Minnesota State University Moorhead Profile

Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) is a dynamic institution of higher learning located in Moorhead, Minnesota. As a public university, MSUM offers a wide variety of academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university has built a reputation for providing students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to thrive in their chosen careers. Founded in 1885, MSUM has become a cornerstone of higher education in the region, contributing significantly to the development of the local community, the state of Minnesota, and beyond.

MSUM's academic offerings are diverse, ranging from humanities and the arts to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a recognized accrediting body that ensures MSUM meets high standards of academic excellence. Additionally, MSUM is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, further underscoring its commitment to maintaining rigorous educational standards. Accreditation is a hallmark of the institution’s dedication to quality education, and MSUM continuously strives to enhance its academic programs to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.

Among MSUM’s many academic departments and programs, several have received specialized accreditation from national and regional agencies, signifying the university's excellence in a variety of fields. This specialized accreditation is critical in ensuring that students receive a world-class education that is recognized and valued in their respective professions. For instance, the School of Nursing at MSUM offers a range of nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that they meet high standards in preparing students for the complex and demanding field of nursing. The rigorous curriculum, along with clinical training and a focus on patient care, equips nursing students with the knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in healthcare environments.

Furthermore, MSUM’s Teacher Education programs are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), which assures prospective teachers that they are receiving a high-quality education that will prepare them to enter the classroom as effective educators. NCATE accreditation is a mark of distinction, recognized by states and school districts across the country. This accreditation helps ensure that MSUM's teacher preparation programs provide students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical teaching experience to foster student learning and growth in K-12 schools.

Another notable department at MSUM is the School of Business, which has earned accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This accreditation places MSUM’s business school in the top tier of business schools worldwide. AACSB-accredited programs are recognized for their high standards of excellence in teaching, research, and service, and the accreditation is a critical factor for students who want to pursue successful careers in business. The School of Business at MSUM offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and management. AACSB accreditation ensures that these programs provide students with a comprehensive education in business, preparing them for leadership roles in a competitive global economy.

MSUM is also home to specialized programs in fields like law and social work. The Paralegal program at MSUM is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the legal profession. Graduates of the Paralegal program are well-prepared to assist attorneys in various legal settings, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring that students are prepared to work with individuals and communities to address social issues and promote well-being. Social workers are essential in helping individuals navigate complex systems of care, and MSUM’s accreditation by CSWE ensures that students receive the education and training needed to make a positive impact in the field.

The Department of Art and Design at MSUM is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring that students in the arts are given the highest-quality training in visual arts, design, and creative practices. MSUM offers programs in graphic design, fine arts, and other related fields, equipping students with the skills necessary to succeed in competitive industries such as advertising, digital media, and creative production. MSUM’s graphic design program is particularly noteworthy, having been ranked as one of the top 35 programs in the United States by Upper & Lowercase Magazine. This ranking highlights the program’s excellence in preparing students for careers in graphic design, an ever-evolving field that requires a blend of creativity, technical skill, and strategic thinking.

In addition to the arts, MSUM offers a range of programs in the sciences, including a degree in Construction Management, which is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE). The Department of Technology offers several specialized programs, including Industrial Technology and Operations Management, both of which are accredited by the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT). These programs are designed to provide students with the technical knowledge and managerial skills necessary to succeed in industries like construction, manufacturing, and operations management. The graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology, accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), is another highlight of MSUM’s diverse academic offerings. This program prepares students to work as speech-language pathologists, addressing the speech and communication needs of individuals across the lifespan.

The university also offers programs in health and wellness, including an Athletic Training program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Athletic trainers are critical members of sports teams and healthcare organizations, providing injury prevention, rehabilitation, and emergency care to athletes. MSUM’s athletic training program is designed to prepare students for this vital role in the healthcare system, combining hands-on clinical experience with classroom instruction in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology.

With such a wide range of accredited programs, MSUM stands out as a university that offers students the opportunity to pursue specialized education in fields ranging from business to the arts to healthcare. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected not only in its accredited programs but also in the resources it provides to students. MSUM offers a supportive learning environment, where faculty members are dedicated to helping students succeed. The university’s small class sizes and student-centered approach ensure that students receive individualized attention and support throughout their academic journey.

In addition to academic excellence, MSUM places a strong emphasis on student engagement and professional development. The university offers numerous opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships, co-op programs, research projects, and study abroad programs. These experiences provide students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities, helping them build skills that are highly sought after by employers. MSUM’s commitment to experiential learning ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make meaningful contributions to their fields.

Minnesota State University Moorhead has earned a solid reputation as a Tier 1 Regional University in the Midwest, ranking 81st by U.S. News & World Report in 2012. This ranking reflects the university’s commitment to providing a high-quality education and ensuring student success. MSUM’s academic programs, combined with its strong emphasis on professional development and experiential learning, make it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in their careers.

With its wide range of accredited programs, strong faculty, and focus on student success, Minnesota State University Moorhead offers students an excellent education in a supportive and dynamic environment. The university’s commitment to academic rigor, professional preparation, and community engagement ensures that graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing world. Whether pursuing a degree in business, health sciences, the arts, or technology, students at MSUM are well-prepared to make a positive impact in their chosen fields and contribute to the betterment of society.