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Colleges / SD / Madison
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Dakota State University

Public Madison, SD · Town · Plains · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
50%
Graduation Rate
$50,970
Earnings (10yr)
$21,057
Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Dakota State University is a great fit for students looking to dive into fields like Computer Science, IT, Education, and Business. With an acceptance rate of 88%, the university welcomes a wide range of applicants. Students here appreciate the focus on practical, career-oriented education, especially in tech and health-related programs. Those studying in these areas often find themselves well-prepared for the job market.

After graduation, students from Dakota State can expect to earn around $50,970 in their first decade of work. This figure speaks volumes about the potential return on their educational investment. While 50% of students graduate, those who do tend to move into positions that can lead to higher earnings over time. The university's affordability, with a net price of $21,057 after aid, makes it a reasonable option for many.

When considering the financial aspects, the median debt stands at $23,500, which is manageable for many graduates, especially given their earning potential. The 17% of students receiving Pell Grants indicates that there is some support for low-income students, but it also highlights the need for careful financial planning. Overall, students who thrive here are often those eager to take advantage of the practical programs and supportive community to set themselves up for a successful career.

Rankings

How Dakota Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation50%Earnings 10yr$51KNet Price$21KRetention75%Median Debt$24KPell Grant Rate17%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$17K$0-30K$19K$30-48K$19K$48-75K$23K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$9,654
In-State Tuition
$12,756
Out-of-State
$21,057
Avg Net Price
$23,500
Median Debt
17%
Pell Grant Rate
34%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$17,317
Family Income $0–$30K
$18,792
Family Income $30K–$48K
$19,165
Family Income $48K–$75K
$23,269
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$46,146
6 Years After Entry
$46,966
8 Years
$50,970
10 Years
0.46x
Debt-to-Earnings
71%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$46,146 6yr $46,966 8yr $50,970 10yr

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 88%
Retention Rate 75%
SAT Average 1215
ACT Midpoint 23
SAT Range 1190–1440
ACT Range 20–27
Full-Time Faculty 75%
Faculty Salary (mo) $9,954
Diversity Index 0.44
First-Gen Students 28%

Top Programs

Computer Science & IT 66%
Education 12%
Humanities 6%
Business & Marketing 5%
Health Professions 3%
Mathematics & Statistics 1%
English & Literature 1%
Biology & Biomedical 1%