South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
THE World 2027
#1201
Down 200 from 2026
Acceptance rate
79.9%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$14,900
In-state $10,500
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
2,216
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
27.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 55.9%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SD Mines), located in Rapid City, South Dakota, is renowned for its rigorous engineering and science programs. Established in 1885, the institution has built a strong reputation, particularly in the fields of mining engineering, geological engineering, and materials engineering. One of the school’s defining characteristics is its commitment to hands-on learning and research, providing students with opportunities to engage in practical, real-world projects that enhance their academic experience. This focus on experiential learning not only prepares students for successful careers but also fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.
SD Mines boasts a vibrant campus culture enriched by a diverse student body and numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, professional societies, and recreational sports teams. The school's motto, "Science and Technology for the Common Good," reflects its mission to advance knowledge and apply it for societal benefit. With state-of-the-art facilities, such as advanced laboratories and research centers, students are equipped with the tools necessary for groundbreaking research and development. The school's emphasis on community engagement and collaboration with local industries further enhances students' educational experiences and career readiness. As a result, graduates from SD Mines are highly sought after by employers, often securing positions in leading companies and organizations across various sectors.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology presents notable trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention over the years.
Firstly, tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a significant increase. For instance, in 2014, in-state tuition was $10,040, which rose to $12,110 by 2022. Out-of-state students faced a similar trend, with tuition increasing from $12,870 in 2014 to $16,530 in 2022. This escalation in tuition fees may have implications for student enrollment, particularly for out-of-state students, as rising costs can deter potential applicants who might consider more affordable options elsewhere.
Graduation rates have also varied throughout the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at 21.6% in 2017 but dropped significantly to just 5.7% in 2020 before recovering to 19.5% in 2023. Such fluctuations may reflect various factors, including changes in academic programs, student support services, and external economic conditions that affect students’ ability to complete their degrees on time.
Additionally, student retention rates have shown a positive trend, with a notable increase from around 70.4% in 2022 to 82.8% in 2023. This improvement indicates that the institution might be enhancing its support systems, contributing to a more stable student body and possibly leading to better graduation outcomes in the future.
In conclusion, while tuition increases pose a challenge for prospective students, the improving retention rates suggest a commitment to student success. Addressing graduation rates remains crucial for the institution as it seeks to balance affordability with academic achievement.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Denver, about 310 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Denver International Airport (DEN), about 300 mi
- Also known as
- South Dakota Mines
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Brian Tande (President)
- Phone
- 6053942511
- City
- Rapid City, South Dakota
- Address
- 501 E Saint Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701-3995
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 79.2%, women 70.5%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The admission statistics from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology over the years reveal interesting trends in both enrollment and acceptance rates for male and female applicants. Notably, the male acceptance rate hovered around 83% to nearly 94% from 2009 to 2011, showcasing a welcoming stance towards male applicants during those years. However, it appears that the acceptance rates fluctuated significantly in subsequent years, particularly as we turn to the latest data from 2023, where the male acceptance rate stands at approximately 83%.
In contrast, the female acceptance rate has generally been lower yet remained notably consistent, with rates ranging from about 70% to over 90% in certain years. This trend is indicative of the increasing competitiveness for female applicants, which is reflective of broader national trends in STEM fields where female enrollment continues to grow.
The enrollment figures have shown an overall increase from 317 in 2009 to 538 in 2023, indicating a rising interest in the institution. However, the number of denied applications has also escalated, peaking at 352 in 2020, possibly due to the heightened demand and limited spaces available, which aligns with national challenges faced by universities in managing increased applicant pools amid fluctuating admission rates.
Overall, these statistics underscore the dynamic nature of college admissions and the ongoing efforts by institutions like the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology to balance inclusivity while maintaining academic standards amidst growing competition.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Engineering School8 programs#153▲7
Science2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 25% submitted SAT, 79% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The admissions data for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology over the years reveals interesting trends regarding standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting scores. Notably, there has been a gradual increase in the SAT scores, indicating a rising academic profile among incoming students. For instance, the SAT reading and math scores have shown upward movement, with the 25th percentile starting at around 480 in 2008 and reaching 570 in 2023, while the 75th percentile improved from 600 to 680 during the same period.
The number of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a significant increase noted in recent years. For example, in 2019, 28% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, the highest percentage recorded in the dataset. This trend suggests a growing recognition of the importance of SAT scores in the admissions process, possibly influenced by broader national trends emphasizing standardized testing.
On the ACT side, the data indicates consistent participation rates, with the number of applicants submitting scores remaining relatively stable. In 2007, 93% of admitted students submitted ACT scores, which reflects the institution's strong emphasis on this particular test for evaluation.
Overall, the data demonstrates that South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is attracting a more academically prepared student body, as evidenced by the improving standardized test scores. This aligns with national trends in higher education where institutions are becoming increasingly competitive, driven by the demand for higher academic standards and improved outcomes for graduates.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,565 applicants in 2025, 79.9% admitted
1,250 admitted 315 not admitted Yield 38.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Civil Engineering, General · Master's22 (23% international)
- Mechanical Engineering · Master's13 (15% international)
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's12 (17% international)
- Construction Engineering · Master's12 (8% international)
- Mining and Mineral Engineering · Master's10 (50% international)
- Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering · Master's8 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The graduation data from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reveals significant insights into the trends of engineering and science-related fields. Notably, the data shows a strong emphasis on engineering disciplines, which align with current global demands for skilled professionals in technology and infrastructure. For instance, the Electrical and Electronics Engineering program produced 18 master's graduates, with a substantial representation of international students, reflecting the program's appeal and the university's commitment to diversity in education.
Moreover, the data indicates a growing interest in interdisciplinary studies, such as Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, which graduated 11 students at the bachelor's level. This trend is particularly relevant in today's job market, where employers increasingly value versatile skill sets that span multiple disciplines.
Interestingly, the Computer and Information Sciences program, which is pivotal in the era of digital transformation, graduated 27 bachelor's students, with a notable 14.8% being international students. This statistic highlights the university's role in attracting talent from around the world, a crucial factor in fostering innovation and technological advancement.
Furthermore, the presence of emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence and Nanotechnology, despite having fewer graduates, suggests a strategic focus on future-oriented education and research. These areas are expected to grow significantly, and the university's investment in them positions it well for future success.
In conclusion, the data paints a positive picture of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology's role in preparing graduates for the demands of modern industries, while also emphasizing the importance of attracting a diverse student body to enhance educational outcomes and innovation.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | - | ||||
| Chemical Engineering. | - | ||||
| Civil Engineering, General. | $69,136-$74,097 | ||||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - | ||||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $83,127 | ||||
| Materials Engineering. | - | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $76,293 | ||||
| Metallurgical Engineering. | - | ||||
| Mining and Mineral Engineering. | $83,954 | ||||
| Construction Engineering. | - | ||||
| Industrial Engineering. | $77,073-$78,011 | ||||
| Geological/Geophysical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $82,953 | ||||
| Artificial Intelligence. | $82,953 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General. | - | ||||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||||
| Paleontology. | - | ||||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - | ||||
| Science, Technology and Society. | - | ||||
| Data Science, General. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - | ||||
| Nanotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Science/Technology Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
2,576 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 77:23 · Freshman retention 84.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,539
- First-year undergraduates 451
- Graduate students 360
- Transfers and others 226
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,216)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 2023
The student population at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 2023 displays a diverse demographic composition, especially among undergraduates. The first-year undergraduate students represent a significant portion of the student body, with a total of 538 students. Notably, males constitute approximately 76.6% of this group, indicating a strong male presence in the incoming class. In contrast, only 23.4% are female, highlighting the ongoing gender disparity in STEM fields.
Continuing undergraduate students also show a similar trend, with 1,440 students, of whom 77.4% are male and 22.6% are female. The transfer student population, albeit smaller at 69 individuals, reveals an even higher male dominance at 82.6%. This consistent representation of males across all undergraduate categories raises questions about the factors contributing to the gender imbalance in technology and engineering programs.
Graduate students, numbering 329, also reflect a gender imbalance, albeit less pronounced, with 73.3% male and 26.7% female. This suggests that while there is an effort to include more women in graduate studies, the representation remains skewed.
The racial composition of the students further indicates a predominance of white students across all categories. For instance, among first-year undergraduate students, 448 are identified as white, which accounts for a significant majority. The institution's efforts toward inclusivity and diversity appear to be ongoing challenges, particularly in attracting a more balanced gender and racial representation in its programs. Overall, these statistics provide an essential insight into the demographic landscape of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, reflecting broader trends in higher education, especially within STEM disciplines.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The age distribution of students at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body for 2023. The largest cohort is found among students aged 18-19, with a staggering 640 male undergraduates, accounting for 80.9% of the total male undergraduate population, and 216 female undergraduates, representing 25.3% of the total female undergraduate population. This emphasis on younger students suggests a strong recruitment focus on traditional college-age individuals.
As students progress to the 20-21 age bracket, the numbers remain substantial, with 502 male undergraduates and 159 female undergraduates. However, a noticeable decline occurs in the subsequent age groups, particularly among those aged 25-29 and older. This trend may indicate a natural attrition as students either graduate or transition into the workforce, or it may reflect the challenges faced by older students in balancing education with other life responsibilities.
Interestingly, the presence of graduate students aged 22-24 is noteworthy, with 68 males and 37 females, which indicates a healthy pipeline for those pursuing further education immediately after completing their undergraduate degrees. However, as age increases, the number of students significantly decreases, with only one male student above 65 years old, illustrating the trend of higher education attracting younger demographics.
Overall, this data highlights the importance of understanding the age dynamics within higher education institutions, especially as it can influence program development, support services, and recruitment strategies. The stark contrast between younger and older students also raises questions about how institutions can better accommodate non-traditional students who may seek to return to education later in life.
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.
38 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
111 in 2025 · 26.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The data from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reveals interesting trends in international student enrollment over the years. For undergraduate students, the percentage of international students has shown a gradual increase, peaking at 3.13% in 2016 before fluctuating in subsequent years. The relatively low percentage of international undergraduates, ranging from 0.80% to a maximum of 3.13%, indicates that while there is a presence of international students, they still represent a small fraction of the total student body.
In contrast, the graduate program has consistently attracted a higher proportion of international students, with a notable peak of 38.12% in 2004. This suggests that the graduate programs at the institution may be more appealing to international students, potentially due to the specialized nature of the courses offered or stronger industry connections that facilitate job placements after graduation. However, the graduate percentage has also seen fluctuations, with a decline to around 24.86% in 2019 before rebounding to 31% in 2023, indicating a recovery in interest among international graduate students.
The changing dynamics in international student enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including global economic conditions, visa regulations, and the institution's reputation. As higher education institutions worldwide navigate post-pandemic recovery, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology may need to enhance its global outreach and support services to attract a diverse student population and compete effectively with other institutions.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$24,200
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $14,900
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $10,500
- Room and board
- $9,300
- Graduate tuition
- $14,600
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -0% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$113M
Expenses$88.4M
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 · Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference
Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference: football, basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 155 | 59 |
| Football | 119 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Golf | 11 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 157 | 70 |
| Football | 124 | - |
| Soccer | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Golf | 11 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 93 | 80 |
| Football | 117 | - |
| Soccer | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Golf | 13 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of WyomingLaramie · 225.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Colorado State University-Fort CollinsFort Collins · 260.1 mi
U.S. News #169
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology:
-
University of Wyoming - Ranked 216 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Colorado State University-Fort Collins - With a rank of 151, this university is known for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.
-
University of Colorado Boulder - Ranked 105, this comprehensive university is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Colorado School of Mines - At rank 76, this institution specializes in engineering and applied sciences, making it a leader in technical education.
-
University of Denver - Ranked 124, this private university is recognized for its strong programs in business, law, and international studies.
-
University of South Dakota - With a rank of 269, this university offers a comprehensive range of programs and is known for its commitment to student success.
-
United States Air Force Academy - Ranked 7, this prestigious military academy provides an exceptional education alongside military training.
These institutions are notable for their academic excellence and diverse offerings, making them valuable options for students in the region.
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 Crime Rates at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The crime data from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology over the past decade presents a mixed picture of campus safety. The average number of incidents per 1,000 students shows a significant fluctuation, with a peak in 2013 at 11.80 incidents, which is notably higher than subsequent years. This peak year was followed by a marked decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 3.63 incidents per 1,000 students in 2017.
Interestingly, the trend appears to stabilize in recent years, with rates hovering between 3.96 and 6.73 incidents per 1,000 students from 2021 to 2023. This stability suggests possible improvements in campus security and student safety programs. However, the occasional spikes—such as the increase to 6.73 in 2020—may correlate with external factors such as social unrest or changes in campus policies on substance use or violence.
The types of crimes reported, including drug-related offenses and assaults, reflect broader trends in university settings across the United States, where substance abuse remains a critical issue. As educational institutions adapt to these challenges, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure student safety.
Given the complexities involved in campus crime, it is crucial for stakeholders to maintain transparency and engage in community education regarding safety practices. The fluctuating crime rates serve as a reminder that vigilance and proactive measures can significantly impact the campus environment. For further insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: crime rate calculation methods.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of South Dakota School of Mines and Technology include James Abourezk (Former US Senator, first Arab American in the Senate), Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen (Former Norwegian minister of defence) and Walter Dale Miller (29th Governor of South Dakota).
-
James Abourezk 1931–2023
Former US Senator, first Arab American in the Senate
-
Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen 1949–
Former Norwegian minister of defence
-
Walter Dale Miller 1925–2015
29th Governor of South Dakota
-
Todd Tiahrt 1951–
Republican U.S. representative from Kansas
-
Samuel S. Arentz 1879–1934
US representative from Nevada
-
Peter Larson 1952–
Paleontologist who led excavation of T. rex Sue
-
James Edward Zimmerman 1923–1999
Co-inventor of the radio-frequency SQUID
-
Tim Osswald 1958–
Mechanical engineer, UW-Madison professor
-
John Foster 1966–
Paleontologist of Late Jurassic fossils
More alumni (4, by field)
Politics and law
-
Marty Jackley 1959–
Attorney General of South Dakota
-
Jim Shaw 1946–2024
Former mayor of Rapid City, South Dakota
-
Ajmal Shams 1972–
Afghan politician and Social Democratic Party leader
Sports
-
David Cabrera 1995–
Colombian footballer
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.