Best Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Here are the best colleges and universities in South Dakota. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
Best Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- University of South Dakota
- Most Popular Degrees: Psychology, Chemistry, and Communications
- South Dakota State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Economics, Biology, and Nursing
- Black Hills State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Sociology, Chemistry, and Literature
- National American University
- Most Popular Degrees: Criminal Justice, Business, and Computer Science
- Dakota Wesleyan University
- Most Popular Degrees: Political Science, Economics, and Biology
- University of Sioux Falls
- Most Popular Degrees: Social Work, Communications, and Nursing
- Northern State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Chemistry, Literature, and Mathematics
- Augustana University
- Most Popular Degrees: Sociology, Biology, and Nursing
- Dakota State University
- Most Popular Degrees: Computer Science, Biology, and Physics
- Mount Marty University
- Most Popular Degrees: Criminal Justice, Literature, and Religious Studies
Best Colleges in South Dakota 2023
- #1 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in South Dakota
- #1 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Wyoming 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Wyoming
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Montana
- #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs
- #9 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
- #10 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
- #3 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
57%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of South Dakota
Cost of Degree: $9,432Expenses: $14,371Starting Salary: $49,500Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of South Dakota is home to numerous majors and minors across various disciplines, ensuring there’s a program tailored to every student’s interest. As South Dakota’s flagship university, its campus features modern laboratories, libraries, performance spaces, and athletic facilities.
What we love about the University of South Dakota:
The school’s Beacom School of Business offers innovative programs like the Coyote Business Consulting Group, which allows students to help real businesses solve their challenges and improve practices.
The University of South Dakota is ideal for students who:
Are looking for affordable school rates.
The University of South Dakota might not be the best fit for students who:
Shy away from hands-on learning opportunities like service-learning and research projects.
- #2 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
- #7 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
- #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs
- #13 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
59%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1132/22
Career Outlook for degree at South Dakota State University
Cost of Degree: $9,299Expenses: $13,635Starting Salary: $50,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryFrom academic to cultural and recreational activities, South Dakota State University provides a vibrant campus life experience with more than 200 student organizations to choose from. Ranked as one of the safest campuses in the state, the university is equipped with various safety programs such as classroom lectures, 24/7 campus police patrols, and regular emergency drills.
What we love about South Dakota State University:
The university’s Wokini Initiative supports Native American students by providing various services like tuition assistance, tribal outreach, and accessible student centers.
South Dakota State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a strong athletic program with modern training facilities and supportive coaches.
South Dakota State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not as interested in being involved in student life.
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
44%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1027/21
Career Outlook for degree at Black Hills State University
Cost of Degree: $8,916Expenses: $13,228Starting Salary: $40,500Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryBlack Hills State University is one of the best campuses for outdoor learning, offering courses like rock climbing and wilderness survival. The university fosters a culture of community service and engagement, allowing students to volunteer, participate in internships, and collaborate on local projects.
What we love about Black Hills State University:
The Jacket Investment Club allows students to gain real-world experience in finance and investment management through stock market simulations, real investment portfolio management, and industry conferences.
Black Hills State University is ideal for students who:
Are enthusiastic about sustainability initiatives like recycling and awareness campaigns.
Black Hills State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer to go to college in a bigger city.
- #2 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #3 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #4 Best Online Colleges in New Mexico 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in South Dakota
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
- #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$16K
Graduation
33%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at National American University
Cost of Degree: $16,065Starting Salary: $39,500Providing distance learning for more than 20 years, National American University offers quality online programs that allow students to balance their education with work and other responsibilities. Despite being 100% online, the school provides various learning resources, like a virtual library, academic advising, and tutorials.
What we love about the National American University:
Transfer students have the opportunity to apply up to 75% of their accumulated credits towards their program, helping them finish their program faster and at a lower cost.
National American University is ideal for students who:
Are studying part-time or continuing their education while working
National American University might not be the best fit for students who:
Would like to study on-campus and attend in-person classes.
National American University’s Online Degrees
BS in Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Paralegal Studies
- Required Credits: 180.5
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Professional Legal Studies
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
53%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1185/21
Career Outlook for degree at Dakota Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $31,890Expenses: $10,800Starting Salary: $40,900Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryDakota Wesleyan University stands out as one of the state’s best institutions, offering an innovative educational approach that encourages collaborative research, internship participation, and community engagement. The university’s digital initiative boosts student learning by incorporating technology into courses, providing more interactive discussions and flexible schoolwork.
What we love about Dakota Wesleyan University:
The university hosts cultural awareness workshops, guest speaker series, and talent shows to promote diversity and inclusion.
Dakota Wesleyan University is ideal for students who:
Are seeking hands-on learning experiences such as working in healthcare facilities, joining clean-ups, and participating in international internships.
Dakota Wesleyan University might not be the best fit for students who:
Desire to learn within the classroom only.
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
59%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Sioux Falls
Cost of Degree: $20,290Expenses: $13,040Starting Salary: $44,800Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith a high post-graduation employment rate, the University of Sioux Falls produces career- ready graduates through a blend of comprehensive training curriculum, dedicated mentors, and modern classroom facilities. As a Christian university affiliated with the American Baptist Church, the university offers opportunities for spiritual growth through worship services, Bible studies, and service-learning projects.
What we love about the University of Sioux Falls:
For enhanced student experience, the campus features modern facilities, like the Salsbury Science Center, equipped with advanced laboratories and research equipment, and the Jeschke Fine Arts Center, which hosts concerts and theatrical productions.
The University of Sioux Falls is ideal for students who:
Are interested in performing arts and music in their free time.
The University of Sioux Falls might not be the best fit for students who:
Would rather not participate in chapel services.
- #5 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
51%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
975/21
Career Outlook for degree at Northern State University
Cost of Degree: $8,845Expenses: $14,950Starting Salary: $37,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith an almost 100% rate of positive career outcomes, Northern State University’s personalized educational approach allows students to receive individualized attention, mentorship, and support to achieve their academic goals. Here, students are treated to an enriching campus experience, with a range of performing arts events, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the school year.
What we love about Northern State University:
Taking leadership to the next level, the university’s Honors Program comes with perks like personalized career advising, an exclusive lounge, internships, and research opportunities.
Northern State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for affordable education and quality programs.
Northern State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer not to be involved in community service and outreach programs.
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
76%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1217/24
Career Outlook for degree at Augustana University
Cost of Degree: $37,342Expenses: $16,048Starting Salary: $49,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryHome of change-makers, Augustana University’s academic approach emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and global perspectives to produce top-notch graduates. With a 14:1 student- to-faculty ratio, students get to work closely with faculty on research projects while getting the proper guidance for a successful career.
What we love about Augustana University:
The university’s Center for Service-Learning provides opportunities for students to volunteer in local and international projects, including food banks, Habitat for Humanity builds, and disaster relief efforts.
Augustana University is ideal for students who:
Prefer to attend worship services, Bible studies, and faith-based programs.
Augustana University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer not to participate in experiential learning activities like fieldwork and clinical rotations.
- #4 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in South Dakota
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in South Dakota
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2024
- #5 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota 2024
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in South Dakota 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
- #10 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
- #10 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
- #15 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
49%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/23
Career Outlook for degree at Dakota State University
Cost of Degree: $9,633Expenses: $15,104Starting Salary: $43,100Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith a focus on technology and innovation, Dakota State University offers excellent training programs in the fields of digital media, business, and technology, providing knowledge and practical skills for the digital age. The school boasts a strong alumni network comprised of graduates working in leading technology companies and government agencies, which provides students with valuable mentorship and career opportunities.
What we love about Dakota State University:
The university is recognized for its cybersecurity initiatives, including courses like Digital Forensics and Cyber Operations, organized camps, and the way it raises online safety awareness through community seminars.
Dakota State University is ideal for students who:
Have a strong interest in technological advances in the digital world.
Dakota State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to take engineering degrees and courses.
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2024
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
57%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Mount Marty University
Cost of Degree: $31,500Expenses: $14,532Starting Salary: $39,400Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWith a beautiful campus and an active student body, Mount Marty University fosters a vibrant learning environment that’s full of events, research opportunities, and intramural sports. The university integrates Benedictine values into every aspect of campus life, encouraging students to volunteer at local shelters, join weekly Mass services, and organize mission trips.
What we love about Mount Marty University:
Mount Marty offers personalized mentorship beginning at enrollment, pairing you with an academic advisor to help you choose your academic path.
Mount Mary University is ideal for students who:
Are into extracurricular activities like joining interest clubs and sports teams.
Mount Marty University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t want to be in small class sizes and receive personalized attention from teachers.
- Build your own college ranking
This list of the top colleges in South Dakota below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in South Dakota.
South Dakota’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.