History
In 1919, Bemidji Normal School began its first regular school year with 38 students. In response to a growing need for public school teachers, the school was chartered by the Minnesota State Legislature, and teacher training was its primary curriculum. Bemidji Normal became Bemidji State Teachers College and began offering a four-year degree in 1921.
Education
Your education is yours to tailor. We offer more than 60 undergraduate degrees, 14 graduate programs and ample online/distance learning options, all of which are career-oriented and highly relevant in today’s market.
Research
BSU faculty and students are out in the world, performing innovative field work and research, publishing in nationally reviewed journals, and sharing their findings with peers and colleagues across the country.
Career
The Career Services at Bemidji State University is your go-to source for guidance and support as you clarify and pursue your goals to establish a rewarding career and begin a lifetime of learning and inspiration.
Nearly 90 percent of Bemidji State University graduates find work in their chosen field. By seeking advice and assistance from our knowledgeable staff, using resources available throughout these webpages and in our office, and participating in our many informative events, you will be ready to launch your career when you graduate.
Distance Learning Courses
Business & Management (4)
- B.A.S. Applied Management
- B.Sc. Marketing Communication
- M.B.A. Online MBA
- Master Professional Accounting
Engineering & Technology (1)
- B.A.S. Applied Engineering
Journalism & Media (1)
- B.Sc. Marketing Communication
Natural Sciences & Mathematics (1)
- M.Sc. Biology
Social Sciences (1)
- B.A.S. Applied Management
Student services
Bemidji State University is home to students from over 30 countries. Our students study abroad on six continents. It’s all part of our commitment to foster and support international and multicultural understanding.
The International Program Center is at the heart of it all, coordinating education abroad programs and connecting our international students to the resources they need to thrive at BSU.
Housing services
Everything is within walking distance, with easy access to dining halls, classes and recreation. And the system of underground walkways makes getting to class a breeze, even on the chilliest days.
More than 1,200 students, even those from Bemidji, live on campus in our six residence halls and apartments to take better advantage of campus life.
Library services
A. C. Clark Library Mission:
- We are stewards of the Library’s collections, curating and providing access to a wide range of resources.
- We are teachers of critical thinking: how to find and how to use information.
- We are an environment for teaching, learning, and collaboration, for students, faculty, and the larger community.
ICT services
Bemidji State University’s Information Technology Services mission is to provide Information Technology tools, support, and services that enhance educational and workplace experiences and values.
Medical services
BSU Health and Counseling offers primary care for acute or chronic diseases, a variety of lab tests, and over-the-counter as well as prescription medications. You can visit us for problems ranging from strep throat to minor injuries, from communicable diseases to STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing, from acne to chronic illnesses, physicals, birth control counseling, some immunizations.
Campus life
Bemidji State University, located amid the lakes and forests of northern Minnesota, occupies a wooded campus along the shores of Lake Bemidji.
The Bemidji State campus balances rigorous academia with the opportunity to enjoy a fun, robust outdoor culture. The proximity to the lake and the surrounding north woods allows easy access to an assortment of recreation, including kayaking, boating, paddleboarding, hunting, hiking, foraging, skiing, fishing, ice fishing, snowboarding and more. Bemidji State students, faculty and staff have the luxury of enjoying a four-season year with the major campus facilities connected by all-season underground passages for safe and warm travel to and from classes.
Sports facilities
Go for a swim, paddle out onto the lake, learn yoga, camp, climb, run. You can do it all here.
The Gillett Wellness Center, our intramural sports programs and our nationally-recognized Outdoor Program Center are here to keep you busy and active all year around. The OPC is a gateway to adventures in northern Minnesota and beyond. Want to go on a sea kayaking trip to Mexico? Think it’s time to learn how to mountain bike? You don’t even have to leave campus to find a thrill. You can also summit our 30-foot rock-climbing wall, one of the tallest indoor walls in northern Minnesota
Student clubs
Get the most out of your experience at Bemidji State by becoming involved in one or several student organizations!
Opportunities range from student government to clubs related to your major, faith, favorite activity and special interest. There is something for everyone! If you don’t see something on the list of student organizations that appeals to you, grab a few friends and start your own group. BSU is always looking for new ideas and encourages students to chart their own course.Bemidji State University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).