University of Sioux Falls
Acceptance rate
82.9%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$21,750
$31,020 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,241
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
46.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.6%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Sioux Falls (USF) is a private Christian university located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Founded in 1883, it has a rich history and a commitment to providing quality education grounded in Christian values. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating academic excellence with faith formation and personal development. USF's campus environment fosters a close-knit community, where students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship from faculty, which enhances their academic and personal growth. The university's mission is to prepare students for a life of service and leadership, reflecting its core values of faith, learning, and community.
USF boasts a diverse range of programs, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas such as business, education, health sciences, and arts. The university is particularly known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, which encourages critical thinking and effective communication skills. In addition to academic rigor, USF promotes a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and community service opportunities. The university's sports teams, known as the Cougars, compete in the NCAA Division II, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. Furthermore, USF has a notable track record for graduate employment, with many alumni successfully entering various professional fields, thanks to the university's strong network and career support services. Overall, the University of Sioux Falls is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the University of Sioux Falls
The University of Sioux Falls has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention rates.
Firstly, the tuition for undergraduate students has consistently increased from $24,550 in 2014 to $20,740 in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state students. This represents a significant fluctuation, particularly with a notable drop in the year 2019, where tuition fell to $18,280, marking a 25.6% decrease from the previous year. While the recent trend shows a gradual increase, the previous drop raises concerns about affordability and accessibility for prospective students, particularly in a time when student loan debt is a pressing issue nationwide.
In terms of graduation rates, the on-time graduation rate fluctuated significantly, peaking at 40.6% in 2019 before dropping to 29.3% in 2021. The latest data shows a rebound to 46.2% in 2022. This inconsistency may reflect various factors, including changes in academic support, student engagement, and external economic conditions. The 150% graduation rate also varied, indicating some students may take longer to complete their degrees, which can be related to financial challenges or personal circumstances.
Retention rates have shown a more stable trend, starting at 65.2% in 2013 and rising to 73.6% in 2023. This increase suggests that once students enroll, they are more likely to continue their education at the university, which is a positive sign of student satisfaction and institutional support.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted, with female students consistently outnumbering male students, reaching a peak of 62.6% in 2018. This gender disparity in enrollment may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where females increasingly pursue higher education degrees.
Overall, while the University of Sioux Falls has seen fluctuations in tuition and graduation rates, the university appears to be making strides in student retention, which is crucial for long-term institutional success. Addressing the challenges related to affordability and graduation rates could further enhance the university's reputation and student outcomes.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Omaha, about 160 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 200 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- American Baptist
- President
- Brett Bradfield (President)
- Phone
- 6053315000
- City
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Address
- 1101 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105-1699
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 89.4%, women 92.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Sioux Falls
The admission data for the University of Sioux Falls over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, there has been a noticeable decline in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rates were impressively high, with nearly 98% for males and around 97% for females. However, by 2023, these figures dropped to approximately 74.5% for males and 76.6% for females, indicating a more competitive admission landscape.
The total enrollment numbers have varied over the years, peaking in 2016 with 1,319 new students, but showing a decline in recent years. This change could be attributed to various external factors, including shifts in higher education trends, demographic changes, and possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has altered college enrollment patterns nationwide.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has dramatically increased, particularly in 2013 and 2022, where the figures reached 873 and 562, respectively. This suggests that while the university may be attracting a larger pool of applicants, it is becoming increasingly selective in its admissions process.
Overall, the data indicates that the University of Sioux Falls is navigating a challenging admission environment, balancing the need for diversity and quality among its student body while responding to broader trends in higher education. As competition intensifies, the university may need to consider strategies to maintain its enrollment numbers while ensuring that it remains accessible to a diverse range of applicants.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
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
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at the University of Sioux Falls
The admission data for the University of Sioux Falls over the years 2007 to 2023 reveals some interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with percentages ranging from 2% to as high as 9% in various years. This variability could reflect broader trends in college admissions, where more students may be opting for test-optional policies in recent years.
Regarding test scores, the range for SAT reading and math has shown both improvement and decline over the years. The 25th percentile scores for SAT reading fluctuated between 390 and 530, while the 75th percentile scores ranged from 460 to 660. This indicates a diverse applicant pool with varying academic strengths. Interestingly, the ACT scores also display a similar pattern, suggesting that students are coming into the university with a range of academic preparedness.
The most notable trend is the gradual increase in both minimum and maximum scores for the SAT reading component over time, suggesting that while the overall number of test-takers may have decreased, those who are submitting scores are generally achieving higher levels of performance. This could indicate that the university is increasingly attracting academically strong students, which is a positive sign for its reputation and academic standards.
As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, the University of Sioux Falls appears to be adapting by maintaining a balance between academic rigor and accessibility, but the variability in submission rates and test scores raises questions about the future role of standardized testing in the admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,291 applicants in 2025, 82.9% admitted
1,899 admitted 392 not admitted Yield 15.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's54 (0% international)
- Superintendency and Educational System Administration · Master's16 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Doctoral16 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's13 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Higher Education/Higher Education Administration · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Sioux Falls
The graduation data for the University of Sioux Falls in 2023 highlights several notable trends across various disciplines. The most significant number of graduates was in Registered Nursing, which indicates a strong demand for healthcare professionals. With 60 graduates, this aligns with the increasing focus on healthcare and nursing education nationwide, particularly in light of the ongoing global health challenges.
In the realm of business education, the Business Administration and Management program produced 56 master's graduates, demonstrating the institution's commitment to developing skilled leaders in a competitive workforce. Notably, while there were 10 bachelor's graduates in Accounting, we see a noticeable absence of international students across many programs, particularly in industries like psychology and education, which were significant fields for domestic students.
Interestingly, the education sector remains robust, with multiple pathways available for aspiring educators, including Elementary Education and Secondary Education, cumulatively accounting for a good number of graduates. However, the data shows a stark lack of diversity in international student participation in these programs, suggesting potential barriers to entry that may need to be addressed.
Moreover, the arts and sciences fields, although less populated, still contribute to the diversity of the university's offerings, with programs like Mass Communication and Drama producing graduates. The absence of doctorate graduates in most fields suggests a need for further development of advanced studies, particularly in fields like health and education, where doctoral qualifications could enhance professional practice.
In conclusion, while certain programs thrive, the overall data indicates areas for potential growth, especially in attracting international students and expanding doctoral offerings, which could enrich the academic community at the University of Sioux Falls.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,700-$69,386 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $49,700-$69,386 | ||||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | $56,018 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $60,356 | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $60,356 | ||||
| Superintendency and Educational System Administration. | $60,356 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,429-$48,143 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $45,429-$48,143 | ||||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| History Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | - | ||||
| Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,617 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,750 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $41,508 | ||||
| Sports Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $36,054 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $41,335 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||||
| Youth Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Science. | - | ||||
| History and Political Science. | - | ||||
| Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,450 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 74.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 846
- First-year undergraduates 286
- Graduate students 209
- Transfers and others 109
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,241)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at University of Sioux Falls in 2023
The student body composition at the University of Sioux Falls for the year 2023 showcases a diverse range of demographics among different student categories. Freshman students represent a significant portion, with a total of 308 students, where females make up 65.6% of this group. This higher female ratio is consistent across other categories, indicating a trend towards increased female enrollment in higher education.
The undergraduate students, both old and transfer, also exhibit notable gender distributions, with males representing 38.3% among old students and 44.2% among transfer students. Particularly interesting is the graduate student population, which consists of 269 individuals, with 58.4% being female. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where women are increasingly achieving higher educational qualifications.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data reveals that white students comprise the majority across all categories, with substantial numbers in each group. The presence of students from various backgrounds, including Asian, Latinx, and African American, highlights the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. However, the specific figures for these minority groups are not disclosed, indicating a need for more comprehensive data to better understand this aspect of diversity.
Overall, the statistics from the University of Sioux Falls indicate a healthy mix of gender and a strong representation of white students, with significant opportunities for enhancing diversity among other racial and ethnic groups. As the U.S. education landscape continues to evolve, monitoring these trends will be crucial for promoting equitable opportunities for all students.
Commentary on Age Composition of Students at University of Sioux Falls in 2023
The age distribution data of students at the University of Sioux Falls in 2023 reveals some insightful trends regarding the demographic makeup. Notably, the largest proportion of students falls within the 18-21 age range, with a significant number of undergraduate males and females. This reflects a common trend in higher education, where younger students dominate the enrollment figures, likely due to the immediate progression from high school to college.
Interestingly, the number of undergraduate females surpasses their male counterparts in all age categories, particularly in the crucial 18-19 and 20-21 brackets. This trend towards female enrollment is consistent with national statistics that show increasing female representation in higher education, highlighting a shift towards gender parity in college attendance.
As we examine the older age groups, it becomes apparent that graduate students tend to be older, with a noticeable number of individuals aged 30-34 and 35-39. This demographic often represents those who are returning to education after gaining work experience, a trend that aligns with the growing emphasis on lifelong learning in today’s job market.
Moreover, the data indicates a slight presence of students aged 40 and above, suggesting that the University of Sioux Falls accommodates a diverse range of ages, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity can enrich the academic environment, fostering a unique exchange of perspectives and experiences.
In conclusion, the University of Sioux Falls showcases a vibrant community of learners across various age groups, reflecting broader societal trends in education. With a strong representation of younger students and an increasing number of older learners, the university continues to adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
17 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Sioux Falls
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Sioux Falls reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, reflecting broader shifts in global student mobility and the university's appeal to international candidates. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has experienced considerable variability, with a notable peak of 1.40% in 2018. This indicates an increasing recognition of the importance of diverse cultural perspectives within academic environments, which can enrich the learning experience for all students.
In contrast, the graduate student sector shows a more stable yet low representation of international students, with the highest proportion reaching 1.62% in 2014. The fluctuations may be influenced by factors such as changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the university's marketing strategies towards international students. The overall low percentages suggest that the University of Sioux Falls may need to adopt more proactive recruitment strategies to attract a larger international cohort, as many institutions in the U.S. are competing for these students.
Furthermore, recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have significantly impacted international student enrollment across the board. As universities worldwide adapt to these changes, it is crucial for institutions like the University of Sioux Falls to enhance their global engagement efforts to maintain competitiveness. Increased collaboration with international partners and offering flexible online options could also help in attracting a more diverse student population, ultimately enriching the academic and cultural environment at the university.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$31,020
- Undergraduate tuition
- $21,750
- Room and board
- $9,270
- Graduate tuition
- $7,470
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -17% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$33.0M
Expenses$29.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private 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) | 102 | 117 |
| Football | 118 | - |
| Wrestling | 36 | 23 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 30 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Golf | 11 | 13 |
| Swimming | - | 22 |
| Tennis | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 123 | 92 |
| Football | 108 | - |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Wrestling | 22 | 13 |
| Soccer | - | 26 |
| Swimming | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 204 | 112 |
| Football | 119 | - |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Swimming | - | 28 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 11 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of South DakotaVermillion · 52.4 mi
U.S. News #262
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 54.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 148.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 161.4 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 161.7 mi
U.S. News #100
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 182.6 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 184.0 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 187.5 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 188.1 mi
U.S. News #116
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Sioux Falls:
-
University of South Dakota - Ranked 269 in the 2024 US News, it is a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
South Dakota State University - This comprehensive university is ranked 296 and is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
-
Creighton University - A private university ranked 124, Creighton is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to service and leadership.
-
University of Nebraska-Lincoln - With a rank of 159, this comprehensive university offers diverse programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
Iowa State University - Ranked 115, Iowa State is a public research university that excels in engineering, agriculture, and the sciences.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - This comprehensive university is ranked 53 and is part of the prestigious University of Minnesota system, known for its research and academic excellence.
-
Carleton College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Carleton is ranked 9 and is noted for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and diverse academic offerings.
-
Macalester College - Ranked 27, Macalester is a private liberal arts college known for its global perspective and commitment to social justice.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private 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
Crime Trends at the University of Sioux Falls
The crime statistics from the University of Sioux Falls over the past decade paint a picture of a significant decline in the crime rate on campus. In 2013, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was 23.12, which indicates a troubling environment for students at that time. However, there has been a marked decrease in the years that followed, with the rate dropping to as low as 1.67 in 2020. This decline is noteworthy, suggesting successful measures taken by the university to enhance campus safety and reduce criminal activities.
Particularly, the figures show a significant reduction in incidents of both drug and alcohol-related arrests, which is a positive development. For instance, by 2017, the average crime rate fell to 2.22, indicating effective interventions and possibly a cultural shift among the student body regarding substance use. The absence of reported incidents of violent crimes such as murder or rape during several of these years further underscores the overall safety improvements on campus.
Nevertheless, the uptick in crime rates in 2021 and 2023, with averages of 4.91 and 5.27 respectively, warrants attention. The university must continue to evaluate and adapt its safety protocols to ensure that these numbers do not trend upward again. Overall, the data suggests a proactive approach to crime prevention, contributing to a safer environment for students at the University of Sioux Falls. For more on crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.