Bismarck residents, business owners and college students interested in learning about the inner workings of the city’s municipal government are encouraged to apply online for the 2026 Bismarck Citizen Academy during the month of November.
Citizen Academy is a 12-week, interactive program that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the departments that make up Bismarck’s city government. Up to 20 applicants will be chosen for the 2026 class. Participants will gain valuable insights into the city’s decision-making processes, the challenges it faces, and how services are delivered to the public. In addition to touring city departments and meeting staff, participants will have opportunities to engage with department directors and elected officials.
“Citizen Academy is really something unique to Bismarck,” said Bismarck Assistant City Administrator Doug Wiles. “No other municipality in the state provides this opportunity for its citizens to come into the organization. We pull back the curtain, so to speak, have some very open conversations, try to answer all the questions and tour the ins and outs of our facilities. Attendees come away with a significantly greater understanding of just how dynamic the city is and hopefully a greater appreciation of what we do for our citizens and community.”
Citizen Academy eligibility is based on the following criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must be able to attend all sessions
- One participant per household is allowed
After the application period closes, submissions will be reviewed and scored. Up to 20 participants – and potential alternates – will be notified in December. Selected attendees will be required to visit the City/County building to receive an identification badge and a binder that will contain course materials.
Sessions will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursdays in January, February and March, beginning on January 8 at the City/County Building. A short graduation ceremony will then be held following the conclusion of the course during a City Commission meeting in April.
To apply, please complete all questions on the online form any time between November 1-30. More information about the program is available online.