# Northern State University

> CollegeRanker Agent Insights — structured school profile for AI systems
> Source: https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/northern-state-university

## Overview

- **Location:** Aberdeen, SD
- **Type:** Public
- **Setting:** Town
- **Region:** Plains
- **Enrollment:** 1,273
- **Predominant Degree:** Bachelor's

Northern State University is a solid choice for students looking for a supportive environment where they can explore a variety of fields. With an enrollment of about 1,273 students and a high acceptance rate of 93%, it’s a place where many can find their footing. Popular programs include Business & Marketing, Education, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Humanities. This variety gives students the chance to delve into subjects that truly interest them while also preparing for diverse career paths.

When it comes to what life looks like after graduation, the numbers tell an encouraging story. Graduates earn a median income of $47,618 ten years after completing their degree, which can be quite promising. The affordability factor is also worth noting, as the net price after financial aid is around $15,812. With a median debt of $22,320, many students find themselves in a manageable position as they transition into the workforce. 

In terms of the practicalities, Northern State University keeps costs relatively low for those who qualify for aid, with a Pell Grant rate of 12%. Students who tend to thrive here are those who appreciate a close-knit community and are motivated to engage with their studies. While the graduation rate sits at 51%, the supportive atmosphere and accessible programs can help students make the most of their college experience and set them up for future success.

## Admissions

| Metric | Value |
|--------|-------|
| Acceptance Rate | 93% |
| SAT Average | 1089 |
| ACT Midpoint | 21 |

## Cost & Aid

| Metric | Value |
|--------|-------|
| In-State Tuition | $8,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $11,947 |
| Average Net Price | $15,812 |
| Median Debt | $22,320 |
| Pell Grant Rate | 12% |
| Federal Loan Rate | 22% |

### Net Price by Family Income

| Family Income | Net Price |
|--------------|----------|
| $0-$30K | $10,762 |
| $30K-$48K | $12,087 |
| $48K-$75K | $15,293 |
| $75K-$110K | N/A |
| $110K+ | $17,933 |

## Outcomes

| Metric | Value |
|--------|-------|
| Graduation Rate | 51% |
| Retention Rate | 77% |
| Earnings (6yr) | $41,536 |
| Earnings (8yr) | $42,830 |
| Earnings (10yr) | $47,618 |
| Debt-to-Earnings | 0.47x |
| Loan Repayment (3yr) | N/A |

## Social Capital (Social Capital Atlas)

| Metric | Value |
|--------|-------|
| Economic Connectedness | 1.61 |
| Friending Bias | -0.02 |
| Volunteering Rate | 4.3% |
| Support Ratio | 1.00 |

## Top Programs

| Program | Enrollment Share |
|---------|------------------|
| Business & Marketing | 22% |
| Education | 21% |
| Biology & Biomedical | 19% |
| Psychology | 6% |
| Humanities | 6% |
| Criminal Justice | 6% |
| English & Literature | 4% |
| Visual & Performing Arts | 4% |

## Rankings

This school appears in 5 CollegeRanker rankings:

- #3 in [Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota](https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/most-affordable-colleges-south-dakota)
- #5 in [Best Bachelor's Programs in South Dakota](https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-bachelors-south-dakota)
- #5 in [Best Master's Programs in South Dakota](https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-masters-south-dakota)
- #7 in [Best Business Colleges in South Dakota](https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-business-south-dakota)
- #11 in [Best Colleges in South Dakota](https://www.collegeranker.com/rankings/best-colleges-south-dakota)

## Data Sources

- U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (https://collegescorecard.ed.gov)
- Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas
- NCES IPEDS

## Citation

CollegeRanker. "Northern State University — School Profile." CollegeRanker.com. https://www.collegeranker.com/colleges/northern-state-university