Colleges in South Dakota

Why go to College in South Dakota?

South Dakota might conjure images of flat cornfields and winding back roads, but residents of the state call it the "land of variety," referring to its diverse geography, weather, and economy. South Dakota is also a center of academic activity in the Midwest, with several major colleges and universities around the state. Home to major research institutions, small liberal arts schools, tribal colleges, technical schools, and community colleges, South Dakota offers options to accommodate students of all backgrounds.

Population

South Dakota's total population is around 865,000, making it one of the least populous states in the country. Most of the population is found in the eastern region, including Pierre, the state capital, and Sioux Falls, the largest city.

Climate

The state's climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with hot summers and extremely cold winters. Temperatures regularly reach 90°F in the summer and dip as low as 10°F in the winter.

Number of Higher Learning Institutions

South Dakota is home to 33 colleges and universities, including both public and private institutions. Many schools are found in Sioux Falls, though South Dakota State University, the state's largest college, is in the town of Brookings.

Sporting Events

While South Dakota has no professional sports teams, Sioux Falls and Rapid City are home to minor league teams in basketball, hockey, baseball, and indoor football. South Dakota State University and Dakota State University both host NCAA Division I sports teams.

Nightlife

While South Dakota is full of quiet small towns, larger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City boast an assortment of bars, restaurants, and cultural activities. With their large student populations, towns like Vermillion and Brookings often host college-related events and activities.

What Options are Available for Colleges in South Dakota?

Popular Degree Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota's status as the "land of variety" is also reflected in two of the state's most popular majors: business management and biology. The state's top industries, which include agriculture and bioscience, requires both business acumen and knowledge of the life sciences. It should be no surprise, then, that the state's most popular majors reflect the needs of its major industries.

• Business Administration and Management

  In a business program, you gain a broad understanding of how businesses function, grow, and maintain profitability, studying topics such as accounting, finance, communication, and development strategies. The number of businesses and industries present in South Dakota make this degree a natural choice.

• Biology

  Biologists explore the processes underlying life, including how organisms function, grow, and develop. As a biology major, you also examine how these processes affect real world issues like human health and the environment. South Dakota's agriculture and bioscience industries make this major an ideal choice.

What are the Best Online Colleges in South Dakota?

The schools compiled in this list represent the best online colleges in South Dakota using criteria such as affordability, convenience, and academic excellence. Choosing the right college can have a major impact on the next two to four years of your life, which is why it's important to make an informed decision. Showcasing a variety of educational models, online platforms, degree programs, and tuition levels, this list can help you find the school that best suits your goals and interests. Whether you're a returning student or brand new to higher education, this ranking can take much of the stress and grunt work out of the college application process.

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1	University of South Dakota Vermillion, SD		ADMISSIONS RATE 74% GRADUATION RATE 52% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 30% RETENTION RATE 77% DEFAULT RATE 7% Founded in 1862 in Vermillion, the University of South Dakota is the state's oldest university. Among the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota, USD boasts a strong commitment to diversity and inclusiveness at all levels. Distance learners can choose from more than 40 online programs, including dental hygiene, social work, and business administration. Graduate certificate options include long-term care management, disaster mental health, and literacy leadership and coaching. Most degrees can be earned entirely online. However, some programs, such as the master's in music, do have some campus-based components. Residents and nonresidents of South Dakota pay the same tuition rates. Veterans and military personnel can take advantage of additional support services, including a veterans resource center. Distance learners also benefit from extensive library resources and an online writing center.	Visit Site
2	South Dakota State University Brookings, SD		ADMISSIONS RATE 92% GRADUATION RATE 54% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 10% RETENTION RATE 76% DEFAULT RATE 5% Founded in 1881 in Brookings, South Dakota State University is a land grant school and the state's largest institution of higher education. Emphasizing research and personalized practical education, SDSU is one of the top online schools in South Dakota. The school's program offerings at the associate and certificate level include construction technology, animal science, grassland management, and family financial planning. Bachelor's programs range from geography to psychology to and medical laboratory science. The school also offers a host of master's programs, including chemistry and dietetics. SDSU participates in an interactive distance education alliance with 20 public universities, allowing students to take courses from faculty at multiple affiliated institutions; all coursework is delivered asynchronously.	Visit Site
3	Dakota State University Madison, SD		ADMISSIONS RATE 81% GRADUATION RATE 38% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 39% RETENTION RATE 74% DEFAULT RATE 9% Founded in 1881 as a school for teacher education, Dakota State University is one of the most technically advanced online colleges in South Dakota. With a main campus in Madison, DSU features small class sizes and a 94% overall job placement rate for its graduates. The university's online curriculum includes associate and certificate programs in health information technology, network and security administration, and health care coding. Students can pursue bachelor's degrees in accounting, computer science, and business technology, while master's programs are offered in analytics and educational technology. Online courses are frequently taught synchronously, at the same time as the corresponding on-campus classes; this format encourages networking between students and lets distance learners work with their on-campus peers on collaborative projects.	Visit Site
4	Northern State University Aberdeen, SD		ADMISSIONS RATE 72% GRADUATION RATE 44% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 35% RETENTION RATE 67% DEFAULT RATE 11% Founded in 1901 in Aberdeen, Northern State University focuses on preparing elementary and secondary teachers for education careers. Additional pre-professional and junior college program offerings are also available. The school's online programs include four master's, eight bachelor's, and two associate degree programs. All classes are delivered asynchronously through the Desire2Learn learning management system, allowing students to complete coursework at their convenience. All distance learners pay the same tuition rate, regardless of their state of residency. Military and veteran students and their spouses enjoy a variety of financial aid options, and distance learners also qualify for scholarships. Children of NSU alumni who live outside South Dakota may qualify for legacy awards, letting them pay in-state tuition while pursuing an undergraduate degree.	Visit Site
5	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, SD		ADMISSIONS RATE 74% GRADUATION RATE 45% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 22% RETENTION RATE 71% DEFAULT RATE 12% Founded in the Methodist tradition with a main campus in Mitchell, Dakota Wesleyan University emphasizes leadership development, lifelong learning, service, and faith exploration. The school is one of the best online colleges in South Dakota, boasting small class sizes and personalized attention and support for its distance learners. DWU offers four online degrees: BA degree-completion, RN to BS, master's in education, and master's of business administration. The MBA can be completed in one year of full-time study, while the other programs take between 14 and 26 months to finish. The school's nursing program boasts a 100% job placement rate. All coursework for these distance programs can be completed entirely online and classes are taught asynchronously. Distance learners pay no application or enrollment fees and can take advantage of generous transfer credit policies.	Visit Site
6	Presentation College Aberdeen, SD	ADMISSIONS RATE 62% GRADUATION RATE 42% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 36% RETENTION RATE 59% DEFAULT RATE 11% Established in 1951 in the Catholic tradition, Presentation College maintains a main campus in Aberdeen, while its online programs division is based out of Fairmont, Minnesota. Focusing on development of the whole person and welcoming people of all faiths, PC is one of the most social justice-oriented online colleges in South Dakota. It is also known for the quality of its health care programs. The school offers six affordable programs in health care for distance learners. Undergraduate students can earn a bachelor's in nursing, health science, or radiologic technology, while graduate students can pursue MS degrees in nursing or nursing education. Admissions requirements include a 2.0 GPA for transfer students, although some programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0.	Visit Site
7	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, SD	ADMISSIONS RATE 92% GRADUATION RATE 55% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 6% RETENTION RATE 72% DEFAULT RATE 5% The University of Sioux Falls is a Christian, liberal arts school that was founded in 1872 in the Baptist tradition. One of the top online schools in South Dakota, the university recently reduced undergraduate tuition for 2018, placing it among the most affordable private institutions in the region. Distance learners can pursue online degrees at the master's level in business administration and education. The business administration program offers concentrations in either management or health care. In the education program, students can choose from concentrations in technology, higher education administration, or technology and customized learning. At the bachelor's level, USF offers programs in accounting, business, health administration, and nursing. Professional development courses are also available online. Students may transfer up to 64 credits into their program at USF.	Visit Site
8	Black Hills State University Spearfish, SD	ADMISSIONS RATE 84% GRADUATION RATE 36% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20% RETENTION RATE 63% DEFAULT RATE 9% Located in Spearfish and founded in 1883, Black Hills State University describes itself as a "master's level university" and is one of the best online schools in South Dakota for graduate degrees. BHSU offers four online program tracks for its master’s of science degree in sustainability, secondary education, curriculum and instruction, and strategic leadership. It also has a master’s of education program where distance learners can earn a degree in reading. At the bachelor's level, students can choose from general studies or a business administration degree with a concentration in management. The school also offers minors in library media and sociology as well as certification programs in professional writing and crisis leadership/emergency management. Wyoming residents also have access to in-state tuition rates through the border bonus program. All programs can be completed entirely online through the Desire2Learn learning management system.	Visit Site

What are the Best Online Community Colleges in South Dakota?

When considering online colleges in South Dakota, it's important to recognize the distinction between community colleges and four-year universities. Awarding associate degrees and certificates, community colleges tend to focus on vocational training and career preparation. An associate degree can also be a cheaper way to fulfill the general education requirements of a four-year degree. Four-year universities are typically larger and house a wider selection of majors and degree options, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The list below outlines the best online community colleges in South Dakota, comparing degree requirements, program characteristics, and admissions criteria to help you make an informed decision.

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1	Mitchell Technical Institute Mitchell, SD		GRADUATION RATE 70%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 16%	RETENTION RATE 74%	DEFAULT RATE 12%	MTI is located in Mitchell and is among the best online community colleges in South Dakota. On its 80-acre campus, about 70 miles from Sioux Falls, MTI offers 33 academic programs, five of which are available online. Online areas of study include small business management, medical imaging, and speech-language pathology. MTI boasts a graduation rate that is among the best in the country for two-year colleges, as well as a 99% job placement rate. Current students and alumni can turn to MTI Career Services for help with resumes, cover letters, and interviews, as well as to search for job opportunities. More than 86% of students receive financial aid, which may include scholarships, grants, and loans. To apply, prospective students should complete the online application and submit transcripts and required test scores.	Visit Site
2	Lake Area Technical Institute Watertown, SD		GRADUATION RATE 79%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 0%	RETENTION RATE 84%	DEFAULT RATE 7%	Founded in 1965, Lake Area Technical Institute is one of the oldest online community colleges in South Dakota. LATI now serves more than 2,000 students from its campus in Watertown and through online programs, which it calls E-Degrees. The 12 online programs are all taught in a hybrid format, pairing on-campus requirements with asynchronous online courses. Students can access academic support that includes tutoring, counseling, disability services, and career services. LATI states that, of the school's 20,000 graduates, nearly 99% of them are employed or pursuing further education. All E-Degrees have a fall or spring start date. Applicants interested in scholarships and financial aid should apply by the priority dates.	Visit Site
3	Southeast Technical Institute Sioux Falls, SD		GRADUATION RATE 44%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 18%	RETENTION RATE 65%	DEFAULT RATE 13%	Located in South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls, Southeast Technical Institute offers AAS degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Southeast Tech is also one of the best online community colleges in South Dakota, with close to 15 online degrees available in subjects including accounting, business, marketing, and computer programming. Classes may be taught in an accelerated format or on a traditional semester schedule. To apply, prospective online students must complete the ACT or Accuplacer Assessment. Southeast Tech has one of the largest graduating classes in the state. Graduates interested in pursuing their bachelor’s degree after completing a Southeast Tech program may be interested in the college’s partnerships four-year institutions, such as South Dakota State and the University of South Dakota.	Visit Site
4	Western Dakota Technical Institute Rapid City, SD		GRADUATION RATE 33%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 11%	RETENTION RATE 45%	DEFAULT RATE 20%	Western Dakota Technical Institute, one of the best online community colleges in South Dakota, is located in Rapid City, the state’s second-largest city. The school offers programs in fields that are growing quickly and provides opportunities for students to participate in internships and industry partnerships. The college prides itself on high job placement rates among recent graduates. Six in-demand programs are offered online through the Blackboard platform. This includes accounting and business-related topics. Online students at Western Dakota Technical are charged only a slightly higher tuition than on-campus students, and financial aid is available. Distance learners who need assistance can contact the college’s student success coaches. Each coach has their own academic specializations, which allows them to be acquainted with specific student concerns and program details.	Visit Site

Education Trends in South Dakota

Despite its small population and lack of major cities, South Dakota residents over age 25 are highly educated, boasting a higher number of people with associate and bachelor's degrees than the average U.S. state. And while the state spends slightly less on each full-time college student than the U.S. average, it actually commits an above-average portion of its tax revenue toward higher education, demonstrating South Dakota's commitment to its students.

Paying for College in South Dakota

While it's true that you can't put a price on your education, you can certainly keep price in mind when determining where to pursue a degree. South Dakota's public four-year schools offer lower tuition than the average U.S. school, but higher-than-average tuition for public two-year schools. It's important to research different schools and determine how their tuition matches up with your financial needs.

Tuition Prices

The following table compiles tuition rates at public two-year and four-year colleges in South Dakota and compares them to national averages. Keep in mind that these numbers reflect tuition only and exclude other expenses like textbooks, transportation, housing, and living expenses.

Financial Aid

Regardless of where you go to school, one of the most important parts of the college admissions process is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study awards. Depending on your income level and background, the FAFSA may unlock funding options that don't need to be repaid. Grants and scholarships should always be your first choice for financing, followed by work-study awards that pay you to work part-time while attending school. Government loans are another option and have generous repayment policies. Private loans, which generally charge higher interest rates, should be used as a last resort.

Cost for Online Programs in South Dakota

If you're enrolled in one of the many online colleges in South Dakota, you should still fill out the FAFSA since you have access to all the same financial aid opportunities as traditional students. The only difference is that as an online student, you can avoid many of the costs associated with an on-campus education. While the tuition for online programs is usually about the same as traditional programs, you can save money on transportation, meals, textbooks, and child care.

Cost of Living by Region

One of the advantages of being enrolled in online schools in South Dakota is the state's low cost of living. While rent and mortgages typically aren't included in estimated college costs, they can have a major effect on both the overall cost of your education and your career options after graduation. The following chart compiles information on average rental and home prices from cities in both South Dakota and some of its neighboring states.

Scholarships for South Dakota College Students

Horatio Alger South Dakota Scholarship Program

$10,000; must be a current senior at a South Dakota high school with demonstrated financial need and at least a 2.0 GPA.

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South Dakota Soil & Water Conservation Scholarship

$500; must have completed at least one year at a South Dakota university, college, tribal college, or technical school and be enrolled in a natural science or agricultural conservation major with at least a 2.8 GPA.

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Bryan Meyer Memorial Scholarship

$500 or $1,500; must have completed at least two semesters of coursework at any accredited college in South Dakota and must be a subscriber or have a family member who is a subscriber to any South Dakota Telecommunications Association member company.

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South Dakota CPA Society Excellence in Accounting Scholarship

$9,500; must have completed at least 90 credits of college coursework with at least a 3.0 GPA and be planning to enter the accounting profession upon graduation.

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Carol and Larry Holt Scholarship

$2,500; must be enrolled at South Dakota State University as an education or science major with at least a 3.0 GPA.

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Can all Scholarships be Used for Online Programs?

Most schools and scholarship organizations don't distinguish between online and traditional students in terms of eligibility, though it's usually a good idea to check with the school or organization just to be sure. Certain scholarships, particularly those offered by colleges, have residency requirements that may preclude some distance learners.

Employment Outlook in South Dakota

While South Dakota is small, the state's economy is diverse and includes areas such as finance, healthcare, retail, and agriculture. While mean wages in the state are lower than the national average, they're offset by a lower cost of living. South Dakota also boasts a lower-than-average unemployment rate, ranking in the top 10 states with low unemployment. And while its gross state product is lower than many larger states, Forbes ranks South Dakota among the top 10 states for business, citing its prominent banking sector and the low cost of doing business.

Top Employers and Industries in South Dakota

State Exchange Programs for South Dakota College Students

While there are many online schools in South Dakota, the state's low population does result in fewer education options for state residents. As a result, many states offer exchange programs that allow you to attend an institution in another state while paying the same tuition rate as in-state residents. The following table lists some of the options available for you as a South Dakota resident, though it's important to check with individual schools to ensure you qualify for in-state tuition.

Accreditation for Colleges in South Dakota

Another factor to consider when looking at online schools in South Dakota is accreditation status. Accreditation is a process in which colleges are evaluated to ensure they meet rigorous standards of academic quality. Accreditation lets you know that a school is legitimate degree-granting institution that will be recognized by the government, employers, and other schools. Schools are accredited either regionally or nationally. Regional accreditation is typically reserved for not-for-profit schools, such as four-year colleges and universities. Nationally accredited schools are typically for-profit institutions that offer career and technical training. Of the two, regional accreditation is generally considered more desirable. The Higher Learning Commission is the regional accrediting body responsible for South Dakota.

Entire schools or individual programs can be accredited, and online programs must adhere to the same standards as traditional programs. When looking at online colleges in South Dakota, it's a good idea to examine the accreditation status of the program you're considering. The keeps track of most accredited degree programs, colleges, and accrediting organizations, which makes it a useful resource if you want to check the accreditation status of a different online schools in South Dakota.