VCSU Partners with Williston State College
Photo, from left: Minot State University President Dr. Steven Shirley, VCSU Interim President Dr. Allen Burgad, Superintendent of the Williston Basin School District 7 Dr. Jason Germundson and Williston State College President Dr. Bernell Hirning.
VCSU and Williston State Formalize Co-Matriculation Model
VALLEY CITY, N.D. (VCSU) – Valley City State University has partnered with Williston State College’s Degree Bridge program, creating additional opportunities for students to earn a bachelor’s degree without leaving the Williston community.
The Degree Bridge program is designed as a co-matriculation model, allowing students to begin at WSC while simultaneously working toward a bachelor’s degree through a partner university. With aligned coursework, coordinated advising, and shared resources, students can complete both their associate and bachelor’s degrees in a streamlined and cost-effective way—all while remaining in their home community.
VCSU is offering a focused pathway in education, allowing students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education while staying in Williston.
“This expansion represents a major step forward in how we serve students in northwest North Dakota,” said Dr. Bernell Hirning, President of Williston State College. “Degree Bridge was designed to remove barriers. By bringing more university partners to our campus, we’re creating real access—allowing students to stay here, remain connected to their community, and still achieve their long-term academic and career goals.”
The partnership with Valley City State University was announced during a press conference on Monday, April 20, in Williston. WSC also announced a partnership with Minot State and had previously announced agreements with other NDUS institutions.
VCSU’s elementary education program prepares future educators to teach grades 1–8 and emphasizes real-world classroom experience. Students can further customize their degree through endorsements in early childhood education, kindergarten, special education, and teaching English language learners, as well as certificates in middle school education, reading, and STEM education.
“This effort reflects a shared responsibility to develop highly skilled educators for the future,” said Dr. Allen Burgad, interim president of Valley City State University. “By aligning our programs, we’re helping students move confidently into teaching careers while addressing the increasing demand for qualified teachers.”
Students typically complete their first two years at WSC before transitioning into upper-level coursework through their partner institution, often while continuing to live and learn in Williston. This approach allows students to maintain their support systems, reduce relocation costs, and remain engaged in the region they are preparing to serve.