive semester - Photo
Bismarck State College (BSC) has reached the highest enrollment in its 86-year history with 4,773 students enrolled for the spring 2026 semester, according to official figures released Tuesday by the North Dakota University System.
 
BSC previously set all-time enrollment records in spring 2025 and fall 2025 and has broken the mark again, enrolling 328 more students than last spring, a 7.26% increase and one of the strongest spring-term gains on record.

While most colleges and universities experience a drop in enrollment between the fall and spring semesters, BSC continues to trend in the opposite direction. This spring, 224 more students are attending BSC than last fall, extending a pattern that began in spring 2022. The college has now recorded eight consecutive semesters of enrollment growth, increasing student numbers every term.

“This continued momentum reflects student confidence in BSC,” says Dr. Dan Leingang, interim president of BSC. “Students are choosing programs that connect directly to careers, and whether they are on-campus or online, they’re finding a supportive college community where they can succeed.”

Over the past five years, BSC has experienced sustained institutional growth. Enrollment has increased by nearly 1,500 students, or 46% since spring 2022.

The increase in students can be attributed to several factors, including the expansion of BSC’s polytechnic mission, the addition of new certificate, associate and associate of applied science, and bachelor’s degree programs, the transition to four-year NAIA athletics, more than $1.7 million in annual scholarship support, and flexible academic pathways designed to keep higher education accessible and affordable.

Enrollments in BSC’s four-year programs rose from 275 students in fall 2024 to 447 in fall 2025, reflecting a rising demand for applied and workforce-aligned education. BSC now offers 14 bachelor’s degrees.

Campus life is expanding right alongside enrollment. This academic year marks the largest residential population in BSC history, with 515 students living in seven residence halls. In August 2025, the college opened Health Science Hall, a 55-bed residence facility, and planning continues for a new 355-bed residence hall scheduled to open in fall 2027.

Additionally, the BSC Bavendick Center, an 80,000-square-foot athletic facility, is nearing completion and will become the new home for collegiate athletics, recreation, and major campus events beginning in April, including the college’s 86th Commencement Ceremony on May 15. This facility will further enhance student life and expand athletic and recreational opportunities for students and the campus community.

With more students living on campus, participation in clubs and organizations, athletic events, music, and theater has also increased, creating a more vibrant campus experience.

“BSC’s growth is not only measured in numbers but in engagement,” says Dr. Kaylyn Bondy, vice president for student affairs. “Students are finding community here in classrooms, residence halls, student organizations and athletics. That sense of belonging is a major part of their success.”

With the addition of new career-focused programs and degrees, the return of Mystics football, and continued investments in housing capacity, campus amenities and student support services, BSC is positioned to sustain enrollment momentum in the years ahead.

“Our growth is intentional,” says Leingang. “We are listening to students and employers and building programs, facilities and support systems around what helps students succeed. We expect BSC to continue attracting more students who see a clear pathway from education to career and community impact.”