University of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, SD

private nonprofitgraduate

Find Scholarships Here

Quick Facts

“Culture for Service”

1883

Founded

Private university

Type

1,258

Total Students

$30M

Endowment

(2019)

$21K

Tuition (In-State)

$21K

Tuition (Out-State)

$21K

Avg Net Price

82%

Acceptance Rate

61%

Graduation Rate

6-year

75%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

President: Brett Bradfield

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

About University of Sioux Falls

Cultivating leaders through a rich Christian heritage and 'Culture for Service' since 1883.

The University of Sioux Falls (USF) stands as a testament to enduring educational values, guided by its impactful motto, "Culture for Service." As a private university, USF has fostered a vibrant learning environment rooted in a distinctly Christian influence, dedicated to shaping students who are not only academically proficient but also committed to contributing positively to their communities.

USF's storied past began in 1883 with the opening of the Dakota Collegiate Institute, fulfilling a vision established by Baptist churches in 1872 for an institution providing education under Christian guidance. Evolving through various names, from Sioux Falls University to ultimately Sioux Falls College after a pivotal merger in 1931, the university absorbed four other Baptist schools, cementing its role as a key institution in Christian higher education. This history of growth and consolidation highlights USF’s deep-rooted commitment to its mission.

Despite facing significant challenges, such as navigating the loss of accreditation and fluctuating enrollments during and after World War II, USF consistently demonstrated resilience and an unwavering dedication to its collegiate programs. Today, with a close-knit student body of 1,453, the University of Sioux Falls continues to build upon its rich legacy, offering an engaging academic experience within a supportive, values-driven community, preparing its graduates to live out their own "Culture for Service."

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1883, boasting over a century of educational heritage.
✦Guided by the inspiring motto, "Culture for Service."
✦A private university rooted in a distinctly Christian influence.
✦Home to 1,453 students, fostering a close-knit academic community.
✦Played a significant role in consolidating Baptist higher education through mergers in the early 20th century.
✦Resilient institution that successfully navigated challenges like post-WWII enrollment shifts.

Timeline

1872

Baptist Association adopted a resolution to establish a Christian educational institution.

1883

Dakota Collegiate Institute opened, offering secondary and collegiate programs.

1885

Institution's name changed to Sioux Falls University; collegiate department branded Sioux Falls College.

1925

The academy (secondary program) closed.

1929

Began acquiring other Baptist schools, including Des Moines University and Grand Island College.

1931

Institution officially became Sioux Falls College following the merger with Grand Island College.

WWII Period

Lost accreditation and offered two-year degrees, primarily to women.

Post-WWII Period

Experienced significant enrollment fluctuations as veterans returned and then numbers declined.

🏛️

143 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Brett Bradfield

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at University of Sioux Falls

Start Your Free Search