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Augustana University

Sioux Falls, SD

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Verbum Dei manet in aeternum(The Word of God endures forever)

Wikipedia
1860
Founded
Private university
Type
1,818
Total Students
2,003
Undergrad
387
Graduate
$39K
Tuition (In-State)
$39K
Tuition (Out-State)
$25K
Avg Net Price
59%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Graduation Rate
6-year
84%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Augustana University

Augustana University: South Dakota's largest private university, offering 100+ programs.

Augustana University stands as South Dakota's largest private university, offering an engaging academic environment rooted in a rich historical and spiritual tradition. With a vibrant campus in Sioux Falls, Augustana is a beacon of Lutheran higher education, distinguished by its comprehensive array of over 100 majors, minors, and pre-professional and graduate programs designed to prepare students for impactful careers and lives of purpose.

Founded in 1860, Augustana’s heritage is deeply intertwined with the journey of Scandinavian immigrants and the principles of the Lutheran Church. The university draws its name, 'Augustana,' from the Confessio Augustana, or Augsburg Confession, a pivotal document in Lutheranism. This enduring legacy is encapsulated in its motto, 'Verbum Dei manet in aeternum' (The Word of God endures forever), reflecting a commitment to timeless values and intellectual inquiry through its many transformations from a seminary to a college, and finally, to a university in 2015.

For prospective students and families, Augustana offers a dynamic learning experience within a supportive community of 2,390 students. Under the leadership of President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, the university fosters academic excellence, critical thinking, and a commitment to service. Its broad academic offerings ensure that every student can find their path, supported by dedicated faculty and a campus culture that encourages growth, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Key Highlights

  • South Dakota's largest private university, providing a distinct educational experience.
  • Offers an extensive catalog of over 100 majors, minors, and pre-professional and graduate programs.
  • Founded in 1860, proudly identifying with the historical roots of Lutheranism through its name, 'Augustana'.
  • A robust endowment of over $200 million (2022) supports its mission and resources.
  • A vibrant student body of 2,390 fosters a close-knit and supportive academic community.
  • Guided by the enduring motto: "Verbum Dei manet in aeternum" (The Word of God endures forever).
  • Led by President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, steering the university towards continued excellence.

Timeline

1835
Scandinavian immigrants establish Hillsboro Academy, the institution's earliest root.
1860
Augustana College and Seminary established in Chicago, marking the university's founding year.
1863
The school relocates to Paxton, Illinois, continuing its westward journey.
1889
The Lutheran Normal School opens in Sioux Falls to educate teachers.
1918
Lutheran Normal School and Augustana College (Canton) merge, forming Augustana College and Normal School in Sioux Falls.
1926
The institution officially becomes Augustana College, streamlining its name.
2010
Celebrates its sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) during the 2010-11 academic year.
2015
Transitions from Augustana College to Augustana University, reflecting its expanded offerings.
🏛️
166 Years
of Excellence

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