M State Detroit Lakes campus to close in 2028

DETROIT LAKES — The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system plans to close Minnesota State Community and Technical College's Detroit Lakes campus in 2028.

In a Tuesday, Oct. 6, statement, the system and the college cited declining enrollment over the last decade as a factor in the decision. The current student headcount at Detroit Lakes is 111 in a facility that system leaders say "is no longer being used at a level that aligns with its large size and operating costs."

The move will save a projected $1 million in annual operating expenses, as well as $18 million more in avoided capital investment costs at the aging campus. Savings come from reduced utilities, maintenance, insurance, technology infrastructure and more.

"This was not an easy decision, and it was not made lightly," stated M State President Carrie Brimhall in a news release.

"The Detroit Lakes campus has been part of the community for generations, and we recognize that this news may be disappointing or upsetting for many students, employees, alumni and community members. At the same time, we have a responsibility to ensure M State remains strong and well-positioned to serve students across the college for years to come."

The release said the campus is expected to remain open and operational until at least summer 2028.

Minnesota State Community and Technical College has three other campuses in Fergus Falls, Wadena and Moorhead. It is part of the larger Minnesota State system, which includes seven universities and 26 community colleges spread across almost 50 campuses. Among them are Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College, the Minnesota North campuses across the Arrowhead, Central Lakes College in Brainerd and Staples and Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

M State's radiologic technology program is expected to move to its Moorhead campus. The college is working to keep a nursing program in Detroit Lakes at another location.

The announcement comes after system Chancellor Scott Olson announced late last month that some campus closures were likely as the system attempts to "right size" its operations.

Olson wrote that despite enrollment growth, revenue has not kept up with increasing expenses.

The news release announcing the campus closure stated Minnesota State Community and Technical College as a whole is financially strong, and the closure is part of an effort to align facilities with enrollment.

"While separate from Minnesota State’s recently announced systemwide strategic alignment initiative, this decision aligns closely with the goals of that work," the release stated.

The closure must still move through the official governance process and be approved by the Minnesota State Board of Trustees. A public meeting is planned for Nov. 5.

Future plans for the campus have not been decided.

"While M State’s presence in Detroit Lakes may change, the college’s commitment to the Detroit Lakes community remains," the release stated. "The college will continue working with employers, healthcare providers, schools and community organizations to meet education and workforce needs and support student success throughout the region."