South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
About South Dakota State University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is a 4-year college serving students in Brookings, South Dakota. With a tradition of academic excellence, South Dakota State University prepares graduates for success in Health Professions, Agriculture, Engineering, and more.
A Diverse Community in Brookings
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 18:01 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
South Dakota State University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $12,517, 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
South Dakota 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 South Dakota State University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 62% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 46% |
| First-year retention rate | 83% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $52,417 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $55,070 |
| Median debt at graduation | $23,250 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at South Dakota State University
| Total enrollment | 12,065 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 10,728 |
| Graduate students | 1,337 |
| International students | 4% |
| First-generation students | 20% |
What you can study at South Dakota State University
95 programs, most of them in these fields:
Agriculture (12)
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Engineering, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (8)
Accounting, Advertising, Apparel and Textile Marketing Management, and more
Health Professions (8)
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist, Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician, Community Health and Preventive Medicine, and more
Biological and Biomedical Sciences (6)
Biochemistry, Biology/Biological Sciences, General, Biomedical Sciences, General, and more
Education (5)
Chemistry Teacher Education, Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, and more
Family and Consumer Sciences (5)
Consumer Economics, Family and Consumer Sciences/Home Economics Teacher Education, Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General, and more
Natural Resources and Conservation (5)
Environmental Studies, Geography and Environmental Studies, Natural Resources/Conservation, General, and more
Social Sciences (5)
Economics, General, Geographic Information Science and Cartography, Geography, and more
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