The University of South Dakota (USD), established in 1862, is the oldest institution of higher education in the state of South Dakota. Located in the town of Vermillion, USD is renowned for its strong emphasis on research, especially in the fields of health sciences, law, and arts. The campus is home to the USD School of Law, which is known for its rigorous curriculum and commitment to preparing students for successful legal careers. USD's unique position as the only public law school in the state makes it a pivotal center for legal education and practice in the region.

USD promotes a vibrant campus culture that encourages student engagement and personal growth. The university's student life is enriched by a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to connect with peers and develop leadership skills. With a picturesque campus that blends historic architecture with modern facilities, USD provides state-of-the-art resources for students across disciplines. Notably, the university boasts the DakotaDome, a multi-purpose facility that supports various athletic events and student activities, fostering a spirited athletic community. The school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion creates a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds, further enhancing the academic experience at the University of South Dakota.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at the University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota has exhibited varying trends in several crucial educational metrics over the years, particularly regarding tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.

Firstly, tuition expenses have steadily increased. For in-state undergraduate students, the tuition rose from $8,022 in 2014 to $9,432 in 2024, marking a total increase of 17.5% over the decade. Out-of-state tuition saw an even sharper rise, climbing from $10,104 to $12,942, a significant 28.0% increase. This trend of rising tuition rates is reflective of a larger national phenomenon; as public funding for higher education declines, institutions often increase tuition to balance budgets, potentially pricing out lower-income students.

Conversely, graduation rates have shown a notable improvement, especially at the 100% completion mark. The rate increased from 25.2% in 2014 to 43.0% in 2023, indicating a 71% rise over that period. This improvement may suggest enhanced student support services or academic advising, contributing to a more successful student experience.

Retention rates are another encouraging sign for the university. The percentage of undergraduate students who continue their studies from year to year increased significantly from 76.5% in 2014 to 81.8% in 2023. Higher retention rates often correlate with better student satisfaction and improved university engagement.

In summary, while tuition costs continue to rise at the University of South Dakota, the encouraging trends in graduation and retention rates reflect the institution's efforts to foster a supportive and effective learning environment for its students. Balancing these tuition increases with the need to maintain affordable access to education will be crucial for the university moving forward.

Analysis of Graduation Data at University of South Dakota

The graduation data from the University of South Dakota in 2023 reveals significant trends, particularly in the fields of healthcare and business administration. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 162 graduates, accompanied by 4 international students earning their bachelor's degree. This reflects a growing demand for nursing professionals, indicative of the nationwide emphasis on healthcare, especially in the wake of the recent pandemic that has highlighted the importance of healthcare providers.

In contrast, the Business Administration program has remained relatively quiet, with no graduates reported for the bachelor’s degree level, although it does boast 79 master's degrees, including 5 international students. This could imply a shift in focus for students towards advanced management skills, which are crucial in an increasingly competitive job market, especially for those aiming for leadership roles.

Furthermore, the absence of associate degrees in most categories signals a potential gap in early career pathways, suggesting that students may be prioritizing immediate entry into four-year degree programs over two-year options. This trend aligns with a broader movement in higher education, where the value of bachelor’s degrees continues to rise, thus impacting enrollment strategies at universities.

The data also reflects the international student demographics, albeit with modest numbers. The presence of international students in nursing and business indicates growing interest in these fields from abroad, aligning with the global push towards higher education in health and management sectors. Together, these factors illustrate the evolving landscape of academic achievement at the university, showing responsiveness to current job market demands and global trends.

Analysis of University of South Dakota Admission Trends

The University of South Dakota's recent admission statistics reveal significant trends in both rankings and acceptance rates. The institution's ranking has worsened over the last few years, dropping from 239th in 2022 to 273rd in 2025. This decline could reflect various factors such as increased competition or changes in institutional focus, which may affect prospective students' perceptions of the university. Regarding admission rates, the University of South Dakota has exhibited a remarkable trend, especially in gender-specific acceptance. The overall acceptance rate has shown significant improvement, soaring to 99.2% for males and 99.6% for females in 2023, indicating a welcoming approach to applicants. However, the large proportion of accepted students also raises questions about the competitiveness of the programs offered and whether the university is meeting the needs of a larger student body effectively. In terms of enrollment, the university has consistently welcomed over a thousand new students every year, with 1,359 enrolled in 2024. Yet, with approximately 3,934 students deferred admission, it suggests that many students are taking additional time before commencing their studies, likely due to various external factors, including economic conditions or personal circumstances. In conclusion, while the University of South Dakota's rising acceptance rates might attract a broader applicant pool, its declining rank warrants attention. The university must focus on addressing the reasons behind this drop to ensure it remains an attractive option for incoming students in an increasingly competitive academic landscape.

Trends in Academic Performance at the University of South Dakota

The data from the University of South Dakota over the years showcases notable trends in standardized test performance, specifically the SAT and ACT scores of admitted students. Analyzing this information reveals shifts in both academic readiness and admission practices over time.

From 2007 to 2024, the SAT reading and math scores have shown variability. The 25th and 75th percentiles for reading and math reveal a general resilience in student performance, with scores fluctuating but maintaining a relative level of competitiveness. For instance, the upper range of SAT reading scores reached 640 by 2023, indicating a positive trajectory in student qualifications. However, the percentage of applicants submitting these scores has remained relatively low, often below 6%, raising questions about the emphasis on these standardized tests in the admissions process.

The ACT scores exhibit a similar pattern, highlighting a diverse array of performances in composite and subject-specific areas such as English and math. Notably, the admission rate of students submitting ACT scores also reflects a modest percentage, suggesting that the university may be leaning towards a broader evaluation criteria, potentially emphasizing holistic assessments over mere numerical scores.

Moreover, the data indicates that while test scores are essential, the decreasing submission rates could point to a changing perception among prospective students of the role standardized testing plays in college admissions. This aligns with nationwide trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies to foster diversity and inclusion.

In conclusion, the University of South Dakota's admission statistics illustrate both stability and evolution in academic admissions, mirroring wider societal shifts in education. The high performance in the upper percentiles is noteworthy, yet the consistently low test submission rates may indicate an ongoing transformation in how talent and potential are assessed in academic environments.

Student Demographics at the University of South Dakota in 2024

The student body at the University of South Dakota in 2024 reflects a diverse population, with notable gender distributions across various classifications. Among undergraduate freshmen, there is a significant majority of female students, comprising 66.6%, while males represent 33.4%. This trend of higher female representation continues among undergraduates and graduate students as well, with 64.8% of continuing undergraduates and 58.0% of graduate students being female.

The total enrollment showcases a blend of backgrounds, particularly with regard to racial and ethnic representation. While the data does not provide detailed percentages for each demographic group for all categories, it indicates a healthy proportion of white students, along with participation from other minorities like Asian and Hispanic students.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students is substantial, with 2,773 individuals enrolled, many of whom are likely to contribute to research initiatives and academic programs that enrich the educational landscape of the university. The statistics suggest an important trend in higher education where women continue to pursue and complete higher education degrees at rates that often exceed those of their male counterparts.

Moreover, attention to diversity is crucial in shaping the university’s curriculum and community engagement strategies, aligning with national conversations on inclusivity in education. The University of South Dakota must continue to foster an environment that supports all students, taking into account these evolving demographics as it moves forward into the future.

Age Distribution Among Students at the University of South Dakota in 2024

The age distribution of students at the University of South Dakota reveals several significant trends. The youngest demographic, those under 18, constitutes a sizeable portion of the undergraduate population, with a total of 1,242 students. This indicates a strong influx of high school graduates entering college, aligning with national trends where younger students are increasingly pursuing higher education directly after graduation.

The 18-19 age group shows substantial participation, particularly among undergraduates, with a total of 2,511 students in this bracket. However, as we analyze older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in numbers, suggesting that many students may be completing their degrees sooner, or possibly entering the workforce before returning to pursue graduate studies later in life. For example, the 22-24 age cohort has nearly split enrollments between undergraduates and graduate students, indicating a transitional phase for many individuals pursuing further education.

Moreover, the enrollment figures for ages 25 and above illustrate the university's appeal to non-traditional students. The number of graduate students peaks between ages 30-34, suggesting a growing trend for individuals seeking advanced degrees at later stages in their careers.

The demographic data underscores the University of South Dakota's commitment to inclusivity, providing educational opportunities for students across a broad spectrum of ages. This balance not only enriches the campus culture but also reflects a responsive educational framework that aligns with contemporary workforce needs. Overall, the diverse age composition is indicative of a vibrant learning environment, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students alike.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of South Dakota

The data revealing international student enrollment at the University of South Dakota (USD) from 2005 to 2024 demonstrates notable trends and shifts over nearly two decades. Initially, in 2005, both undergraduate and graduate international student populations were modestly represented, with only 1.59% of undergraduates and 7.12% of graduates being international students. However, as the years progressed, a gradual increase in the number of international students can be observed.

The most significant growth occurred in recent years. By 2024, the percentage of international undergraduates soared to 3.11%, while the representation in graduate programs reached an impressive 13.88%. This marks a substantial rise compared to previous years, particularly in the graduate sector, where the participation rate nearly doubled from its earlier figures. The upward trend may be attributed to various factors, including the increasing global mobility of students, enhanced recruitment efforts by USD, and the rising reputation of its academic offerings.

Moreover, external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic may have temporarily impacted enrollment rates, but the recovery seen by 2023 indicates resilience and potential for future growth. Global trends in higher education also highlight a growing interest in studying in the United States, suggesting that USD is well-positioned to attract more international students moving forward.

In conclusion, the University of South Dakota is experiencing a positive trajectory in its international student enrollment, reflecting broader trends in global education and the institution’s strategic initiatives. As USD continues to foster a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds, these numbers are likely to climb even higher in the coming years.

Here are some notable institutions nearby the University of South Dakota:

1. South Dakota State University - Ranked 266 in the US News 2025 rankings, South Dakota State University is a comprehensive university offering a diverse range of programs dedicated to academic excellence.

2. Creighton University - With a ranking of 121, Creighton University is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education as well as professional programs, providing a well-rounded college experience.

3. University of Nebraska at Omaha - Ranked 296, this comprehensive university focuses on student-centered learning and a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

4. Iowa State University - Another institution ranked 121, Iowa State University is recognized for its research programs and strong engineering and agricultural disciplines.

5. Carleton College - With an impressive rank of 8, Carleton College is a highly regarded liberal arts college, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and vibrant campus life.

6. Grinnell College - Ranked 19, Grinnell College offers a unique approach to education with a focus on individual student needs, creativity, and critical thinking.

7. Bethel University - This university, ranked 220, is committed to providing a Christian education grounded in the liberal arts while preparing students for various careers.

8. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - As one of the top-ranked schools at 54, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is a major research institution known for its vast array of programs and large student population.

These institutions provide a rich variety of academic opportunities and vibrant campus communities, contributing to the educational landscape surrounding the University of South Dakota.

Analysis of Crime Trends at the University of South Dakota

The crime statistics at the University of South Dakota reveal a significant downward trend in campus-related offenses over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of crimes per 1000 students has shown a marked decline, dropping from 18.11 in 2013 to just 4.42 in 2023. This decline is noteworthy, especially when considering the overall societal climate regarding crime in educational institutions.

Several years showcased noteworthy reductions. For instance, between 2021 and 2023, the rate decreased sharply from 10.70 to 4.42, indicating a possible positive shift in campus safety measures, student behavior, or community engagement. Factors contributing to these improvements could include enhanced security protocols, increased awareness campaigns around violence prevention, or successful interventions addressing substance abuse.

Furthermore, arrests related to various offenses, including drug-related crimes and alcohol offenses, have also seen reductions, suggesting that the university community is likely benefiting from improved social initiatives and hotlines to report abuse or crime without fear of stigma.

This trend is encouraging, not only for current students but also for prospective students and their families considering the safety of educational environments during their decision-making process. Continued focus on maintaining low crime rates will be vital for the university's reputation and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.

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