History
When the first Legislature of the Dakota Territory met in 1862, it authorized the establishment of the University at Vermillion, making it the oldest postsecondary institution in the Dakotas. The authorization was unfunded, however, and classes did not begin until 20 years later under the auspices of the privately incorporated University of Dakota.
Education
There's nothing quite like attending class on the beautiful USD campus. But with your job, family and other responsibilities, it's not always possible to pursue your degree in Vermillion.
Through our online and off-campus programs, we've moved some of our most popular programs closer to you while helping you move closer to your educational goal: A degree from the University of South Dakota.
Research
The University of South Dakota is a vibrant setting of innovation artistry and discovery, with research and creative activity opportunity in all disciplines across campus. In addition to individual research, the university hosts multi-disciplinary competitive research centers that foster academic excellence and spur economic growth.
Career
We will coach you through your major curriculum and career plans to ensure you every opportunity to be successful upon graduation.
ACPC can help you with many things during your enrollment at USD, such as:
- Succeeding academically and socially in your first year
- Academic scheduling and major exploration, declaration or change
- Helping you promote your skills to secure internships and employment opportunities
- Connecting you with employers
University of South Dakota Key Statistics & Highlights
- #1001 Ranking
- 56 Masters
- 312 Scholarships
- 428 Academic Staff
- 7,669 Students
- 230 Students (int'l)
- 4,525 Students (female)
- Public Institution Type
University of South Dakota Overview
University of South Dakota Scholarships
University of South Dakota Scholarships
Below you will find scholarships related to University of South Dakota. Distinction can be made between scholarships provided by the University and those provided by independent providers.
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University of South Dakota Student Reviews & Awards
Based on 2 reviews
- 5 Star 1 Review
- 4 Star 1 Review
- 3 Star 0 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
Review by Sociology student
The Universe of South Dakota is on the smaller side. I attended both on campus and all online only. The campus has wonderful amenities, staff, and students. The arts and humanities need a bit more funding and often feel neglected, but the professors for the arts and humanities programs are incredible.
Continuing studies adult learner
The University was very communicative throughout the application process, offering informative and useful guidance. As a later in life adult learner, who was continue my education after a long sabatical, I appreciated the support and acceptance. I hope they imporve on doing the inhouse reviews of foreign qualifications especially those done sole in english from countries that have english as an official language. I did enjoy the experince and look forward to finishing my program and receiving certification as a mental health counselor.
University of South Dakota Rankings
Study Portals Meta Ranking
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
World University Rankings
By Times Higher Education
The university hasn’t moved up or down in the rankings over the past year.
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1001 | - | 1001 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Best Global Universities Rankings
By U.S. News & World Report
This university doesn’t have a ranking for 2026 yet. Rankings are updated yearly, so check back later for the latest info.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
3 year trend Best Global Universities Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1680 | - | - |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Student services
The college years can be filled with new and enriching experiences but can also present challenges which may interfere with your academic progress and emotional well-being. The Student Counseling Center's (SCC) goal is to help you make the most of your years here at USD. On our website you will find information about our services, staff, campus resources, crisis management and how to refer someone. There are also links to self-help tools and general health information.
Library services
The University Libraries strives to advance the teaching, learning, and research priorities of the University of South Dakota by providing services in discovering, accessing, and using authoritative resources and collections.
Medical services
It's never too late to begin the journey to better health, and the Wellness Center is here to help you achieve whatever goal you have set for yourself. We have daily classes, personal trainers and state-of-the-art facilities that will provide you with all the tools necessary to reach your potential.
Campus life
It's been called "elegant," "eye-catching" and "naturally beautiful" with a "striking combination of old and new structures." Most of all, it's called "home" by our students, faculty and staff. Come and experience the beauty of USD for yourself.
Sports facilities
- Basketball
- Football
- Golf
- Cross Country
- Swimming and Diving
- Track and Field
Student clubs
There are more than 120 organizations and clubs, including social, sports, religious, pre-professional and hobby groups.
Accreditation
Continuously accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1913.