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Dakota State University

820 N Washington Ave, Madison, SD 57042-1799, USA

Dakota State University award
Dakota State University award
US ranking
position: 213
Tuition & fees per year: $9,086
Acceptance rate: 98.00%
Median alumni salary: $48,299
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1123 SAT, 23 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Easy

What are the graduation rates for students at Dakota State University?

The graduation rates at Dakota State University reveal a mixed performance, with overall completion numbers falling toward the lower end of national comparisons. The university has an average graduation rate of 49%, placing it in the bottom 35% of institutions. Male students graduate at a slightly higher rate of 51%, which situates them near the median performance range, while female students graduate at a lower rate of 46%, ranking in the bottom 20% nationally.

The four-year graduation rate stands at 35%, indicating that just over one-third of students complete their degree within the traditional timeframe. Extending the window to six years improves the completion rate to 48%, yet this figure still ranks Dakota State University in the lower tiers of colleges nationwide. Retention rates, an important indicator of student persistence from one year to the next, are reported at 75%, also categorizing the university as average but again reflecting a position in the bottom half compared to peer institutions.

While the available data does not breakdown graduation rates by specific majors, the overall trends suggest challenges in student progression and completion across programs. Prospective students should consider these figures carefully, reflecting on their own academic preparedness and commitment timelines when deciding on enrollment at Dakota State University.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Dakota State University?

Graduates from Dakota State University pursuing degrees in technology and information fields tend to see the highest earnings. For example, those with a degree in Computer and Information Sciences, General, have an average annual income of $50,973. Similarly, graduates in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management earn around $49,983 per year. Information Science/Studies graduates have a median income of $42,967, while those focused on Computer Software and Media Applications earn approximately $25,986 annually.

Beyond technology-related programs, Business Administration, Management and Operations majors achieve an average income of $37,841, reflecting viable earning potential in the business sphere. Special Education and Teaching graduates also have notable earnings with a reported $38,694 on average.

These figures suggest that students selecting technology and management fields at Dakota State University may find more lucrative career paths compared to some other disciplines. The data highlights the emphasis the university places on programs aligned with evolving industry demands and workforce needs.

Dakota State University Graduation Rate

Avg. graduation 49%
Graduation rate, total cohort
4-year Graduation 35%
Graduation rate - Bachelor degree within 4 years, total
6-year Graduation 48%
Graduation rate - Bachelor degree within 6 years, total

Dakota State University Career Help & Outcomes

Career Centers:

Full time employees: 3

Part time employees: Data not available

Career Counselling:

Individual: All undergraduates

Group: All undergraduates

Career Center services:

  • Job Interviews
  • Career library
  • Resume preparation
  • Resume refers to employers
  • Career/Interest testing
  • Interview workshop
  • Alumni network

Other information:

Job bank on campus

Yes

Job fairs on campus

Yes

Individual job placement

All undergraduates

On campus employer recruitment

All undergraduates

Dakota State University Graduations Per Degree

BACHELOR’S Degree

Women Men Total

Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services

36183219

Education

29736

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

41519

Biological and Biomedical Sciences

415

Mathematics and Statistics

213

Military Technologies and Applied Sciences

336

Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology

9817

Physical Sciences

101

Health Professions and Related Programs

314

Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services

151328

MASTER’S Degree

Women Men Total

Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services

29105134

Education

808

Health Professions and Related Programs

415

Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services

022

DOCTOR’S Degree

Women Men Total

Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services

11011