Mount Marty University logo

Mount Marty University

Yankton, SD Private ยท Suburban www.mountmarty.edu
Accept Rate
48.14%
Grad Rate
58.7%
Enrollment
702
Avg SAT
1120
Tuition
$33,100
Median Salary
$48,179
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
B-
Admissions
B
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Mount Marty feels like a close-knit, supportive community where everyone knows your name and your success is a shared mission. The campus has a warm, faith-based atmosphere that emphasizes personal growth and character development. You'll quickly feel a strong sense of belonging and encouragement from peers and professors alike.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

48.14%
Selective

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1120

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2275th Pctl
1924
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your involvement in community service, leadership roles, or faith-based activities in your application, as Mount Marty values character and commitment. With an acceptance rate of 48%, aim for an SAT score around 1120 or higher to be competitive, and submit a thoughtful personal essay that aligns with the university's mission. Reach out to an admissions counselor early to discuss your interests and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the campus.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1120
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academics at Mount Marty are centered on personalized learning with small class sizes that ensure direct access to faculty. The university excels in practical, career-focused programs like Health Professions, Business, and Education, with strong internship connections in the region. Research opportunities are available through faculty-led projects, especially in the sciences and social sciences.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
31.8%
Health Professions
24.7%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
9.1%
Education
6.5%
Social Sciences
5.8%
Criminal Justice
5.8%
Biology & Biomedical
4.5%
Psychology
4.5%
Agriculture
3.9%
Multidisciplinary Studies
1.9%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

58.7%
Graduation Rate
69.6%
Retention Rate
702
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$33,100
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$23,295
After financial aid
Total Cost
$45,209
Cost of attendance/year
19.4%
Receive Pell Grants
40.1%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Yankton

Yankton offers a laid-back, outdoor-focused lifestyle with easy access to the Missouri River for activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. Students often enjoy local parks, community events, and a growing downtown with cafes and shops. For entertainment, many head to nearby lakes or participate in campus-organized trips and athletics.

Local Rent Check

$734 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Yankton
Explore Yankton

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$132,400
$0Est. 4 Years: $132,400

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($48,179):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus and surrounding Yankton area are known for being very safe, with low crime rates and a peaceful suburban environment. Students generally feel secure walking around campus, which is well-lit and monitored.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Personalized attention with small class sizes and accessible faculty
  • โœ“ Strong focus on practical majors like Health Professions and Business with good internship opportunities
  • โœ“ Safe, peaceful suburban setting in Yankton with outdoor recreation access
  • โœ“ Faith-based community that fosters character development and support

Cons

  • โœ— Limited diversity and urban amenities due to small enrollment and rural location
  • โœ— Graduation rate of 58.7% may indicate challenges for some students in completing degrees
  • โœ— Fewer research opportunities compared to larger universities

Notable Alumni

Sister Mary McMurtrie
Longtime educator and leader in Catholic education, known for expanding access to higher education in South Dakota.
Dr. Robert B. Krysiak
Prominent physician and healthcare advocate, contributing to rural health initiatives in the Midwest.
Michael J. O'Keefe
Business leader and entrepreneur, recognized for his work in regional economic development and community service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mount Marty University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Education, set within a Catholic, Benedictine tradition that emphasizes service and personal growth. It's recognized for small class sizes, a supportive community, and a focus on preparing students for careers in healthcare, business, and social services in the Midwest region.

No, it's not highly selective with an acceptance rate of 48.14%, making it accessible for many applicants. The average SAT score is 1120, and admissions consider factors like GPA, extracurriculars, and alignment with the school's values. With a smaller enrollment of 702, personalized attention in the process is a key advantage.

Campus life is intimate and community-oriented, with a retention rate of 69.6% reflecting a positive experience for many students. Activities include athletics, campus ministry events, and outdoor adventures in Yankton's natural setting. With a suburban location, students enjoy a balance of quiet study and social events, though options are more limited than at larger schools.

Yes, for students seeking an affordable private education with strong career preparation, especially in high-demand fields like Health Professions. The net price of $23,295 and median 10-year earnings of $48,179 suggest solid ROI, particularly if you graduate and enter growing industries. It's most valuable for those who value the supportive, faith-based environment and personalized education over a big-name degree.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Sanford Health Avera Health Regional healthcare systems Local school districts South Dakota state and local government agencies
Smart Start Score
55

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Suburban
  • Undergrad 1,425
  • In-State Tuition $33,100
  • Zip Code 57078

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 54.3% โ™€ 45.7%

The Money Talk

At $33,100 for both in-state and out-of-state tuition, the net price of $23,295 after aid makes it a more affordable private option. With median 10-year earnings of $48,179, the ROI is moderate, especially for high-demand fields like Health Professions and Business. It's worth it if you leverage scholarships and the school's strong career support to minimize debt.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $33,100
Housing (12 mo) $8,808
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $49,108
With avg financial aid:
$23,295/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.