New Bachelor’s Degree Program in Real Estate at UND Will be First of its Kind in North Dakota

( Contributed photo via UND Today)

(UND Today) – The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education has approved the naming of the Fransen Department of Real Estate, Economics & Finance within UND’s Nistler College of Business & Public Administration, honoring distinguished UND alumnus Robert “Bob” Fransen.

Fransen’s transformational gift will support the department and launch a new Real Estate major, expanding academic opportunities and strengthening UND’s leadership among peer institutions.

“The naming of the Department of Economics & Finance as the Fransen Department of Real Estate, Economics & Finance is a historic milestone for the Nistler College,” said Patrick O’Neill, interim dean of the college. “This allows us to expand our programming to meet the growing demands of students and further advance our distinction among peer institutions.”

“It is a joy to celebrate Bob and his incredible history of support for this University,” said DeAnna Carlson Zink, CEO of the UND Alumni Association & Foundation. “He cares deeply about student success and gives generously of his time, talent, and treasure to help students thrive. This forward-looking gift strengthens UND’s ability to develop a skilled, workforce-ready pipeline of real estate professionals while honoring Bob’s enduring legacy.”