University of South Dakota: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The University of South Dakota (USD) is an esteemed public university situated in the charming town of Vermillion, South Dakota. Established in 1862, USD has a rich heritage and is deeply committed to offering top-notch education while fostering a vibrant academic community. The university takes pride in its diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning various disciplines such as business, health sciences, law, arts and sciences, and education. USD is renowned for its exceptional faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, state-of-the-art facilities, and an inclusive learning environment that supports student success. Students at USD enjoy ample research opportunities, hands-on learning experiences, and engagement with the local community. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, USD equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in their chosen professions and make meaningful contributions to society.

Type of University	Public
Total Student Population	Approximately 10,000
Percentage of International Student Population	Around 4%
Acceptance Rate	Varies by program, but generally between 85-90%
Student-Faculty Ratio	16:1
Number of Campuses (Domestic + International)	1 main campus in Vermillion, South Dakota
Number of Scholarships Awarded	Varies annually
Official Website	www.usd.edu

Campus and Accommodation 

The campus of the University of South Dakota (USD) is nestled in Vermillion, South Dakota, offering a picturesque and vibrant environment for students. Spread across 216 acres, the campus features modern facilities, state-of-the-art classrooms, research centers, libraries, and recreational spaces. Accommodation options at USD include residence halls and apartments. The residence halls offer a traditional college experience with shared living spaces and communal facilities, while the apartments provide more independent living with amenities like kitchens and private bedrooms. The cost of accommodation varies depending on the type and location, ranging from approximately $2,500 to $3,500 per semester. Below is the table presenting accommodation types and costs:

Accommodation Type	Cost (per semester)
Residence Halls	$2,500 - $2,800
Apartments	$2,800 - $3,500

Global Ranking 

Global rankings provided by QS Ranking and THE (Times Higher Education), the University of South Dakota (USD) showcased its commitment to academic excellence and research. While specific rankings may vary across different categories, USD was recognized for its strong performance in various fields. QS Ranking acknowledged USD's notable achievements in subjects like Engineering, Mineral & Mining Engineering, and Earth & Marine Sciences. Additionally, USD received recognition for its research output and global impact. Similarly, in the THE rankings, USD stood out for its contributions in areas such as Clinical, Pre-Clinical & Health and Life Sciences. These rankings highlighted USD's position as a reputable institution dedicated to quality education and impactful research.

Acceptance Rate

 
The University of South Dakota (USD) has an acceptance rate that reflects its competitive admissions process. As of  September 2021, the university's acceptance rate was approximately 86%. However, it's important to note that acceptance rates can vary from year to year and may be subject to change. USD attracts a diverse pool of applicants due to its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and vibrant campus community. While the acceptance rate indicates the competitiveness of admissions, USD remains committed to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for its students.

Top Courses Offered 

Popular Undergraduate Courses at the University of South Dakota:

Course	Fees (approximate range)
Business Administration	$10,000 - $15,000/year
Nursing	$12,000 - $17,000/year
Psychology	$9,000 - $13,000/year
Biology	$9,000 - $13,000/year
Education	$10,000 - $15,000/year
Engineering	$12,000 - $17,000/year

Popular Postgraduate Courses at the University of South Dakota:

Course	Fees (approximate range)
MBA (Master of Business Administration)	$12,000 - $20,000/year
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)	$13,000 - $18,000/year
Counseling Psychology	$10,000 - $15,000/year
Occupational Therapy	$12,000 - $18,000/year
Education Leadership	$11,000 - $16,000/year
Engineering Management	$13,000 - $19,000/year

Admission Process 

The University of South Dakota (USD) is a renowned institution that offers a wide range of programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students. When applying for admission to USD, there are a few key points to consider.

Application Fees: The application fee for undergraduate programs at USD is $20 for in-state students and $35 for out-of-state students. For graduate programs, the application fee is $35 for both in-state and out-of-state students. These fees are subject to change, so it's essential to verify the most up-to-date information on the USD website or by contacting the admissions office.

Application Process: To apply for admission to USD, prospective students can follow these general steps:

1. Complete the online application form on the USD website.
2. Submit official high school or college transcripts, depending on the level of study.
3. Send standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT) if required.
4. Provide letters of recommendation, personal essays, or other supplementary documents if requested by the specific program.
5. Pay the application fee online or through other accepted methods.

Documents Required 

To take admission at the University of South Dakota, the following documents are typically required:

• Completed application form
• Official high school transcripts or equivalent
• Official transcripts from any colleges or universities previously attended
• Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
• English proficiency test scores (for international students)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay
• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV) for certain programs
• Application fee
• Proof of immunization records
• Financial documentation (for international students)
• Copy of passport (for international students)

Exam Requirements 

To gain admission to the University of South Dakota (USD), certain exams, including English proficiency tests, may be required. The specific exams and their required scores may vary based on the program and level of study. Here are some of the exams commonly required:

1. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing): These standardized tests assess a student's readiness for undergraduate study. USD accepts both SAT and ACT scores, with no specific minimum score mentioned.
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): This test measures the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. For undergraduate admissions, USD generally requires a minimum score of 71 on the internet-based test (iBT) or 527 on the paper-based test (PBT).
3. IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Another English proficiency exam accepted by USD, with a minimum score of 6.0 required for undergraduate admissions.

Cost Of Attendance 

Table 1: Course Fees for Undergraduate (UG) Courses at the University of South Dakota

Program	Tuition (per credit hour)	Annual Tuition (based on full-time enrollment)
Business Administration	$400-$450	$12,000-$13,500
Computer Science	$450-$500	$13,500-$15,000
Nursing	$400-$450	$12,000-$13,500
Engineering	$450-$500	$13,500-$15,000
Psychology	$400-$450	$12,000-$13,500

Table 2: Course Fees for Postgraduate (PG) Courses at the University of South Dakota

Program	Tuition (per credit hour)	Annual Tuition (based on full-time enrollment)
MBA	$550-$600	$22,000-$24,000
Computer Science	$500-$550	$20,000-$22,000
Nursing	$500-$550	$20,000-$22,000
Engineering	$550-$600	$22,000-$24,000
Psychology	$500-$550	$20,000-$22,000

Table 3: Cost of Living Components at the University of South Dakota

Component	Estimated Cost per Year
Accommodation	$8,000-$10,000
Meals	$2,500-$3,500
Transportation	$500-$1,000
Books and Supplies	$1,000-$1,500
Personal Expenses	$1,500-$2,500
Total	$13,500-$18,500

Available Scholarship 

The University of South Dakota (USD) offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. Here are a few scholarships available at USD:

Coyote Commitment Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming first-year undergraduate students based on their high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores. The amount ranges from $1,000 to full tuition.

Presidential-Alumni Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and community involvement. The award amount varies and covers a portion of the tuition costs.

Graduate Assistantships: USD offers various graduate assistantship positions that provide financial support to graduate students while they assist faculty or departments with teaching, research, or administrative tasks. These positions often include a tuition waiver and a stipend.

Transfer Student Scholarships: Transfer students can be eligible for scholarships such as the Transfer Achievement Scholarship or the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, which recognize their academic achievements and help with the cost of education.

USD Foundation Scholarships: The USD Foundation offers a wide range of scholarships funded by generous donors. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria based on factors like academic merit, financial need, or field of study.

Placements 

The University of South Dakota provides students with a range of career opportunities across various fields. Here are some potential career paths and expected salaries for specific courses:

Business Administration: Graduates can pursue careers as marketing managers, financial analysts, or human resource managers, with median salaries ranging from $65,000 to $100,000 per year.

Computer Science: Graduates can work as software developers, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists, with median salaries ranging from $80,000 to $110,000 per year.

Nursing: Graduates can become registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or nurse administrators, with median salaries ranging from $65,000 to $110,000 per year.

Engineering: Graduates can find employment as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, or civil engineers, with median salaries ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 per year.

Psychology: Graduates can pursue careers as counselors, social workers, or research analysts, with median salaries ranging from $45,000 to $70,000 per year.

Table: Course-wise Expected Salaries

Course	Expected Salary Range (per year)
Business Administration	$65,000 - $100,000
Computer Science	$80,000 - $110,000
Nursing	$65,000 - $110,000
Engineering	$70,000 - $100,000
Psychology	$45,000 - $70,000