Dakota State University

School Overview

Situated in Madison, SD, Dakota State University is a well-regarded institution of higher education. It holds the #61 position in Regional Universities Midwest (tie) according to the 2026 U.S. News rankings. It is also recognized as #20 in Top Public Schools. The school features a rural setting and serves 3,066 undergraduate students. Admissions are welcoming to a broad range of applicants, with an acceptance rate of 88%. Admitted students typically present SAT scores of 1190-1440 and ACT scores of 20-27. The average high school GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.5. With a 19:1 student-faculty ratio, students benefit from close interaction with professors and hands-on learning opportunities. About 54% of classes enroll fewer than 20 students, fostering an intimate learning environment. Students frequently pursue degrees in Computer Science (61%), Education (15%), and Business and Management (5%). Graduates in Computer Science earn a median salary of $67,572 after entering the workforce. The average net price for students receiving financial aid is $18,356. Dakota State University achieves a four-year graduation rate of 37%. The institution provides a supportive and enriching learning environment where students can develop both academically and personally while building valuable skills.