Minot State University
Minot, ND, USA

Reviews

Minot State University

Brooke from Plentywood, MT

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers challenge their students to want to learn what they are teaching. I have learned so much that I never thought I would ever learn.
Am enjoying being here
I am having a blast at school. I love all the activities the school has which allowed me to meet so many different people from backgrounds and cultures all over the world.
Bang for the buck
The cost is the same for anyone in the U.S. and any other country for admission that's one of the great things about it. It has a great environment to study, sleep, party (responsibly), or whatever a person wants to do. Great school that everyone should look into.
Tips for prospective students
Freshman, I was just you and leaned a lot. Do not go home in the first month of being there, unless there is a family emergency because the school has a way of introducing the freshman to all the sports and activities in the first couple weeks. If you have a roommate, don't spill their secrets, you guys have a bond that no one else will have with them. Also, eat in the downstairs cafe as much as you can..it's really good. :)

Megan from Rapid City, SD

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
although you wouldn't guess it by school size and location, minot state university is a fantastic place to study. you can find great professors who have gone out into the world to work in their field and, one day, decided they'd rather settle down and teach their skills in a friendly area of the country. if you're looking for an inexpensive university with international connections, this is definitely the place for you.
Tips for prospective students
my biggest tip for you would be to visit the campus/town/professors to get a good feel for the place. the teachers here really care, so you'll be spending a lot of time working with them and will want to make sure you get along.
Academic Rigor
there isn't a ton of pressure to be a crazy-stressed/successful student here. the emphasis is placed more on the quality of learning rather than getting a 4.0 and needing to move on to grad. school.
Dorm Life
although dorm life is required for first-year students (excluding adults), each residence hall provides a great environment for newcomers. you meet others in your age group and major, which is great if you're from out-of-state like me.
Food and Dining
the food was so-so my freshman year (2008) but i think administration realized this and really did a lot to make the quality better. although i have my own apartment now (and therefore buy my own food) i've heard nothing but good things in the last few years.
What to do for fun
the campus always has something going on such as dances, concerts, hypnotists, etc. the city also has a lot to do in sports, music, art, dance, wow... really most everything.
Bang for the buck
msu charges in-state tuition for all students...which is incredibly cheap in the first place. like i said before, the professors genuinely care about the students so you definitely get bang for your buck.
Great for these types of students
athletes, musicians, writers, would-be-teachers, and nursings students. just to name a few.
Campus Safety
all buildings have key-card access and security guards are always nearby and checking up on you. the campus is also very well-lit and there are cameras around, which are watched by security.

Elizabeth from Minot, ND

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Minot State has a wide range of really good classes depending on your major. The gen eds are ok, pretty standard, but they do have something called Diversity Requirement, which is a gen ed completely different from your major. It's a great way to learn something you've always wanted to take or learn about.
Am enjoying being here
MSU has an active campus, there's a lot of on campus things to do sanctioned by the university, as well as off campus things. If you are into the party scene, you'll find it easily. If you're not, then no worries, there are plenty of other things here! There are activities like movies, bands and speakers every week, and you won't be bored. The town also has stuff to offer, if you search it out.
Bang for the buck
MSU was named one of the top 10 public colleges under $8,500 a year, and has a great tuition rate. All students, in state, out of state and international pay the same rate for tuition. There are a lot of things being built this year meant to go up for 2012/13, which is MSU's 100th year, including a new student wellness center, a new cafeteria, new stadium (which will be finished this year) and additional parking and buildings.
Tips for prospective students
Try to live on campus. Minot has a housing problem, and though the dorms aren't awesome, you very likely will not be able to find any thing affordable off campus. Also, buy a parking pass as soon as possible, as parking is the biggest down side to MSU. Even if you are living off campus, try to get a reserved parking, since the un reserved on the edge of campus and you might as well walk from home.
Great for these types of students
MSU is great for international students, students who want to go to a school away from home but don't want to pay out your butt for out of state tuition; anyone interested in playing NCAA Div 2, Communication Disorders Students, people who want a big school with a small school feeling; and any one interested in living in a big city that's very focused on it's university.
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Ariana from Spanaway, WA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have already taken a few Dual Credit classes sponsored through MSU, and I instantly loved the challenge of a class that had a college atmosphere. I can't wait to experience the real deal!
Am enjoying being here
I have visited MSU on a couple tours. The grounds are spread out, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes to jet from one course to another if your classes are in separate halls. Although I will not able to attend in person, I am definitely looking forward to the courses offered online.
Bang for the buck
The colleges surrounding my current area cost more than $10k per year for undergraduates, and that's just tuition! They pale in comparison to MSU's tuition cost of about $5.6k per year.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to explore all your options. There are classes offered not only on campus, but also online or at the Air Base twenty minutes away. Don't forget all the different clubs and activities you can join!
Great for these types of students
Their system is quite versatile, so anyone will feel right at home while pursuing his or her education.

Rachael from Renton, WA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Both the town and the school are big enough to meet new people and find opportunities, but small enough so you don't feel lost in the crush. Classes are sized to give you a great connection with your professor and peers. On-campus groups come up with lots of fun and interesting activities to fill your time out of class!
Tips for prospective students
Get to know the faculty- you will definitely see them around, and if you're a hard worker in their classes, they'll remember you and will be more than willing to write letters of recommendation. It may be small- but don't think that means Minot can't surprise you.
Academic Rigor
I am in both the Communication Disorders and the Psychology programs at Minot State. I had most of my prerequisites done before I came to school, so I am not sure about the rigor in those classes. I know that the Communication Disorders program is incredibly competitive (it is the largest program on campus, and many of the students in the program are hoping to get into the graduate school at Minot, which has a limited number of slots) so the classes keep everyone on their toes to make sure we are all ready for graduate school and for the profession.
Dorm Life
I really enjoyed living in the freshman hall, and so I went to work with the housing office as Resident Assistant! I spent another year working in the freshman girls' hall, and will be spending next year in the upperclassmen girls' hall. It is community-style living and most residents have a roommate. In the upperclassmen co-ed halls, rooms are divided into suites (two rooms of two residents each, sharing a bathroom and entryway). There are five halls on campus total.
Food and Dining
I don't have many complaints about the food, but there aren't always options for individuals who have different food needs (soy milk must be requested and there is only occasionally a good vegetarian option outside of the salad bar).
What to do for fun
Campus student groups are very on their toes making sure there is plenty to do! We have several intramural sports teams: bowling, volleyball, flag football, soccer, etc; our student activities group arranges to show us movies that are between the theater and coming out on DVD; and we have fun activity nights like a Penny Carnival (in which we raised money for leukemia research), tie blankets, and Create-a-Critter (like Build-a-Bear). In town, we have a bowling alley, a movie theater, and a decent-sized mall.
Bang for the buck
The price cannot be denied for Minot State- especially if you are going into Communication Disorders and don't need a big city, Minot is an excellent place to be! I am going into my third year at Minot, and have been able to work my finances so far so that I have not had to take out a student loan, and have been able to pay for my schooling between summer jobs and a few scholarships. I feel that I am getting an incredible value for my money!
Great for these types of students
Students who like to get to know your professors, enjoy learning, and don't need much off-campus to satisfy their free-time.
Clubs and Activities
There is so much to do here if you just look, there are always posters of events or activities to do, and once you have a major decided upon, there is likely a club having to do with your major filled with like-minded folks!
Greek Life
We have one fraternity and (as of this spring) one sorority, so if you've been interested in the brother or sisterhood of Greek life, but were hesitant because of the intense picture that has been painted by movies and tv shows, know that that is not the case here. The fraternity fellows can be a little crazy, but they're nice guys. I am a member of the recently re-instated sorority and I am so excited to begin our first full year back on campus! We are looking to make a good name for ourselves at the school and in the town, and have already managed to raise over $500 for the Minot YWCA as a result of a spring fundraiser.
Campus Safety
The security guys on campus are always driving around, especially at night. If you are walking alone, they will offer you a ride, and have a station at the library specifically for those who like to study late. As a resident assistant, I know many of them personally and they are a great group of people.

Stephanie from Minot, ND

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
It feels like home at Msu. The faculty are more than ready to help you sail through all tour difficulties. You will fain life experiences that you will never forget life as a beaver.
Tips for prospective students
Get ready for the weather and come prepared for cold and long winters. Apply early and develop a relationship sigh your professors.
Academic Rigor
People of all academic standing would be very comfortable. All below average currently will be motivated,encouraged and groomed to get better while also keeping the exceptional students challenged and engaged
Dorm Life
Perfect place to meet new people from all nations and people pursuing different majors fir insight into other field. Especially the amazing RAs who develop fun gatherings for residents.
Food and Dining
The variety of areas and foods to choose from is excellent. A meal and ambience for every occasion whether a quiet coffee break or a get together grilled lunch.
What to do for fun
School activities such as movie screenings and acts from all over the world for free...eg home free came to Msu and they win the sing off.
Bang for the buck
This school is a close knit community of school families and relationships coming together as one.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
None that I know of
Great for these types of students
Students who want to fey the best our of college in both academics and experiences.
Clubs and Activities
So many globs and activities you might have trouble choosing.so there is a club fair to get you acquainted with all the clubs.
Greek Life
Sororities and fraternities are the great for making new friends you can call family while siding the community through fund raisers etc
Campus Safety
Campus security are the best!always on the lookout for intruders. Patrolling in their vehicles and in foot.nthey are available to keep you company on a walk back from the library or anywhere late at night as long as you give them a call.

Allysa from Kasson, MN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The academics are very good, the housing varies greatly, and the price is going up. The NCAA greatly tampered with school funding so beware the price increases around campus. Also, bring good walking shoes.
Tips for prospective students
Bring comfortable shoes! The campus is sprawling and it's a good idea to wear something comfortable to make a quick dash to your classes. Many underclassmen will have a much more varied schedule due to gen ed classes and may need to utilize several buildings rather than just one. As your class requirements get more specific you will likely find yourself only using one or two buildings at most. In my fourth semester I used three different buildings, but in my sixth I only used one. It may also be wise to bring good boots, especially if you have early morning classes (8am) as the plows usually don't come out that early to plow the snow. Remember this is North Dakota and winter is a real thing in the upper midwest. Bring boots and warm clothing; you will need it.
Academic Rigor
They'll start you off fairly slow so you know what you're doing and to ensure you have a good grasp on the material. It's rigorous, yes, but they don't give you more than you can handle. They space out the due dates of assignments to give you enough time to not only do the assignments, but to ask questions. Remember to ask for help if you need it. Chances are you are not the only one having trouble as you advance through the classes (and years). I originally wrote this review as a freshman, but I am now entering my final year. Some professors will set aside special times aside from office hours for supplemental help with their classes. Particularly difficult classes, such as biochemistry and analytical chemistry, have this feature. Even if you think you have a good grasp on these subjects, it can't hurt to attend.
Dorm Life
Having lived in Dakota Hall for two (going on three) years I can say one thing for certain: many of these people have no idea how to live around others. My junior year was absolutely terrible as far as dorms were considered. The people above me would often have incredibly loud, vigorous sex (to the point my room would shake) and it took two months before the RA's did anything about it. My neighbors across from me would camp out in the hallway just outside my door frequently or would both go into the bathroom in the middle of the night to hold lengthy conversations that would be best held in their own rooms. Four girls in particular got our floor's kitchen shut down twice because of their negligence and poor hygiene, and since the RHD commandeers the entire second floor's kitchen for herself, that left one tiny kitchenette for three floors (or about 60-70 people total). One girl microwaved a can of soup (exactly that-- a soupcan) and wondered why the microwave had stopped working when she returned. It was a disaster.

The RA's are highly social people who are often gone and will often refuse to accept that something is amiss on their floor. I had to fight with them to fix the situation with my upstairs neighbors. Even the RHD didn't want to do anything about it. Dakota Hall is very poorly run. Crane is very well run but difficult to get into due to how the room claiming system works now. McCulloch is awful (very loud, foodfights, negligent staff, mold, alcohol despite MSU being a dry campus, etc). Cook is draconian about their rules. Lura is the only dorm I don't know much about.

Honestly, if you can afford it, I would opt for either a Beaver Lodge (repurposed FEMA trailer) or some kind of apartment. The dorms are simply not worth it.
Food and Dining
The food here has declined in quality pretty significantly since my second semester. A changeover of management to its current status may have been the cause, or it may have been less money going to the company and more being siphoned into athletics thanks to the NCAA. Food has become very basic meat-and-potatoes for most of the year, missing out on much of the interesting meals and creativity from my first year. While it's nice that we now have some new features like the waffle station, a softserve machine, and a new flavored water dispenser, these weren't things that we really needed.

Granted, the food is certainly edible and it will fill you up if you are hungry, but it is nothing spectacular. Very basic cafeteria food, and it's at least better than what I had back in high school.
What to do for fun
When you first get here you will give a magnet that gives you the dates of all the upcoming events for that semester. Of course, since many people like to drink, there are many bars in Minot if you are into the bar scene. Remember that MSU (and every other school in the North Dakota University System) is a dry campus. There are also block parties at the beginning of the year and other similar events as time goes on, such as movie premiers, plays, and powwows in the spring. Sports games should go without saying if you like athletics.

There is an event which takes place every August showcasing the various clubs the school has open, if you enjoy clubs and gatherings.

Minot does have a mall on the south end as well as some movie theaters and other facilities around the city. It isn't a terribly interesting place to be, but you are here for an education, not to party.

I am not really an outgoing person so I do not have firsthand experience with any of these so I have no real recommendations. You will have to try these for yourself.
Bang for the buck
The school is very inexpensive and affordable, even for those who have the worst finances. For the cost it's definitely worth it and more, at least for the academics. I don't feel the dorms and food services are worth the money given the quality decline (and simultaneous price increase despite the decline). For those who are more social, this may not be an issue for you.
Great for these types of students
The campus does have a great amount of diversity, whether it be political, national, or any other kind. Many students are not from the state (or even the United States) so there is a gathering of many ideas, thoughts, and backgrounds. The university prides itself on its international student programs especially.

I will say that it is a little difficult if you are not very outgoing. The RA's pester you to attend every event (there are only 2-3 mandatory floor meetings per semester, the rest are dorm activities) or to be social. Some professors will heckle you to join clubs, though that isn't as bad. If you are more of an introvert you may find yourself annoyed, but not threatened.
Clubs and Activities
Like I said, they have a club fair right at the start of the school year, usually on the same week as the first day of classes. There are MANY clubs to choose from, from gaming to politics, to science, to religion, to just about anything else. And hey, if you want, you can even make your own club. You just need to ask about it.
Greek Life
The Greek system here has returned after being buried for about 25 years. The only catch is that you have to be a sophomore or higher to join, otherwise you just have to ask about it.
Campus Safety
Security patrols campus very often, especially at night. As of last year (sometime during summer 2014) many emergency stations were installed around campus if a person needs them. These stations are lit with a bright blue light and utilize a camera and call signal in case of emergency, whether it be something as severe as assault or if you are just not feeling well (even intoxicated) and need help getting back to your dorm. Having needed to use the campus security for a few things, they get to you quickly (usually under 5 minutes). It is quite safe.

Samantha from Fort Walton Beach, FL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Minot State is a great school for those who want a smaller school, but to still have the large events. The housing and food options are great and the professors are the best.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early, then right away fill out the Housing Application form. Try getting an early orientation so you can get classes earlier, because they fill up fast.
Academic Rigor
The professors don't screw around, but they are always willing to help a student in need.
Dorm Life
Cook hall does not have AC, but other than that my experience has been nothing but the best.
Food and Dining
The meal plans are affordable( like everything else here) and the food is actually really yummy. The freshman 15 does exist.
What to do for fun
They always have events and everyone is super nice and willing to make friends. Other than that, it's a small town so you have to make your own fun.
Bang for the buck
It's super affordable, and still offers a great education.
Great for these types of students
- Poor students.
- Students who need hand on and one-on-one help
- Students who need to work
Clubs and Activities
They offer a great number of clubs and host a club fair for freshmen.
Greek Life
They only have one frat house, but are attempting to create more. I believe a sorority is coming this year.
Campus Safety
Minot has a small crime rate, but the campus safety patrol are still a great plus. They will drive you around at night to and from the library and the dorms are protected with key card accesses only.