Experiential Learning
Experience that shapes future leaders.
Experiential learning is a key part of the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration experience. Students do more than learn concepts in the classroom—they put them into practice through real-world experiences.
Through industry-focused symposiums, community partnerships, internships, and hands-on projects, students gain practical skills and valuable professional experience. These opportunities help students connect what they learn in class to real business and public administration challenges.
By learning through experience, Nistler students build confidence, strengthen their problem-solving abilities, and graduate prepared to lead, innovate, and make an immediate impact in their careers and communities.
Speaker Series and Symposiums
The Nistler College’s speaker series and symposiums bring industry leaders, innovators, and experts directly to students. These events create opportunities to learn from real-world experiences and professional perspectives.
Topics often focus on new trends, industry challenges, and current business practices. Through panels, presentations, and discussions, students gain exposure to different viewpoints, build their professional networks, and strengthen their career readiness.
The NCoBPA Women's Leadership Summit will host a dynamic group of UND alumnae & leaders for a Hultberg Panel Discussion on networking and leadership. Followed by a keynote presentation.
2026 Be Bold Event
April 9
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Small Ballroom/MU
*By invitation only
Learn More ABOUT BEBOLDThe purpose of the Olafson Ethics Symposium is to provide a platform for students and the business community to explore the importance of both personal and professional ethics.
This annual event is funded through the support of Robert Olafson and his dedication to ethical business practices and the University of North Dakota, and SEI.
2025 Olafson Ethics Symposium
Wednesday, November 5 at 7 p.m. in the Barry Auditorium in Nistler Hall.
Keynote presentation from Melissa Fors Shackelford, Author, Marketing Strategist & Startup Advisor.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE OLAFSON ETHICS SYMPOSIUMThe Morrison Leadership Summit has been established by a gift from McCain Foods, in honor of the company's former CEO, Dale Morrison. Morrison, a North Dakota native, is a distinguished alumnus of the Nistler CoBPA.
He has more than three decades of experience within the international food industry. Morrison worked at General Foods, PepsiCo, and Campbell Soup Company until 2004 when he became the President and CEO of McCain Foods. Notable alumni and friends of the Nistler CoBPA who currently hold (or have previously held) leadership positions will be in attendance for the event.
THE MORRISON LEADERSHIP SUMMITNistlerEdge
Communicate the value of experiential learning with NistlerEdge.
Through the NistlerEdge platform, Nistler College students can build their experiential learning transcript by tracking these activities. Students create their own digital portfolios, share achievements on LinkedIn, and compete for the top spot on the leaderboard.
NistlerEdge provides employers with a more comprehensive view of a candidate's abilities and real-word experiences.
App
Download the suitable app to launch NistlerEdge.
Real World Educational Opportunities
At the Nistler College, students have many opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experience.
Programs like the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) give students the chance to help manage an investment portfolio of more than $1 million on the New York Stock Exchange. This experience builds skills in financial decision-making and investing. The Dakota Venture Group allows students to evaluate and support new business ideas, while also helping plan speaker events and visit alumni in their workplaces to learn more about different careers.
Internships are another important part of the student experience. They allow students to apply what they learn in class in professional settings, build job skills, and explore career paths. The Pancratz Career Development Center helps students find internships and other opportunities that match their goals.
Students also take part in class projects that partner with local businesses, giving them real experience solving business challenges. Many students also work with faculty on research projects, where they learn how to collect information, analyze problems, and create new ideas.
Outside the classroom, students can participate in study abroad programs. These experiences allow them to learn in other countries, experience new cultures, and gain a broader global perspective that prepares them for careers in a connected world.
Contact
- laura.arneson@UND.edu
- 701.777.6937
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Nistler Hall Room 230D
Grand Forks ND 58202-8098