University of South Dakota
USD
Vermillion, South Dakota 57069-2390
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences
University of South Dakota is a public institution in Vermillion with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1122, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 5.2K undergraduates with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
61% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $51,926 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $19,155.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History The University of South Dakota was founded in 1862 by the Dakota Territorial Legislature which authorized the establishment of the University at Vermillion.
- •Ephraim Epstein served as the first president and primary faculty member in the institution that opened in loaned space in downtown Vermillion.
- •Enrollment increased to 69 students by the end of 1883, and, by the time South Dakota became the 40th state in 1889, the university boasted an enrollment of 500 students.
- •The school's name was updated in 1891 to reflect the division of the Dakota Territory, becoming the University of South Dakota.
Source: Wikipedia
Schools Like This
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD · Town · Public
Dakota State University
Madison, SD · Town · Public
Black Hills State University
Spearfish, SD · Town · Public
Northeast Ohio Medical University
Rootstown, OH · Suburban · Public
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1122
ACT Score Range
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
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
58.0%
Median Debt at Grad
$17,500
Programs (141)
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
80%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
33
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
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