Northern State University
Aberdeen, South Dakota
About Northern State University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1901, Northern State University is a 4-year college serving students in Aberdeen, South Dakota. With a tradition of academic excellence, Northern State University prepares graduates for success in Education, Business, Biology, and more.
A Diverse Community in Aberdeen
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 19:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Northern State University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $13,560, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Northern State University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Northern State University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 49% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 28% |
| First-year retention rate | 75% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $42,830 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $47,618 |
| Median debt at graduation | $22,320 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Northern State University
| Total enrollment | 3,708 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 3,169 |
| Graduate students | 539 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 31% |
What you can study at Northern State University
55 programs, most of them in these fields:
Education (13)
Art Teacher Education, Biology Teacher Education, Chemistry Teacher Education, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (7)
Accounting, Banking and Financial Support Services, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (6)
Art/Art Studies, General, Commercial and Advertising Art, Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (4)
Biochemistry, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, Biotechnology, and more
Foreign Languages (3)
French Language and Literature, German Language and Literature, Spanish Language and Literature
Parks Recreation Leisure Fitness (3)
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching, Sport and Fitness Administration/Management, Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
Social Sciences (3)
Political Science and Government, General, Social Sciences, General, Sociology, General
Computer Information Sciences (2)
Computer and Information Sciences, General, Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other
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