Best
Colleges in South Dakota in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in South Dakota combines practical management skills with regional perspectives on agriculture, healthcare, tourism and finance. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, business law, finance, organizational behavior, operations and data analytics. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager or entrepreneur. South Dakota State University, University of South Dakota, Black Hills State University and Dakota State University offer business administration study options across the state.

Psychology

Studying psychology in South Dakota includes courses in human development, abnormal psychology, social and cognitive psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students examine behavior, mental processes, and practical applications through research. Colleges include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Augustana University, and Black Hills State University. Graduates often become behavioral health technicians, case managers, research assistants, human resources specialists, or community support workers. Becoming a licensed psychologist generally requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in South Dakota offers hands-on preparation for technology careers through programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and software engineering. Students can pursue the degree at Dakota State University, South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, or South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Coursework often includes mathematics, networking, artificial intelligence, and team-based projects. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in South Dakota combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum experience. Students may pursue programs at the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, or Black Hills State University. Graduates commonly work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or marriage and family therapists, depending on their degree, licensure eligibility, and additional training. Programs emphasize culturally responsive care and evidence-based practice.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in South Dakota combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical care, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Options include South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, Augustana University, Mount Marty University, and the University of Sioux Falls. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or public health services.

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%, indicating a substantially higher median cost among those schools.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, 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, while schools in the top 10% average 5,965 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,063 men and 767 women.
• Average test scores are 1,098.11 on the SAT and 22.78 on the ACT.
• Schools average 2,934.56 enrolled students, including an average 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.
• There are 16 institutions offering associate's degrees, 17 offering bachelor's degrees, 16 offering master's degrees, and 9 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools, with 0 schools for men and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant volume, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. The figures show that costs and graduation rates differ between the overall group and its top 10%, so students should consider which factors best match their academic goals and financial needs.

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

Based on the available figures, studying in South Dakota costs an average of $14,563.50 in total. Treat this as a typical estimate, not a guaranteed bill: actual expenses depend on the college, degree, living arrangements, and financial aid. South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, and Black Hills State University are examples of institutions to compare as you plan. Program and housing choices can change your final bill.

Reported category averages are:

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

These category averages do not add up to the reported total, so treat them as separate benchmarks rather than combine them. Ask each school for its current cost of attendance and subtract grants or scholarships to estimate your out-of-pocket amount. A financial-aid conversation can make comparing options more manageable, leaving you free to focus on earning a degree close to home.

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

In South Dakota, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree takes two. At South Dakota State University in Brookings or the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and credits completed each term.

Still, you may graduate sooner with planning and support. Taking Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment courses in high school, earning summer credits, choosing an accelerated program, or transferring eligible credits can reduce semesters. Check requirements with an adviser before enrolling, since some courses must be taken in sequence.

Completion outcomes matter too: The average graduation rate is 42.79%, while the average for the top 10% of schools is 62.7%. Average graduation rates are 38.14% for men and 47.43% for women. These figures show that finishing is not automatic, but progress and resources can help you stay on track and feel proud of your achievement.

Salary

College graduates in South Dakota earn a median alumni salary of about $49,732. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $57,921 - a promising benchmark as you consider the value of a degree.

South Dakota offers several options to explore, including South Dakota State University, the University of South Dakota, Black Hills State University, and Dakota State University. Your own earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and the job you pursue, so compare programs with the careers you hope to enter.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in South Dakota?

By student enrollment, the three largest are generally South Dakota State University in Brookings, the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, and Black Hills State University in Spearfish. Enrollment figures can shift from year to year, so the order and totals may vary. Each offers a different campus feel, giving you welcoming options to explore close to home.

How many colleges are there in South Dakota?

South Dakota has about 25 colleges and universities. The exact count can vary depending on whether the total includes tribal colleges, technical colleges, and institutions with multiple campuses. For a prospective student, that means a solid range of choices - from large public universities to smaller colleges and career-focused programs - without having to leave the state to find a path that fits.

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

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is a science and engineering university in Rapid City, offering a practical route into technical fields within South Dakota. With 2,576 enrolled students, it offers a relatively compact campus community. The graduation rate is 53%, and the acceptance rate is 80%. Total study cost is $12,200, while median alumni salary is $75,138. For students seeking strong earning potential and hands-on STEM learning, these figures make it a notable in-state option to investigate further carefully.

Dakota State University, based in Madison, is known for technology-focused education and career-oriented programs, making it an appealing South Dakota choice for students interested in computing and applied learning. It enrolls 3,842 students, with a graduation rate of 51% and an acceptance rate of 88%. The total cost of studying is $10,718, and median alumni salary is $50,004. Its accessible admissions and comparatively low listed cost may suit budget-conscious learners seeking a close-knit campus and practical educational opportunities in state.

Augustana University is a private liberal arts institution in Sioux Falls, offering students a residential campus experience and broad academic choices in South Dakota's largest city. Its enrollment is 2,544, and its graduation rate of 73% is the highest among these five schools. The acceptance rate is 68%. Total study cost is $39,100, the highest listed, while median alumni salary is $51,072. Students weighing smaller-campus community, strong completion outcomes, and access should compare its cost with financial aid options.

South Dakota State University, located in Brookings, is the state's largest university, with 12,139 students and a campus environment. Its programs span many fields, giving students options beyond a single specialty. The graduation rate is 62%, while the acceptance rate is 98%, suggesting broad admissions access. Total cost of studying is $11,283, and median alumni salary is $55,347. For South Dakota residents seeking a large public university, its scale and listed cost merit consideration alongside program fit and campus life.

The University of South Dakota in Vermillion offers a public-university experience with varied academic programs and a campus rooted in the state's eastern region. It enrolls 10,405 students, making it the second-largest institution in this comparison. Its graduation rate is 60%, and its acceptance rate is 99%. The total cost of studying is $11,283, while median alumni salary is $49,459. Students seeking wide admissions access and a substantial campus community can explore whether its programs and location match their goals.