Retrieving transcripts is extremely difficult, and the website is inaccessible for those who have not graduated. Additionally, professors at the University are unwilling to make accommodations for disabilities.
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Audited Verified Review (AVR)
Brief History
Williston State College (WSC), founded in 1961 as University of North Dakota-Williston, is a public two-year college in Williston, ND. Part of the North Dakota University System, it offers Associate in Arts, Science, and Applied Science degrees, plus technical certificates. WSC serves transfer and career-technical students, aligning with the region’s oil-driven economy.
NAICS Code
611210 – Junior Colleges. This code applies to institutions offering academic or technical instruction below the baccalaureate level, matching WSC’s associate degree and certificate programs.
Ownership
WSC is a public institution owned by the State of North Dakota under the North Dakota University System (NDUS), governed by the State Board of Higher Education. No private ownership exists.
Management
Led by President Dr. Bernell Hirning (as of 2025). The NDUS Chancellor, Mark Hagerott, oversees system-wide governance. Local management includes academic and administrative deans, but specific names are undisclosed.
Address
1410 University Ave, Williston, ND 58801
Phone Number
(701) 774-4200
Website
https://www.willistonstate.edu
Economic Impact
WSC supports Williston’s oil-boom economy (pop. 29,160 in 2020) by training workers for energy and healthcare sectors. It generates local spending via 514 students and $20.5M budget, plus tax revenue from campus operations. Events like Career Signing Day boost job placement.
Employment
Employs ~135 staff, including 32 instructors (13 associate professors, 8 instructors, 8 assistant professors) and 35 non-instructional staff (management, service, academic affairs). Student-to-faculty ratio is 21:1, higher than the 15:1 national average.
Compliance
Adheres to federal and ND education regulations, including Title IX and ADA. Offers veteran’s preference in hiring and maintains Equal Opportunity policies. No major violations reported, but high student loan default rate (16% vs. 10.1% national) raises concerns.
Reputation
WSC ranks #11 of 12 ND schools, with a 100% acceptance rate and 38% graduation rate. Praised for affordability ($9,149 net price) but criticized for low retention (52% vs. 68% national). Alumni earn ~$38,942 early-career, near national averages.
Social Responsibility Score
WSC engages via scholarships, PTK support for local charities (e.g., MonDak Animal Rescue), and events like Career Signing Day. Lacks robust sustainability or DEI initiatives compared to peers. Score: 5/10. Modest community focus but limited transparency.
Social Responsibility Participation & Involvement Score (SRPIS) 5/10
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