Best Colleges in South Dakota

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Augustana University

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%

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%

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%

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

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%

Originally founded in 1881 as a teacher's college, Dakota State University is now one of the most technologically advanced campuses in the region. This public institution specializes in computer management, information systems, and related programs, while special emphasis continues to be placed on the preparation of educators. More than 3,000 students attend class at the 61-acre campus in Madison each year. The undergraduate academic catalog offers certificates, pre-professional tracks, and associate and bachelor's degrees in a variety of fields, including cyberoperations, digital arts and design, marketing, and health information administration. Select undergraduate programs, as well as all 16 graduate/postgraduate programs, are offered online. Five master's degrees and a doctor of philosophy in information systems can be pursued on campus. Admission policies vary by student status and program selection. General requirements for bachelor's degree-seekers include qualifying ACT or SAT scores (a minimum 18 or 950, respectively), a GPA of at least 2.6, or a high school class rank in the top 60%.

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#7 Oglala Lakota College

Kyle, SD

$306

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%

Located in Aberdeen, Northern State University's campus boasts a mix of historic buildings, modern facilities, and green spaces. Incoming students can take advantage of a thriving residence community, extensive campus activities, and one of the largest guaranteed scholarships in the region. Students can select their program of choice from more than two dozen areas of interest, including banking, literature, mathematics, political science, and secondary education. Several degrees can be completed entirely online. NSU's accelerated nursing program -- offered in cooperation with South Dakota State University -- allows any student with a bachelor's degree to earn their BSN after only 12 months of additional coursework, labs, and clinical rotations. Undergraduate admission criteria include qualifying ACT or SAT scores (a minimum 18 or 960, respectively), a high school GPA of at least 2.6, or a class rank in the top 60%. Prospective students must complete an application, submit test scores, and provide transcripts.

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#9 Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD

$14807

35%

Located in Spearfish -- the second-largest city in western South Dakota -- Black Hills State University students have access to a variety of entertainment, dining, and outdoor recreation opportunities. On campus, BHSU offers more than 80 clubs and organizations, residence life, and NCAA athletics. BHSU students can earn undergraduate, graduate, pre-professional, and online degrees from three major colleges focused on business and natural sciences, education and behavioral sciences, and the liberal arts. More than 120 majors are available for bachelor's degree-seekers, including American Indian studies, entrepreneurial studies, integrated media, outdoor education, and photography. A two-semester exploratory studies pathway allows undecided students to pursue a variety of interests and ambitions in pursuit of their ideal major. Admission eligibility and procedures vary by student status. Prospective undergraduates must complete an online application and submit ACT or SAT scores and high school transcripts.

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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.