Best
Value Colleges in South Dakota in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in South Dakota combines core business skills with regional industry perspectives. Typical courses include accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and operations. Graduates may pursue roles such as accountant, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations manager, or business analyst. Popular in-state colleges offering this degree include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Black Hills State University, Dakota State University, and Northern State University. Programs offer internships.

Psychology

Studying psychology in South Dakota explores human behavior, mental processes and research. Typical coursework includes developmental, social, cognitive and abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods and counseling foundations. Popular choices include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Black Hills State University and the University of Sioux Falls. Graduates with bachelor's degrees pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant or research assistant; advanced education is needed for independent clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in South Dakota combines programming fundamentals with practical problem-solving. Students typically study algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include South Dakota State University, University of South Dakota, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, and Dakota State University. Graduates often pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, web developers, or IT consultants. Internships and projects can help build job-ready skills.

Counseling

A counseling program in South Dakota combines psychology foundations with supervised practice and preparation for state licensure. Courses often include counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, crisis intervention, and practicum or internship experiences. Graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, addiction counselors, career counselors, or agency clinicians, depending on their degree and credentials. South Dakota options include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, and Northern State University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in South Dakota combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, maternal-child nursing, and mental health nursing. Programs may prepare students for registered nurse licensure or advanced study. Graduates work as registered nurses, nurse educators, care coordinators, or public health nurses. Popular South Dakota options include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, and Mount Marty University.

Best Colleges in South Dakota Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 11,283, compared with 32,000 at schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 82.36% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 82.36%. Schools receive an average of 2,577.73 applicants, compared with 5,965 at schools in the top 10%.
• The median number of applicants is 1,063 men and 767 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,098.11, and the average ACT score is 22.78.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,934.56, including averages of 285 men and 328.91 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42.79%, compared with 62.7% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 46% for men and 53% for women.
• Sixteen institutions offer associate's degrees, 17 offer bachelor's degrees, 16 offer master's degrees, and 9 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When comparing colleges, prospective students should weigh the median cost and availability of financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and campus composition. The figures show differences between the overall averages and top 10% schools, so consider which factors matter most for your goals.

How much does studying at a college in South Dakota cost?

The average reported cost of studying in South Dakota is $14,563.50. This is best treated as a typical study-cost estimate, not the complete price of a multi-year degree; your final bill depends on the college, program, living arrangements, and financial aid.

Useful average cost figures include:

• Tuition and fees: $14,568.29
• Room and board: $9,341.36
• Books and supplies: $1,178.75

These averages do not reconcile as a single budget, so use them as separate reference points rather than adding them together. At South Dakota State University in Brookings or the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, compare current tuition, housing, and program charges. Living at home may lower room-and-board expenses; campus housing can offer convenience and community. Scholarships and grants may reduce your out-of-pocket cost, making a degree feel more attainable. Ask each financial-aid office whether its estimate covers one academic year or the full program before you enroll.

How long does it take to finish college in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. Your actual timeline can be longer if you attend part time, change majors, or need prerequisite courses; balancing work and family is common, so a steady pace still counts as progress. At South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, or Black Hills State University, check your program's course sequence early so required classes don't delay graduation.

Completion rates show that finishing is not automatic: the average graduation rate is 42.79%, compared with 62.7% for the top 10% of schools. The reported averages are 38.14% for men and 47.43% for women. To potentially finish sooner, ask an adviser about:

• Transferring eligible credits from prior college coursework.
• Taking summer or winter courses when available.
• Approved exams or prior-learning credit, and accelerated schedules in your major, if available.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in South Dakota have a median alumni salary of about $49,732. For graduates of the state's top 10% of schools, the median is about $57,921 - a promising benchmark as you plan your next step after college.

South Dakota students can pursue degrees at institutions such as South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, and Black Hills State University. Your own earnings may differ depending on your field of study, experience, and career path, so treat these figures as broad benchmarks rather than a guarantee for any one school or major.

People also ask

What college in South Dakota has the lowest tuition?

Oglala Lakota College is often among the lowest-tuition options in South Dakota. Published in-state undergraduate tuition estimates have been around $2,684 per year, before fees and other expenses; the amount can change by academic year and enrollment. Its lower cost may make staying close to home and pursuing a degree feel more achievable. Check the college's current tuition schedule for your program.

What are Tier 1 schools in South Dakota?

"Tier 1" is not a single official ranking, so the answer depends on what you mean. If you mean Carnegie R1 research universities - the highest research-activity category - South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota are the state's R1 institutions. Both offer a broad range of programs, and their research opportunities can be a plus for students interested in hands-on projects.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in South Dakota Ranking in 2026-2027

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology offers a focused option for South Dakota students drawn to science, engineering, and applied technology. Its 2,576 enrolled students create a relatively compact campus community. The school's 53% graduation rate and 80% acceptance rate provide useful planning context. Listed total study cost is $12,200, while median alumni salary is $75,138. For an in-state learner, this South Dakota campus combines an affordable listed cost with strong reported alumni earnings and technical academic focus statewide.

Dakota State University offers South Dakota students a technology-oriented university experience in Madison. Its enrollment of 3,842 suggests a mid-sized campus, and its academic identity is especially associated with computing and applied technology. The reported graduation rate is 51%, acceptance rate 88%, and total study cost $10,718. Median alumni salary reaches $50,004. For prospective local students, the figures offer a useful way to compare affordability and outcomes while staying in South Dakota. Explore how its programs align with your career plans.

South Dakota State University is a large public university in Brookings, offering a broad campus environment for students across the state. Its enrollment of 12,139 makes it the largest institution among these five. The school reports a 62% graduation rate and 98% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $11,283, and median alumni salary is $55,347. For South Dakota residents, it presents an in-state option with fellow students and an accessible admissions profile to consider when choosing a degree.

Oglala Lakota College provides higher education rooted in the South Dakota community it serves. With 1,188 enrolled students, it is the smallest school in this group by enrollment. Its graduation rate is 9%, while acceptance rate is unavailable in the supplied data. Total study cost is $2,016, the lowest listed here, and median alumni salary is $40,813. For students seeking an affordable degree and a community-connected setting in South Dakota, it merits consideration, alongside careful review of programs and available student supports.

Augustana University is a private institution in Sioux Falls, offering South Dakota students an urban campus option close to home. Its enrollment of 2,544 and graduation rate of 73% provide useful context for assessing its academic environment. Acceptance rate is 68%, total study cost is $39,100, and median alumni salary is $51,072. The listed cost is highest among these five colleges, so compare financial aid and South Dakota choices. Its setting may appeal to students seeking a close-knit campus community.