Bismarck State College was a very bold, Depression-era experiment. As North Dakota's first 2 year city college, Bismarck became an example for others and over the years has grown at a pace most likely unforeseen by its early promoters.

The college was created in 1939 in response to a community pressure for a local college, it was first known as Bismarck Junior College. Enabling legislation provided for the establishment of junior colleges had been passed by the 22nd Legislative Assembly in 1931.

Bismarck State College, the 4th largest college in the North Dakota University System, is a comprehensive community college providing student-centered learning in these areas: transfer courses, vocational-technical programs, online classes and programs, corporate and continuing education, and workforce training.

The university provides the first 2 years of education toward a bachelor's degree in nearly any field. Students earn an associate in arts or an associate in science degree.

Students can choose from more than thirty technical programs that prepare them for entry-level placement in specific careers. Completion leads to a program certificate, program diploma or associate in applied science degree.