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Rasmussen University-North Dakota
Fargo, NDPrivate for-profit
$12,359
Tuition/yr
29%
Grad rate
60.9
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best software engineering degree programs: North Dakota State, Valley City State,
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $6,619 to $10,957/year
Valley City State offers the most affordable option at $6,619/yr
Software Engineering degree programs available: 1 associate's, 2 master's, 1 doctoral in North Dakota
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
North Dakota community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems, Packet Digital
Tech hubs in Fargo and Bismarck
Hakia Research 2026
Software Engineering degree programs near 18+ cities across North Dakota
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked North Dakota Software Engineering programs
We rank 6 accredited software engineering programs in North Dakota using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Software Engineering Degree Programs in North Dakota Worth It?
Answer
$87,650
Yes. The best software engineering degree programs in North Dakota deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $87,650 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $9,031/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Software Engineering Degree Rankings in North Dakota
Compare the top-ranked Software Engineering programs in North Dakota by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Software Engineering Programs in North Dakota
1
Programs ranked
$12,359
Avg tuition/yr
29%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
North Dakota offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in software engineering, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Rasmussen University-Nort..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in North Dakota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $10,957/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $48,208 in North Dakota.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with North Dakota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among software engineering schools in North Dakota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their software engineering degrees in North Dakota.
Best Bachelor's Software Engineering Programs in North Dakota
2
Programs ranked
$7,964
Avg tuition/yr
59%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
North Dakota ranks among the nation's top destinations for software engineering education, with 2 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are North Dakota State, Valley City State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from North Dakota software engineering programs earn a median salary of $74,503, 24% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $6,619 to $9,309 annually, with an average of $7,964/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 91%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to North Dakota's leading technology employers. For students seeking software engineering degrees in North Dakota, these top-ranked software engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$9,309
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
67.3
Hakia Score
Best Master's Software Engineering Programs in North Dakota
1
Programs ranked
$9,309
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
North Dakota offers 2 master's degree programs in software engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, North Dakota State, U of North Dakota, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in North Dakota earn a median salary of $87,650, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $9,273/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among North Dakota's software engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$9,309
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
64.0
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Software Engineering Programs in North Dakota
1
Programs ranked
$9,309
Avg tuition/yr
64%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
North Dakota is home to 1 doctoral programs in software engineering, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at North Dakota State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with North Dakota PhD holders earning a median of $109,563, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across North Dakota programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing software engineering degrees in North Dakota, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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North Dakota State University-Main Campus
Fargo, NDPublic
$9,309
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad rate
59.8
Hakia Score
Software Engineering Degree Costs & Tuition in North Dakota
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $9,031/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $22,578/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,258/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $54,188 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $13,546 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Software Engineering Students in North Dakota
State Aid Programs
North Dakota students pursuing software engineering degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways at the federal and state levels. The primary starting point is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. North Dakota residents benefit from the North Dakota Academic Scholarship, a merit-based award specifically designed for high school graduates in the state, administered through the North Dakota University System. This scholarship recognizes academic achievement and can significantly reduce the cost of attendance at participating institutions.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond federal aid, prospective students should explore institutional scholarships offered directly by software engineering programs across the state. Schools like North Dakota State University-Main Campus and the University of North Dakota offer competitive merit and need-based packages tailored to engineering students. The North Dakota University System's commitment to affordability is reflected in average public in-state tuition of $6,417 annually for four-year institutions. Prospective students are encouraged to visit College Scorecard to compare aid packages and estimated net cost of attendance across programs. Community college pathways, such as those available at North Dakota College of Science, offer tuition as low as $4,997 and provide a cost-effective starting point for students pursuing associate degrees before transferring within the NDUS General Education Transfer system.
Software Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, North Dakota
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a software engineering degree in North Dakota. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Software Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a software engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Software Engineering Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in North Dakota metro areas
Fargo$96K
Bismarck$92K
Grand Forks$88K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Fargo | $96K |
| Bismarck | $92K |
| Grand Forks | $88K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Software Engineering Graduates in North Dakota
Find software engineering jobs in North Dakota. These major employers across North Dakota metro areas are actively hiring software engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Software Engineering Jobs in Fargo
NDMicrosoft
tech
Appareo Systems
tech
Bobcat
manufacturing
NDSU Research
education
Software Engineering Jobs in Bismarck
NDBasin Electric
energy
State of North Dakota IT
government
Transfer Pathways for Software Engineering Degrees in North Dakota
State Transfer System
North Dakota provides a well-structured transfer system designed to help student progression from community colleges to four-year universities. The NDUS General Education Transfer system (NDUS General Education Transfer) ensures that general education credits earned at North Dakota's 7 two-year institutions transfer seamlessly within the North Dakota University System, eliminating course duplication and saving students time and money. This framework is particularly valuable for students pursuing associate's degrees in software engineering or related fields, with 3 institutions currently offering associate's programs and producing 6 completions in the most recent academic year.
How Transfers Work
Students beginning their software engineering education at community colleges like North Dakota College of Science can complete their associate's degree, often at significantly lower tuition costs, and transfer to four-year institutions such as North Dakota State University or University of North Dakota to complete their bachelor's degree. This pathway reduces overall education costs while maintaining academic progress. Articulation agreements between specific institutions clarify how credits transfer and which courses satisfy degree requirements at the receiving institution. Prospective transfer students should work with academic advisors at both their current and target institutions to ensure smooth transitions. For financial support, North Dakota offers the North Dakota Academic Scholarship, a merit-based award for state high school graduates (North Dakota Academic Scholarship). Students may also explore related transfer-friendly programs in computer programming in North Dakota and web development in North Dakota, and compare affordability with our most affordable programs rankings.
Why Pursue a Software Engineering Degree in North Dakota?
Industry & Workforce
North Dakota offers a compelling destination for software engineering education with 11 institutions delivering programs across all degree levels, from associate's through doctoral degrees (IPEDS). The state produced 111 bachelor's degree completions in the most recent academic year, demonstrating strong undergraduate enrollment and commitment to the field. North Dakota State University-Main Campus leads the region with 149 total completions across all degree levels, establishing itself as the premier institution for software engineering study in the state.
Salary Outlook
The economic advantages of studying in North Dakota are substantial. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of just $6,417, making undergraduate education remarkably affordable compared to national peers (College Scorecard). The state's major tech hubs, including Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, are home to significant employers like Microsoft and Sanford Health, creating excellent internship and career placement opportunities. For a comprehensive comparison of how North Dakota programs rank nationally, see our guide to best bachelor's programs and explore related fields like computer science in North Dakota and web development in North Dakota.
Software Engineering Program Availability in North Dakota
4 Programs
North Dakota offers 4 accredited software engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Software Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in North Dakota
Employment Outlook
North Dakota's software engineering job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base and competitive educational infrastructure. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state offers solid opportunities for software engineers across multiple sectors. The job market is concentrated in major metropolitan areas, particularly the Fargo-Moorhead region, Bismarck-Mandan, and Grand Forks, which serve as tech hubs for the state. These metro areas benefit from proximity to major employers and strong regional economic development initiatives that continue to attract technology companies and startups.
Salaries by Metro
North Dakota produces a significant number of software engineering graduates each year, with 111 bachelor's degree completions and 43 master's degree completions reported in recent data (IPEDS). The state's four-year public institutions charge an average in-state tuition of $6,417, making North Dakota an affordable destination for aspiring software engineers. Students can explore regional opportunities by understanding the state's education system, which operates under the North Dakota University System, and can leverage the NDUS General Education Transfer framework to maximize their educational pathway. For more context on the broader software engineering field, explore best bachelor's programs nationally or compare North Dakota's opportunities with other major tech hubs like California and Texas.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in North Dakota$56,973$127,093
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Software Engineering Programs in North Dakota
Online Programs
0 available in North Dakota
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$8,128/yr$9,031/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Software Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Minnesota
- Total Programs
- 46
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 5
- Median Tuition
- $7,800
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Montana
- Total Programs
- 13
- Median Tuition
- $6,100
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 200
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 52
- Median Tuition
- $5,100
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 90
- Median Tuition
- $7,600
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 119
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Software Engineering Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $44,200
Software Engineering Degree Programs in North Dakota: FAQ
What are the best software engineering degree programs in North Dakota?
The best software engineering degree programs in North Dakota based on our methodology are: 1) North Dakota State University-Main Campus (highly ranked), 2) Valley City State University, and 3) N/A. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). North Dakota offers 4 total accredited programs across 3 public and 0 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 2 bachelor's programs.
How much do software engineering degree programs cost in North Dakota?
Software Engineering degree program costs in North Dakota vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $9,031/year, while private institutions average $19,868/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,258/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $36,124 at public schools to $79,473 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can software engineering degree graduates earn in North Dakota?
Software Engineering professionals in North Dakota earn a median salary of $87,650, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $56,973, while senior roles exceed $127,093. Salaries vary by metro area: Fargo ($96,415), Bismarck ($92,033) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online software engineering degree programs in North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota offers 0 accredited online Software Engineering programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire software engineering degree graduates in North Dakota?
Major Software Engineering employers in North Dakota include Microsoft, Amazon, Appareo Systems, Packet Digital, Bobcat. The Fargo and Bismarck metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from North Dakota universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. North Dakota's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a software engineering degree program worth it in North Dakota?
A software engineering degree program in North Dakota offers strong ROI with a $87,650 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $9,031/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($99,044), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do software engineering degree programs take in North Dakota?
Standard completion times for software engineering degree programs in North Dakota are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. North Dakota community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a North Dakota university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for software engineering degree students in North Dakota?
North Dakota software engineering degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. North Dakota state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by North Dakota's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
North Dakota salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.