Welcome to Bemidji!

Bemidji State University is nestled among the pines on the shores of Lake Bemidji, several blocks from a thriving downtown community. What makes the campus unique is its balance between rigorous academics and the fun, robust Northwoods lifestyle. Bemidji State students, staff and faculty have a variety of lifestyle options available at their fingertips. Wooded, multi-use trail systems within minutes of campus, fine-dining restaurants, cafes and a natural foods coop in downtown Bemidji, community parks with walking trails and playgrounds (including a downtown inclusive playground), a downtown theater, vibrant art center and more. Further, Bemidji State is located only 45 minutes Northeast of the Mississippi River Headwaters.

Bemidji, named after the Ojibwe Chief Shaynowishkung (nick-named Bemidji), is the central hub for a diverse population of over 15,000 people. Located between three American Indian reservations – Leech Lake, Red Lake and White Earth – living and working in Bemidji will provide you the opportunity to experience a tight-knit community that honors various cultures and histories. The mission of BSU’s American Indian Resource Center is to catalyze distinctive, innovative, sustainable solutions to the problems in Indian country by providing a value-driven environment that nurtures and trains today’s and tomorrow’s leaders in tribal governance, business, education, culture and language.

Founded in 1919, Bemidji State University is an integral and distinguished part of Bemidji’s history and community. From the homecoming parade through downtown Bemidji with celebrating students, faculty, staff and alumni to the annual Community Appreciation Day where community members are on campus sharing in the celebration of our community, BSU is committed to creating mutually beneficial partnerships with the city.