South Dakota State University

Life at SDSU revolves around school spirit and outdoor activities, with the Jackrabbits' Division I athletics (especially football and basketball) drawing strong crowds. The University Student Union serves as the social hub, hosting events, club meetings, and performances. Over 200 student organizations exist, ranging from the Dakota Players theater group to agricultural clubs. Brookings' small-town setting (population 24,000) means campus is the center of action, with students describing a close-knit, supportive community. Recent dorm construction has modernized housing options, though many upperclassmen move to off-campus apartments.

SDSU's 6-year graduation rate hovers around 60%, with about 42% of students finishing in 4 years—on par with regional peers but below national averages. Earnings vary significantly by major: Psychology graduates average $28,661 early career, while Biology majors earn $27,268. The university has made improving graduation rates a recent priority, seeing a steady increase from 50.5% in 2016 to 59.4% in 2022. Retention after the first year is 75%, suggesting students who persist beyond the initial adjustment tend to complete degrees.

SDSU is one of the more affordable regional flagships, with an average net price of $17,859 after aid. Nonresident tuition runs $4,095 per semester (15 credits), while South Dakota residents pay significantly less. The university offers a net price calculator to estimate individualized costs, with financial aid packages typically including a mix of scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. Over 85% of students receive some form of financial aid, making the actual cost far below the sticker price for most attendees.

SDSU carves out a distinctive niche by combining accessibility with strong professional programs, particularly in agriculture, health sciences, and engineering. Its 98% acceptance rate makes it an outlier among land-grant universities, yet it maintains respectable outcomes for the region. The campus culture thrives on Midwestern camaraderie—think tailgates, study groups in the union, and winter sledding on dining trays. For students seeking a no-frills, career-focused education in a supportive small-town environment, SDSU delivers at a price point that avoids crippling debt.