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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 does Dakota State University offer in terms of athletics?

Dakota State University provides a variety of athletic opportunities through its participation in the NAIA, primarily competing in the North Star Athletic Association. The university fields men's teams in sports such as baseball, basketball, cross country, football, and track & field. Women's sports include basketball, cross country, softball, track & field, and volleyball. Additionally, Dakota State offers competitive esports programs, reflecting its commitment to expanding athletic and competitive opportunities beyond traditional sports.

What student groups and Associations are available at Dakota State University?

Prospective students at Dakota State University can engage in a variety of student organizations that cater to diverse interests. The university supports clubs such as the Esports Club, Computer Club, Gaming Club, Cru, and the International Club, offering opportunities for both social interaction and specialized activities.

Who studies at Dakota State University?

Dakota State University hosts a diverse student body with varied backgrounds and academic stages. Freshman enrollment counts 392 students, and transfer students number 242, totaling 634 new entrants, a figure that ranks below the midway mark compared to peer institutions.

The university attracts predominantly in-state students, representing 56% of the population, though this percentage is comparatively lower when benchmarked nationally. Conversely, the proportion of out-of-state students stands at 38%, placing the university well above average in attracting students from other states. Additionally, the institution enrolls a high percentage of domestic students overall (94%) and draws students from approximately six foreign countries, indicating a modest but notable international presence.

The age range of students illustrates a blend of traditional and non-traditional learners. Among undergraduates, the largest age groups are those aged 18 to 19 (754 students), 20 to 21 (825 students), and 22 to 24 (466 students). Graduate students tend to be older, with significant numbers spanning from age 22 up to over 65, highlighting opportunities for adult learners and continuing education. This broad mix demonstrates Dakota State University's accommodation of students across many life stages.

Regarding ethnic diversity, white students represent the largest group with 1,539 individuals, though this figure is in the lower half percentile nationally. Native American students comprise 46, placing above average within the top 45%, followed by Hispanic and African American populations numbering 94 and 76 respectively, both figures falling slightly below median representation nationally. Smaller groups include Asian, Pacific Islander, and students identifying with two or more races, alongside a segment of students with unknown ethnicity. Overall, the racial and ethnic composition reflects a moderately diverse campus environment.

How does student life look like at Dakota State University?

Student life at Dakota State University offers a range of opportunities for involvement in arts and campus activities, including a campus newspaper and drama program that provide creative outlets for students. While the university does not have a campus radio, band, chorus, or TV station, students can benefit from support services such as a health clinic and psychological counseling to assist with well-being during their studies. Additionally, the presence of a Veterans Affairs office reflects resources available for student veterans.

What libraries are available to students at Dakota State University?

Dakota State University offers students access to two libraries, with the principal facility being the Karl E. Mundt Library. This number of libraries is slightly above average when compared nationally, placing the university in the top half for such resources. Alongside the main library, there is one additional library, which together provide a balanced range of physical and digital resources.

The total collection includes around 17,502 books, placing the university in the lower 40% percentile nationwide for book volume. Similarly, the number of subscriptions available to students is 109, also ranking in the lower 40% of institutions. Despite these modest figures, access to digital subscriptions is notably stronger, with approximately 163,540 digital subscriptions held, situating the university in the top 50% percentile category.

The e-book collection stands at over 500,000 titles, a considerable offering though still slightly below average percentile-wise. Additionally, the library provides access to 70 databases, a figure near the median compared to other universities.

Students benefit from a variety of facilities and services including physical study spaces, digital access to resources, and the availability of staffed support. Study rooms are offered, and there is access to shared collections beyond the university's holdings. However, all-day access is not provided, but the library maintains established hours to support students' research and study needs.

Dakota State University Student Life for 2026

Total enrollment

3774

Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen

372

Member of Athletic Associations

Data not available

Total staff

111 full time, 40 part time

Veterans affair office

Yes

Dakota State University Library Services and Resources

Main library name

Karl E. Mundt Library

Number of libraries on campus

2

Reservable study rooms in library

Yes

24h access

No

Physical facilities

Yes

Access to digital/electronic resources

Yes

Staff trained to provide and interpret library materials

Yes

Established library hours

Yes

Access to library collections that are shared with other institutions

Yes

Dakota State University Computer Labs Access

  • 24h access
  • Help desk

Dakota State University Student Life Enrollment Statistics

Freshly enrolled students' state of residence

US
International

Freshmen vs. transfer students

Freshman
Transfer

Freshly enrolled students' age

Under 25 years
Over 25 years

Dakota State University Location & Map