South Dakota State University
The Vibe Check
South Dakota State University feels like a welcoming, tight-knit community where it's easy to get involved and feel at home. The campus buzzes with school spirit, especially during Jackrabbit game days, blending a classic Midwestern college-town atmosphere with a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
SDSU is a powerhouse in applied sciences, particularly in Agriculture, Engineering, and Health Professions, offering students direct access to cutting-edge research facilities and real-world projects. The university emphasizes experiential learning through robust internship programs and undergraduate research opportunities guided by accessible, student-focused faculty.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Brookings
Life in Brookings revolves around the campus, with students enjoying Jackrabbits athletics, downtown cafes, and the local cinema. Outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of nearby parks and bike trails, while the university hosts numerous concerts, events, and student organization activities throughout the year.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($55,070):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Brookings campus is widely regarded as very safe, with a low crime rate and a proactive campus safety department that provides services like 24/7 patrols and emergency alerts. The surrounding community is a quiet, friendly college town where students feel comfortable walking around, even at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High return on investment with low tuition and strong post-grad earnings
- ✓ Exceptional programs in Agriculture, Engineering, and Health Professions with hands-on learning
- ✓ Safe, welcoming suburban campus with a strong sense of community and school spirit
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for a wide range of students
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 59.5% suggests student retention and completion can be a challenge
- ✗ Located in a small, remote town (Brookings) which may feel isolated compared to urban centers
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher than in-state, reducing value for non-residents
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
South Dakota State University is renowned for its top-tier programs in Agriculture, Engineering, and Health Professions. The university is a national leader in agricultural research and offers extensive hands-on learning opportunities through its well-equipped facilities and strong industry partnerships.
No, South Dakota State University has a very high acceptance rate of 98.71%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1121, suggesting that the admissions process is not highly selective, though meeting or exceeding this average is still recommended.
Campus life at SDSU is vibrant and centered around a strong community feel, with a high retention rate of 82.9% indicating that students are happy and engaged. Students enjoy a mix of NCAA Jackrabbits athletics, over 200 student organizations, and a safe, friendly college-town environment in Brookings.
Yes, for many students, SDSU represents a strong financial investment. With a low in-state tuition of $9,299 and an average net price of $18,219, the university delivers a solid return on investment, as evidenced by a 10-year median graduate earnings of $55,070.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 11,843
- In-State Tuition $9,299
- Out-of-State $12,809
- Zip Code 57007
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of $9,299 and an average net price of $18,219, SDSU offers an excellent value, especially for South Dakota residents. The 10-year median earnings of $55,070 indicate a strong return on investment, making it a financially sound choice for a quality degree.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.