University of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, SD

private nonprofitgraduate

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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

University of Sioux Falls: Cultivating service-minded leaders since 1883.

The University of Sioux Falls (USF) stands as a testament to enduring Christian education, guided by its inspiring motto, 'Culture for Service.' Since its founding, USF has been dedicated to nurturing students within a supportive, faith-informed environment, preparing them not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.

Born from the vision of Baptist pastors in the Dakota Territory in 1872, the institution officially opened its doors as the Dakota Collegiate Institute in 1883. It quickly evolved, becoming Sioux Falls University and later, Sioux Falls College. This journey saw it embrace a role as a consolidator of Christian education, acquiring several other Baptist schools during the challenging years between 1929 and 1931, further cementing its commitment to its foundational principles.

Through significant historical periods, including the Second World War when it adapted to serve a unique student body and later faced financial hardships, USF demonstrated remarkable resilience. Today, with a close-knit student body of 1,453, it continues its mission as a private university, fostering academic growth alongside spiritual development. Prospective students and families will find a community committed to a distinctively Christian approach to learning, emphasizing service, character, and holistic growth.

Key Highlights

✦A private university founded in 1883 with a rich history of Christian education.
✦Guided by the impactful motto: "Culture for Service."
✦Serves a vibrant community of 1,453 students.
✦Established from a resolution by Baptist churches in the Dakota Territory in 1872.
✦Expanded its educational reach by acquiring four other Baptist schools between 1929 and 1931.
✦Showcased resilience by adapting its programs and overcoming financial challenges during the mid-20th century.

Timeline

1872

Baptist Association in Dakota Territory adopted a resolution to establish a Christian institution.

1883

Dakota Collegiate Institute began secondary and collegiate programs.

1885

Institution's name changed to Sioux Falls University.

1925

The secondary program (academy) closed down.

1929

Began acquiring other Baptist schools, a process completed by 1931.

1931

Official name became Sioux Falls College following the merger with Grand Island College.

WWII Era

Lost accreditation, offered 2-year degrees, and faced significant financial difficulties.

🏛️

143 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Brett Bradfield

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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