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By University HQ Staff Writers
Edited by Evelyn Keener
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University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs.
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Dakota State University (DSU) was first established as a Normal School in 1881 in Dakota Territory as the first school in the area dedicated exclusively to training teachers. It didn’t become DSU until 1989, reflecting the addition of graduate programs to their offerings. Over the years, DSU has evolved to become one of the most technologically advanced campuses in the Midwest.
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Overview of Dakota State University (DSU)
Dakota State University (DSU) boasts a longstanding legacy of innovation and excellence. In 1984, it became the first university in America to offer an undergraduate computer science education degree; today it's widely acknowledged as an authority on cyber operations education, with undergraduate and graduate programs available in computer science, cyber operations, and information systems.
DSU has also been a pioneer in online education, offering distance learning programs since 1989. Today, DSU's online programs are among the most highly regarded in the nation, with numerous rankings and accolades from organizations such as those from US News & World Report and the Online Learning Consortium.
General Information
School Type | Public |
---|---|
Campus Setting | Town: Distant |
Campus Housing | Yes |
Student Faculty Ratio | 18:1 |
Graduation Rate | 49% |
Year Founded | 1881 |
Student Enrollment
Total Students3,186
Undergraduate
2,740
Graduate
446
Undergraduate Student
Male 1,699
1,699
Female 1,041
1,041
Graduate Student
Male 277
277
Female 169
169
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Top Rankings For Dakota State University
#1 Best ACBSP MBA Programs in South Dakota
#1 Best MBA Programs in South Dakota
#2 Best Online Colleges in South Dakota
#3 Best Finance Programs in South Dakota
#3 Online Associate in Network Administration
#3 Best Accounting Programs in South Dakota
#4 Best Bachelors Colleges in South Dakota
#4 Best Masters Colleges in South Dakota
#6 Online Associate in Software Development
#6 Online Bachelors in Network Administration
#7 Online Associate in Business Management
#21 Affordable Network Administration Programs
#25 Online Associate in Business
#33 Top 50 Online Associate Degrees
Dakota State University Acceptance Rate and Admissions
APPLICATIONS712
Male 471
Female 235
ACCEPTANCE598
Male 396
Female 195
Acceptance Rate84%
Male 84%
Female 83%
Enrollment 383
Male 268
Female 115
Admissions | |
---|---|
Application Fee | $20 |
High School GPA | Required |
High School Rank | Required |
High School Transcripts | Required |
College Prep Courses | NA |
Recommendations | NA |
SAT/ACT | Considered But Not Required |
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) | Required |
Application Deadline | September 1 |
Common Application Accepted | No |
DSU Tuition Cost & Financial Aid
In terms of tuition rates, Dakota State University is highly competitive compared to many other public universities in the United States. For South Dakota residents, the tuition for the 2022-23 academic year was approximately $9,633 for those enrolled in undergraduate studies. This figure does not include additional costs such as textbooks, housing, and meals, but it does highlight the reasonable base cost of attending Dakota State University, especially for in-state students.
Out-of-state students also benefit from relatively low tuition rates compared to other universities, though they will pay more than their in-state counterparts. For the same academic year, out-of-state undergraduate students paid $12,735 in tuition. Though higher than in-state rates, this is still significantly lower than the tuition costs at many other institutions.
Dakota State University provides all students with numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities that make attendance even more affordable. Explore all available scholarship options before selecting one that aligns with their qualifications and interests.
Average net price | Current Year |
---|---|
Net Price | $17,861 |
Average Total Aid | $4,501 |
Students Receiving Financial Aid | 94% |
Room & Board | $7,148 |
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Sticker Price
- Tuition In-State - $9,536
- Tuition Out-of-State - $12,606
- Books and Supplies - $1,200
- Room & Board - $7,148
- Other - $4,874
Popular Academic Programs at DSU
At DSU, academics are not restricted to the traditional classroom setting. The university embraces online and experiential learning and offers various practical opportunities for students to apply their knowledge. Whether it's through internships, research projects, or cooperative education programs, DSU ensures that students are well-prepared to thrive in their chosen careers upon graduation.
The school prides itself on the dedication and expertise of its faculty members, who strive to deliver top-quality instruction within an enjoyable learning environment. Not only are our professors experts in their respective fields; they're also committed to helping their students thrive academically and professionally - offering guidance, mentorship and advice that aids growth both academically and professionally.
DSU provides an array of programs designed to cater to students with diverse interests and ambitions, whether in business, education, health sciences, or another popular educational area. No matter what field is your passion - business studies, education, or health sciences - DSU likely has something for you. Furthermore, its course offerings are regularly revised in accordance with industry trends and demands so that students have access to relevant knowledge and skills that keep pace with today's market needs.
In addition to its academic offerings, DSU provides a supportive and inclusive campus environment. Students have access to numerous resources and support services including academic advising, tutoring, counseling, and career development services. The university also offers various extracurricular activities and organizations, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop leadership skills outside the classroom.
71%
Retention
Rate
29%
4 year
Graduation
Rate
47%
6 year
Graduation
Rate
Student Population Total
Student Population 3,186
Undergraduate
2,740
Graduate
446
Evening Classes : No
Online Learning : Yes
Student Faculty Ratio - 18:1
Most Popular Programs & Majors
(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)
All Computer and Information Sciences Majors | 210 Total Graduates / 60% |
---|---|
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance | 64 Graduates |
Computer and Information Sciences, General | 47 Graduates |
System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager | 36 Graduates |
Computer Graphics | 27 Graduates |
All Education Majors | 54 Total Graduates / 15% |
Special Education and Teaching, Other | 24 Graduates |
Elementary Education and Teaching | 21 Graduates |
Mathematics Teacher Education | 4 Graduates |
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching | 3 Graduates |
All Business Majors | 33 Total Graduates / 9% |
Business Administration and Management, General | 13 Graduates |
Accounting | 10 Graduates |
Marketing/Marketing Management, General | 7 Graduates |
Finance, General | 3 Graduates |
All Health Professions and Related Majors | 12 Total Graduates / 3% |
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator | 9 Graduates |
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist | 3 Graduates |
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities | 12 Total Graduates / 3% |
General Studies | 12 Graduates |
All Other Diplomas | 9% |
Outcome & Salary
At Dakota State University, graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today's rapidly evolving technology-driven world. Many DSU graduates are making significant contributions in the fields of cyber security, computer science, and information technology. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning and practical applications, DSU alumni are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges and excel in their careers.
Furthermore, DSU has a strong network of industry partners who actively recruit and support its graduates. This collaborative relationship ensures that DSU students have access to internships, mentorship opportunities, and job placements upon graduation. As a result, many DSU alumni are able to seamlessly transition into high-demand professions and make meaningful impacts in their respective fields. The outcomes for graduates from Dakota State University reflect the institution's commitment to producing highly skilled professionals who are poised for success in today's competitive job market. In fact, a full 99.7% of respondents in a recent graduate survey indicated that they found job placement opportunities after completing their education. (Note that this includes those in the military, voluntary service, and furthering their education.)
Graduates Salary | |
---|---|
College Grads Early Career Salary | $44,000 |
College Grads Average Salary | $38,700 |
College Grads Mid Career Salary | $64,900 |
Return on Investment (ROI) | |
---|---|
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential | $387,000 |
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential | $1,036,000 |
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year | $71,444 |
10 Year Projected ROI | $315,556 |
20 Year Projected ROI | $964,556 |
No College Education Salary Comparison | |
---|---|
National Average Salary | $38,792 |
10 Year Projected Income | $387,920 |
20 Year Projected Income | $775,840 |
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