Best Colleges in South Dakota
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Best Accredited Colleges
#1 Augustana University
Sioux Falls, SD
$18937
71%
Sioux Falls, SD
$18937
71%
A private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church, Augustana University was recently ranked ninth among regional Midwest universities by U.S. News & World Report. Located in the thriving Sioux City community, the school offers a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, as well as a variety of extracurricular activities. Utilizing a semester-based 4-1-4 schedule, AU divides its curriculum into two categories. The program designates 59 credits to a systematic generalized education known as "The Augustana Plan," which concentrates on critical thinking, communication skills, and many of the essential elements associated with a classical education. From there, the university offers over 100 areas of study between majors, minors, and pre-professional pathways, with the most popular fields being nursing, biology, business administration, elementary education, and psychology. Along with Civitas -- the school's honors program -- AU also provides a plethora of study abroad opportunities, and nearly half of enrolled students participate in some level of international learning.
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#2 University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, SD
$19871
49%
Sioux Falls, SD
$19871
49%
For more than 135 years, the University of Sioux Falls has worked to foster academic excellence in a Christian environment. Affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA, this institution boasts a low 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 99% job placement rate within six months of graduation. Approximately 1,500 students enroll at USF each year, representing a variety of denominations and faiths. More than 40 undergraduate majors offer study in disciplines like chemistry, computer science, social work, and theology. Graduate students and adult learners can take advantage of flexible part-time scheduling, online learning, or evening classes to pursue bachelor's degree completion, professional certificates, an MBA, an M.Ed., or an RN-to-BSN pathway. There is no fee to apply to USF. Prospective undergraduate students must complete an online application, send in official high school transcripts, and provide scores from the ACT or SAT. General admission standards include a minimum 2.8 GPA and a composite ACT score of at least 20.
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#3 South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
$18204
55%
Brookings, SD
$18204
55%
An annual enrollment of more than 12,000 students makes South Dakota State University the largest higher education institution in the state. This land-, space-, and sun-grant university sits on 261 acres in Brookings, where students participate in NCAA athletics, Greek and residential life, and more than 200 clubs and organizations. SDSU is one of the region's top research universities, with a particular emphasis on fields like agricultural science, engineering, human health and nutrition, and renewable energy. A diverse academic portfolio featuring more than 180 undergraduate, 50 graduate, and 30 online options, allows students to pursue degrees in disciplines including aerospace, military science, allied health, and the performing arts. Incoming first-year students must possess qualifying ACT or SAT scores (at least 18 and 950, respectively), a minimum 2.6 GPA, or a high school class rank in the top 60%. A complete application, official transcripts, and test scores are required for admission consideration.
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#4 Mount Marty College
Yankton, SD
$19986
59%
Yankton, SD
$19986
59%
Mount Marty College is a small, Benedictine liberal arts college that was founded in 1936 by sisters of the Sacred Heart Monastery. Today, these sisters continue to live, work, and pray alongside students and staff. MMC offers small class sizes, faith-based learning, NAIA athletics, and year-round campus activities and events. Over 1,000 students of all religious faiths and backgrounds enroll at MMC each year. The school's academic catalog offers more than 28 undergraduate and graduate degrees, including studies in accounting, criminal justice, education, medical laboratory science, and recreation and tourism. Every student at MMC completes a core curriculum, known as the Benedictine Leadership Institute, which encourages exploration, service, and asking big questions. It also includes student trips to the Rocky Mountains and the Grand Canyon at no additional cost. To be considered for undergraduate admission, prospective MMC students must submit an application, official transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores.
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#5 Sinte Gleska University
Mission, SD
$11807
3%
Mission, SD
$11807
3%
Sinte Gleska University is a private, American Indian tribal college located in the city of Mission on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. Fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and governed by individuals rooted in the reservation and its culture, SGU seeks to facilitate individual development and tribal autonomy within the Lakota population. Approximately 1,000 part-time and full-time students attend SGU annually. Academic offerings include associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, along with a number of certificate and vocational programs. Programs are available from six main departments, focusing on arts and sciences, business, education, human services, nursing, and Lakota studies. SGU also houses the Great Plains Art Institute, which offers two undergraduate programs that foster intensive study of mainstream and Native American art. SGU maintains an open-admission policy, welcoming all applicants with a high school diploma or GED certificate. Native American students must submit an Abstract of Census Record.
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#6 Dakota State University
Madison, SD
$16513
36%
Madison, SD
$16513
36%
Located in Madison, Dakota State University opened in 1881 to provide teacher training. Today, the public school enrolls nearly 3,400 students. Access to DSU's online programs may not be available to students in all states. DSU offers six associate degrees, 14 bachelor's degrees, seven master's degrees, and three doctorates online to South Dakota residents, as well as a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificates. Undergraduate online programs include accounting, computer science, elementary education, and health information administration. DSU does require proctored exams for online classes. Military students may qualify for discounted tuition. Transfer students with at least 24 credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA may apply. Students with fewer than 24 credits must meet DSU's first-year application requirements.
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#7 Oglala Lakota College
Kyle, SD
$306
7%
Kyle, SD
$306
7%
Oglala Lakota College is a public tribal college based in Kyle. Its decentralized campus system serves more than 1,000 students throughout the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, with instructional centers located in each of its nine districts. Two additional centers extend academic opportunities to Rapid City and the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation. Offerings at OLC include 16 associate degrees, 12 bachelor's degrees, and two master's degrees in Lakota leadership and management. Graduates of OLC's nursing and education programs are eligible for state certification and licensure. The bachelor's in social work is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and offers an optional emphasis in chemical dependency counseling. OLC provides several courses in an online format for increased flexibility. Those seeking admission to OLC must complete an application, declare a major, and provide a copy of their high school transcripts or GED certificate. An open-door policy guarantees admission to qualified students.
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#8 Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD
$14489
45%
Aberdeen, SD
$14489
45%
Founded in 1901 in Aberdeen, Northern State University offers distance education classes to high school students across the state. A public institution, NSU enrolls nearly 3,500 students in 59 majors and six pre-professional programs. NSU offers an online bachelor's in banking and financial services that includes a paid internship, as well as a bachelor's in Spanish with a four-week study abroad opportunity. Online graduate programs at NSU include a 36-credit master's in banking and financial services. Educators may select from online master's degrees in leadership and administration, music education, and teaching and learning. The music education program includes one-week summer residencies on campus. Online students at NSU may access many of the same services available to on-campus learners, including tutoring, writing assistance, disability services, and health services.
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#9 Black Hills State University
Spearfish, SD
$14807
35%
Spearfish, SD
$14807
35%
Black Hills State University opened as a teachers college in 1883. A public university with locations in Spearfish and Rapid City, BHSU currently oversees 80 degree programs and educates nearly 4,000 students through its three colleges. BHSU offers an online bachelor's degree in business administration with a general studies track and a specialization option in management. General studies students must take a capstone course and complete 15 credits in three areas of emphasis. BHSU also offers online master's degrees in sustainability, strategic leadership, curriculum and instruction, secondary education, and reading. The strategic leadership program uses an executive cohort model. The one- or two-year secondary education degree prepares graduates for teacher certification, combining distance learning with two practica and a stint of student teaching. Admission requirements vary by program. First-year applicants must possess a minimum 2.6 GPA, a score of at least 18 or 970 on the ACT or SAT, or rank in the top 60% of their high school class. Online students may access support services, including library services, technical support, and advising.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best colleges in South Dakota?
Some of the best colleges in South Dakota include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Augustana University, Dakota State University, and Black Hills State University.
2. How do I apply to colleges in South Dakota?
To apply to colleges in South Dakota, you typically need to complete an online application form, submit your high school transcripts, provide standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), write an essay, and obtain letters of recommendation.
3. What majors and programs are offered at South Dakota colleges?
South Dakota colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, including but not limited to business, nursing, education, engineering, computer science, psychology, biology, and fine arts. Each college may have its own unique offerings, so it's best to explore their websites for specific details.
4. How much does tuition cost at South Dakota colleges?
Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program of study. On average, in-state tuition for public colleges in South Dakota ranges from $8,000 to $10,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition can be around $12,000 to $15,000 per year. Private colleges may have higher tuition rates.
5. Are there scholarships available for South Dakota college students?
Yes, there are scholarships available for South Dakota college students. Many colleges offer their own scholarships based on academic merit, extracurricular involvement, or financial need. Additionally, there are external scholarships and grants that students can apply for.
6. What is the student-faculty ratio at South Dakota colleges?
The student-faculty ratio varies among South Dakota colleges but generally ranges from 15:1 to 20:1. This means that for every 15 to 20 students, there is one faculty member available for instruction and guidance.
7. Can I live on campus at South Dakota colleges?
Yes, most South Dakota colleges offer on-campus housing options for students. Living on campus provides a convenient and immersive college experience, allowing students to be closer to classes, resources, and campus activities.
8. What extracurricular activities are available at South Dakota colleges?
South Dakota colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs and organizations, intramural sports, performing arts groups, community service opportunities, and more. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, make friends, and enhance their college experience.
9. Are there internship and job placement opportunities for South Dakota college students?
Yes, South Dakota colleges often have partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with internship and job placement opportunities. Career services offices at colleges also offer resources and support for students seeking internships and employment.
10. What support services are available for students at South Dakota colleges?
South Dakota colleges offer various support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services may include academic advising, tutoring centers, counseling services, career development resources, disability support, and health services.