The relationship between the School of Forestry and North Dakota State University was first established in 1968 when the Board of Higher Education approved the "administrative attachment" of the two institutions. The School of Forestry became known as North Dakota State University-Bottineau Branch and Institute of Forestry at that time. In 1987, the name was again modified to North Dakota State University-Bottineau.

Advantages:
- MSU-B students receive more one on one attention with an 11 to 1 student to faculty ratio.
- Students are more involved in athletics at a small school. Whether you want to be a part of MSU-B's basketball, baseball, hockey, or volleyball team, or just play for fun on one of our intramural teams, it is easy to get involved.
- Students don't have to walk 5 miles through a snow storm, up hill both ways, to get to their classes. Most classes are a 2 minute walk.
- We teach more than what is in the books. You get hands on learning experiences and the skills you need to grow and succeed in the real world.
- You don't have to be involved in sports to be a Lumberjack. You can join drama, Student Senate, Horticulture Club, Delta Epsilon Chi, the Wildlife Club, or the Paul Bunyan Club.

Financial Aid
The purpose of financial aid programs at Minot State University-Bottineau is to assist students who do not have the necessary financial resources to accomplish their educational objectives.

To receive aid under the major federal aid programs, a student must meet the following criteria:
- Have financial need.
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Be enrolled as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program.
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
- Have a valid Social Security number.
- Be registered with Selective Service, if required.