Northern State University
Acceptance rate
93.0%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$11,947
In-state $8,845
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
3,169
Student-faculty ratio 19:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
39.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.7%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northern State University (NSU), located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1901, the university has evolved into a comprehensive public institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a student-centered approach, NSU emphasizes personalized education through small class sizes and dedicated faculty, allowing students to thrive academically and develop meaningful relationships with their professors. The university offers over 40 undergraduate programs and several graduate degrees, particularly excelling in areas such as education, business, and the arts.
The campus culture at Northern State University is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students. The university's commitment to student life is evident in its array of extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. NSU's athletic teams, known as the Wolves, compete in the NCAA Division II and promote a spirit of teamwork and school pride. Additionally, the university's beautiful campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, enhancing the overall student experience. Notably, NSU has a dedicated focus on preparing graduates for successful careers, with a robust career services department that helps students secure internships and job placements upon graduation. This holistic approach to education equips students with the skills and experiences needed to excel in the workforce, contributing to the university's strong reputation and the success of its alumni.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Northern State University
Northern State University has exhibited notable trends in several key metrics over the years. One significant area of concern is tuition, particularly for out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for out-of-state undergraduates increased from approximately $9,562 to $11,947, representing a growth of over 25%. This rise in tuition could potentially deter prospective students from outside the state, especially in an era where many students are sensitive to the financial implications of their education.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The percentage of students graduating on time has shown a positive trend, climbing from around 18.6% in 2013 to approximately 29.0% in 2023. This improvement reflects a commitment to enhancing student support and academic resources, which is essential for attracting and retaining students. However, the figure is still relatively low compared to national averages, indicating that further efforts are needed to bolster student success.
Retention rates also paint a mixed picture. Retention for undergraduates peaked at about 77% in 2018 but has fluctuated in subsequent years, dipping to around 68% in 2022 before rebounding to 73.6% in 2023. This volatility suggests that while some initiatives may have been successful, there are underlying challenges that the university must address to ensure students remain enrolled and engaged throughout their academic journey.
Furthermore, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown a slight shift towards a more balanced representation, with female students consistently outnumbering male students. This trend may reflect broader societal changes in educational enrollment patterns and could influence campus culture and dynamics.
Overall, while Northern State University has made strides in certain areas like graduation rates, challenges remain, particularly in managing tuition costs and ensuring consistent student retention. The university's ability to address these issues will be crucial in shaping its future and attracting a diverse student body.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 260 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 260 mi
- Also known as
- NSU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Laurie S. Nichols (Interim President)
- Phone
- 6056263011
- City
- Aberdeen, South Dakota
- Address
- 1200 S Jay St, Aberdeen, SD 57401-7198
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 82.5%, women 86.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Northern State University
The admission data from Northern State University over the years presents an interesting narrative regarding its selectivity and enrollment dynamics. The male admission rate started strong in 2009 at around 91%, showing a gradual decline to approximately 74% by 2023. Similarly, the female admission rate, while initially higher, also experienced a decline from about 93% in 2009 to around 82% in 2023. This notable drop in acceptance rates suggests a possible increase in applicant numbers or a strategic shift towards a more selective admissions process.
The enrollment figures reflect this trend, with a peak of 415 students in 2011, but fluctuating numbers in subsequent years, landing at 299 in 2023. The increase in denial rates, particularly sharp in 2015 and 2016, indicates a tightening of admissions criteria, likely in response to growing competition among universities. Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has remained significant, peaking in 2020.
This data mirrors broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on attracting and retaining a diverse student body amidst a competitive landscape. Factors such as changing demographics, evolving educational standards, and economic factors can all contribute to these shifts in admission patterns. Overall, Northern State University’s admission statistics reveal a complex interplay of accessibility and selectivity, reflecting both internal strategies and external pressures in the current higher education environment.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 74% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Northern State University
The admissions data from Northern State University over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submission rates and score ranges. Particularly striking is the fluctuation in the percentage of students submitting SAT and ACT scores. For instance, in 2007, a staggering 94% of admitted students submitted ACT scores, a trend that has notably decreased in subsequent years, reflecting a broader national trend of test-optional policies gaining traction in higher education.
The average SAT reading and math scores show variability, with the starting scores indicating a slight increase over the years. For example, the 25th percentile score for reading has risen from 390 in 2010 to 530 in 2022, showcasing a gradual enhancement in the academic preparedness of incoming students. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores in these areas have similarly shown improvement, suggesting an overall increase in the academic caliber of the admitted student body.
Moreover, the decrease in the number of students submitting standardized test scores raises questions about the emphasis placed on these tests in the admissions process. This shift aligns with recent movements within universities across the nation to adopt more holistic admissions practices, prioritizing diverse applicant backgrounds and experiences over numerical scores alone.
In conclusion, Northern State University’s admissions data illustrates a significant evolution in student admissions strategies, reflecting wider societal changes in education assessment. As institutions continue to adapt, it will be interesting to observe how these trends influence student success and diversity in the years to come.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,086 applicants in 2025, 93.0% admitted
1,010 admitted 76 not admitted Yield 35.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's40 (0% international)
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General · Master's22 (5% international)
- Educational Administration and Supervision, Other · Master's15 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's12 (0% international)
- Music Teacher Education · Master's11 (9% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's10 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Northern State University
The graduation data from Northern State University in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines. A significant portion of graduates comes from education-related programs, with notable concentrations in Elementary Education and Curriculum and Instruction. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for qualified educators in a rapidly evolving educational landscape, especially in the context of post-pandemic recovery where educational systems globally are adapting to new teaching methodologies.
In the business sector, programs such as Business Administration and Management, as well as Accounting, show a healthy number of graduates, which reflects the ongoing growth in this field. The need for skilled professionals in finance and marketing continues to rise, especially with the global shift towards digital commerce and innovative business practices.
Interestingly, the data also highlights the minimal participation of international students in associate degree programs, with a marked absence in several fields. This could point towards systemic barriers or a lack of awareness among international students regarding the benefits of pursuing associate degrees, particularly in fields that may serve as stepping stones to further education.
Furthermore, the data indicates a robust representation of graduates in the arts and humanities, such as Music Teacher Education and Fine Arts. This emphasizes the importance of creative disciplines in fostering a well-rounded educational experience and responding to societal needs for cultural and artistic expression.
Overall, the graduation trends at Northern State University reflect broader educational, economic, and cultural shifts, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and diversity in higher education offerings to meet the needs of both domestic and international students.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,455 | |||
| Accounting. | $53,026 | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Banking and Financial Support Services. | - | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | - | |||
| Biotechnology. | - | |||
| Ecology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $37,257-$42,261 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Financial Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Rhetoric and Composition. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | $61,168 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | - |
Students
3,708 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 77.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 826
- First-year undergraduates 339
- Graduate students 539
- Transfers and others 2,004
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,169)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Northern State University in 2023
The demographic data for Northern State University in 2023 reveals a diverse student body, with notable distinctions between undergraduate and graduate populations. Among the undergraduate freshmen, 43.1% are male while 56.9% are female, reflecting a slightly higher representation of female students. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, where males constitute 41.6% and females represent 58.4%. The undergraduate transfer students show a similar pattern, with 38.8% being male and 61.2% female.
In stark contrast, the graduate student population presents a different picture: only 23.3% are male, while a striking 76.7% are female. This significant gender disparity in the graduate level may indicate a growing trend where more women pursue advanced degrees, possibly influenced by various societal changes and increased support for female education.
Regarding racial and ethnic composition, the majority of the students in the undergraduate categories are white, suggesting that there is still work to be done in fostering a more inclusive environment. The presence of international students is also noteworthy, although the detailed statistics on their representation were not provided in this dataset.
Overall, the data suggests a trend towards greater female enrollment at both undergraduate and graduate levels, while also highlighting the need for increased diversity within the student body. As universities strive to create inclusive educational environments, understanding these demographic shifts is crucial for tailoring support services and resources to meet the evolving needs of all students.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Northern State University
The age distribution of students at Northern State University reveals significant insights into the demographic composition of the student body. The majority of students are concentrated in the younger age brackets, with a substantial representation under the age of 24. Notably, students under 18 years old make up approximately 34.9% of the total student population, while those aged 18-19 constitute about 32.3%. This trend suggests that a large portion of the university's enrollment consists of traditional college-age students.
Interestingly, as the age increases, the number of students begins to decline sharply. For instance, the 22-24 age group accounts for about 13.4% of the total enrollment, while the 25-29 age group represents only 8.1%. The decline continues with minimal representation in the older age categories, highlighting a potential gap in lifelong learning opportunities or a lack of appeal for non-traditional students.
Moreover, the distribution between male and female students shows a predominance of females in almost all age categories, particularly in the under 18 and 22-24 age groups. The female population in the 40-49 age bracket stands out, with approximately 73.5% of that age group being female.
This demographic information aligns with national trends indicating that more women are pursuing higher education than men. The university may consider strategies to attract and retain older students, especially as adult education continues to gain traction in today’s economy. Overall, the data reflects the youthful character of the university while also raising questions about inclusivity for non-traditional students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
99 in 2025 · 6.3% in 2016
7 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Northern State University
The data on international student enrollment at Northern State University reveals an interesting trend over the years. Starting from a modest percentage of 1.37% in 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students has shown a general upward trajectory, peaking at 9.37% in 2009. This increase signifies a growing appeal of the university to international students during that period, likely influenced by the global push for higher education and the increasing recognition of American institutions.
However, the following years exhibited a decline in both the number and percentage of international undergraduates, dropping to 2.53% by 2023. Such fluctuations may correlate with broader trends in international education, including geopolitical factors, visa regulations, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected international travel and education.
In contrast, the statistics for graduate students remained relatively stable, with a much lower percentage of international students throughout the years. The peak percentage of 3.06% in 2008 did not have a significant follow-up, indicating that the graduate program may not have experienced the same surge in international interest as the undergraduate program did earlier.
Overall, while Northern State University has seen varied trends in international student enrollment, the recent years suggest a need for targeted strategies to attract and retain international students, especially in a competitive global educational landscape. This is particularly important as universities worldwide are increasingly recognizing the benefits that a diverse student body brings, not only enriching the academic environment but also preparing all students for a globalized workforce.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$22,547
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,947
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,845
- Room and board
- $10,600
- Graduate tuition
- $11,936
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 14% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 50%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$54.8M
Expenses$54.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 112 | 81 |
| Football | 125 | - |
| Baseball | 58 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 14 |
| Soccer | - | 31 |
| Wrestling | 29 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 112 | 87 |
| Football | 129 | - |
| Baseball | 56 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Wrestling | 30 | - |
| Soccer | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Swimming | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 89 | 69 |
| Football | 120 | - |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Soccer | - | 33 |
| Wrestling | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Swimming | - | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 114.4 mi
U.S. News #250
-
North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo · 128.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of North DakotaGrand Forks · 183.4 mi
U.S. News #227
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 198.3 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
University of South DakotaVermillion · 199.7 mi
U.S. News #262
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 201.8 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 234.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 257.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 260.2 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Northern State University:
-
South Dakota State University - Ranked 296 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
North Dakota State University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 249, this university is known for its research opportunities and diverse academic offerings.
-
University of North Dakota - Ranked 236, the University of North Dakota is recognized for its strong programs in aviation, health sciences, and engineering.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - A prestigious institution ranked 53, it offers a wide range of programs and is known for its research output and campus life.
-
Carleton College - This liberal arts college is highly ranked at 9, offering a rigorous academic curriculum in a close-knit community setting.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities in different fields, making the region rich in academic resources for students.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Criminal Incidents at Northern State University
The data from Northern State University reflects a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2016 with a rate of 11.37, before declining to a relative low of 4.42 in 2015. This showcases significant variability in crime rates, which can be attributed to various factors such as changes in campus security policies, the impact of community outreach programs, or even fluctuations in student population demographics.
In recent years, particularly from 2020 onwards, the average crime rate has stabilized around the 5 to 7 range, indicating a trend towards a safer campus environment. The incidents of drug-related arrests, alcohol-related incidents, and domestic violence have been crucial in shaping the overall crime statistics. For instance, the number of alcohol-related arrests has been a point of concern, as they often correlate with student behavior and campus culture.
It's also essential to consider external factors such as the broader societal issues of crime that may affect university campuses, including the ongoing national conversations surrounding gun violence and substance abuse. By focusing on preventative measures and fostering a supportive environment, Northern State University can continue to work towards reducing these statistics further.
The methodology used to calculate crime rates involves dividing the number of incidents by the student population, which is a standard practice for evaluating campus safety. This data can serve as a reference point for prospective students and parents evaluating the safety of the university. For more details on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Northern State University include Kristi Noem (American politician and diplomat), Floyd Red Crow Westerman (Sisseton Dakota musician, activist and actor) and Ralph Herseth (21st Governor of South Dakota).
-
Kristi Noem 1971–
American politician and diplomat
-
Floyd Red Crow Westerman 1936–2007
Sisseton Dakota musician, activist and actor
-
Ralph Herseth 1909–1969
21st Governor of South Dakota
-
Arthur Amiotte 1942–
Oglala Lakota painter, educator and author
-
Dakotah Popehn 1995–
Long-distance runner at the 2024 Summer Olympics
-
Joe Robbie 1916–1990
Principal founder of the Miami Dolphins
-
Travis Lutter 1973–
Retired MMA fighter, The Ultimate Fighter 4 winner
-
Brock Greenfield 1975–
South Dakota School and Public Lands Commissioner
-
Vern Larson 1948–
Republican politician from South Dakota
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Cecil E. Harris 1916–1981
World War II US Navy flying ace
-
Warren D. Chamberlain 1927–2013
American lawyer and politician
-
Burt Elliott 1947–2024
South Dakota state representative
-
Timothy Johns 1948–
South Dakota state senator and lawyer
Business
-
Ryan Rivett
President and CEO of My Place Hotels of America
Arts and media
-
Benjamin Victor 1979–
Sculptor based in Boise, Idaho
Sports
-
Ronnie Cruz 1981–
Former NFL fullback
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.