Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, South Dakota 57301-4398
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — close-knit campus
Dakota Wesleyan University is a private institution in Mitchell with particular strength in business and health sciences.
A small campus of 661 undergraduates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
46% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $53,728 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $19,300.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Tigers
History & Fun Facts
- •History In 1883, a small band of Methodist settlers meeting in the Dakota Territory secured a charter to found the college as Dakota University.
- •On October 14, 1904, the institution assumed its present name of Dakota Wesleyan University.
- •By 1920, Dakota Wesleyan University was the largest independent college in the state, with an enrollment of more than 300.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
22.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.8%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (58)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
69%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
4
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from SD state average