With an expansion in programs outside teacher education after World War II, it became Valley City State College in 1963.

In 1986, it was renamed State University of North Dakota-Valley City and a year later received its current name.

In 1992, a teenager attempted to drive a car across the bridge and damaged the decking, beams, cable anchors and railing.

The bridge was restored and reinforced and brick planters now sit at both entrances to prevent a similar situation.

VCSU has had 15 different presidents since its founding:[9] The Valley City State athletic teams are called the Vikings.