VCSU and UND Sign Memorandum of Agreement Expanding Engineering Pathways
Photo, from left: Dr. Jamie Wirth, VCSU Math Department Chair; Mr. Larry Brooks, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Allen Burgad, Interim President, after Burgad signed the MOA with University of North Dakota.
VALLEY CITY, N.D. (VCSU) – Valley City State University and the University of North Dakota have signed a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) creating expanded and flexible pathways for students pursuing engineering careers.
The agreement allows VCSU students to take engineering courses online through UND’s College of Engineering & Mines while completing face‑to‑face coursework at VCSU. Students will enroll at VCSU as mathematics majors and may follow multiple plan‑of‑study options aligned with their academic and personal goals.
Through this partnership, students can complete all general education requirements, mathematics courses, and required science coursework at VCSU, while taking specialized engineering courses from UND. The agreement ensures seamless transfer of coursework between the two institutions.
“This agreement expands access to high‑quality engineering pathways while preserving the supportive learning environment VCSU is known for,” said Dr. Jamie Wirth, chair of the VCSU Department of Mathematics. “Students gain flexibility and strong preparation without having to leave VCSU before they are ready.”
Students may pursue an Associate of Arts degree in applied mathematics for pre‑engineering before transferring to UND, or students may choose to remain at VCSU for up to four years to complete a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a pre‑engineering focus. The four‑year option is particularly beneficial for student‑athletes who wish to continue competing for the Vikings while preparing for engineering careers.
“This partnership highlights the power of collaboration within the North Dakota University System,” said Larry Brooks, VCSU Vice President for Academic Affairs. “By aligning curricula and transfer processes, we are creating meaningful, student‑centered pathways into high‑demand fields.”
Under the agreement, students may prepare for UND engineering programs including aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, electrical, geological, mechanical, and petroleum engineering.
“NDUS institutions have a shared commitment to access, collaboration, and workforce development,” said Dr. Allen Burgad, VCSU Interim President. “This agreement demonstrates how we can work together to better serve students and the state.”
The agreement took effect January 1, 2026.
Students in VCSU’s math program enjoy small class sizes and personal connections with their professors.