Minot State to offer degree in engineering, master's in counseling

MINOT, N.D. - Minot State University announced it is planning to add two new degree offerings in the fall of 2026 with the addition of a Bachelor of Science in Innovation Engineering and a Master of Science in Mental Health and Substance Use Counseling.

The two new programs are in response to meeting the rising demand for engineers in Western North Dakota, particularly in the energy-producing Bakken Formation, as well as the ongoing need for healthcare professionals in mental health and counseling, both regionally and nationwide.

"By adding these two significant programs, MSU will be helping solve current and future workforce challenges in important fields directly impacting many North Dakotans," said Minot State University President Dr. Steven Shirley. "Our faculty have worked closely with industry partners and other relevant stakeholders to most effectively design the curriculum and components within these programs."

Innovation engineering is Minot State's first four-year degree in engineering, previously offering a pre-professional path with a science-emphasized curriculum.

The new program will prepare students for a dynamic career in engineering with a groundbreaking approach, featuring industry-aligned micro-credentials and hands-on learning.

"I'm excited to see our innovation engineering program ready to launch," said Bryan Schmidt, chair of the Department of Science. "I've heard for years about the need for engineers in our area. Developing this program in collaboration with local industry leaders makes us confident we can address the engineering needs of Western North Dakota and allows us to be responsive as those needs change over time. This is a great opportunity for both our students and our industry partners."

Students will be able to earn specialized credentials in core engineering fundamentals and advanced specializations while gaining practical, industry-relevant skills from the first day through Engineering-Studio (E-Studio) courses and fabrication experiences in a student's first two years. Minot State's competitive cost, along with a high-quality, field-ready program, makes innovation engineering an accessible and smart investment.

"We're offering an exceptional quality, supportive, low-cost pathway to help more students become engineers," added Nigel George, professor of physics. "Our innovative design includes a micro-credentialing structure for tangible progress, connects students to industry, builds a supportive community, and AI-enhanced classes that personalize learning. This program also provides flexible options, allowing students to either transfer after two years or stay and specialize in areas vital to our region's key industries.

"This is all about making engineering education accessible and empowering students to contribute meaningfully to their community."

Innovation engineering will join the new degrees added by the Department of Science in Fall 2025, biomedical science and environmental science, as MSU enhances its rich tradition in the sciences.

Minot State is planning an open house for innovation engineering on Monday, Oct. 6, from 6-8 p.m. in the MSU Student Center Conference Center where prospective students can meet with program counselors and enrollment specialists for the Fall 2026 semester.

MSU's newest master's-level program expands on the University's addiction studies program, the only such program in the North Dakota University System, along with other programs within the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice.

This integrated mental health and addiction program will have an emphasis on real-world training in trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, rural mental health, Indigenous cultural competency, and work with justice-involved individuals.

"We are thrilled about Minot State's proposed MS in mental health and substance use counseling," said Krystal St. Peter, chair of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice. "While most graduate programs ask students to choose between mental health or addiction counseling, we are working with both licensing boards to ensure our program meets the standards and academic requirements for both LPC/LPCC and LAC/LMAC licensure in North Dakota. We believe this integrated program will not only benefit our students but will help address the critical shortage of licensed counselors in our communities."

Students will have flexibility in the program's hybrid cohort model, choosing to attend programs face-to-face in Minot or synchronously online with a few in-person residencies.

"This program was built with one goal in mind, to prepare competent, ethical, and compassionate providers who are ready to meet the mental health and addiction needs across North Dakota," said Lacey Corneliusen, associate professor of social work. "With specialized faculty, innovative tools like virtual reality technology that allow students to practice real-world skills, and a deep focus on Indigenous culture, mental health in rural and farming communities, and individuals involved in the justice system, we're coming together for a shared purpose: to prepare the next generation of professionals who will give back to our state, strengthen our workforce, and walk alongside the communities who need support the most."

The two new programs are part of Minot State's commitment to addressing the workforce needs in North Dakota.

"A major focus at Minot State is ensuring our graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with relevant skills for today's world, as well as a solid education leading to success in their career endeavors, and the addition of these two new programs does exactly that," Shirley added.