University of South Dakota logo

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Veritas (Latin)("Truth")

1862
Founded
Public research university
Type
5,239
Total Students
7,435
Undergrad
2,536
Graduate
$326M
Endowment
(2024)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$13K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
99%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
6-year
80%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Sheila Gestring

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

About University of South Dakota

South Dakota's flagship, home to the state's only medical and law schools, built on Veritas.

Step into a legacy of innovation and truth at the University of South Dakota (USD), the distinguished flagship and oldest public university in South Dakota. Established in 1862, even before the state itself, USD has been a beacon of academic excellence, proudly bearing its Latin motto, "Veritas" (Truth), at the heart of its mission. Nestled in Vermillion, this public research institution offers a vibrant environment where intellectual curiosity thrives.

USD is uniquely recognized for housing South Dakota's only medical school and law school, providing unparalleled opportunities for aspiring professionals in these critical fields. Beyond professional training, the university is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," underscoring its commitment to groundbreaking research and scholarly pursuit. This dedication to advanced learning is complemented by a rich array of academic programs, from the foundational College of Arts and Sciences to the esteemed College of Fine Arts and a continuously AACSB-accredited School of Business.

Students at USD become part of a storied tradition, benefiting from a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire. The campus is not just a place of learning but a hub of culture, home to the National Music Museum, housing an incredible collection of over 15,000 instruments. As a Coyote, you'll join a community that celebrates achievement, from its Nobel Laureate and numerous Rhodes and Truman Scholars to its NCAA Division I athletic teams. USD offers a comprehensive and engaging university experience for those ready to make their mark.

Key Highlights

  • South Dakota's flagship and oldest public university, founded in 1862.
  • Home to South Dakota's only medical school and law school.
  • Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity."
  • Notable alumni include 1 Nobel Laureate, 12 Rhodes Scholars, and 17 Truman Scholars.
  • Houses the National Music Museum with over 15,000 American, European, and non-Western instruments.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.3 billion and a student body of 9,971.
  • The School of Business has been continuously accredited by AACSB since 1949.

Timeline

1862
Established by the Dakota Territory legislature at Vermillion.
1882
Classes began under the privately incorporated University of Dakota.
1883
College of Arts and Sciences established; university moved into Old Main.
1889
South Dakota becomes the 40th state; enrollment reached 500.
1891
Renamed the University of South Dakota.
1901
School of Law began offering classes.
1907
School of Medicine began offering classes.
1913
Accredited by the North Central Association of College and Schools.
1927
The Graduate School and School of Business began classes.
1931
College of Fine Arts established.
🏛️
164 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within University of South Dakota

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

Established in 1883, it was USD's first academic unit.

⚖️

School of Law

South Dakota's only law school, offering classes since 1901.

🏥

School of Medicine

South Dakota's only medical school, offering classes since 1907.

💼

School of Business

Began classes in 1927 and continuously accredited by AACSB since 1949.

🎓

Graduate School

Established in 1927, offering advanced degree programs.

🎭

College of Fine Arts

Established in 1931, it is the state's lone College of Fine Arts.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at University of South Dakota

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search