Bismarck State College was a bold, Depression-era experiment. As North Dakota's first two-year city college, BSC became an example for others and over the years has grown at a pace most likely unforeseen by its early promoters.

Within a few years the new campus was inadequate to meet the needs of the growing college. The search began for a new location which would allow for future growth and expansion. The problem was solved in 1959 when Harold Schafer, a local entrepreneur and founder of the successful Gold Seal Company, offered the College a tract of land overlooking the Missouri River at the northwest edge of the City. Classes were first held on the new campus in the fall of 1961.

Buildings were constructed on the campus in this order:

Campus improvements from 1984 to the present have been focused on the grounds. Parking lot and landscape improvements, sidewalks, handicapped access, and outdoor lighting were included in the projects. Many trees and shrubs were planted and permanent outdoor benches were placed in some areas.