Overview
Founded in 1881 as Dakota Territorial Normal School, Dakota State University has evolved from a teacher's college into a nationally recognized hub for computer science, information systems, and cybersecurity education. Located in Madison, South Dakota, DSU has been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense and Cyber Research by the NSA and DHS, reflecting its specialized focus on technology-driven curricula. The university is best known for its cyber operations, computer science, and educational technology programs, which attract students from across the country and feed directly into government and industry cybersecurity careers.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Madison, South Dakota |
| Founded | 1881 |
| Total students | 3,400 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 16:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Graduation rate | 55% |
| Average starting salary | $58,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,400 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,700 |
| Room & board | $9,200 |
| Average financial aid | $8,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 980-1200 |
| ACT range | 19-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.4 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Cyber Operations
- Computer Science
- Information Systems
- Educational Technology
- Health Information Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.