North Dakota
North Dakota is located in the Midwestern/Western United States. This is a land of rich agriculture and growing cities. The higher education system of North Dakota is growing as well, and improving on its already excellent educational record.
Life in North Dakota
North Dakota is a state made of mostly plains. The western area of the state is hilly, while the east has rich areas of farmland. It is bordered to the north by Canada, and farms and small towns make up most of the eastern part of the state. The climate is generally hot in the summer and cold and snowy in the winter. North Dakota has a relatively low population of 636,000.
North Dakota residents are known to be hard working, friendly, and having a strong sense of community. It is known as "The friendly state," for its welcoming attitude toward all people. The culture of the state reflects its history of immigration and events throughout the year celebrate the diverse cultures that make up North Dakota. Quality of life is high, as North Dakota is considered one of the safest and most affordable states in which to live in the United States.
Residents enjoy a variety of recreational activities in winter and summer. Summer activities include county fairs, historical re-enactments, and exploring the many wildlife refuges that exist in the state. Winter weather makes activities like ice fishing and skiing popular. Year-round, residents enjoy visiting the many historical sites that tell the tale of the state's formation.
Graduate Studies in North Dakota
North Dakota higher education consists of 14 public and 7 private institutions. Public institutions are under the direction of the North Dakota University System, (organized in 1990) and are under the direction of the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education. There are also many private institutions throughout the state.
Graduate education in North Dakota is considered one of the best options for your money available in the United States. Tuition is generally considered low, and the safety and friendly atmosphere of the campuses is comparable to none. Degrees are offered in hundreds of different majors, including economics, aviation, biology, agriculture, and computer sciences.
Many of the universities are located in urban areas that provide many activities for students to enjoy.
International Graduate Students
North Dakota is made up of immigrants from all over the world, and appreciation of diversity is still evident throughout the state today. From the many available English language classes, to the active organizations for international students, students will be hard pressed to find a more welcoming environment. Programs at institutions in North Dakota are equal to any program in the nation, and are offered in a safe, affordable environment that offers you a peace of mind while you focus on your education.
Financing Your Graduate Education
Information on the state of North Dakota: www.ndtourism.com
The North Dakota University System:
www.ndus.edu
Most international students will not be able to receive financial aid from the United States government. However, there are still many options available for international students at the graduate level. Interested students can apply for teaching fellowships, grants, and scholarships through their individual colleges.
Education in the United States is generally seen to be more expensive than in other areas of the world, but with the sterling reputation of the US higher education system and the numerous help available, international graduate students will be investing in their future while also benefiting by learning about the world around them.
Why North Dakota?
You will never be at a loss of fascinating activities to enjoy in North Dakota. This state is rich in history and culture, and still treasures its past in the forms of many cultural festivals, fairs, and wildlife refuges. Museums such as the State Historical Society and the Geographical Center History Museum keep the past alive, while modern-day theatre and musical performances throughout the state allow future generations to make their own contributions to North Dakota's legacy. By day and night, cities like Fargo, Grand Forks, and nearby Chicago, provide world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment.
If you decide to make North Dakota the center of your continuing education, you will be giving yourself the benefit of an excellent education while also experiencing American history first hand, and all this in one of the most friendly environments in the United States. Come experience North Dakota for yourself, and find all that this unique state has to offer!
Author:
Ashley Baker
